Chapter 4: A Thing of Beauty – Class 12 English Flamingo NCERT Solutions

NCERT Solutions Class 12 English Flamingo Poem 4 A Thing of Beauty

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

The poem highlights various beautiful elements of nature and creative expression. These include the sun, the moon, shady trees, blooming daffodils, and clear streams that provide coolness during hot summers. In addition, literary creations like stories and plays also bring joy and are considered things of beauty.

Question 2. List the things that cause suffering and pain.

Life is full of challenges and hardships. Failures, the flaws in human behavior, diseases, and struggles cause us pain and sorrow. Yet, despite these difficulties, we continue to embrace life, which shows its deep appeal and enduring charm.

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

This line suggests that by creating garlands of fresh flowers, we express our love for nature and life. The beauty of flowers draws us closer to the natural world and makes us feel more connected to the earth.

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

Even though life has its share of sorrow and struggles, it still holds great value. The presence of beauty in nature, inspiring stories, and moments of joy help us rise above our troubles. These positive experiences renew our love for life.

Question 5. Why is grandeur associated with the ‘mighty dead’?

The ‘mighty dead’ refers to great leaders and heroic figures from the past. Their remarkable deeds and achievements fill us with admiration and respect. We honor them because they lived with dignity and left behind a powerful legacy.

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

Beautiful experiences leave a deep and lasting impact on us. The memory of people, places, or stories continues to bring us happiness long after the moment has passed. These memories stay with us throughout life and continue to uplift our spirits.

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

The poet compares the earth’s changing seasons to life’s cycles. In winter, nature appears lifeless, but spring brings it back to life with fresh blooms and greenery. This image reminds us not to lose hope, as beauty and renewal always follow dark and difficult times.

A Thing of Beauty Extra Questions Short Answer Type

Question 1: Mention any four things of beauty that add joy to our life.
Or
List the things of beauty mentioned in the poem.

Four things of beauty that bring joy to our lives include crystal-clear streams, blooming daffodils surrounded by greenery, tall trees both young and old, and the peaceful, calming forests.

Question 2: Mention any two things which cause pain and suffering.
Or
List the things that cause suffering and pain.

Sadness and hopelessness, along with a lack of noble traits and a corrupted way of living, are some of the things that lead to pain and suffering in life.

Question 3: Which objects of nature does Keats mention as sources of joy in his poem, ‘A Thing of Beauty’?

Keats finds joy in elements of nature like flowing streams, fragrant musk-rose, daffodils, lush greenery, tall trees, forests, the glowing sun, and the calming moon.

Question 4: What does a thing of beauty do for us?
Or
Life is full of sorrows. What brings joy in it?
Or
How do we get joy from life which is otherwise full of sorrows?

A thing of beauty fills our lives with joy and helps lift us out of despair. Even during tough times, its memory brings lasting happiness and provides comfort and peace.

Question 5: What makes human beings love life inspite of all the troubles they face?
Or
What makes human beings love life in spite of troubles and sufferings?

Despite life’s hardships, the beauty around us—like nature and uplifting creations—brings hope and joy, making us fall in love with life all over again.

Question 6: How do beautiful things help us to live a happy life?

Beautiful things comfort our minds and give us peace. Their lasting impact helps us forget everyday troubles, filling our lives with positivity and joy.

Question 7: What does Keats consider an endless fountain of immortal drink and why does he call its drink immortal?

Keats describes nature’s beauty as an endless fountain of immortal drink because it offers joy that never fades. This eternal source of happiness continues to inspire and uplift us throughout life.

Question 8: According to Keats, what spreads the pall of despondence over our dark spirits? How is it removed?
Or
What spreads the pall of despondence over our dark spirits? How is it removed?

According to Keats, pain and despair cast a gloomy shadow over our spirits. However, the beauty of nature helps lift this sadness and brings hope and light back into our lives.

Question 9: How does a thing of beauty provide shelter and comfort?

A beautiful thing offers relief like a cool, shaded retreat. It soothes us in the heat, offers peace of mind, and comforts us with the gentle sights and sounds of nature.

Question 10: What does the line, ‘Therefore are we wreathing a flowery band to bind us to the Earth’ suggest to you?

This line suggests that we find constant comfort in nature’s beauty, which ties us emotionally to life and the world around us, much like a garland binds us to Earth.

Question 11: How is a thing of beauty a joy forever?
Or
Do we experience things of beauty only for a short moment or do they make a lasting impression on us?

A thing of beauty leaves a lasting impression on our minds. It provides constant happiness that doesn’t fade with time but continues to bring us joy forever.

Question 12: Why is ‘grandeur’ associated with the ‘mighty dead’?

The term ‘grandeur’ is linked with the ‘mighty dead’—our heroic ancestors—because of their glorious deeds. Their legacy inspires us, and their greatness continues to be remembered and admired.

Question 13: What is the message of the poem, ‘A Thing of Beauty’?

The poem conveys that beautiful things provide eternal joy and help us escape from sadness. They refresh our souls and offer hope in moments of despair.

Question 14: What is the ‘endless fountain’ and what is its effect?

The ‘endless fountain’ refers to the never-ending beauty of nature. It flows like a divine gift, refreshing us with peace and encouraging us to keep moving forward despite life’s struggles.

Question 15: What image does the poet use to describe the beautiful bounty of the Earth?

The poet describes Earth’s beauty as an ‘endless fountain’ that flows from heaven. Elements like the sun, moon, daffodils, and forests all create powerful, uplifting imagery.

Question 16: What pleasure does a beautiful thing give us? Are truthful things worth treasuring?

Beautiful things bring deep, lasting joy and leave us with cherished memories. Yes, they are certainly worth treasuring, as they uplift our minds and bring comfort during difficult times.

Question 17: Give a gist of Keats’ poem ‘A Thing of Beauty’ in about 60 words.

Keats’ poem celebrates beauty as a divine source of endless joy. Whether it’s the natural world or inspiring stories, beauty uplifts us, dispels sadness, and brings peace. Despite life’s struggles, the sun, moon, flowers, and even heroic tales renew our spirits and fill our hearts with hope.

Question 18: What pleasure does a beautiful thing give us? Are beautiful things worth treasuring?

Beautiful things offer both immediate and lasting joy. Like a cool shade or peaceful moment, they soothe us. Their memory grows sweeter with time, making them truly worth treasuring.

Question 19: Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:

A thing of beauty is a joy for ever
Its loveliness increases, it will never
Pass into nothingness; but will keep
A bower quiet for us.

(a) What does the poet say about the impact of beautiful things?

It means that beautiful things have a lasting impact on us. Their charm stays in our memory and continues to bring happiness.

(b) What does the poet mean by ‘it will never pass into nothingness’?

A beautiful thing doesn’t fade away; it leaves a lasting impression and remains alive in our minds forever.

(c) What is meant by ‘a bower quiet for us’?

A ‘bower quiet for us’ refers to a peaceful, shady retreat where we can find rest and calm, just like the comfort beautiful things bring to our lives.

A Thing of Beauty Extra Questions Long Answer Type

Question 1: Analyse the myth of Endymion in the context of the poem.

The poem is drawn from John Keats’ epic work Endymion, first published in 1818. The name of the poem comes from its opening lines. In Greek mythology, Endymion was a beautiful shepherd living on Mount Latmos, who fell in love with the moon goddess Selene, also called Cynthia.

His love for her led him to wander in search of her, admiring nature’s beauty as he journeyed. Keats uses this myth to express how the beauty found in nature — like the moon, trees, and flowers — brings deep, lasting joy. Through Endymion’s story, the poet suggests that beauty touches the soul and offers eternal happiness.

Question 2: Explain ‘An endless fountain of immortal drink’.

This expression is used by Keats in A Thing of Beauty to describe the everlasting joy that beauty brings. He imagines it as a never-ending stream of bliss flowing from heaven itself — a divine, immortal drink that refreshes and uplifts the soul.

Through this metaphor, Keats conveys that the delight we get from witnessing beauty is eternal. It soothes our worries and fills us with peace. Beauty, in this sense, is not short-lived but a constant and sacred source of happiness that nourishes the spirit.

Question 3: Explain ‘A thing of beauty is a joy forever’.

This is the opening line of Keats’ poem Endymion and also appears in A Thing of Beauty. It holds a deep meaning, suggesting that beauty has a lasting impact on our hearts and minds. It brings peace and happiness that stays with us, regardless of time.

Keats, being a romantic poet, believed in nature’s healing power. A beautiful thing—whether it’s from nature, art, or memory—brings comfort, removes negativity, and fills life with positivity. Its charm doesn’t fade, making it a source of endless joy.

Question 4: Analyse the poetic devices used in the poem.

Keats has enriched the poem with several poetic devices to enhance its musical and emotional effect. He uses alliteration, as seen in phrases like “simple sheep” and “noble natures.” Metaphors are also present, such as “pall” for sadness covering our souls like a shroud, and “immortal drink” to represent eternal joy from beauty.

Imagery is vivid throughout the poem: from “flowery bands” and “daffodils with the green world they live in” to “clear rills” and the “endless fountain.” These images paint beautiful mental pictures and evoke sensory experiences. Overall, the poetic devices deepen the emotional connection with the theme of everlasting beauty.

A Thing of Beauty Extra Questions Extract Based Type

I. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow.

“A thing of beauty is a joy forever
Its loveliness increases, it will never
Pass into nothingness; but will keep
A bower quiet for us, and a sleep
Full of sweet dreams, and health, and quiet breathing.”

Question 1: How does a thing of beauty remain a joy forever?

A thing of beauty remains a constant source of happiness. Its charm never fades; rather, the pleasure it gives grows with time, offering lasting comfort and joy.

Question 2: Mention any two sources of joy which a thing of beauty provides to us.

