4. Old are daring and caring. Explain the sentence with reference to the poem The Bridge
Builder.
Answers
Answer:
Popularity of “The Bridge Builder”: This poem was written by Will Allen Dromgoole, a famous author and poet. ‘The Bridge Builder’ is popular for its theme of a builder who builds bridges for the future generation. The poem was first published in 1900 in A Builder. This poem comprises the unselfish and caring attributes of an old man who tries to save the upcoming generation from obstacles. It also traces the connection between the young and old generation.
“The Bridge Builder” As a Representative of Care: This poem shows an old man who shows his concern for his generation. The old man, while crossing a swift-moving river, sees a tide that can create trouble for the people coming after him. After crossing the river, he decides to construct the bridge to save travelers from danger. While the old man is constructing the bridge, a fellow traveler comes along and asks the reason for his hard work. To him, the old man has already crossed the river. Hence, he feels that the old man is wasting his time and efforts on it. To his surprise, the old man answers that it is a kind gesture for those who are on their way to get across the water. Being experienced, he has easily passed the chasm, unharmed, but the inexperienced young generations may fail to do so. Therefore, he is paving the way for them, and this act shows his generosity and concern for the future generation. Also, the bridge represents his love, and it will stay there even when the old man is gone.
Major Themes in “The Bridge Builder”: Care, confidence and hard work are the major themes of this beautiful literary piece. The poem gives the message of unselfishness and generosity. The poem refers to an old man, who builds a bridge to pave the way for those who are crossing the river later. This little effort would help them bypass the obstacles he had faced in the same way. The old man struggles to build a bridge and shape a better future for the next generation