Class 11 English Poem Notes

A Photograph by Shirley Towson

• Theme: Poem about the poet's mother and a photograph that evokes memories.
• Story:
  • Poetess remembers her deceased mother and a photograph of her.
  • The photo features her mother, around 12 years old, with two sisters on a beach holiday.
  • Her mother used to reminisce and laugh looking at the photograph, recalling her childhood.
  • Poetess remembers her mother's laughter while looking at the photo.
  • The poem highlights the contrast between the permanence of nature (the sea) and the transient nature of human life.
  • The sea remains unchanged, while human life, as represented by the poet's mother, is not permanent.
  • Examines themes of loss and memory.

The Laburnum Top by Ted Hughes

• Theme: Interaction of a goldfinch bird with a laburnum tree.
• Story:
  • The laburnum tree is silent and still, signifying stillness in the afternoon.
  • Goldfinch arrives, bringing life and movement to the tree, feeding its young ones.
  • The bird's presence transforms the tree from quiet to lively.
  • Symbolizes the rejuvenating power of care and nurturing.
  • Ends with the bird leaving, the tree returns to stillness.
  • Describes the beauty of nature and the cycle of life.

The Voice of the Rain by Walt Whitman

• Theme: The eternal cycle of rain and its conversation with the poet.
• Story:
  • The poet asks the rain who it is; rain responds it's the "poem of the earth."
  • Describes the cycle of rain: evaporation, cloud formation, and returning to earth.
  • Emphasizes the purity and life-giving qualities of rain, cleansing the earth.
  • Compares rain to music and poetry, both essential for rejuvenating the soul.
  • Rain enriches the earth, much like how art enriches human life.

Childhood by Markus Natan

• Theme: Reflection on the loss of childhood innocence.
• Story:
  • Poet questions when and where his childhood ended.
  • Considers various stages: turning 11, realizing adult hypocrisy, gaining individuality.
  • Reflects on childhood's unique characteristics: innocence, wonder.
  • Concludes childhood can only be seen in an infant's face, symbolizing purity and innocence.
  • Asks readers to reflect on their own transition from childhood to adulthood.

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• General Notes:
  • The poems explore themes of memory, loss, the passage of time, and the beauty of nature.
  • Each poem evokes a different emotion ranging from nostalgia to the embrace of the natural world.
  • Important literary devices include imagery, symbolism, and personification.
  • Lessons focus on appreciating nature, understanding the impermanence of life, and reflecting on human experiences.