Question

Discuss what these phrases mean to you.
(i) a yellow wood
(ii) it was grassy and wanted wear
(iii) the passing there
(iv) leaves no step had trodden black
(v) how way leads on to way

Answer 1

(i) The phrase “a yellow wood” indicates a forest during the autumn season.
(ii) The phrase “it was grassy and wanted wear” means that the road was full of grass as it has been less travelled. As people haven’t walked on it, it is yet to wear out.
(iii) The phrase “the passing there” refers to people walking on that road.
(iv) “Leaves no step had trodden black” indicates that the fallen leaves had not been crushed under the feet of the travelers.
(v) The phrase “how way leads on to way” means that one road leads to another. So once the poet has made a choice between the two roads, he wonders if he will ever be able return to the same spot and choose the other road.

Answer 2

These phrases come from Robert Frost's poem "The Road Not Taken." Here's a discussion on what each phrase means:

(i) A Yellow Wood
- Meaning:
 - This phrase refers to a forest during autumn, where the leaves have turned yellow.
- Interpretation:
 - It symbolizes a point in life where a person is faced with choices. The autumn setting suggests a time of change or transition, hinting at a moment of decision-making.

 (ii) It Was Grassy and Wanted Wear
- Meaning:
 - The path was covered with grass and had not been walked on much.
- Interpretation:
 - This represents a less conventional or less chosen option in life, suggesting the idea of taking a road less traveled by others. It implies a choice that is unique or different from the norm.

(iii) The Passing There
- Meaning:
 - Refers to people walking along the path.
- Interpretation:
 - It signifies the journey of life and the choices made along the way. The phrase highlights the impact of decisions as people move through their lives.

(iv) Leaves No Step Had Trodden Black
- Meaning:
 - The leaves on the path had not been stepped on and thus remained fresh and uncrushed.
- Interpretation:
 - This suggests that the path had not been taken by anyone before, emphasizing the idea of a fresh, untouched choice or opportunity in life. It conveys the notion of making a unique decision that hasn't been influenced by others.

 (v) How Way Leads on to Way
- Meaning:
 - One path leads to another, creating a continuous journey.
- Interpretation:
 - This reflects the idea that decisions and choices in life are interconnected. Each choice leads to new opportunities and directions, making it impossible to predict where one decision will ultimately take you. It emphasizes the ongoing, evolving nature of life's journey.

 Overall Significance
These phrases collectively convey the themes of choice, individuality, and the unforeseen consequences of decisions. They highlight the importance of making personal choices and the understanding that every decision leads to new paths and possibilities in life.