Question

Who is the speaker in the poem 'Snake'? (Choose the correct option)

• A. Donne
• B. Whitman
• C. Keats
• D. Lawrence

Hint:

In “Snake,” D.H. Lawrence expresses a conflict between human education and natural instinct — a hallmark of his poetry.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: About the poem.
The poem “Snake” was written by D.H. Lawrence. It presents a vivid encounter between a man and a snake at a water trough. The poet describes the event with deep emotions and inner conflict.
Step 2: Identifying the speaker.
The speaker in the poem is the poet himself — D.H. Lawrence — who narrates his personal experience of meeting a snake on a hot day. The poem reveals his thoughts, guilt, and admiration for the creature.
Step 3: Analyzing the options.
- (a) Donne: Wrote metaphysical poetry; not related to this poem.
- (b) Whitman: American poet known for “Leaves of Grass.”
- (c) Keats: Romantic poet; not the author of “Snake.”
- (d) Lawrence: Correct — both the poet and the speaker.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Hence, D.H. Lawrence is the speaker of the poem “Snake.”