Question

Appreciation:
Read the given extract and write an appreciation of the poem using the following points.
Is anybody happier because you passed his way?
Does anyone remember that you spoke to him today?
This day is almost over, and its toiling time is through; Is there anyone to utter now a kindly word of you?
Did you give a cheerful greeting to the friend who came along?
Or a churlish sort of "Howdy" and then vanish in the throng?
Were you selfish pure and simple as you rushed along the way, Or is someone mighty grateful for a deed you did today?
Can you say tonight, in parting with the days that's slipping fast, That you helped a single brother of the many that you passed?
Is a single heart rejoicing over what you did or said; Does a man whose hopes were fading now with courage look ahead?
Points:
(i) Title of the poem, name of the poet.
(ii) Theme
(iii) Poetic devices, language
(iv) Values
(v) Your opinion about the poem.

Hint:

Poem appreciation involves analyzing theme, devices, and values while connecting personally to its message for a holistic response.

Answer 1

(i) Title of the poem, name of the poet: 
The poem is "The House by the Side of the Road" by Sam Walter Foss. The extract reflects the poem's core idea of living a life that positively impacts others through small acts of kindness. 

(ii) Theme: 
The central theme is the importance of kindness and empathy in daily human interactions. The poem urges readers to reflect on whether their actions—greetings, deeds, or words—bring happiness, hope, or courage to others, emphasizing the value of selflessness over selfishness in life's fleeting moments. 

(iii) Poetic devices, language: 
The poem employs: 
- Rhetorical questions: Lines like "Is anybody happier because you passed his way?" provoke introspection without expecting answers. 
- Alliteration: Phrases like "toiling time" and "cheerful greeting" enhance rhythm. 
- Imagery: "Slipping fast" and "vanish in the throng" create vivid mental pictures of time and crowds. 
- Simple language: Clear, conversational words (e.g., "Howdy," "brother") make the poem relatable and direct, amplifying its emotional impact. 

(iv) Values: 
The poem promotes values of kindness, empathy, and selflessness. It encourages helping others ("helped a single brother"), offering cheerful interactions, and inspiring hope ("man whose hopes were fading now with courage look ahead"), urging readers to prioritize positive contributions to society over personal gain. 

(v) Your opinion about the poem: 
The poem is inspirational and thought-provoking, reminding us of the power of small acts of kindness in transforming lives. Its simple yet profound questions encourage self-reflection, making it relevant to all ages. The rhythmic flow and relatable language make it engaging, while its message of empathy resonates deeply, motivating me to be more mindful in daily interactions.