Question

Answer the following questions in 30-40 words each :
(a) Why does the poet want the passers-by to "stop here or gently pass" ?
(b) How did Marcy react after Duke met with a fatal accident ?
(c) Does Sacha Guitry's 'A Villa For Sale' define human behaviour through the character of Gaston ? Give reasons.
(d) How do the expressions 'bicker down', 'hurry down', 'slip between ridges', 'chatter, chatter' help in creating the image of the young river ?

Answer 1

(a) The poet was fascinated by the melodious song of the Solitary Reaper. The music of her song and the melodious voice made him spellbound. The girl was busy in her work. So the poet wishes the passers-by to ‘stop here or gently pass’ so as not to disturb her.
(b) Though Marcy was worried and distressed, she herself carried him to the hospital and got him the best possible treatment.
(c) Yes, the playwright devised Gaston’s character to satirize the vices that exist in man owing to competition for material acquisitions. Gaston is selfish and makes every attempt to make profit. He buys house for profit, not for his wife.
(d) All the expressions suggest energy, enthusiasm, frivolous behaviour that can be associated with a young person always quarrelling talking, hurrying, taking short cuts etc.