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Fog – CBSE NCERT Study Resources

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Fog

Study Materials

10th

10th - English (First Flight)

Fog

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Overview of the Chapter

The chapter "Fog" from the CBSE Grade 10 English textbook First Flight is a poem written by Carl Sandburg. It explores the theme of nature's quiet yet powerful presence through the metaphor of fog. The poem is brief but vivid, capturing the essence of fog as it moves silently over a city and harbor.

Fog: A natural weather phenomenon where tiny water droplets or ice crystals suspend in the air near the Earth's surface, reducing visibility.

Summary of the Poem

The poem "Fog" describes how fog comes silently, like a cat, sitting on its haunches over a city and harbor. It observes its surroundings before moving away just as quietly. The poet uses simple yet effective imagery to convey the transient and mysterious nature of fog.

Key Themes

  • Nature's Subtle Power: The fog represents nature's quiet but overwhelming presence.
  • Transience: The fog appears and disappears without warning, symbolizing the fleeting moments in life.
  • Observation: The poem encourages readers to observe small, often unnoticed natural events.

Literary Devices Used

  • Metaphor: The fog is compared to a cat, emphasizing its silent and stealthy movement.
  • Personification: The fog is given cat-like qualities, making it seem alive.
  • Imagery: Vivid descriptions help readers visualize the fog's arrival and departure.

Important Questions for Reflection

  1. How does the poet use the metaphor of a cat to describe the fog?
  2. What does the poem suggest about the relationship between humans and nature?
  3. Why do you think the poet chose such a short structure for this poem?

All Question Types with Solutions – CBSE Exam Pattern

Explore a complete set of CBSE-style questions with detailed solutions, categorized by marks and question types. Ideal for exam preparation, revision and practice.

Very Short Answer (1 Mark) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These are 1-mark questions requiring direct, concise answers. Ideal for quick recall and concept clarity.

Question 1:
What is the theme of the poem 'Fog'?
Answer:

The theme is nature's silent arrival and departure.

Question 2:
Who is the poet of 'Fog'?
Answer:

Carl Sandburg wrote the poem.

Question 3:
How does the fog arrive according to the poem?
Answer:

It arrives silently on little cat feet.

Question 4:
What does the fog do after looking over the city?
Answer:

It moves on silently.

Question 5:
What is the metaphor used for fog in the poem?
Answer:

The fog is compared to a cat.

Question 6:
How does the poet describe the fog's movement?
Answer:

It comes and goes quietly.

Question 7:
What does the fog sit upon in the poem?
Answer:

It sits on silent haunches.

Question 8:
What literary device is used in 'little cat feet'?
Answer:

It is a metaphor.

Question 9:
What is the mood of the poem 'Fog'?
Answer:

The mood is calm and mysterious.

Question 10:
How does the fog leave the city?
Answer:

It moves away silently.

Question 11:
What does the fog look over in the poem?
Answer:

It looks over the harbor and city.

Question 12:
Why is the fog compared to a cat?
Answer:

Both are silent and move softly.

Question 13:
What is the tone of the poem 'Fog'?
Answer:

The tone is observant and peaceful.

Question 14:
How many lines are there in the poem 'Fog'?
Answer:

There are six lines.

Question 15:
What is the central theme of the poem Fog by Carl Sandburg?
Answer:

The central theme of the poem Fog is the silent and mysterious arrival and departure of fog, compared to a cat. It highlights nature's quiet yet powerful presence.

Question 16:
How does the poet describe the fog in the poem Fog?
Answer:

The poet describes the fog as arriving on little cat feet, sitting silently, and then moving on, emphasizing its stealthy and gentle nature.

Question 17:
What literary device is used in the line 'The fog comes on little cat feet'?
Answer:

The literary device used is metaphor, comparing the fog's movement to a cat's silent and graceful steps.

Question 18:
Why does the poet compare fog to a cat in the poem Fog?
Answer:

The comparison highlights the fog's quiet, unpredictable, and soft nature, much like a cat's behavior, making the description vivid and relatable.

Question 19:
What is the rhyme scheme of the poem Fog?
Answer:

The poem Fog is written in free verse, meaning it does not follow a specific rhyme scheme or meter.

Question 20:
How does the fog depart in the poem Fog?
Answer:

The fog departs silently and unnoticed, just as it arrived, reinforcing its transient and mysterious nature.

Question 21:
What mood does the poem Fog create?
Answer:

The poem creates a calm and contemplative mood, emphasizing the quiet and fleeting presence of the fog.

Question 22:
What does the phrase 'it sits looking' suggest about the fog?
Answer:

The phrase suggests the fog's observant and patient nature, as if it is silently watching over the city before moving away.

Question 23:
How does the poet make the fog seem alive in the poem?
Answer:

The poet uses personification, giving the fog human-like and cat-like qualities, such as coming, sitting, and looking, making it seem alive.

Question 24:
What is the significance of the fog's movement in the poem?
Answer:

The fog's movement symbolizes the temporary and ever-changing aspects of nature, reminding us of life's fleeting moments.

Question 25:
How does the poem Fog reflect Carl Sandburg's style of writing?
Answer:

The poem reflects Sandburg's simple yet vivid style, using everyday imagery and free verse to convey deep meaning in few words.

