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Poem: On the Grasshopper and the Cricket – CBSE NCERT Study Resources

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Poem: On the Grasshopper and the Cricket

Study Materials

8th

8th - English

Poem: On the Grasshopper and the Cricket

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Overview of the Chapter

The poem "On the Grasshopper and the Cricket" by John Keats is part of the CBSE Grade 8 English curriculum. It explores the beauty of nature through the songs of the grasshopper and the cricket, symbolizing the persistence of life and joy in different seasons.

Key Theme: The poem highlights the eternal beauty of nature and how life continues to thrive through the changing seasons, represented by the grasshopper (summer) and the cricket (winter).

Summary of the Poem

The poem begins with the description of a hot summer day where the grasshopper sings joyfully, hopping from hedge to hedge. When tired, it rests beneath a pleasant weed. The second part shifts to winter, where the cricket's song is heard from the stove, bringing warmth and comfort. The poet suggests that the songs of these tiny creatures keep the spirit of nature alive throughout the year.

Literary Devices Used

  • Personification: The grasshopper and cricket are given human-like qualities, such as singing.
  • Imagery: Vivid descriptions of summer and winter scenes create a strong visual impact.
  • Symbolism: The grasshopper and cricket symbolize the continuity of nature's music across seasons.

Important Questions

  1. How does the poet contrast the grasshopper and the cricket in the poem?
  2. What message does the poet convey through the songs of these insects?
  3. Identify and explain the use of personification in the poem.

Poet's Message: John Keats emphasizes that nature's beauty and joy are everlasting, regardless of the season, through the voices of the grasshopper and cricket.

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 On the Grasshopper and the Cricket?
Answer:

Nature's eternal beauty and joy.

Question 2:
Who wrote the poem On the Grasshopper and the Cricket?
Answer:

John Keats.

Question 3:
What does the grasshopper symbolize in the poem?
Answer:

Summer's energy and liveliness.

Question 4:
What does the cricket represent in the poem?
Answer:

Winter's warmth and comfort.

Question 5:
How does the poet describe the grasshopper's voice?
Answer:

Joyful and never-ending.

Question 6:
Where does the cricket sing in the poem?
Answer:

Near a warm stove.

Question 7:
What season is associated with the grasshopper?
Answer:

Summer.

Question 8:
What season is linked to the cricket?
Answer:

Winter.

Question 9:
What literary device is used in 'The poetry of earth is never dead'?
Answer:

Personification.

Question 10:
What does the phrase 'the poetry of earth' mean?
Answer:

Nature's continuous music.

Question 11:
How does the poem show nature's continuity?
Answer:

Through grasshopper and cricket's songs.

Question 12:
What is the mood of the poem?
Answer:

Cheerful and comforting.

Question 13:
Why does the poet contrast summer and winter?
Answer:

To show nature's unending joy.

Question 14:
Who is the poet of the poem On the Grasshopper and the Cricket?
Answer:
The poet of the poem On the Grasshopper and the Cricket is John Keats.
Question 15:
What is the central theme of the poem On the Grasshopper and the Cricket?
Answer:

The central theme of the poem is the beauty of nature and how it remains alive through the songs of the grasshopper in summer and the cricket in winter.

Question 16:
What does the grasshopper symbolize in the poem?
Answer:

The grasshopper symbolizes the joy and energy of summer, as it sings and enjoys the warmth of the season.

Question 17:
How does the cricket contribute to the poem's message?
Answer:

The cricket symbolizes the persistence of nature's music even in winter, ensuring that the beauty of nature never fades.

Question 18:
What poetic device is used in the line 'The poetry of earth is never dead'?
Answer:

The poetic device used is personification, as the earth is given the human quality of having poetry.

Question 19:
Why does the poet mention both the grasshopper and the cricket?
Answer:

The poet mentions both to show that nature's beauty and music are continuous, whether in summer or winter.

Question 20:
What season is associated with the grasshopper in the poem?
Answer:

The grasshopper is associated with summer in the poem.

Question 21:
What season is associated with the cricket in the poem?
Answer:

The cricket is associated with winter in the poem.

Question 22:
How does the poem highlight the harmony in nature?
Answer:

The poem highlights harmony by showing how the grasshopper and cricket take turns to keep nature's music alive throughout the year.

Question 23:
What is the tone of the poem On the Grasshopper and the Cricket?
Answer:

The tone of the poem is appreciative and serene, celebrating the timeless beauty of nature.

Question 24:
What does the line 'The poetry of earth is ceasing never' mean?
Answer:

It means that the beauty and music of nature never stop, continuing through all seasons.

Question 25:
How does the poem connect human emotions to nature?
Answer:

The poem connects human emotions by showing how nature's songs can bring joy and comfort, just like poetry does for humans.

