“Discovering Tut: The Saga Continues” delves into the fascinating and enduring mystery surrounding the young Egyptian pharaoh, Tutankhamun. The chapter recounts the groundbreaking 1922 discovery of Tut’s tomb by Howard Carter, detailing the opulent treasures found within and the mummified remains of the boy king.
However, the narrative transcends a mere historical account, exploring the ongoing scientific investigations into Tut’s life and death. Modern technology, like CT scans, has allowed scientists to peer into the mummy’s secrets, revealing new insights into his health, possible cause of death, and the circumstances surrounding his short reign.
The chapter contrasts the romantic, almost mystical, approach of early archaeologists with the more scientific and forensic methods of today. It highlights the shift from treasure hunting to a deeper understanding of ancient Egyptian history and culture. The story also explores the enduring fascination with Tutankhamun, who, despite his relatively insignificant rule, has become a symbol of ancient Egypt’s grandeur and mystery. Ultimately, the chapter is a compelling blend of historical discovery and modern scientific inquiry, illuminating the ongoing saga of a pharaoh whose life and death continue to captivate the world.
Exercise
1. Give reasons for the following.
(i) King Tut’s body has been subjected to repeated scrutiny.
(ii) Howard Carter’s investigation was resented.
(iii) Carter had to chisel away the solidified resins to raise the king’s remains.
(iv) Tut’s body was buried along with gilded treasures.
(v) The boy king changed his name from Tutankhaten to Tutankhamun.
Ans:
(i) King Tut’s body has been subjected to repeated scrutiny.
- King Tut’s death remains a mystery, and there’s immense historical and scientific interest in understanding his life and demise. Modern technology, like CT scans, offers new ways to gain insights that previous examinations couldn’t provide.
- The treasures and the elaborate burial of Tutankhamun have made him a symbol of ancient Egypt, leading to a continued fascination with his remains.
- Scientists hope to learn about his lineage, health, and the cause of his early death.
(ii) Howard Carter’s investigation was resented.
- Carter’s methods were considered somewhat crude and focused more on the treasures than on scientific preservation.
- His focus on extracting the gold and artifacts was seen by some as disrespectful to the royal mummy.
- The removal of the mummy from its sarcophagus and the cutting of it into pieces to remove it from the resins was seen by some as a desecration.
(iii) Carter had to chisel away the solidified resins to raise the king’s remains.
- The ritual resins used during the mummification process had hardened over time, cementing Tut’s body to the bottom of his solid gold coffin.
- Carter’s attempts to loosen the mummy with heat had failed, leaving him with no choice but to chisel away the resin to separate the body.
(iv) Tut’s body was buried along with gilded treasures.
- Ancient Egyptians believed in an afterlife, and they furnished tombs with valuable objects to ensure the deceased had everything they needed in the next world.
- As a pharaoh, Tut was entitled to an opulent burial, reflecting his royal status and power.
- The treasures were also a symbol of the wealth and power of the Egyptian kingdom.
(v) The boy king changed his name from Tutankhaten to Tutankhamun.
- The name change reflected a shift away from the worship of Aten (the sun disk) to the worship of Amun (a major Egyptian deity).
- This change symbolized a restoration of traditional religious practices after the heretical reign of Akhenaten, Tut’s possible father.
- It was a political and religious move to regain the favor of the priests of Amun, and the general population.
2. (i) List the deeds that led Ray Johnson to describe Akhenaten as “wacky”.
(ii) What were the results of the CT scan?
(iii) List the advances in technology that have improved forensic analysis.
(iv) Explain the statement, “King Tut is one of the first mummies to be scanned — in death, as in life…”
Ans:
(i) Akhenaten’s “wackiness”: Radical religious changes, new capital, unusual art.
(ii) CT scan results: Age at death (18-19), fractured thigh, detailed body images.
(iii) Forensic technology advances: CT scans, DNA analysis, digital imaging, advanced computer analysis.
(iv) “Tut scanned in death, as in life”: He remains a focus of study, like in his royal life.
Talking about the text
Discuss the following in groups of two pairs, each pair in a group taking opposite points of view.