Question 26:
What lesson can be learned from the poem Fog?
Answer:

The poem teaches us to appreciate the quiet and transient beauty of nature, just like the fog that comes and goes unnoticed.

Very Short Answer (2 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 2-mark questions test key concepts in a brief format. Answers are expected to be accurate and slightly descriptive.

Question 1:
How does Carl Sandburg personify the fog in the poem?
Answer:

Carl Sandburg personifies the fog as a cat with delicate movements. The fog comes on little cat feet, sits silently, and then moves away, just like a cat.

Question 2:
What literary device is predominantly used in the poem Fog?
Answer:

The poem primarily uses personification, where the fog is given human-like qualities (compared to a cat). It also employs metaphor to enhance imagery.

Question 3:
Why does the poet compare the fog to a cat?
Answer:

The poet compares the fog to a cat to emphasize its quiet, stealthy, and unpredictable nature. Like a cat, the fog arrives and departs without making any noise.

Question 4:
What does the line 'It sits looking over harbor and city' suggest?
Answer:

This line suggests the fog's temporary dominance over the landscape, observing everything silently before it disappears, much like a cat surveying its surroundings.

Question 5:
How does the poem Fog reflect the beauty of nature?
Answer:

The poem reflects nature's beauty by portraying the fog as a gentle, transient phenomenon. Its silent movement and mysterious presence add a poetic charm to urban life.

Question 6:
What is the significance of the fog's departure in the poem?
Answer:

The fog's departure signifies the impermanence of natural events. Just as it arrives unnoticed, it leaves quietly, reminding us of nature's fleeting yet impactful presence.

Question 7:
How does the structure of the poem contribute to its meaning?
Answer:

The poem's short and simple structure mirrors the fog's brief visit. The concise lines capture the essence of the fog's silent and swift movement.

Question 8:
What lesson can we learn from the poem Fog?
Answer:

The poem teaches us to appreciate the subtle beauty of nature. Just like the fog, many things in life are temporary but leave a lasting impression.

Question 9:
How does Carl Sandburg personify fog in the poem?
Answer:

Carl Sandburg personifies fog as a cat, describing its stealthy movements like little cat feet sitting silently before moving away.

Question 10:
Why does the poet compare fog to a cat?
Answer:

The poet compares fog to a cat to emphasize its quiet, unpredictable, and gentle nature, just like a cat moves silently and sits observing before leaving.

Question 11:
What does the phrase on little cat feet suggest in the poem?
Answer:

The phrase on little cat feet suggests the soft, noiseless, and cautious movement of fog, similar to how a cat walks without making a sound.

Question 12:
How does the fog depart in the poem?
Answer:

The fog departs silently and mysteriously, just as it arrived, without any announcement or disturbance, much like a cat leaving unnoticed.

Question 13:
What is the significance of the fog sitting on silent haunches?
Answer:

The phrase silent haunches signifies the fog's patient and observant nature, much like a cat sitting quietly before moving away.

Question 14:
How does the structure of the poem Fog contribute to its meaning?
Answer:

The poem's short and simple structure mirrors the brief and unassuming presence of fog, reinforcing its theme of transience and quiet beauty.

Short Answer (3 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 3-mark questions require brief explanations and help assess understanding and application of concepts.

Question 1:
What mood does the poem Fog create through its imagery and language?
Answer:

The poem creates a calm yet mysterious mood through its imagery and language.
The comparison to a cat and the fog's silent movement evoke a sense of quietness.
At the same time, the fog's unpredictable behavior adds an element of intrigue and wonder.

Question 2:
How does the brevity of the poem Fog contribute to its overall effect?
Answer:

The short length of the poem mirrors the fleeting nature of the fog itself.
Just as the fog appears and disappears quickly, the poem is concise and to the point.
This brevity enhances the impact of the imagery and leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

Question 3:
How does the poet Carl Sandburg use the metaphor of a cat to describe the fog in the poem Fog?
Answer:

The poet Carl Sandburg compares the fog to a cat to highlight its silent and stealthy movement.
Just like a cat moves quietly and sits observing its surroundings, the fog creeps in unnoticed and lingers over the city.
This metaphor adds a sense of mystery and unpredictability to the fog's behavior.

Question 4:
What is the significance of the phrase 'on little cat feet' in the poem Fog?
Answer:

The phrase 'on little cat feet' emphasizes the gentle and noiseless arrival of the fog.
It suggests that the fog, like a cat, moves softly without drawing attention.
This imagery helps the reader visualize the fog's quiet and unobtrusive nature.

Question 5:
How does the poem Fog reflect the transient nature of natural phenomena?
Answer:

The poem Fog shows how natural phenomena like fog are temporary and fleeting.
The fog arrives silently, stays for a while, and then moves away without any announcement.
This mirrors the ephemeral quality of many natural events, reminding us of their unpredictability.

Question 6:
Why does the poet describe the fog as 'looking over' the city and harbor?
Answer:

The phrase 'looking over' personifies the fog, giving it a sense of curiosity and observation.
It suggests that the fog, like a silent watcher, surveys the city and harbor before moving on.
This adds a layer of mystery and makes the fog seem almost alive.