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 the poet describe the grasshopper in the poem?
Answer:

The poet describes the grasshopper as a lively creature that enjoys summer. It leaps from hedge to hedge, singing and delighting in the warmth, embodying the season's energy.

Question 2:
What role does the cricket play in the poem?
Answer:

The cricket represents winter's comfort. Its song, heard from the stove, brings warmth and cheer, showing how nature's music persists even in cold months.

Question 3:
Identify a poetic device used in the line 'The poetry of earth is never dead.'
Answer:

The line uses personification, attributing human-like qualities (poetry) to earth, emphasizing nature's endless vitality.

Question 4:
Why does the poet contrast the grasshopper and the cricket?
Answer:

The contrast highlights how nature's beauty and music adapt across seasons. The grasshopper thrives in summer, while the cricket sustains joy in winter, showing nature's resilience.

Question 5:
What does the phrase 'the poetry of earth' signify?
Answer:

It signifies the timeless harmony of nature, where every creature, like the grasshopper and cricket, contributes to an unending symphony of life.

Question 6:
How does the poem reflect the idea of continuity in nature?
Answer:

By portraying the grasshopper and cricket as symbols of summer and winter, the poem shows that nature's music and beauty never pause, ensuring perpetual joy.

Question 7:
What mood does the poem create through its imagery?
Answer:

The poem creates a cheerful and soothing mood. Vivid imagery of the grasshopper's leaps and the cricket's song evokes warmth and tranquility across seasons.

Question 8:
Explain the significance of the line 'He takes the lead in summer luxury.'
Answer:

This line highlights the grasshopper's dominance in summer, embodying abundance and joy. Luxury here refers to nature's lavish beauty during the season.

Question 9:
What message does the poet convey about nature's music?
Answer:

The poet conveys that nature's music is eternal and universal. Whether through the grasshopper or cricket, it brings joy and comfort, transcending time and seasons.

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:
How does the poet John Keats contrast the Grasshopper and the Cricket in the poem?
Answer:

In the poem, John Keats contrasts the Grasshopper and the Cricket through their activities and the seasons they represent. The Grasshopper symbolizes summer, hopping joyfully in the warmth, while the Cricket represents winter, singing from the stove to bring warmth and comfort. Both creatures, though different, contribute to nature's eternal music.

Question 2:
Explain the significance of the line 'The poetry of earth is never dead' in the poem.
Answer:

The line 'The poetry of earth is never dead' signifies that nature's beauty and music are everlasting. Even when one season ends, another begins, ensuring the continuity of life and joy. The Grasshopper and Cricket symbolize this unbroken cycle of nature's song.

Question 3:
How does the poet use imagery to describe the Grasshopper in the poem?
Answer:

The poet uses vivid imagery to depict the Grasshopper as lively and energetic. Phrases like 'hot sun' and 'hedge' create a visual of summer, while 'he takes the lead in summer luxury' portrays the Grasshopper as a joyful creature enjoying nature's abundance.

Question 4:
Why does the poet choose the Cricket to represent winter in the poem?
Answer:

The Cricket is chosen to represent winter because its song provides warmth and comfort during the cold. The poet describes it singing 'from the stove', symbolizing coziness and resilience. This contrasts with the Grasshopper's summer energy, showing nature's adaptability.

Question 5:
How does the poem On the Grasshopper and the Cricket reflect Keats' love for nature?
Answer:

The poem reflects Keats' deep love for nature through his appreciation of its beauty and music. By celebrating the Grasshopper and Cricket as symbols of seasonal change, he emphasizes nature's harmony and timelessness. His vivid descriptions and emotional tone reveal his admiration for the natural world.

Question 6:
How does the poet John Keats contrast the Grasshopper and the Cricket in the poem?
Answer:

The poet John Keats contrasts the Grasshopper and the Cricket by highlighting their roles in different seasons. The Grasshopper symbolizes the joy and liveliness of summer, hopping around in the warmth. On the other hand, the Cricket represents the comfort and warmth of winter, singing from the stove. Both creatures, though different, contribute to the beauty of nature year-round.

Question 7:
How does the poet use imagery to describe the Grasshopper in the poem?
Answer:

The poet uses vivid imagery to describe the Grasshopper as a lively creature enjoying the summer. Phrases like 'hot sun' and 'hedge' paint a picture of warmth and greenery. The Grasshopper's actions, such as 'hopping' and 'taking the lead,' create a sense of energy and joy, enhancing the summer atmosphere.

Question 8:
What role does the Cricket play in the poem, and how does it differ from the Grasshopper?
Answer:

The Cricket plays the role of bringing warmth and comfort during winter. Unlike the Grasshopper, which is active in summer, the Cricket sings from the stove, providing a cozy and soothing sound. This contrast shows how different creatures adapt to their seasons, yet both contribute to nature's continuous music.

