Question

\(\textbf{Poem 1}\)
Sometimes I feel all thin inside
Insufficient, small;
I feel when people look at me,
They don't see me at all.
I feel that all my beauty's lost
On cold, indifferent eyes
And offering what I want to give
Would only be unwise.
But then a friend will greet me.
And my inner life will bloom
It only takes but one kind word
To sweep away the gloom!
What does 'indifferent' mean?

Hint:

To understand the meaning of a word in a poem, look at the other words around it (the context). Words like 'cold' help you infer the negative, uncaring meaning of 'indifferent'.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks for the definition of the word 'indifferent' as used in the poem.

Step 2: Analyzing the Context:
The poet uses the phrase "cold, indifferent eyes." The word 'cold' suggests a lack of warmth and emotion. Paired with 'indifferent', it describes eyes that look at the poet without any feeling, interest, or care. These eyes are not necessarily hostile, but they are not welcoming or engaged either.

Step 3: Final Answer:
In this context, 'indifferent' means showing a lack of interest, concern, or care. The poet feels their beauty is wasted on people who look at them without any emotional response.