Here is the poetic appreciation of poems prescribed for std 10 English as first language. It is helpful for the students of English medium.
Poetic Appreciation of “Animals”
The poem “Animals” is an excerpt from Walt Whitman’s Leaves of Grass. In this reflective piece, Whitman admires the simplicity, honesty, and contentment of animals, contrasting them with the complexities and hypocrisies of human life.
Rhyme Scheme:
The poem is written in free verse, meaning it has no specific rhyme scheme or structured meter, which aligns with Whitman’s signature style of natural, flowing expression.
Figures of Speech:
Repetition – The phrase “Not one” is repeated to emphasize the purity and contentment of animals.
Alliteration – “So placid and self-contain’d” (repetition of the ‘s’ sound).
Metaphor – “They bring me tokens of myself” suggests that animals possess qualities that humans have lost over time.
Personification – Animals are depicted as being capable of bringing “tokens” and “evincing” them.
Central Idea/Theme:
The poem highlights the contrast between animals and humans, portraying animals as peaceful, content, and free from materialistic and religious burdens. Whitman suggests that humans have lost their natural innocence due to greed, societal norms, and artificial concerns. The poet longs for a life of simplicity and authenticity, like that of animals, questioning whether humans once possessed such qualities and lost them over time.
Poetic Appreciation of “The Pulley”
“The Pulley” is a philosophical and religious poem by George Herbert, exploring the relationship between God and humankind. It presents a unique perspective on why human beings are restless despite possessing numerous blessings.
Rhyme Scheme:
The poem follows a regular ABABA rhyme scheme in each stanza, creating a rhythmic and structured flow.
Figures of Speech:
Metaphor – The title “Pulley” symbolizes the way God draws humans toward Him through restlessness.
Personification – “Rest” is depicted as a tangible gift that God withholds from humans.
Alliteration – “So strength first made a way” (repetition of the ‘s’ sound).
Imagery – The poem vividly describes how God bestows riches, wisdom, and beauty upon humans.
Central Idea/Theme:
The poem conveys the idea that God, in His wisdom, gave humankind numerous blessings—strength, beauty, wisdom, and honor—but deliberately withheld rest. By doing so, He ensured that humans would always feel an inner longing that pulls them toward divine grace. Herbert suggests that human restlessness is not a curse but a divine tool to keep them connected to God, making the pursuit of spiritual fulfillment essential in life.