Question 9:
How does the poem On the Grasshopper and the Cricket reflect the idea of harmony in nature?
Answer:

The poem reflects harmony in nature by showing how the Grasshopper and Cricket complement each other. While the Grasshopper thrives in summer, the Cricket takes over in winter, ensuring that nature's music never ceases. This balance highlights the interconnectedness and adaptability of life, creating a seamless cycle of joy and beauty.

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 poem On the Grasshopper and the Cricket highlight the beauty of nature? Explain with examples.
Answer:
Introduction

The poem celebrates nature's eternal music through the grasshopper and cricket, symbolizing joy in different seasons.

Argument 1
  • The grasshopper's summer song reflects nature's liveliness, as in 'he takes the lead in summer luxury'.
Argument 2
  • The cricket's winter warmth, 'the poetry of earth is ceasing never', shows nature's resilience.
Conclusion

Both creatures prove nature's beauty is everlasting, as our textbook shows.

Question 2:
Compare the roles of the grasshopper and cricket in the poem. How do they represent continuity?
Answer:
Introduction

The grasshopper and cricket symbolize nature's unbroken rhythm across seasons.

Argument 1
  • Grasshopper represents summer's energy, 'a voice will run from hedge to hedge'.
Argument 2
  • Cricket mirrors winter's quiet persistence, 'the frost silence is broken'.
Conclusion

Together, they show life's cycle, as our NCERT poem explains.

Question 3:
Explain how the poet uses contrasting imagery in On the Grasshopper and the Cricket to depict seasons.
Answer:
Introduction

Keats contrasts summer's vibrancy and winter's stillness to highlight nature's balance.

Argument 1
  • Summer: 'hot sun' and 'new-mown mead' show abundance.
Argument 2
  • Winter: 'lone winter evening' emphasizes quiet endurance.
Conclusion

This duality, as we studied, proves nature's harmony.

Question 4:
Why does the poet call the cricket's song 'the poetry of earth'? Analyze its significance.
Answer:
Introduction

The phrase symbolizes nature's eternal creative spirit.

Argument 1
  • Even in cold, the cricket's song, like poetry, brings warmth and hope.
Argument 2
  • It mirrors the grasshopper's summer melody, showing cyclical unity.
Conclusion

Our textbook highlights this as Keats' tribute to nature's artistry.

Question 5:
How does the poem On the Grasshopper and the Cricket reflect the theme of joy in small things?
Answer:
Introduction

Keats finds delight in tiny creatures' songs, teaching us to appreciate simplicity.

Argument 1
  • Grasshopper's summer play, 'he has never done with his delights', shows carefree joy.
Argument 2
  • Cricket's winter tune turns 'drowsiness' into comfort.
Conclusion

As we studied, the poem celebrates happiness in nature's small wonders.

Question 6:
How does the poem On the Grasshopper and the Cricket highlight the beauty of nature?
Answer:
Introduction

The poem celebrates nature's eternal music through the grasshopper and cricket. Our textbook shows how Keats uses these creatures to symbolize joy.


Argument 1
  • The grasshopper represents summer's energy, hopping in 'new-mown mead.'
  • Its song blends with warmth, showing nature's liveliness.

Argument 2
  • The cricket sings in winter, proving nature's music never stops.
  • Its sound 'in drowsiness half-lost' comforts in cold.

Conclusion

Both creatures teach us to appreciate nature's harmony in every season.

Question 7:
Compare the roles of the grasshopper and cricket in the poem. How do they reflect continuity?
Answer:
Introduction

Keats uses the grasshopper and cricket to show nature's unbroken cycle. We studied how their songs connect seasons.


Argument 1
  • Grasshopper thrives in summer, symbolizing activity and warmth.
  • Example: 'hot sun' and 'hedge' highlight its vibrant role.

Argument 2
  • Cricket replaces it in winter, ensuring music persists.
  • Example: 'frost' contrasts but its song 'increases' the warmth.

Conclusion

Together, they prove nature's melodies are endless and adaptive.

Question 8:
Explain the symbolism of the line 'The poetry of earth is never dead' in the poem.
Answer:
Introduction

This line captures the poem's core message: nature's beauty is eternal. Our textbook emphasizes its deeper meaning.


Argument 1
  • Symbolizes nature's resilience through changing seasons.
  • Example: Grasshopper's summer song transitions to cricket's winter tune.

Argument 2
  • Highlights how small creatures sustain life's rhythm.
  • Example: Cricket's 'stove' song mirrors grasshopper's 'delights.'

Conclusion

Keats reminds us that nature's poetry thrives beyond time.