1. Scientific intervention is necessary to unearth buried mysteries.
Ans: Scientific intervention plays an indispensable role in unraveling buried mysteries, particularly those shrouded in the depths of history and archaeology. Traditional methods of excavation, while valuable, often lack the precision and analytical power needed to fully comprehend complex historical contexts. Modern scientific techniques, such as carbon dating, DNA analysis, and CT scanning, provide unprecedented insights into the past, allowing researchers to reconstruct ancient civilizations, understand past climates, and examine biological remains with remarkable accuracy.
For instance, in the exploration of ancient Egyptian tombs, CT scans offer a non-invasive way to peer inside mummified remains, revealing details about the individuals’ lives, health, and causes of death. DNA analysis can establish familial relationships and trace migrations, while carbon dating helps to accurately determine the age of artifacts and organic materials. These scientific tools not only enhance our understanding of historical events but also help to preserve delicate artifacts that might otherwise be damaged during traditional excavation. By integrating scientific methodologies with archaeological practices, we can gain a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the past, ensuring that buried mysteries are unearthed with precision and respect.
2. Advanced technology gives us conclusive evidence of past events.
Ans: Advanced technology significantly enhances our ability to gather conclusive evidence about past events, though it rarely provides absolute certainty. Techniques like carbon dating, DNA analysis, and CT scanning offer detailed and precise data that can corroborate or challenge existing historical narratives. Carbon dating, for example, allows for accurate age determination of organic materials, providing a timeline for past events. DNA analysis can reveal familial relationships and migratory patterns, adding depth to our understanding of ancient populations. CT scans offer non-invasive insights into mummified remains and artifacts, revealing details about health, cause of death, and material composition. While these technologies greatly improve the accuracy and reliability of historical analysis, the interpretation of data remains subject to scholarly debate and ongoing refinement. However, the level of precision and detail provided by these technologies drastically increases the amount of conclusive evidence available for historical research.
3. Traditions, rituals and funerary practices must be respected.
Ans: Respecting traditions, rituals, and funerary practices is paramount for several ethical and cultural reasons. These practices often hold deep spiritual and historical significance for communities, representing their beliefs about life, death, and the afterlife. Disregarding them can cause profound emotional distress and cultural offense.
From an anthropological perspective, these practices provide invaluable insights into the social structures, belief systems, and historical evolution of different cultures. To disrespect them is to erase a part of that culture’s history. Moreover, ethical considerations demand that we treat human remains and sacred sites with dignity and reverence, regardless of our personal beliefs.
In a globalized world, fostering respect for diverse traditions promotes intercultural understanding and harmony. It acknowledges the inherent worth and validity of different worldviews, creating a foundation for peaceful coexistence. Therefore, preserving and honoring these practices is not only a matter of respect but also a crucial step in maintaining cultural heritage and fostering global understanding.
4. Knowledge about the past is useful to complete our knowledge of the world we live in.
Ans:
Understanding the past is essential for a complete understanding of our present world. History provides context, explaining how societies, cultures, and technologies evolved. By studying past successes and failures, we gain valuable insights into human behavior and societal patterns, allowing us to make more informed decisions about the future. Historical knowledge helps us appreciate the diversity of human experience, fostering empathy and understanding between different cultures.
Furthermore, it illuminates the roots of current global issues, such as political conflicts, economic disparities, and environmental challenges. By examining historical precedents, we can identify recurring patterns and develop more effective strategies to address these issues. Knowledge of past scientific discoveries and technological advancements is also crucial for innovation, building upon previous breakthroughs to create new solutions. Ultimately, understanding the past enables us to navigate the complexities of the present and shape a more informed and harmonious future.
Thinking about language
1. Read the following piece of information from The Encyclopedia of Language by David Crystal.
Ans:
Egyptian is now extinct: its history dates from before the third millennium B.C., preserved in many hieroglyphic inscriptions and papyrus manuscripts. Around the second century A.D., it developed into a language known as Coptic. Coptic may still have been used as late as the early nineteenth century and is still used as a religious language by Monophysite Christians in Egypt.
2. What do you think are the reasons for the extinction of languages?
Ans:
The extinction of languages is a complex phenomenon driven by a confluence of social, economic, and political factors. One primary reason is the dominance of global languages, such as English, Spanish, and Mandarin, in areas like commerce, technology, and media. As these languages gain prominence, speakers of minority languages may feel compelled to adopt them to enhance their economic prospects, educational opportunities, and social mobility. This shift often results in the gradual abandonment of their native tongue, particularly among younger generations.
