Question

Whenever we act against the voice of our conscience, the result is

suffering. Explain with reference to the poet’s action against the snake and

its consequences.

Answer 1

Whenever we act against the voice of our conscience, the result is suffering. Our 'gut feelings' or our 'intuitions' are very often the ultimately right thing to do in a wide array of situations. However, acting on these feelings are often hindered by the conscious human thought that is plagued by the necessity to adhere to social conventions and teachings. The poet's instincts tell him to let the snake be and to admire him, whereas the accursed voice of his education prompts him to hurt the harmless creature. Influenced by the evil voice, he commits the paltry deed of throwing a log at the snake, consequently chasing it away.

Thereafter he is left remorseful and penetant.

Answer 2

Answer:

Whenever we act against the voice of our conscience,

the result is suffering. Poet’s inner voice wanted him

to treat the snake as a guest. He longed for mutual

co-existence with other species. But ignoring the

voice of his conscience, without considering the

consequences of the act, he hit the snake. Soon

after this thoughtless act, he regretted it. His

conscience pricked him for unnecessarily killing the

snake though, it had not harmed him in any way.

The feeling of sin and guilt overpowered him. He

wanted to make amends and ask for forgiveness.