Question 9:
How does Keats use imagery to depict summer and winter in the poem?
Answer:
Introduction

The poem contrasts seasons vividly. We studied how imagery enhances their distinct moods.


Argument 1
  • Summer: 'hot sun,' 'hedge,' and 'new-mown mead' show abundance.
  • Example: Grasshopper 'takes the lead' in lively scenes.

Argument 2
  • Winter: 'frost,' 'lone hearth,' and 'drowsiness' evoke quietness.
  • Example: Cricket's song 'increases' warmth metaphorically.

Conclusion

Imagery helps readers feel the seasons' contrasts and unity.

Question 10:
Discuss the theme of joy in On the Grasshopper and the Cricket. Provide examples.
Answer:
Introduction

The poem finds joy in nature's simplicity. Our textbook highlights how Keats celebrates small wonders.


Argument 1
  • Grasshopper's summer playfulness spreads happiness.
  • Example: 'voice will run' shows carefree energy.

Argument 2
  • Cricket's winter song brings cozy comfort.
  • Example: 'stove' and 'silence' create intimate joy.

Conclusion

Both creatures prove joy exists in every season's rhythm.

Question 11:
In the poem On the Grasshopper and the Cricket, how does the poet John Keats highlight the theme of eternal beauty of nature through the voices of the grasshopper and the cricket? Explain in detail with references from the poem.
Answer:

The poet John Keats beautifully portrays the eternal beauty of nature by contrasting the songs of the grasshopper and the cricket in different seasons.

In the first part of the poem, the grasshopper symbolizes the joy of summer. Keats describes how it sings 'among some grassy hills', representing nature's liveliness during warm months.

In contrast, the cricket takes over in winter, singing from the stove, ensuring that the music of nature never ceases. The line 'The poetry of earth is never dead' reinforces the idea that nature's beauty is everlasting, regardless of the season.

Through these two creatures, Keats conveys that nature's harmony persists through change, making its beauty eternal.

Question 12:
How does the poet John Keats use imagery and contrast in On the Grasshopper and the Cricket to depict the continuity of life in nature? Support your answer with examples from the poem.
Answer:

John Keats employs vivid imagery and contrast to illustrate the unbroken cycle of life in nature.

For imagery, he paints a lively picture of summer with the grasshopper 'leaping from hedge to hedge', full of energy. In winter, the cricket's song is described as 'warm' and comforting, creating a cozy image.

For contrast, Keats juxtaposes the grasshopper's summer song with the cricket's winter tune. The line 'The poetry of earth is ceasing never' highlights that while seasons change, nature's music remains constant.

This contrast emphasizes that life and beauty in nature are perpetual, adapting but never disappearing.

Question 13:
In the poem On the Grasshopper and the Cricket, the poet John Keats presents nature as a continuous source of joy. Explain how the grasshopper and the cricket symbolize this idea, with reference to the poem.
Answer:

In the poem On the Grasshopper and the Cricket, John Keats beautifully portrays nature as an everlasting source of happiness through the symbolism of the grasshopper and the cricket. The grasshopper represents the joy of summer, hopping around merrily in the heat, while the cricket signifies the warmth and comfort of winter, singing from the stove.

Keats uses these two creatures to show that nature's music never stops, regardless of the season. The grasshopper's lively movements and the cricket's soothing song together create a seamless cycle of joy. The line 'The poetry of earth is never dead' emphasizes that nature's beauty is eternal, whether in the vibrancy of summer or the quiet of winter.

Thus, the grasshopper and cricket act as symbols of nature's unending ability to bring happiness, proving that the poetry of earth is always alive and thriving.

Question 14:
How does John Keats use imagery and contrast in On the Grasshopper and the Cricket to highlight the beauty of nature? Support your answer with examples from the poem.
Answer:

John Keats employs vivid imagery and striking contrast in On the Grasshopper and the Cricket to celebrate nature's beauty. The poem contrasts the lively summer scenes with the cozy winter moments, creating a rich tapestry of seasonal imagery.

For example, the grasshopper is depicted 'hot sun' and 'hedge', painting a picture of energy and warmth. In contrast, the cricket's song in winter is described as 'the stove's warmth', evoking a sense of comfort and peace. These images highlight how nature adapts and thrives in different conditions.

Keats also uses auditory imagery, such as the grasshopper's 'voice' and the cricket's 'song', to emphasize that nature's music is constant. The contrast between the two creatures underlines the idea that beauty exists in all seasons, whether in the exuberance of summer or the quiet resilience of winter.

Through these techniques, Keats reinforces the theme that nature's splendor is everlasting and ever-present.