Another significant factor is the impact of globalization and urbanization. As societies become increasingly interconnected, smaller linguistic communities may be absorbed into larger, more dominant cultural groups. This can lead to the erosion of traditional language practices and the loss of intergenerational transmission, as younger people are less likely to learn and use their ancestral language. Furthermore, government policies that promote monolingualism or discourage the use of minority languages in education and public life can accelerate language loss.
Natural disasters, conflicts, and displacement can also contribute to language extinction by disrupting communities and separating speakers from their traditional language environments. Additionally, the lack of resources and support for language preservation efforts can exacerbate the problem. Without adequate documentation, revitalization programs, and educational initiatives, many endangered languages face an uphill battle for survival. Ultimately, the extinction of languages represents a loss of cultural heritage, unique worldviews, and valuable knowledge systems, impacting not only the affected communities but also the global tapestry of human diversity.
3. Do you think it is important to preserve languages?
Ans:
Yes, preserving languages is profoundly important. Each language is a unique repository of cultural knowledge, historical narratives, and distinct ways of perceiving the world. When a language disappears, we lose not only words and grammar but also a wealth of cultural insights, traditional practices, and ecological understandings that are often intricately tied to that language. Language diversity is a crucial aspect of human heritage, reflecting the rich tapestry of human experience. Moreover, preserving languages fosters a sense of identity and belonging for communities, strengthening social cohesion and cultural continuity. From a scientific perspective, linguistic diversity provides invaluable data for understanding human cognition, evolution, and the interconnectedness of cultures. Therefore, efforts to document, revitalize, and promote endangered languages are essential for safeguarding our collective human heritage and ensuring a more diverse and vibrant future.
4. In what ways do you think we could help prevent the extinction of languages and dialects?
Ans: Preventing the extinction of languages and dialects requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both the social and practical aspects of language preservation. One crucial step is to promote multilingual education, particularly in communities where minority languages are spoken. Integrating these languages into school curricula, alongside dominant languages, ensures that younger generations maintain fluency and appreciate their cultural heritage. This can be achieved through the development of bilingual or multilingual educational materials, teacher training programs, and community-based language initiatives.
Another essential strategy is to foster a sense of pride and value in minority languages and dialects. This can be achieved through cultural events, media representation, and community-led initiatives that celebrate linguistic diversity. Documenting and archiving endangered languages is also vital. Creating comprehensive dictionaries, grammars, and audio-visual recordings ensures that these languages are preserved for future generations, even if they cease to be spoken actively. Technology plays a significant role in this regard, with digital platforms and apps offering opportunities for language learning, documentation, and revitalization.
Furthermore, governmental and institutional support is critical. Policies that recognize and protect linguistic rights, provide funding for language preservation programs, and promote the use of minority languages in public life can create an enabling environment for language survival. Finally, promoting intergenerational transmission is essential. Encouraging older generations to actively engage with younger ones in language use, storytelling, and cultural practices ensures that linguistic knowledge is passed down effectively. By combining these efforts, we can create a more supportive and inclusive environment for linguistic diversity, helping to prevent the extinction of languages and dialects.
Working with words
1. Given below are some interesting combinations of words.
Explain why they have been used together.
(i) ghostly dust devils
(vi) dark-bellied clouds
(ii) desert sky
(vii) casket grey
(iii) stunning artefacts
(viii) eternal brilliance
(iv) funerary treasures
(ix) ritual resins
(v) scientific detachment
(x) virtual body
Ans:
(i) ghostly dust devils: This combines the ethereal “ghostly” with the tangible “dust devils” to create an image of swirling, transient desert phenomena, hinting at the ancient, almost otherworldly setting of Tut’s tomb.
(ii) desert sky: This simple phrase emphasizes the vast, open, and often harsh environment where Tut’s tomb was discovered, setting the scene for a story of ancient mysteries.
(iii) stunning artefacts: This highlights the beauty and magnificence of the treasures found in Tut’s tomb, emphasizing their artistic and historical value.
(iv) funerary treasures: This phrase connects the valuable objects to their purpose in the afterlife, underscoring the ancient Egyptian belief in providing for the deceased.
(v) scientific detachment: This contrasts the emotional weight of Tut’s story with the objective, analytical approach of modern researchers, highlighting the shift from romantic archaeology to forensic science.
(vi) dark-bellied clouds: This creates a visual image of ominous, heavy clouds, adding a sense of drama and impending change to the atmosphere surrounding the exploration of Tut’s tomb.
