Class 9 English - GUJARAT
Poetry: The Snake Trying
The poem 'The Snake Trying' by W.W. E. Ross, prescribed in the Class 9 Gujarat Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Board (GSEB) English curriculum, explores the theme of harmlessness and human cruelty towards animals. The poet describes a beautiful green snake trying to escape the pursuing stick of a person. Through vivid imagery, the poet emphasizes that not all snakes are poisonous and dangerous; many are harmless creatures simply trying to survive in nature. The chapter is important for board exams as it tests students' comprehension of poetic devices, empathy, and the ability to interpret deeper underlying messages about coexistence.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Theme of Coexistence
The poem highlights that humans should not fear or harm all snakes instinctively, as most of them pose no threat and are an essential part of nature.
Visual Imagery
The poet uses descriptive words like 'gliding gracefully', 'thin long body', and 'green reed' to help the reader visualize the snake's movements clearly.
Irony of Human Action
It is ironic that the snake, which is actually trying to hide and escape from human attack, is perceived by humans as the aggressor needing to be killed.
Poetic Form and Diction
Written in free verse without a fixed rhyme scheme, the poem uses simple yet powerful language to mirror the natural, fluid motion of the snake.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Gujarat (GSEB) Class 9 English exams, this chapter typically carries around 3 to 5 marks. Questions commonly include short answer questions based on comprehension, appreciation of poetic devices, explanation of specific lines, and multiple-choice questions regarding the poet's message.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the snake in the poem poisonous?
No, the poet specifically mentions that the green snake is harmless even to children, emphasizing that it belongs to a non-poisonous category.
Why is the snake trying to escape?
The snake is trying to escape because someone is chasing it with a stick to kill or harm it.
What is the central message of the poem 'The Snake Trying'?
The central message is to stop mindless violence against animals and to learn to live peacefully alongside harmless creatures in nature.
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