Question 15:
In the poem On the Grasshopper and the Cricket, how does the poet John Keats highlight the theme of eternal beauty of nature through the voices of the grasshopper and the cricket? Support your answer with examples from the poem.
Answer:

The poet John Keats beautifully portrays the eternal beauty of nature by contrasting the songs of the grasshopper and the cricket in different seasons. The grasshopper represents the liveliness of summer, while the cricket symbolizes the warmth of winter, showing that nature's music never ceases.


In the poem, the grasshopper's voice is heard 'among some grassy hills' during summer, emphasizing joy and abundance. On the other hand, the cricket sings 'from the stove' in winter, bringing comfort in the cold. Keats uses these creatures to show that nature's beauty is everlasting, as one voice takes over when the other fades.


Additionally, the line 'The poetry of earth is never dead' reinforces the idea that nature's harmony is continuous. Whether it is the vibrant energy of summer or the cozy stillness of winter, the poem teaches us to appreciate nature in all its forms.

Question 16:
Compare and contrast the roles of the grasshopper and the cricket in the poem On the Grasshopper and the Cricket. How do their songs reflect the changing seasons?
Answer:

The grasshopper and the cricket in Keats' poem serve as symbols of nature's unending music, but they represent different seasons and moods.


Grasshopper (Summer):
The grasshopper is active during the 'hot sun' of summer, hopping joyfully in meadows. Its song reflects energy and liveliness, as seen in the lines 'he takes the lead in summer luxury'. The grasshopper embodies the carefree spirit of warm weather.


Cricket (Winter):
In contrast, the cricket sings during winter, bringing warmth and comfort. The line 'the cricket’s song, in warmth increasing ever' suggests its role in soothing the cold silence. Unlike the grasshopper, the cricket’s song is heard indoors, near a fireplace, symbolizing coziness.


Despite their differences, both creatures ensure that 'the poetry of earth is never dead', showing that nature’s beauty persists through seasonal changes. The grasshopper and cricket together highlight the cyclical harmony of nature.

Question 17:
In the poem On the Grasshopper and the Cricket, how does the poet John Keats highlight the theme of eternal beauty in nature? Support your answer with examples from the poem.
Answer:

The poet John Keats beautifully portrays the theme of eternal beauty in nature by contrasting the songs of the grasshopper and the cricket across different seasons. He suggests that nature's music never ceases, as one creature takes over when another's time ends.


In the poem, the grasshopper represents the joy of summer, singing and hopping around when the weather is warm. When winter arrives and the grasshopper is no longer active, the cricket continues the song from the hearth, keeping nature's melody alive. This transition symbolizes the perpetual cycle of life and beauty in nature.


Keats uses vivid imagery, such as 'The poetry of earth is never dead', to emphasize that nature's beauty is everlasting. The poem teaches us to appreciate the harmony and continuity in the natural world, regardless of seasonal changes.

Question 18:
Compare and contrast the roles of the grasshopper and the cricket in the poem On the Grasshopper and the Cricket. How do they contribute to the overall message of the poem?
Answer:

The grasshopper and the cricket in Keats' poem serve as symbols of nature's unending music, but they differ in their roles based on the seasons they represent.


  • Grasshopper: Represents summer, symbolizing energy and liveliness. It sings joyfully in the heat, hopping from hedge to hedge, embodying the carefree spirit of the season.
  • Cricket: Represents winter, symbolizing warmth and comfort. Its song comes from the hearth, providing a cozy and soothing contrast to the cold outside.

Despite their differences, both creatures contribute to the poem's central message: 'The poetry of earth is never dead.' The grasshopper's summer song and the cricket's winter melody together show that nature's beauty is timeless and continuous. Keats uses this comparison to highlight the harmony and balance in the natural world.

Question 19:
In the poem On the Grasshopper and the Cricket, how does the poet John Keats highlight the theme of eternal beauty of nature? Support your answer with examples from the poem.
Answer:

In the poem On the Grasshopper and the Cricket, John Keats beautifully portrays the eternal beauty of nature by showing how life and joy persist in all seasons. The poet uses the grasshopper and the cricket as symbols of nature's unending music and vitality.


During summer, the grasshopper represents joy as it sings and hops around in the heat, never stopping its merry-making. Keats writes, 'The poetry of earth is never dead', emphasizing that nature's beauty is constant. In winter, when the land is silent and cold, the cricket takes over, chirping from the stove, bringing warmth and life to the dreary season.


Through these examples, Keats conveys that nature's beauty is everlasting, adapting to every season. The poem teaches us to appreciate the small yet persistent wonders of the natural world around us.

Question 20:
Compare and contrast the roles of the grasshopper and the cricket in John Keats' poem On the Grasshopper and the Cricket. How do they together reflect the poet's message?
Answer:

In the poem, the grasshopper and the cricket serve as complementary symbols of nature's continuity. While they appear in different seasons, their roles highlight the poet's message of persistent harmony in nature.