(vii) casket grey: This links the color of the CT scanner with the idea of a coffin, suggesting a somber, almost morbid, but necessary intrusion into Tut’s final resting place.
(viii) eternal brilliance: This emphasizes the enduring splendor of Tut’s golden treasures, contrasting their lasting beauty with the fleeting nature of human life.
(ix) ritual resins: This highlights the sacred and purposeful use of these substances in the mummification process, connecting the physical remains to ancient religious practices.
(x) virtual body: This phrase emphasizes the technological reconstruction of Tut’s body, highlighting the shift from physical examination to digital analysis. It also shows the contrast of something ancient, being examined with something new, digital technology.
2. Here are some commonly used medical terms. Find out their meanings :
Ans:
- CT scan (Computed Tomography scan): This imaging technique uses X-rays and computer processing to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body’s internal organs, bones, and tissues. It helps diagnose conditions like tumors, fractures, and internal bleeding.
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): This imaging technique uses powerful magnets and radio waves to produce detailed images of organs and tissues. It’s particularly useful for visualizing soft tissues, the brain, and spinal cord.
- Tomography: This is a general term for imaging techniques that produce cross-sectional images of the body. CT scans and MRI are specific types of tomography.
- Autopsy: A post-mortem examination of a body to determine the cause of death.
- Dialysis: A process that filters waste products and excess fluids from the blood when the kidneys are unable to do so.
- ECG (Electrocardiogram): A test that records the electrical activity of the heart to detect abnormalities in heart rhythm.
- Post mortem: An examination of a dead body to determine the cause of death; synonymous with autopsy.
- Angiography: An X-ray imaging technique used to visualize the inside, or lumen, of blood vessels and organs, with particular interest in the arteries, veins, and the heart chambers.
- Biopsy: The removal of a small tissue sample for examination under a microscope, typically to diagnose cancer or other diseases.
Things to do
1. The constellation Orion is associated with the legend of Osiris, the god of the afterlife.
Find out the astronomical descriptions and legends associated with the following.
(i) Ursa Major (Saptarishi mandala)
(ii) Polaris (Dhruva tara)
(iii) Pegasus (Winged horse)
(iv) Sirius (Dog star)
(v) Gemini (Mithuna)
Ans:
(i) Ursa Major (Saptarishi Mandala):
- Astronomical Description: Ursa Major is a constellation in the northern sky, easily recognizable by its seven brightest stars forming a “Big Dipper” or “Plough” shape.
- Legends: In Hindu astronomy, these seven stars are known as the Saptarishi, representing the seven great sages (rishis) who are believed to be the spiritual ancestors of humanity. These sages are: Atri, Vashishta, Kashyapa, Gautama, Bharadvaja, Jamadagni, and Vishwamitra. They are considered highly revered figures in Hindu mythology.
(ii) Polaris (Dhruva Tara):
- Astronomical Description: Polaris, also known as the North Star, is located near the north celestial pole. Due to its position, it appears stationary in the sky, while other stars seem to revolve around it.
- Legends: In Hindu mythology, Dhruva was a young prince who, through his intense devotion and penance, was granted the boon of becoming the pole star. He is seen as a symbol of unwavering faith and determination. The story of Dhruva is a popular tale of perseverance and devotion.
(iii) Pegasus (Winged Horse):
- Astronomical Description: Pegasus is a constellation in the northern sky, known for its distinct square shape formed by its main stars.
- Legends: In Greek mythology, Pegasus is a winged horse, born from the blood of Medusa when she was beheaded by Perseus. Pegasus is associated with various heroic adventures, including Bellerophon’s attempt to ride him to Mount Olympus. The constellation represents the mythical creature’s form in the sky.
(iv) Sirius (Dog Star):
- Astronomical Description: Sirius is the brightest star in the night sky, located in the constellation Canis Major (the Greater Dog).
- Legends: In ancient Egyptian astronomy, Sirius was highly significant, as its heliacal rising (its first appearance before sunrise) coincided with the annual flooding of the Nile River. In Greek and Roman mythology, Sirius was associated with hot summer weather and was sometimes blamed for bringing fevers and droughts. It is called the dog star due to the fact it is in the Canis Major constellation.