Question 7:
Explain the mood created by the poet in Fog and how it affects the reader.
Answer:

The poet creates a mood of calmness and mystery through the imagery of the fog.
The silent, creeping movement of the fog evokes a sense of wonder and quiet observation.
This mood makes the reader feel as though they are witnessing a gentle yet profound natural event, encouraging reflection.

Question 8:
Why is the poem Fog considered an example of free verse poetry?
Answer:

The poem Fog is a free verse poem because it lacks a strict rhyme scheme or meter.
The lines are short and simple, mimicking the unpredictable movement of fog.
This style allows the poet to focus on imagery and metaphor rather than following traditional poetic structures.

Question 9:
How does the poet convey the idea of the fog being a temporary visitor in the poem?
Answer:

The poet conveys the fog as a temporary visitor by describing its brief stay over the city.
The lines 'It sits looking... then moves on' suggest that the fog does not linger permanently.
This reinforces the idea that nature's phenomena are momentary yet memorable, leaving an impression before departing.

Long Answer (5 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 5-mark questions are descriptive and require detailed, structured answers with proper explanation and examples.

Question 1:
How does the poet Carl Sandburg use personification in the poem Fog to create a vivid image?
Answer:
Introduction

In Fog, Carl Sandburg personifies fog as a silent, creeping cat to make it relatable.


Argument 1
  • The fog 'comes on little cat feet,' comparing its movement to a cat’s stealth.

Argument 2
  • It 'sits looking' over the city, giving it a living, observant quality.

Conclusion

This personification helps us visualize fog’s quiet, mysterious nature, as seen in our NCERT textbook.

Question 2:
Explain the symbolism of fog in Carl Sandburg’s poem and how it reflects life’s uncertainties.
Answer:
Introduction

The fog in Sandburg’s poem symbolizes life’s unpredictable and transient moments.


Argument 1
  • Fog’s sudden arrival mirrors unexpected challenges, as discussed in our NCERT examples.

Argument 2
  • Its silent departure shows how difficulties fade, just like the fog.

Conclusion

Sandburg uses fog as a metaphor for life’s fleeting nature, making the poem deeply meaningful.

Question 3:
Discuss the tone of the poem Fog and how it contributes to the overall mood.
Answer:
Introduction

The tone of Fog is calm and observational, creating a reflective mood.


Argument 1
  • Words like 'little cat feet' suggest a gentle, almost soothing tone.

Argument 2
  • The lack of urgency in 'sits looking' adds to the poem’s quiet atmosphere.

Conclusion

This tone helps us feel the fog’s quiet presence, as highlighted in our textbook.

Question 4:
How does the structure of Fog enhance its simplicity and effectiveness?
Answer:
Introduction

The poem’s short, free-verse structure makes it simple yet powerful.


Argument 1
  • Only six lines long, it captures fog’s essence without unnecessary details.

Argument 2
  • The lack of rhyme mirrors fog’s unpredictable nature, as seen in NCERT.

Conclusion

This minimalistic structure reinforces the poem’s theme of quiet observation.

Question 5:
Compare the imagery in Fog with another nature poem from your NCERT textbook.
Answer:
Introduction

Both Fog and The Trees by Adrienne Rich use nature imagery effectively.


Argument 1
  • Fog depicts fog as a cat, while The Trees shows trees as restless beings.

Argument 2
  • Both poems use personification to make nature feel alive, as discussed in NCERT.

Conclusion

While Fog is calm, The Trees is dynamic, showing different aspects of nature.

Question 6:
How does Carl Sandburg use personification in the poem Fog to create a vivid image?
Answer:
Introduction

In Fog, Carl Sandburg personifies fog as a silent, creeping cat to make it relatable.


Argument 1
  • The fog 'comes on little cat feet,' comparing its movement to a cat's stealth.

Argument 2
  • It 'sits looking over harbor and city,' like a cat observing its surroundings.

Conclusion

This personification helps us visualize the fog's quiet, mysterious nature, as our textbook shows.

Question 7:
Explain the symbolism of fog in Sandburg’s poem and how it reflects life’s uncertainties.
Answer:
Introduction

The fog in Sandburg’s poem symbolizes life’s unpredictable and temporary challenges.


Argument 1
  • Like fog, problems appear silently and linger before fading away.

Argument 2
  • The fog’s brief stay mirrors how hardships are often temporary, as seen in NCERT examples.

Conclusion

Sandburg uses symbolism to remind us that difficulties, like fog, eventually pass.

Question 8:
How does the structure of Fog contribute to its simplicity and effectiveness?
Answer:
Introduction

The poem’s short, free-verse structure makes it easy to understand yet powerful.


Argument 1
  • Its six-line length focuses on one clear image, like our textbook’s analysis.

Argument 2
  • No rhyme scheme reflects the fog’s natural, unstructured movement.

Conclusion

The simplicity of the structure enhances the poem’s impact, as we studied.

Question 9:
Compare the tone of Fog with another nature poem from your syllabus.
Answer:
Introduction

Fog has a calm, observant tone, while Robert Frost’s Dust of Snow is more reflective.


Argument 1
  • Sandburg’s tone is quiet, like the fog’s silent arrival.

Argument 2
  • Frost’s poem has a lighter, hopeful tone after the crow shakes snow, as NCERT shows.

Conclusion

Both tones suit their themes, but Fog feels more mysterious.