  • Grasshopper (Summer): The grasshopper is lively and active, singing joyfully in the heat. It represents the energy and abundance of summer, as seen in the lines, 'he takes the lead in summer luxury'.
  • Cricket (Winter): The cricket, on the other hand, brings comfort during the cold. Its song from the stove creates a cozy atmosphere, proving that nature's music never fades, even in harsh conditions.

Together, they show that nature's beauty is timeless and adaptable. Keats uses these creatures to remind us that joy and life persist in every season, reinforcing the idea that 'The poetry of earth is never dead'.

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 the poem On the Grasshopper and the Cricket, how does the poet highlight the continuity of nature's music? Support your answer with examples.
Answer:
Case Summary

The poem shows nature's music never stops, shifting from summer to winter.

Analysis
  • Grasshopper sings in summer ("hot sun").
  • Cricket continues in winter ("frost").
Conclusion

Like our textbook examples, both creatures symbolize nature's unbroken harmony, proving life thrives in all seasons.

Question 2:
Compare the roles of the grasshopper and cricket in the poem. How do they reflect adaptability?
Answer:
Case Summary

Both insects adapt to seasons to keep nature alive.

Analysis
  • Grasshopper is active in warmth ("new-mown mead").
  • Cricket sings in cold ("lone winter evening").
Conclusion

As NCERT shows, their roles change but purpose remains—teaching us resilience like seasons.

Question 3:
Identify two poetic devices used in the line "The poetry of earth is never dead" and explain their effect.
Answer:
Case Summary

The line uses devices to emphasize nature's eternal voice.

Analysis
  • Personification: Earth has "poetry" like a human.
  • Metaphor: Compares sounds to poetry.
Conclusion

Our textbook calls such devices tools to make abstract ideas (like nature's music) vivid and relatable.

Question 4:
How does the poet's description of winter contrast with summer in the poem? Use examples to justify.
Answer:
Case Summary

Seasons are contrasted through imagery and creatures.

Analysis
  • Summer: "delights" with grasshopper’s song.
  • Winter: "silence" broken by cricket’s tune.
Conclusion

Like NCERT’s examples, opposites (heat/cold) show balance in nature’s cycle.

Question 5:
In On the Grasshopper and the Cricket, how does the poet highlight the continuity of nature's music? Support your answer with examples.
Answer:
Case Summary

The poem shows nature's music never stops, shifting from summer to winter.

Analysis
  • The grasshopper sings in summer ('hot sun').
  • The cricket's song replaces it in winter ('frost').
Conclusion

Both creatures symbolize nature's unbroken rhythm, as studied in our textbook.

Question 6:
Compare the roles of the grasshopper and cricket in the poem. How do they reflect seasonal changes?
Answer:
Case Summary

The grasshopper and cricket represent summer and winter respectively.

Analysis
  • Grasshopper is active in warmth ('new-mown mead').
  • Cricket sings in cold ('lone winter evening').
Conclusion

Their roles show adaptation, a key theme in NCERT examples.

Question 7:
Explain the poet's use of contrasting imagery in the poem. Provide two examples.
Answer:
Case Summary

The poem contrasts seasons to emphasize nature's balance.

Analysis
  • Summer's 'delights' vs. winter's 'frost'.
  • Grasshopper's energy vs. cricket's quiet song.
Conclusion

These contrasts, as we studied, deepen the poem's message.

Question 8:
How does the line 'The poetry of earth is never dead' capture the poem's central idea?
Answer:
Case Summary

The line summarizes nature's eternal voice.

Analysis
  • Grasshopper's song in warmth.
  • Cricket's tune in cold.
Conclusion

Our textbook shows this reinforces the theme of persistence.

Question 9:
In the poem On the Grasshopper and the Cricket, how does the poet describe the grasshopper's role in nature? Compare it with the cricket's role.
Answer:
Case Summary

The poem highlights the grasshopper's joy in summer and the cricket's warmth in winter.

Analysis
  • The grasshopper symbolizes energy, hopping and singing in the heat.
  • The cricket represents comfort, chirping near the stove in cold.
Conclusion

Both creatures show nature's continuity, just like our textbook examples of seasonal changes.

Question 10:
Identify two poetic devices used in On the Grasshopper and the Cricket and explain their effect with examples.
Answer:
Case Summary

The poem uses imagery and personification to describe nature.

Analysis
  • Imagery: 'The poetry of earth is never dead' paints a lively picture.
  • Personification: The grasshopper 'takes the lead' like a cheerful leader.
Conclusion

These devices make the poem vivid, similar to NCERT's nature poems.