(v) Gemini (Mithuna):
- Astronomical Description: Gemini is a constellation in the zodiac, known for its two bright stars, Castor and Pollux, which represent the twin brothers.
- Legends: In Greek mythology, Castor and Pollux were twin brothers, sons of Leda. Their parentage varied, with Castor being the mortal son of Tyndareus and Pollux the immortal son of Zeus. They were known for their close bond and heroic deeds. In Hindu astrology, Gemini corresponds to the Mithuna rashi, which is also associated with twins.
2. Some of the leaves and flowers mentioned in the passage for adorning the dead are willow, olive, celery, lotus, and cornflower. Which of these are common in our country?
Ans:
- Lotus: The lotus flower holds deep spiritual significance in Indian culture and is frequently used in religious rituals and funerary practices. It symbolizes purity, rebirth, and enlightenment.
- Celery: While not as common as the lotus, celery leaves might be used in some regional practices, often as a part of herbal or medicinal preparations. However, it is not as widely used as the lotus.
- Cornflower: Cornflowers are not native to India and are not commonly used in traditional Indian funerary practices.
3. Name some leaves and flowers that are used as adornments in our country.
Ans:
- Marigold (Genda): These vibrant yellow and orange flowers are ubiquitous in Indian decorations, used in garlands, offerings, and festive decorations.
- Jasmine (Chameli/Mogra): Known for their sweet fragrance, jasmine flowers are used in garlands, hair adornments, and religious offerings.
- Rose (Gulab): Roses, especially red and white ones, are used in bouquets, garlands, and religious ceremonies.
- Lotus (Kamal): As mentioned earlier, the lotus holds deep spiritual significance and is used in religious rituals and temple offerings.
- Mango Leaves (Aam ke patte): These leaves are considered auspicious and are used to decorate entrances during festivals and ceremonies.
- Banana Leaves (Kele ke patte): These large leaves are used as plates for serving food during festivals and religious gatherings.
- Tulsi Leaves (Tulsi ke patte): Tulsi (holy basil) is considered sacred and its leaves are used in religious ceremonies and offerings.
- Chrysanthemum (Guldavari): These are used in garlands and decorations, especially during festivals.
- Hibiscus (Gudhal): Red hibiscus flowers are often used in religious offerings, particularly to deities like Goddess Kali.
The Laburnum Top
“The Laburnum Top” is a poem by Ted Hughes that vividly contrasts the stillness of a laburnum tree with the sudden, vibrant activity brought by a goldfinch. The poem begins with a description of the laburnum tree in the quiet, yellow light of an autumn afternoon. The tree is still and silent, almost lifeless.
This tranquility is dramatically interrupted by the arrival of a goldfinch. The bird’s energetic movements and chirping create a flurry of activity, bringing the tree to life. The goldfinch’s presence is described with vivid imagery, comparing her movements to a lizard’s and her sounds to machine-like tremblings and trillings.
The goldfinch then enters the thickness of the tree to feed her young, and the tree becomes a vibrant, noisy nursery. After feeding her young, the goldfinch departs, flying into the vast sky. As she leaves, the tree returns to its previous stillness and silence, suggesting a cyclical pattern of life and quietude. The poem explores themes of nature’s dynamism, the fleeting nature of life, and the contrast between stillness and activity.
Exercise
Find out
1. What laburnum is called in your language.
Ans:
In Hindi, the laburnum tree is commonly called:
- Amaltas (अमलतास)
2. Which local bird is like the goldfinch.
Ans:
Based on the information available, particularly in the context of the NCERT curriculum, the bird often cited as being similar to the goldfinch is:
- The Indian Lutino Ringneck: This parakeet shares some visual similarities, particularly in its coloration, which can be relevant when considering the imagery within “The Laburnum Top.”
It’s important to note that while there might be other small, vibrant birds in India, the Indian Lutino Ringneck is often highlighted in educational contexts when discussing this poem.
Think it out
1. What do you notice about the beginning and the ending of the poem?
Ans:
The poem “The Laburnum Top” begins and ends with the laburnum tree in a state of still, silent emptiness, contrasting sharply with the vibrant activity during the goldfinch’s visit.
2. To what is the bird’s movement compared? What is the basis for the comparison?
Ans:
The bird’s movement is compared to a lizard’s.