Question 10:
Why is imagery important in Fog, and how does it appeal to our senses?
Answer:
Introduction

Imagery in Fog helps us 'see' and 'feel' the fog’s presence.


Argument 1
  • 'Little cat feet' creates a visual and tactile image of soft movement.

Argument 2
  • 'Sits looking' adds a sense of stillness, as our textbook explains.

Conclusion

The imagery makes the fog tangible, engaging our senses.

Question 11:
How does Sandburg’s choice of words in Fog make the poem memorable?
Answer:
Introduction

Sandburg’s simple yet precise choice of words leaves a lasting impression.


Argument 1
  • Phrases like 'little cat feet' are easy to remember and vivid.

Argument 2
  • 'Silent haunches' adds mystery, as NCERT highlights.

Conclusion

His word choice makes the poem short but unforgettable, as we studied.

Question 12:
Describe the central theme of the poem Fog by Carl Sandburg and explain how the poet uses imagery to convey this theme. Support your answer with examples from the poem.
Answer:

The central theme of the poem Fog by Carl Sandburg is the subtle and silent arrival of natural phenomena, drawing a parallel between the fog and a cat. The poet uses imagery to create a vivid picture of how the fog moves and behaves, making the abstract concept of fog more relatable and tangible.

Sandburg employs personification by comparing the fog to a cat, which is a clever use of imagery. For example, the lines 'The fog comes on little cat feet' and 'It sits looking over harbor and city on silent haunches and then moves on' depict the fog as a quiet, stealthy creature. This imagery helps the reader visualize the fog's gentle and unobtrusive nature.

Additionally, the poet uses metaphorical language to enhance the theme. The comparison to a cat not only makes the fog seem alive but also emphasizes its transient and mysterious qualities. The fog, like a cat, arrives without warning, observes its surroundings, and departs just as quietly.

This theme is significant because it highlights the beauty and unpredictability of nature, encouraging readers to appreciate the small, often unnoticed moments in life. The imagery used by Sandburg makes the poem memorable and impactful, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

Question 13:
Analyze the symbolic significance of the fog in Carl Sandburg's poem Fog. How does the poet's choice of metaphor enhance the poem's deeper meaning?
Answer:

The fog in Carl Sandburg's poem Fog symbolizes the uncertainty and fleeting moments in life. The poet uses the metaphor of a cat to represent the fog, which adds layers of meaning to the poem.

The comparison to a cat suggests that the fog, like life's uncertainties, arrives and departs quietly, without warning. The lines "The fog comes on little cat feet" and "It sits looking over harbor and city on silent haunches" emphasize how the fog observes and envelops everything temporarily, just as challenges or changes in life often do.

This metaphor enhances the poem's deeper meaning by making the abstract idea of uncertainty more relatable and tangible. By comparing the fog to a cat, Sandburg invites readers to reflect on how life's transient moments can be both beautiful and mysterious, leaving us to ponder their significance.

Question 14:
Analyze the symbolic significance of the fog in Carl Sandburg's poem Fog. How does the poet use this symbol to reflect deeper meanings about life or human experiences?
Answer:

In Fog, the fog symbolizes the uncertainty and unpredictability of life. Carl Sandburg uses this natural phenomenon to represent how challenges or changes can arrive quietly, linger, and then disappear, much like the fog.

The poet's comparison of the fog to a cat ('on little cat feet') suggests that life's uncertainties can be subtle and unnoticed until they are upon us. The line 'It sits looking over harbor and city on silent haunches' implies that these uncertainties often pause, affecting our surroundings before moving on, just as fog envelops a city temporarily.

This symbolism reflects deeper human experiences, such as:

  • How problems or changes can appear without warning
  • The transient nature of difficulties, which eventually pass
  • The quiet yet profound impact of unforeseen events on our lives
By using the fog as a symbol, Sandburg encourages readers to observe and accept life's uncertainties with patience and resilience.

Question 15:
In the poem Fog, Carl Sandburg uses a metaphor to describe the fog. Explain how the poet compares the fog to a living being and what effect this comparison has on the reader. Support your answer with examples from the poem.
Answer:

The poet Carl Sandburg uses a metaphor to compare the fog to a cat, giving it qualities of a living being. This comparison makes the fog seem playful, silent, and mysterious, much like a cat's behavior.

In the poem, the lines 'The fog comes on little cat feet' and 'It sits looking over harbor and city on silent haunches and then moves on' suggest that the fog, like a cat, arrives quietly, observes its surroundings, and leaves without making any noise. This personification makes the fog appear gentle and almost sentient, creating a vivid image in the reader's mind.

The effect of this comparison is that it makes the fog feel less intimidating and more relatable. Instead of being a dense, oppressive force, the fog is portrayed as something light and transient, much like a cat's movements. This helps the reader visualize the scene more clearly and appreciate the beauty of nature's subtle moments.

Additionally, the metaphor adds a layer of symbolism to the poem. Just as a cat moves unpredictably, the fog represents the unpredictable and ever-changing nature of life, reminding us to appreciate fleeting moments.

Question 16:
Describe the central theme of the poem Fog by Carl Sandburg and explain how the poet uses personification to convey deeper meaning. Support your answer with examples from the text.
Answer:

The central theme of the poem Fog revolves around the transient and silent nature of natural phenomena, drawing a parallel to life's fleeting moments. Carl Sandburg uses personification to give the fog human-like qualities, making it seem alive and intentional in its actions.