Question 11:
How does the poet convey the idea that nature's beauty is eternal in On the Grasshopper and the Cricket? Support with two references.
Answer:
Case Summary

The poem shows nature's music never stops, shifting between seasons.

Analysis
  • Summer's grasshopper sings 'in delight' under the sun.
  • Winter's cricket 'shrills' warmth, keeping the melody alive.
Conclusion

Like our textbook's themes, the poet proves nature's harmony is unbroken.

Question 12:
Contrast the settings of the grasshopper and the cricket in the poem. How do they reflect seasonal changes?
Answer:
Case Summary

The grasshopper thrives in summer, while the cricket adapts to winter.

Analysis
  • Grasshopper: 'hot sun', open fields, active movement.
  • Cricket: 'frosty silence', cozy hearth, gentle sounds.
Conclusion

These contrasts mirror NCERT examples of seasonal adaptations in nature.

Question 13:
Read the following lines from the poem On the Grasshopper and the Cricket:
'The poetry of earth is never dead...'
Based on these lines, explain how the poet, John Keats, portrays nature as a continuous source of inspiration. Support your answer with examples from the poem.
Answer:

In the poem On the Grasshopper and the Cricket, John Keats beautifully portrays nature as an eternal and unending source of inspiration. The opening line, 'The poetry of earth is never dead...', suggests that nature's beauty and music are everlasting.

Keats uses the grasshopper and the cricket as symbols of nature's persistent voice. The grasshopper represents the lively spirit of summer, hopping joyfully in the heat, while the cricket symbolizes the warmth and comfort of winter, singing from the stove.

Through these examples, Keats conveys that nature's poetry never ceases—it merely changes form with the seasons. This idea highlights the timelessness and resilience of nature, making it a perpetual muse for art and life.

Question 14:
In On the Grasshopper and the Cricket, the poet contrasts the grasshopper's summer song with the cricket's winter melody. How does this contrast enhance the theme of the poem? Provide textual evidence to justify your response.
Answer:

The contrast between the grasshopper's summer song and the cricket's winter melody in the poem reinforces the theme of nature's unbroken harmony.

In summer, the grasshopper is 'taking the lead in summer luxury', symbolizing energy and abundance. In winter, when all seems silent, the cricket's song 'in drowsiness half-lost' brings warmth and continuity.

This contrast shows that nature's music never stops—it adapts to the seasons. The poet uses this duality to emphasize that beauty and inspiration are always present, whether in the vibrancy of summer or the quiet coziness of winter. The lines 'The poetry of earth is ceasing never' perfectly capture this idea, making the theme universal and timeless.

Question 15:
Read the following lines from the poem On the Grasshopper and the Cricket:
'The poetry of earth is never dead...'
Based on these lines, explain how the poet, John Keats, conveys the idea that nature's beauty is eternal. Support your answer with examples from the poem.
Answer:

The poet John Keats uses the metaphor of 'the poetry of earth' to suggest that nature's beauty and music are everlasting. He emphasizes that even when one creature (like the grasshopper) takes a break, another (like the cricket) continues the song, ensuring nature's melody never stops.


For example:

  • In summer, the grasshopper sings joyfully in the meadows, representing nature's vibrancy.
  • In winter, when the grasshopper is silent, the cricket chirps from the stove, keeping the music alive.

This cyclical transition between creatures highlights that nature's beauty is eternal and uninterrupted, regardless of the season.

Question 16:
In the poem On the Grasshopper and the Cricket, the poet describes two different seasons—summer and winter. Compare and contrast how the grasshopper and the cricket contribute to the 'poetry of earth' in their respective seasons.
Answer:

The grasshopper and the cricket symbolize the continuity of nature's music in different seasons:


  • Summer (Grasshopper): The grasshopper is active in the hot sun, hopping and singing with joy. It represents the lively, energetic side of nature.
  • Winter (Cricket): The cricket sings from a warm corner, providing comfort during the cold. Its song is softer but equally significant, showing nature's resilience.

While the grasshopper thrives in warmth, the cricket adapts to cold, proving that nature's music never fades. Both creatures, though different, fulfill the same purpose—keeping the 'poetry of earth' alive.

Question 17:
Read the following lines from the poem On the Grasshopper and the Cricket:

'The poetry of earth is never dead:
When all the birds are faint with the hot sun,
And hide in cooling trees, a voice will run
From hedge to hedge about the new-mown mead.'

Explain how the poet uses personification and imagery to convey the theme of nature's eternal beauty.
Answer:

The poet, John Keats, uses personification by giving human-like qualities to nature, such as calling it 'the poetry of earth', suggesting that nature itself is a living, artistic creation. The phrase 'never dead' reinforces the idea that nature's beauty is everlasting.

