Question

How does the poet contrast the life of innisfree with his present life?

Answer 1

William Butler Yeats longs to live in a peaceful and beautiful place. In his imagination comes the name of Innisfree where he spent a lot of time as a boy. He knows that a place of natural beauty and peace like Innisfree makes the human soul light. One enjoys life fully in the lap of nature.

Answer 2

Answer:

Although the poet does not describe the city life in detail, his obsession to go to the beautiful island full of pleasing sight and sounds makes it clear that he wants to leave the noisy and restless life in the city. He wants to lead a simple life. The contrast between the crowded cities and the calm, natural surroundings of Innisfree justifies his desire.

The description of green glade and pastures, along with birds and insects singing on Innisfree stand in contrast to the dull looking roadways and pavements. The contrast hints at the noise pollution created by vehicles that ply on the road and the congestion caused by people. Further, the picture of the island surrounded by the calm water of the lake and its gentle waves present a beautiful sight. In contrast, people in cities are lost in a race of accumulating material possessions. The fewer needs of people living close to nature indicate greater contentment as compared to the city dwellers’ never-ending chase of wealth.

Explanation: