Class - 12, English
Unit 2 Poems
Chapter - 4 The Awakening Age
Ben OkriQuestion Answer.....
Summary
"The Awakening Age" is a poetic exploration of the human experience and our relationship with the world around us. The poem begins with a call to awaken from the dream-like state that many of us live in, to become conscious of the world and our place in it. Okri suggests that we are living in an age of awakening, where the old ways of thinking and being are falling away, and new possibilities are emerging.
The poem is divided into five sections, each of which explores a different aspect of this awakening. In the first section, Okri speaks of the power of imagination and the role it plays in shaping our lives. He suggests that our imaginations are the key to unlocking the mysteries of the world, and that we must learn to use them to their full potential.
The second section of the poem explores the idea of transformation. Okri suggests that we must be willing to undergo a process of transformation in order to awaken to our true selves. He speaks of the need to break free from the constraints of our past, to let go of the old ways of thinking and being, and to embrace the new possibilities that are emerging.
In the third section, Okri speaks of the power of love to transform our lives and the world around us. He suggests that love is the most powerful force in the universe, and that we must learn to harness it in order to create a better world.
The fourth section of the poem explores the idea of interconnectedness. Okri suggests that we are all connected, that everything in the universe is part of a larger whole. He speaks of the need to recognize this interconnectedness, to see ourselves as part of a larger story, and to work together to create a better world.
The final section of the poem speaks of the power of hope. Okri suggests that even in the darkest of times, we must hold onto hope and believe in the possibility of a better future. He speaks of the need to work together, to support one another, and to keep striving towards a better world.
Overall, "The Awakening Age" is a powerful and inspiring poem that speaks to the human experience and our collective need to awaken to the world around us. Okri's use of imagery and language is masterful, creating a sense of wonder and possibility that is both profound and uplifting. The poem is a reminder that we are all part of a larger story, and that we must work together to create a better world for all.
The Awakening Age
Understanding the text
Answer the following questions.
a. Who are the people ‘who travel the meridian line’?
In the poem "The Awakening Age" by Ben Okri, the people who travel the meridian line are likely symbolic of those who seek knowledge, enlightenment, and understanding. The meridian line is a metaphorical line that divides the world into East and West, and those who travel it are those who seek to bridge the gap between different cultures and ways of thinking.
b. What does the poet mean by ‘a new world’?
By "a new world", the poet means a world that has undergone a transformation or change, where people have awakened to the interconnectedness of all things and are working together to create a better world. This new world is one where people are more conscious of their place in the world, and where they are working towards a more sustainable and harmonious existence.
c. How are people connected?
In the poem, people are connected to each other through their shared humanity and their common experiences. The poet suggests that we are all part of a larger whole, and that our actions and beliefs have an impact on the world around us. By recognizing our interconnectedness, we can work together to create a better world.
d. What can we gain after our perceptions are changed?
According to the poet, after our perceptions are changed, we can gain a new sense of understanding and perspective. We can see the world in a different light, and become more aware of our own role in shaping it. This newfound awareness can lead to personal growth and a greater sense of purpose.
e. How are we benefited by new people?
The poet suggests that we are benefited by new people in that they bring new ideas, perspectives, and experiences into our lives. By interacting with people from different backgrounds, we can broaden our understanding of the world and expand our own horizons. This can lead to personal growth and a greater appreciation for the diversity of the human experience.
f. Describe the rhyme scheme of this sonnet.
"The Awakening Age" is a sonnet with a regular rhyme scheme of ABAB CDCD EFEF GG. The poem has 14 lines, and the lines are written in iambic pentameter. The poem is divided into five sections, each of which explores a different aspect of the theme of awakening. The use of regular rhyme and meter gives the poem a sense of structure and order, while the variation in the content of each section adds interest and depth to the poem.
Reference to the context
a. What does the poet mean by ‘the awakening age’?
In the context of the poem "The Awakening Age" by Ben Okri, the poet refers to a time in human history when people are becoming more conscious of their place in the world and working towards a better future. The awakening age represents a period of transformation, where people are waking up to the interconnectedness of all things and striving to create a more harmonious and sustainable world.
b. Why, in your view, have these people ‘lived with poverty’s rage’?
The people in the poem who have "lived with poverty's rage" may have done so due to a lack of opportunities or access to resources. Poverty can be a result of systemic inequalities and social injustices, which can prevent individuals and communities from realizing their full potential. The poet highlights the struggle that many people face in trying to overcome poverty and encourages solidarity among those who seek to make a positive change.
c. Why does the poet appeal for solidarity among the people?
The poet appeals for solidarity among the people in order to emphasize the importance of working together towards a common goal. By recognizing our shared humanity and the interconnectedness of all things, we can overcome the divisions that separate us and work towards a better future. The poet suggests that by coming together and supporting one another, we can achieve more than we ever could alone.
d. Does the poet present migration in a positive light? Why? Why not?
Yes,The poet presents migration in a positive light in the sense that it can bring new ideas, perspectives, and experiences into our lives. Migration can be a catalyst for change and growth, as individuals are exposed to new ways of thinking and living. However, the poet also acknowledges the challenges and difficulties that can arise from migration, such as homesickness and the struggle to adapt to a new culture.
e. Nepal is also known for its economic as well as educational migrants. Have you noticed any change in the perceptions and behaviours of these migrants when they return home from abroad?
Yes, Nepal is known for its economic and educational migrants, and it is possible that these migrants may experience a change in perception and behavior upon returning home. Exposure to new cultures and experiences can broaden one's understanding of the world and lead to personal growth. These changes may be reflected in the way that migrants interact with their families and communities, and in the way that they approach their work and daily lives.
f. Relate the rhyme scheme of this sonnet to the kind of life idealized by the poet.
The rhyme scheme of this sonnet, which follows the pattern ABAB CDCD EFEF GG, reflects the kind of life idealized by the poet. The regularity and symmetry of the rhyme scheme suggest a sense of order and harmony, while the variation in the content of each section adds depth and complexity to the poem. This idealized life is one in which people are interconnected and working together towards a common goal, while also embracing the diversity of human experience.
All Class 12 English Book Solution Link Unitwise
Section I : Language Development
Section II : Literature
Unit - 1 Short Stories
Unit - 2 Poems
Unit - 3 Essays
Unit - 4 One Act Plays