For example, the line 'The fog comes on little cat feet' compares the fog's quiet arrival to a cat's stealthy movements, emphasizing its silent and unpredictable nature. Similarly, the phrase 'It sits looking over harbor and city' suggests the fog is an observer, adding a sense of mystery and contemplation.


Through this technique, Sandburg not only makes the fog relatable but also highlights how nature, like life, can be both beautiful and impermanent. The poem's simplicity and vivid imagery encourage readers to reflect on the quiet, unnoticed moments that shape our world.

Question 17:
Describe the central theme of the poem Fog by Carl Sandburg and explain how the poet uses literary devices to convey this theme. Support your answer with examples from the poem.
Answer:

The central theme of the poem Fog by Carl Sandburg is the subtle and silent arrival of natural phenomena, drawing a parallel between the fog and a cat. The poet uses simple yet powerful imagery to depict how the fog moves quietly and unpredictably, much like a cat.

Sandburg employs the following literary devices to convey this theme:

  • Metaphor: The poet compares the fog to a cat ('The fog comes on little cat feet'), emphasizing its stealthy and gentle movement.
  • Personification: The fog is given lifelike qualities, such as sitting and looking over the city, making it seem almost sentient.
  • Imagery: The vivid description of the fog ('It sits looking over harbor and city') helps readers visualize the scene clearly.

Additionally, the poem's brevity and simplicity mirror the fleeting and transient nature of the fog itself. The poet's choice of words and structure reinforces the theme of quiet, unnoticed changes in nature, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

Question 18:
In the poem Fog, Carl Sandburg uses a metaphor to describe the fog. Explain how this metaphor enhances the poem's imagery and what deeper meaning it conveys about nature or life.
Answer:

The poem Fog by Carl Sandburg uses the metaphor of a cat to describe the fog, which significantly enhances the poem's imagery. The poet writes, 'The fog comes on little cat feet', comparing the silent, gentle, and stealthy movement of fog to that of a cat. This metaphor makes the fog seem alive and mysterious, just like a cat that moves quietly and unpredictably.

The deeper meaning conveyed through this metaphor is that nature, much like a cat, operates on its own terms—softly, unnoticed, and without any hurry. It suggests that some natural phenomena are subtle yet powerful, influencing the environment without making a grand entrance. This idea can also be extended to life, where changes often happen gradually and silently, yet they have a significant impact.

Additionally, the metaphor helps readers visualize the fog's behavior more vividly. The comparison to a cat's movements (sitting, looking, moving on) makes the fog's actions relatable and easier to imagine. This poetic device not only strengthens the imagery but also adds a layer of simplicity and beauty to the poem, making it memorable.

Question 19:
Describe the central theme of the poem Fog by Carl Sandburg. How does the poet use the metaphor of fog to convey a deeper meaning about life? Support your answer with examples from the poem.
Answer:

The central theme of the poem Fog by Carl Sandburg revolves around the uncertainty and mystery of life, depicted through the natural phenomenon of fog. The poet uses fog as a metaphor to symbolize how life's challenges or changes can arrive silently, linger, and then disappear without warning, much like the fog itself.

In the poem, Sandburg describes the fog as arriving "on little cat feet," which personifies it as a quiet, stealthy creature. This imagery suggests that life's uncertainties often creep up on us unnoticed. The line "It sits looking over harbor and city on silent haunches" further emphasizes how fog (and by extension, life's unpredictability) can loom over us, observing but not revealing its intentions.

The poet also highlights the transient nature of fog with the phrase "and then moves on." This mirrors how life's difficulties or moments of confusion are temporary and will eventually pass. The simplicity of the poem's structure reinforces the idea that profound truths about life can often be found in everyday observations.

Overall, Sandburg's Fog teaches us to accept the fleeting and unpredictable aspects of life with patience and resilience, just as we wait for the fog to lift.

Question 20:
In the poem Fog, Carl Sandburg uses a metaphor to describe the fog. Explain how this metaphor enhances the imagery of the poem and what deeper meaning it conveys about nature.
Answer:

The poem Fog by Carl Sandburg uses the metaphor of a cat to describe the fog, which significantly enhances the imagery of the poem. The poet compares the fog to a cat that moves silently and unpredictably, creating a vivid picture in the reader's mind. The lines 'The fog comes on little cat feet' suggest the fog's quiet and stealthy arrival, much like a cat sneaking around. This metaphor helps readers visualize the fog's gentle yet mysterious nature.

On a deeper level, the metaphor conveys the idea that nature, like a cat, can be both beautiful and elusive. The fog's transient presence reflects how natural phenomena often appear and disappear without warning, leaving a subtle impact. The comparison also adds a sense of liveliness to the fog, making it seem almost playful, yet unpredictable. This metaphor not only strengthens the poem's imagery but also highlights the delicate balance between humans and nature.

Question 21:
The poem Fog is very short but carries a profound message. Discuss how the poet's choice of simple language and structure contributes to the overall impact of the poem.
Answer:

Carl Sandburg's Fog is a short yet powerful poem that uses simple language and a minimalistic structure to convey its message effectively. The poem consists of only six lines, but each word is carefully chosen to create a strong visual and emotional impact. The simplicity of the language makes the poem accessible to readers of all ages while still delivering a deep meaning.