The basis for the comparison is the bird’s swift, alert, and sudden movements. Just like a lizard that darts quickly and smoothly, the goldfinch moves with a rapid, fluid grace as it enters the laburnum tree. The comparison emphasizes the bird’s agility, its ability to navigate the tree’s branches with precision, and the sudden, almost startling burst of energy it brings to the otherwise still environment.
3. Why is the image of the engine evoked by the poet?
Ans:
The image of the engine is evoked by the poet to emphasize the vibrant, energetic, and almost mechanical sounds produced by the goldfinch and her young within the laburnum tree. The “engine” metaphor captures the rapid, rhythmic chirping and trilling sounds, suggesting a powerful, sustained burst of activity that transforms the silent tree into a lively, noisy machine. This image vividly contrasts with the tree’s initial stillness, highlighting the sudden and dramatic change brought about by the bird’s presence.
4. What do you like most about the poem?
Ans:
What I find most compelling about “The Laburnum Top” is the poem’s ability to create a vivid and dynamic contrast between stillness and vibrant life.
The poem’s power lies in its sensory descriptions. The stark contrast between the initial quiet, yellow stillness of the laburnum tree and the sudden, energetic arrival of the goldfinch is masterfully portrayed. The imagery of the bird’s lizard-like movements and the engine-like sounds of its young creates a strong sense of a living, breathing ecosystem temporarily animating the otherwise dormant tree. This interplay between silence and activity, emptiness and fullness, makes the poem resonate deeply, highlighting the fleeting but powerful moments of life within the natural world.
5. What does the phrase “her barred face identity mask” mean?
Ans:
The phrase “her barred face identity mask” refers to the distinct black stripes or bars on the goldfinch’s face, which act as a unique identifying feature. This “mask” serves to distinguish her from other birds, essentially functioning as her visual signature. It’s used poetically to emphasize the bird’s individuality and the specific, recognizable markings that define her appearance. The phrase also suggests a sense of mystery or hidden identity, as a mask often conceals or alters one’s true face. In the context of the poem, it highlights the bird’s distinct presence and the way her specific markings contribute to the vivid imagery of her arrival and departure.
Note down
1. the sound words
Ans:
- “tremor of wings”
- “trillings”
- “twitterings”
- “chitterings”
- “engine”
2. the movement words
Ans:
- “twitching”
- “suddenness”
- “alert”
- “enters”
- “launch away”
- “subsides”
3. the dominant colour in the poem.
Ans:
- The “yellowing” leaves of the laburnum tree.
- The “yellow September sunlight.”
- The goldfinch itself, which is a yellow bird.
List the following
1. Words which describe ‘sleek’, ‘alert’ and ‘abrupt’.
Ans:
- Sleek: smooth, glossy, streamlined.
- Alert: watchful, vigilant, keen.
- Abrupt: sudden, sharp, unexpected.
2. Words with the sound ‘ch’ as in ‘chart’ and ‘tr’ as in ‘trembles’ in the poem.
Ans:
Words with the sound ‘ch’ as in ‘chart’:
- chitterings
Words with the sound ‘tr’ as in ‘trembles’:
- tremor
- trillings
3. Other sounds that occur frequently in the poem.
Ans:
Aside from the specific sound words, the overarching sonic impression in “The Laburnum Top” is one of:
- Silence: The initial and final state of the laburnum is one of quiet, still emptiness.
- Sudden, mechanical, and energetic sounds: This is the effect of the goldfinch and her young, described using engine imagery and words like “trillings,” “twitterings,” and “chitterings.”
Thinking about language
Look for some other poem on a bird or a tree in English or any other language.
Ans:
A bird features prominently in Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Raven,” a poem marked by its melancholic and unsettling tone. It depicts a grieving man’s interaction with a raven that incessantly utters “Nevermore.” Unlike the energetic goldfinch in “The Laburnum Top,” this raven embodies sadness, despair, and the lasting impact of grief. The poem’s dark ambiance and rhythmic repetition generate a feeling of deepening disquiet, exploring concepts of memory, bereavement, and the mental anguish caused by loss.
Try this out
Write four lines in verse form on any tree that you see around you.
Ans:
A neem tree stands, with leaves so green,A shade it casts, a peaceful scene.
Its branches sway, in gentle breeze, A quiet strength, that brings such ease.
The Voice of the Rain
Walt Whitman’s “The Voice of the Rain” presents a dialogue where the rain, given a voice, identifies itself as the “Poem of Earth.”