Additionally, imagery is vividly employed to paint a picture of a hot summer day where birds are 'faint with the hot sun' and seek shelter in 'cooling trees'. The 'voice' that runs from 'hedge to hedge' refers to the grasshopper's song, symbolizing nature's persistent music even in harsh conditions. Together, these devices highlight the theme of nature's eternal and resilient beauty.

Question 18:
In the poem On the Grasshopper and the Cricket, the grasshopper and the cricket are portrayed as symbols of different seasons.

Compare and contrast their roles in the poem, explaining how they contribute to the central idea of the poem.
Answer:

The grasshopper symbolizes summer, as it is active during the hot season when 'all the birds are faint with the hot sun'. It represents joy and vitality, singing cheerfully despite the heat, showing nature's resilience.

On the other hand, the cricket symbolizes winter, as its song is heard 'on a lone winter evening'. It brings warmth and comfort during the cold, proving that nature's music never ceases.

While they belong to different seasons, both creatures share the role of keeping 'the poetry of earth' alive. Their contrasting yet harmonious existence reinforces the poem's central idea: nature's beauty and music are eternal, transcending seasonal changes.

Question 19:
Read the following lines from the poem On the Grasshopper and the Cricket:
'The poetry of earth is never dead...'
Based on these lines, explain how the poet, John Keats, portrays nature as a continuous source of beauty and inspiration. Support your answer with examples from the poem.
Answer:

The poet John Keats beautifully portrays nature as an eternal and unending source of beauty and inspiration through the lines 'The poetry of earth is never dead...'. He suggests that nature's music and vibrancy never cease, even in different seasons.

For example, in summer, the grasshopper takes the lead, hopping joyfully and singing in the scorching heat, symbolizing life and energy. In winter, when the land seems silent, the cricket continues the song from the warmth of the stove, ensuring that nature's poetry never stops.

Keats uses these tiny creatures to highlight how nature's beauty persists in all conditions, making it a timeless inspiration for humans. The poem teaches us to appreciate the small yet significant aspects of nature that keep its spirit alive.

Question 20:
In the poem On the Grasshopper and the Cricket, the grasshopper and the cricket are depicted as symbols of resilience. Analyze how these two creatures represent the idea of perseverance and harmony in nature. Provide textual evidence to support your answer.
Answer:

The grasshopper and the cricket in Keats' poem symbolize resilience and the unbroken harmony of nature. Despite extreme weather conditions, both creatures continue their songs, showcasing perseverance.

  • The grasshopper thrives in the 'hot sun' of summer, 'taking the lead' in keeping nature alive with its joyful movements and sounds.
  • In contrast, the cricket sings during the harsh winter, 'from the stove there shrills the cricket’s song', proving that life and music persist even in adversity.

These examples highlight how nature maintains balance and continuity through different seasons. The poet emphasizes that no matter the challenges, life and beauty endure, teaching us the value of resilience and adaptability.

Question 21:
Read the following lines from the poem On the Grasshopper and the Cricket:
'The poetry of earth is never dead...'
Based on these lines, explain how the poet, John Keats, portrays nature as a continuous source of inspiration and joy. Support your answer with examples from the poem.
Answer:

The poet John Keats beautifully portrays nature as an eternal and unending source of joy and inspiration through the lines 'The poetry of earth is never dead...'. He suggests that nature's music and beauty persist in every season, whether it is summer or winter.


In the poem, the grasshopper represents the liveliness of summer, hopping around and singing joyfully when the weather is hot. On the other hand, the cricket symbolizes the warmth and coziness of winter, as its song is heard from the stove, bringing comfort during the cold months.


Keats uses these two creatures to highlight that nature's poetry never ceases—it simply changes form with the seasons. This continuity reflects the idea that beauty and harmony in nature are everlasting, providing humans with endless inspiration and happiness.

Question 22:
In On the Grasshopper and the Cricket, Keats uses contrasting imagery of summer and winter. How does this contrast enhance the central theme of the poem? Provide a detailed analysis with references to the text.
Answer:

Keats employs contrasting imagery of summer and winter to emphasize the poem's central theme—the eternal and unchanging beauty of nature. The grasshopper, active in the scorching heat of summer, symbolizes energy and vitality, while the cricket, singing from the warmth of a winter stove, represents comfort and resilience.


The poet contrasts these two seasons to show that nature's music never stops; it merely adapts to different conditions. For example:

  • In summer, the grasshopper's song is loud and lively, filling the air with joy.
  • In winter, the cricket's soft chirping creates a soothing atmosphere, proving that nature's poetry persists even in harsh weather.

This contrast reinforces the idea that nature is a constant source of inspiration, regardless of external changes. Keats suggests that humans can find beauty and solace in every season if they listen closely to nature's voice.

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