Class 9 English - WEST-BENGAL
Poetry: The Snake Trying
The chapter 'The Snake Trying' is a thought-provoking poem written by W.W. Ebenezer Pearce. It deals with a common misconception about snakes—that all snakes are harmful and must be killed immediately. The poet describes a harmless green snake trying to escape from a pursuing stick. Through vivid imagery, the poet portrays the beauty and grace of the snake as it glides through the water and thin reeds. For WBBSE Class 9 board exams, this chapter is crucial as it tests students' understanding of poetic devices, empathy toward animals, and the ability to interpret implicit moral themes.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Theme of Compassion and Coexistence
The poem teaches us not to harm animals out of fear or ignorance, promoting a peaceful coexistence with all creatures in nature.
Visual Imagery
The poet uses descriptive words to paint a clear picture of the snake's graceful movements, such as 'gliding through the water' and 'thin green reeds'.
Irony of Human Behaviour
It highlights the irony that humans attack a harmless animal just because it is a snake, even though it is only trying to protect itself.
Poetic Structure
The poem is written in free verse without a strict rhyme scheme, allowing the rhythm to mimic the natural, flowing movement of the snake.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the West Bengal Board of Secondary Education (WBBSE) Class 9 English exams, this chapter typically carries around 5 to 8 marks. Common question types include multiple-choice questions (MCQs), short answer type questions (SAQs) regarding the snake's actions, and analytical long-answer questions focusing on the central theme and poetic devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the snake trying to escape in the poem?
The snake is trying to escape because someone is chasing it with a stick to hurt or kill it.
Is the snake poisonous as described in the poem?
No, the poet explicitly mentions that even the small green snake is harmless, and it poses no threat to humans.
What message does the poet want to convey through 'The Snake Trying'?
The poet wants to change our attitude toward snakes and wildlife, teaching us that not all creatures are dangerous and every living being has the right to live.
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