The structure of the poem mirrors the fleeting nature of fog—brief and transient. By keeping the poem concise, Sandburg emphasizes how quickly the fog appears and disappears, much like life's fleeting moments. The straightforward language also enhances the imagery, allowing readers to focus on the metaphor of the fog as a cat without unnecessary distractions.

Additionally, the poem's brevity encourages readers to reflect on the deeper themes of nature's unpredictability and the beauty of simplicity. The poet's choice to avoid complex words or lengthy descriptions makes the poem universal, allowing it to resonate with a wide audience. This minimalist approach proves that profound messages can be conveyed effectively through simplicity.

Case-based Questions (4 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 4-mark case-based questions assess analytical skills through real-life scenarios. Answers must be based on the case study provided.

Question 1:
In Fog, the poet Carl Sandburg compares fog to a cat. Case Summary: The fog arrives silently and lingers.
Analysis: How does this metaphor enhance the poem's imagery?
Conclusion: Explain with two examples from the poem.
Answer:
Case Summary: The fog is described as a cat, silently creeping in.
Analysis: The metaphor makes the fog seem alive and mysterious, like a cat’s movements.
Conclusion:
  • "On little cat feet" shows quiet arrival.
  • "Sits looking" implies stillness, like a cat observing.

Our textbook shows how metaphors create vivid imagery, as seen here.

Question 2:
Case Summary: The fog in the poem is temporary.
Analysis: How does the poet convey its fleeting nature?
Conclusion: Relate this to a real-life example of change.
Answer:
Case Summary: The fog "comes on little cat feet" and then disappears.
Analysis: The poet uses brevity and simple language to show its short stay.
Conclusion:
  • Like morning dew vanishing by noon.
  • Similar to fleeting emotions we study in poems.

Our textbook compares such imagery to NCERT’s "The Ball Poem."

Question 3:
Case Summary: The poem Fog has only six lines.
Analysis: Why is its brevity effective?
Conclusion: Compare it to another short poem from NCERT.
Answer:
Case Summary: The poem captures fog’s essence in few words.
Analysis: Brevity mirrors the fog’s transient nature, making it impactful.
Conclusion:
  • Like "Dust of Snow" which is short but deep.
  • Both use minimal words for vivid imagery.

We studied how concise poems often leave lasting impressions.

Question 4:
Case Summary: The fog "sits looking" over the city.
Analysis: What human-like quality does this suggest?
Conclusion: Give two examples of personification from NCERT poems.
Answer:
Case Summary: The fog is given a human trait of observation.
Analysis: Personification makes nature feel relatable and alive.
Conclusion:
  • Like "The trees" in NCERT, "striding outward."
  • Or "The Brook" that "chatters."

Our textbook shows personification is common in nature poems.

Question 5:
Case Summary: The poem ends with the fog moving on.
Analysis: What lesson does this teach about life?
Conclusion: Relate it to another NCERT poem with a similar theme.
Answer:
Case Summary: The fog’s departure symbolizes change.
Analysis: It reminds us that challenges, like fog, are temporary.
Conclusion:
  • Like "Fire and Ice," which discusses impermanence.
  • Or "The Road Not Taken," where choices bring change.

We studied how poems often reflect life’s fleeting moments.

Question 6:
In the poem Fog, Carl Sandburg compares fog to a cat. Analyze how this metaphor enhances the poem's imagery and mood.
Answer:
Case Summary

We studied how Sandburg uses the metaphor of a cat to describe fog, making it seem silent and mysterious.

Analysis
  • The fog 'comes on little cat feet'—this shows its quiet, sneaky movement.
  • Like a cat, it sits and watches, creating a calm yet eerie mood.
Conclusion

Our textbook shows metaphors help readers visualize abstract ideas. Here, it makes fog feel alive and unpredictable.

Question 7:
The fog in Sandburg's poem is described as 'looking over harbor and city.' Explain how this personification affects the reader's perception of nature.
Answer:
Case Summary

Personification gives fog human-like qualities, making nature seem observant and powerful.

Analysis
  • Fog 'looking over' places suggests it’s a silent watcher, like a guardian or judge.
  • This makes nature feel alive and intentional, not just random weather.
Conclusion

We learned personification helps us connect emotionally. Here, it makes fog seem wise and mysterious, like in NCERT’s nature examples.

Question 8:
Sandburg’s Fog is very short but vivid. Discuss how the poem’s structure (free verse, no rhyme) contributes to its theme.
Answer:
Case Summary

The poem’s free verse mirrors the fog’s unpredictable, unstructured movement.

Analysis
  • No rhyme or meter makes it feel natural, like fog drifting.
  • Short lines match the fog’s quiet, sudden presence.
Conclusion

Our textbook shows structure can reflect meaning. Here, free verse makes the fog’s behavior feel real and unforced.

Question 9:
Compare the symbolism of fog in Sandburg’s poem to another NCERT text (e.g., The Tale of Custard the Dragon). Highlight key differences.
Answer:
Case Summary

In Fog, fog symbolizes mystery, while in Custard the Dragon, it’s absent or neutral.

