Comprehension

If we were not so single-minded
about keeping our lives moving,
and for once could do nothing,
perhaps a huge silence
might interrupt this sadness
of never understanding ourselves with death.
Perhaps the Earth can teach us
as when everything seems dead
and later proves to be alive.
Now I'll count up to twelve
And you keep quiet and I will go.
 

Question: 1

Complete the following suitably.
The poet uses the expression "single-minded" to refer to:________

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In poetry, expressions like "single-minded" often symbolize a deeper social or philosophical concern.
Updated On: May 16, 2025
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Solution and Explanation

The poet criticizes humanity's one-dimensional focus on progress and work. By being "single-minded," people forget to pause and reflect on life’s deeper meaning, which leads to emotional exhaustion and disconnection from the natural world.
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Question: 2

Why does the poet refer to silence as a welcoming interruption?

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Pause and silence in poetry often symbolize mindfulness, reflection, or inner peace.
Updated On: May 16, 2025
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Solution and Explanation

The poet views silence as a positive break from the constant rush of life. In moments of stillness, people can reflect on their actions, emotions, and the world around them. Such reflection leads to greater self-awareness and wisdom.
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Question: 3

Read the Assertion and the Reason below, with reference to the given extract. 
Assertion: The poet personifies Earth as a teacher. 
Reason: We learn from the Earth that pausing doesn’t mean the end. 
Choose the correct option regarding their relationship. 
 

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Personification in poetry gives human qualities to non-human elements, often to deliver deeper messages.
Updated On: May 16, 2025
  • Both the Assertion and the Reason are true and the Reason is the correct explanation.
  • Both the Assertion and the Reason are true, but the Reason is not the correct explanation.
  • The Assertion is true, but the Reason is false.
  • The Assertion is false, but the Reason is true.
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

The poet personifies Earth by attributing it with the qualities of a teacher. Earth shows that temporary silence (such as winter) is followed by life and growth (spring), proving that pauses in life do not signify failure or death but are part of a natural cycle.
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Question: 4

Complete the followingsuitably.
By the expression "keeping our lives moving," the poet refers to:_________

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Expressions like "keeping our lives moving" often convey the consequences of being overly busy in poetry.
Updated On: May 16, 2025
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Solution and Explanation

The phrase "keeping our lives moving" highlights the continuous drive of humans toward progress, without taking breaks to reflect on their emotions, relationships, or surroundings. This mindset leads to a lack of deeper understanding of life.
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Question: 5

The intention of the poet in the above extract is:

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Understanding a poet’s intention often requires analyzing their tone, choice of words, and central themes.
Updated On: May 16, 2025
  • To make us aware of the importance of Earth.
  • To criticize our single-mindedness.
  • To highlight the reason for our sadness.
  • To highlight the importance of sustaining peace and silence.
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

The poet’s intention is to emphasize how inner peace and calmness can help individuals reconnect with their inner selves. He stresses the value of silence as a means to achieve self-awareness and emotional balance.
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Question: 6

What is the significance of the last line of the extract "you keep quiet and I will go"?

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In poetry, the concluding line often delivers a key message or theme that invites readers to reflect deeply.
Updated On: May 16, 2025
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Solution and Explanation

The final line emphasizes that true wisdom comes from silence and reflection. By encouraging others to "keep quiet," the poet urges readers to focus on their thoughts and experiences without distractions. His departure signifies that inner reflection is a personal journey.
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