A Thing of Beauty by John Keats (Question and Answer)

A Thing of Beauty by John Keats

Here in the following post I have discussed all the questions of the chapter A Thing of Beauty by John Keats mostly of the textbook that is given in the section 'think it out'. If You have any question or more questions regarding this chapter you can ask it out in the comment box section, I will answer the question too.

Think it out

1. List the things of beauty mentioned in the poem.

2. List the things that cause suffering and pain.

3. What does the line, Therefore are we wreathing a flowery band to bind us to earth' suggest to you?

4. What makes human beings love life in spite of troubles and sufferings?

5. Why is 'grandeur' associated with the 'mighty dead'?

6. Do we experience things of beauty only for short moments or do they make a lasting impression on us?

7. What image does the poet use to describe the beautiful bount of the earth?

(1) List the things of beauty mentioned in the poem.

Answer - The things of beauty mentioned by John Keats in the poem 'A Thing of Beauty' are the sun, the moon, trees old and young, streams with clear water, daffodils, mass of ferns, blooming musk-roses and the endless fountain of immortal drink. These things make the world beautiful. According to the poet these beautiful things are constant sources of joy and pleasure and give us a sleep full of sweet dreams, a sound health, a peaceful breathing and heavenly  pleasure.

(2) List the things that cause suffering and pain.

Answer - The things that cause suffering and pain, are disappontment, depression, short temperament, misery, unhappiness and the unhealthy and wrongful deeds of human beings to achieve their desired goal. The another thing that causes suffering and pain are the lack of people with noble qualities.

(3) What does the line, 'Therefore are we wreathing a flowery band to bind us to earth' suggest to you?

Answer - The line, 'Therefore are we wreathing a flowery band to bind us to earth' suggests that as a result of all the beautiful things around us, we weave a flowery wreath to bind us to the earth despite all the sadness. Every morning all these beautiful things of nature bring new hope and joy for us. The poet finds these beautiful things as a constant sources of joy, hope and pleasure.

(4) What makes human beings love life in spite of troubles and sufferings?

Answer - The beautiful things of nature make human beings love life in spite of troubles and sufferings. Nature itself is the best motivator. It inspires us to live our life and teaches us the most important lesson of life that is to see the brighter aspect of life even in darkness. It always bestows love and happiness upon us.

(5) Why is 'grandeur' associated with the 'mighty dead ?

Answer - The 'grandeur' is associated with the 'mighty dead' because the poet finds that it is the splendour of the deeds as well as sacrifices that makes the soul immortal. The legends are not legend by birth, they become legend by their deeds and sacrifices. The heroic struggles of the legendary heroes in life as well as their death are the source of inspiration for new generation. They are always remembered for their noble and splendid deeds and creations. The stories of legends and martyrs always inspire and enthuse us as well as make us aware of many valuable aspects of life.

(6) Do we experience things of beauty only for short moments or do they make a lasting impression on us?

Answer - A thing of beauty always makes a lasting impression on human mind. John Keats also believes that beautiful things always have a lasting impression on the human mind and provide intense pleasure or deep satisfaction forever. It also inspires us to live life with hope and optimism. The beauty survives the trials and tribulation of time. They do not fade away into nothingness instead their beauty increases with time.

(7) What image does the poet use to describe the beautiful bounty of the earth?

Answer - The poet, John Keats mainly uses the images of nature to describe the beautiful bounty of the earth. He specifically refers to the sun, the moon, daffodils, trees old and young, streams with clear water, mass of ferns, blooming musk-roses and 'an endless fountain of immortal drink, pouring unto us from the heaven's brink.' etc, stating that their beauty gives life a new meaning and hope. The poem also illustrates a connection with nature by the expression 'a flowery band to bind us to the earth', saying that beauty keeps us healthy although we may have 'dark spirits'. The feeling that 'a thing of beauty is a joy forever, its loveliness increases, it will never pass into nothingness.' runs through the poem.

***The End***

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