Analysis
  • Sandburg’s fog is alive and watchful, adding suspense.
  • Custard focuses on bravery; fog isn’t personified or symbolic.
Conclusion

We see how symbols change with themes. Fog here is artistic, unlike NCERT’s simpler weather mentions.

Question 10:
In Fog, the poet Carl Sandburg compares fog to a cat. Case Summary: The fog arrives silently and lingers before moving on.
Analysis: How does this comparison enhance the poem's imagery?
Conclusion: Explain why this metaphor is effective.
Answer:
Case Summary: The fog is described as arriving and departing like a cat, silently and mysteriously.
Analysis: The comparison enhances imagery by making the fog seem alive and playful, just like a cat. Our textbook shows how metaphors create vivid mental pictures.
Conclusion: This metaphor is effective because it simplifies a natural phenomenon using a familiar animal, making it relatable.
Question 11:
Case Summary: The poem Fog is very short but impactful.
Analysis: How does the brevity of the poem contribute to its effect?
Conclusion: Provide two reasons why Sandburg might have kept it concise.
Answer:
Case Summary: The poem uses only six lines to describe the fog’s movement.
Analysis: Brevity makes the poem memorable and easy to visualize. We studied how short poems often leave a lasting impression.
Conclusion: Sandburg kept it concise to (1) mirror the fog’s fleeting nature and (2) emphasize simplicity, like in NCERT’s example of haikus.
Question 12:
Case Summary: The fog in the poem is personified.
Analysis: How does personification help readers understand the fog’s behavior?
Conclusion: Compare this to another example of personification from your textbook.
Answer:
Case Summary: The fog is given cat-like qualities, making it seem alive.
Analysis: Personification helps readers relate to the fog’s silent, observant nature. Our textbook shows similar examples, like the wind ‘whispering.’
Conclusion: Just like in The Brook, where the stream ‘chatters,’ Sandburg’s fog feels more tangible through personification.
Question 13:
Case Summary: The poem Fog describes a natural event with minimal words.
Analysis: Why might Sandburg have chosen a common weather event as his subject?
Conclusion: Link this to a broader theme in poetry.
Answer:
Case Summary: Sandburg writes about fog, an everyday occurrence, in a unique way.
Analysis: He highlights beauty in ordinary things, making readers notice details they might ignore. NCERT examples like Dust of Snow do the same.
Conclusion: This reflects poetry’s theme of finding meaning in small, overlooked moments of life.
Question 14:

Read the following excerpt from the poem Fog by Carl Sandburg:

'The fog comes on little cat feet. It sits looking over harbor and city on silent haunches and then moves on.'

Based on the excerpt, answer the following:

  • How does the poet use personification to describe the fog?
  • What effect does this comparison have on the reader's understanding of the fog?
Answer:

The poet uses personification by comparing the fog to a cat, giving it human and animal-like qualities. Phrases like 'comes on little cat feet' and 'sits looking over harbor and city on silent haunches' make the fog seem gentle, quiet, and observant, just like a cat.

This comparison helps the reader visualize the fog's movement and presence in a more relatable way. The imagery creates a sense of mystery and calmness, making the fog feel alive and intentional in its actions. The silent, creeping nature of the fog is emphasized, enhancing the poem's mood.

Question 15:

In the poem Fog, Carl Sandburg writes:

'The fog comes on little cat feet. It sits looking over harbor and city on silent haunches and then moves on.'

Answer the following:

  • What is the central theme of the poem?
  • How does the poet's choice of words contribute to this theme?
Answer:

The central theme of the poem is the transient and mysterious nature of fog, which mirrors fleeting moments in life. The poet highlights how the fog arrives quietly, lingers briefly, and then disappears, symbolizing impermanence.

Sandburg's word choice, such as 'little cat feet' and 'silent haunches', creates a soft, almost unnoticed arrival and departure. The comparison to a cat adds a layer of stealth and unpredictability, reinforcing the theme of fleeting presence. The simplicity of the language makes the theme accessible while leaving a lasting impression.

Question 16:
Read the following excerpt from the poem Fog by Carl Sandburg:

'The fog comes on little cat feet. It sits looking over harbor and city on silent haunches and then moves on.'

Based on the excerpt, explain how the poet uses personification to describe the fog. Also, discuss the effect of this literary device on the reader.
Answer:

The poet Carl Sandburg uses personification by comparing the fog to a little cat. This is evident in phrases like 'comes on little cat feet' and 'sits looking over harbor and city on silent haunches'. By giving the fog the qualities of a cat—such as quiet movement and a watchful demeanor—the poet makes the fog seem alive and mysterious.

The effect of this personification is that it helps the reader visualize the fog as something gentle, stealthy, and almost playful, like a cat. It creates a vivid image in the reader's mind and makes the fog feel more relatable and less abstract. This literary device enhances the poem's mood, making it feel calm yet slightly eerie, just like the presence of fog itself.

Question 17:
In the poem Fog, Carl Sandburg describes the fog's arrival and departure in a unique way.

(a) How does the poet describe the fog's movement?
(b) What does this description suggest about the nature of fog?
Answer:

(a) The poet describes the fog's movement as quiet and subtle, comparing it to a cat's behavior. Phrases like 'comes on little cat feet' and 'then moves on' emphasize its silent and smooth motion, without any sudden or disruptive actions.