It details its continuous cycle, ascending from the earth and sea as vapor, then returning as rain to cleanse and nurture the land, enabling growth.
The rain’s journey is compared to the path of a song: both originate from a source, travel, and eventually return, regardless of recognition. The poem elegantly connects nature and art, emphasizing their shared, regenerative essence.
Exercise
Think it out
I. 1. There are two voices in the poem. Who do they belong to? Which lines indicate this?
Ans:
The Poet’s Voice: This is the voice that initiates the conversation, asking the rain, “And who art thou?”
- The line that clearly indicates this is: “And who art thou? said I to the soft-falling shower,”
The Rain’s Voice: This is the voice that responds to the poet’s question, identifying itself and explaining its cyclical nature.
- The lines that indicate this are: “Which, strange to tell, gave me an answer, as here translated:” and then the entire following stanza where the rain describes its journey.
2. What does the phrase “strange to tell” mean?
Ans:The phrase “strange to tell” means that what the speaker is about to relate is unusual or surprising. It suggests a sense of wonder or disbelief, as if the speaker finds it remarkable that the event occurred. In the context of the poem, it implies that it’s uncommon or unexpected for the rain to answer a human’s question.
3. There is a parallel drawn between rain and music. Which words indicate this? Explain the similarity between the two.
Ans:
The parallel between rain and music is drawn using the phrase “song issuing from its birth-place, after fulfillment, wandering, reckoned or unreckoned, duly with love returns.” This line directly connects the rain’s cyclical journey to the journey of a song. The similarity lies in their shared pattern: both originate from a source (the earth/sea for rain, the heart of the artist for a song), travel or “wander” (through the atmosphere for rain, through the world for a song), and eventually return to their origin (the earth for rain, the listener/artist for a song). Both journeys are cyclical, life-giving, and inherently connected to their source, whether or not their return is acknowledged or appreciated.
4. How is the cyclic movement of rain brought out in the poem? Compare it with what you have learnt in science.
Ans:
The poem depicts rain’s cycle as a continuous journey: vapor rises from land and sea, forms clouds, and returns as rain. This mirrors the scientific water cycle: evaporation, condensation, and precipitation, showing a close alignment between poetry and science.
5. Why are the last two lines put within brackets?
Ans:
The last two lines of “The Voice of the Rain” are put within brackets to provide an explanatory note, an aside, or a commentary by the poet.
Specifically, the brackets serve to set apart the comparison between the rain’s cycle and the journey of a song. This separation emphasizes that these lines are a reflection or interpretation added by the poet to clarify the analogy, rather than a direct utterance by the rain itself. The brackets highlight that this is the poet’s understanding or translation of the rain’s message, offering a deeper, more metaphorical layer of meaning.
6. List the pairs of opposites found in the poem.
Ans: The pairs of opposites found in “The Voice of the Rain” are:
- Rise / Descend: Representing the upward and downward movement of the rain cycle.
- Land / Deep sea: The contrasting sources from which the rain originates.
- Formed / Altogether changed: Indicating the transformation of water into vapor and back again.
- Reckoned / Unreckoned: Showing the possibility of being acknowledged or ignored.
II. Notice the following sentence patterns.
1. And who art thou? said I to the soft-falling shower.
2. I am the Poem of Earth, said the voice of the rain.
3. Eternal I rise
4. For song… duly with love returns
Rewrite the above sentences in prose.
Ans:
- Inverted question with attribution: Question followed by “said I.”
- Direct quote with attribution: Quote followed by “said the voice.”
- Inverted subject-verb: Adjective/adverb before subject and verb.
- Inverted sentence with adverbial phrase: Prepositional phrase at the end.
II. Look for some more poems on the rain and see how this one is different from them.
Ans:
Many poems about rain focus on its physical effects, describing its power, beauty, or the emotions it evokes in humans. For example, some poems might emphasize the refreshing quality of rain after a dry spell, its dramatic force during a storm, or the melancholic atmosphere it creates. Walt Whitman’s “The Voice of the Rain” distinguishes itself by personifying the rain and giving it a voice to articulate its own nature and purpose. Unlike poems that primarily observe rain from a human perspective, Whitman’s poem allows the rain to explain its cyclical journey and draw a parallel to the creative process of art. This personification and the philosophical exploration of interconnectedness between nature and art make Whitman’s poem unique in its approach to the subject of rain.