(b) This description suggests that fog is a natural phenomenon that appears and disappears gradually and unnoticed, much like a cat. It highlights the fog's transient and gentle nature, showing how it can envelop a place quietly and leave just as softly. The comparison also implies that fog, like a cat, has a mysterious and unpredictable quality, making it both fascinating and elusive.

Question 18:
Read the following excerpt from the poem Fog by Carl Sandburg:

The fog comes
on little cat feet.
It sits looking
over harbor and city
on silent haunches
and then moves on.

Based on the excerpt, explain how the poet uses personification to describe the fog. Also, discuss the effect of this literary device on the reader.
Answer:

The poet Carl Sandburg uses personification by comparing the fog to a cat, giving it human and animal-like qualities. The lines 'on little cat feet' and 'sits looking over harbor and city on silent haunches' suggest that the fog moves softly and quietly, just like a cat. This imagery makes the fog seem alive and mysterious.

The effect of this personification is that it helps the reader visualize the fog in a more relatable and vivid way. By comparing it to a cat, the poet creates a sense of quietness, stealth, and unpredictability, which enhances the mood of the poem. The reader can almost feel the fog creeping in and out, just like a cat would.

Question 19:
In the poem Fog, the poet describes the fog as arriving and departing silently. How does this description reflect the nature of fog in reality? Also, explain the significance of the fog's temporary presence in the poem.
Answer:

The description of the fog arriving and departing silently in the poem mirrors its real-life behavior. In nature, fog often appears and disappears without any noticeable sound or warning, just like the 'little cat feet' mentioned in the poem. This quiet and sudden movement is a key characteristic of fog.

The significance of the fog's temporary presence lies in its symbolic meaning. The fog represents transience—how things in life can come and go unexpectedly. Its brief stay over the 'harbor and city' suggests that challenges or unclear moments in life are often temporary, just like the fog. The poem subtly conveys that even though fog (or difficulties) may obscure our view, it will eventually 'move on', leaving clarity behind.

Question 20:
Read the following excerpt from the poem Fog by Carl Sandburg:

'The fog comes on little cat feet. It sits looking over harbor and city on silent haunches and then moves on.'

Based on this, explain how the poet uses personification to describe the fog. Also, discuss the effect of this literary device on the reader.
Answer:

The poet Carl Sandburg uses personification by comparing the fog to a little cat. This is evident in phrases like 'comes on little cat feet' and 'sits looking over harbor and city on silent haunches'. By giving the fog qualities of a cat—such as quiet movement, stealth, and a watchful nature—the poet makes the fog seem alive and relatable.

The effect of this personification is that it helps the reader visualize the fog in a more vivid and imaginative way. Instead of just describing it as a weather phenomenon, the poet turns it into a gentle, mysterious creature. This creates a sense of wonder and makes the poem more engaging. The comparison also emphasizes the quiet and unpredictable nature of fog, just like a cat's movements.

Question 21:
In the poem Fog, the poet describes the fog as arriving and departing silently. How does this description reflect the theme of transience (temporary nature) in the poem? Support your answer with references from the text.
Answer:

The theme of transience is reflected in the poem through the fog's brief and silent presence. The lines 'The fog comes on little cat feet' and 'then moves on' suggest that the fog does not stay for long—it arrives quietly and leaves just as quietly, much like a passing moment.

This mirrors the idea that many things in life are temporary, just like the fog. The poet does not describe the fog as a permanent or overwhelming force but as something gentle and fleeting. The imagery of the fog 'sitting' and then 'moving on' reinforces the idea that change is constant and that moments, no matter how beautiful or mysterious, do not last forever.

By using such simple yet powerful descriptions, the poet reminds the reader to appreciate the fleeting beauty of nature and life itself.

Question 22:
In the poem Fog, the poet Carl Sandburg uses a metaphor to describe the fog. Identify the metaphor and explain how it enhances the imagery of the poem.
Answer:

The poet Carl Sandburg uses the metaphor of a cat to describe the fog. This comparison enhances the imagery of the poem by making the fog seem alive and mysterious, much like a cat.

The lines 'The fog comes on little cat feet' suggest that the fog moves silently and softly, just as a cat does. This metaphor helps readers visualize the fog's gentle and stealthy movement, creating a vivid mental picture.

Additionally, the comparison to a cat adds a sense of unpredictability, as cats are known for their independent and sudden movements, mirroring how fog can appear and disappear unexpectedly.

Question 23:
The poem Fog is very short but conveys a deep meaning. How does the poet use simplicity to highlight the theme of nature's unpredictability?
Answer:

The poet Carl Sandburg uses simplicity in Fog to emphasize the theme of nature's unpredictability by keeping the poem brief yet powerful.

The poem consists of only six lines, but it captures the essence of how fog behaves—arriving silently, lingering briefly, and then moving away without warning. This mirrors the unpredictable nature of weather and natural phenomena.

The simplicity of the language and structure allows the reader to focus on the imagery and the metaphor of the fog as a cat, making the theme more impactful.

By avoiding complex words or lengthy descriptions, the poet highlights how nature's actions are often subtle yet profound, leaving a lasting impression on the observer.

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