It provides a peaceful shelter or ‘bower’ to relax under and also brings us restful sleep filled with sweet dreams and a sense of calmness.

Question 3: Explain ‘never pass into nothingness.’

This means that the delight provided by beautiful things does not fade away or vanish. Instead, their impact continues to live on in our hearts.

Question 4: What is meant by ‘bower’?

A ‘bower’ is a quiet and shaded resting place, typically under trees, where one can relax in peace and serenity.

II. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow.

“Therefore, on every morrow, are we wreathing
A flowery band to bind us to the Earth.
Spite of despondence, of the inhuman dearth
Of noble natures, of the gloomy days,
Of all the unhealthy and o’er-darkened ways
Made for our searching.”

Question 1: What are the flowery bands that bind us to Earth?

Flowery bands symbolize all the lovely and joyful aspects of life that keep us connected to the Earth, reminding us of the beauty and comfort the world can offer.

Question 2: What message do the above lines convey?

These lines reflect the idea that although life is filled with sorrow and negativity, the presence of beauty helps us stay hopeful and gives us a reason to remain connected to life.

Question 3: What is meant by ‘spite’ in the above lines?

‘Spite’ here refers to the presence of sadness or misery. It emphasizes that even in the face of despair and gloom, beauty still has the power to uplift our spirits.

Question 4: Describe the evil and bad things that we possess in us.

We carry feelings of sadness, despair, and a lack of noble qualities. Many people are self-absorbed and follow selfish or harmful paths, leading to a sense of hopelessness.

III. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow.

“A flowery band to bind us to the Earth,
Spite of despondence, of the inhuman dearth
Of noble natures, of the gloomy days,
Of all the unhealthy and o’er-darkened ways
Made for our searching”

Question 1: Name the poem and the poet.

The poem is titled ‘A Thing of Beauty’ and it is written by the poet John Keats.

Question 2: Why are we despondent?

We feel disheartened because of the challenges and hardships in life. Our own wrongdoings and harmful choices add to our sorrow and create inner conflict.

Question 3: What removes the pall from our dark spirits?

The sight or memory of a beautiful thing lifts the sadness from our souls and replaces it with peace and joy.

Question 4: Explain the ‘inhuman dearth of noble natures’.

This phrase suggests that noble and virtuous people are rare. Most individuals tend to act selfishly, and this scarcity of goodness leads to disappointment in human behavior.

Or

Question 1: What are we doing every day?

Every day, we mentally create garlands of beautiful memories and experiences that help us stay connected to the Earth and find joy in the midst of sorrow.

Question 2: Which evil things do we possess and suffer from?

We suffer from sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of compassion. Our daily lives are often filled with negativity and unhealthy emotions.

Question 3: What are the circumstances that contribute towards making humans unhappy and disillusioned with life?

Human unhappiness arises from constant struggles, absence of noble values, and the pursuit of harmful or destructive ways of living. These make people lose hope and become dissatisfied with life.

Question 4: What removes the pall from our dark spirits?

Any beautiful object or uplifting experience acts like a ray of light that lifts the veil of sadness from our hearts and fills us with peace and happiness.

V. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow.

Question 1: How does beauty help us when we are burdened with grief?

Beauty uplifts our spirits when we’re weighed down by sorrow. It brings a sense of relief and joy, offering us a brief escape from our troubles and filling our hearts with hope and peace.

Question 2: Explain ‘Some shape of beauty.’

‘Some shape of beauty’ refers to any beautiful form or object that brings pleasure to our senses. It could be anything—nature, art, or a kind act—that soothes and inspires us.

Question 3: Identify the figure of speech in the above lines.

The lines use a metaphor. The poet compares sadness and despair in our lives to a dark pall, like a funeral shroud, which is lifted by the presence of beauty.

Question 4: Why are our spirits referred to as dark?

Our spirits are called ‘dark’ because they are clouded with negativity, sadness, and despair. This darkness often comes from our own wrongdoings or the harshness of life, leaving us feeling hopeless and low.

V. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow.

“Such the Sun, the Moon,

Trees old and young, sprouting a shady boon
For simple sheep; and such are daffodils
With the green world they live in; and clear rills
That for themselves a cooling covert make
Against the hot season.”

Question 1: List the things that give us joy. Which of these provide respite in the hot season?

Things like the sun, moon, old and young trees, blooming daffodils, and flowing streams bring us happiness. In particular, the cool shade of trees and the refreshing flow of streams help provide relief during the hot season.

Question 2: Name the poem and the poet.

The poem is ‘A Thing of Beauty’ and it is written by John Keats.

Question 3: Describe the role of daffodils and clear rills.

Daffodils, surrounded by lush greenery, add charm and joy to nature. Clear rills, or small streams, offer a soothing and cool place to escape the summer heat.

“And such too is the grandeur of the dooms

We have imagined for the mighty dead;
All lovely tales that we have heard or read;
An endless fountain of immortal drink,
Pouring unto us from the heaven’s brink.”

Question 1: Name the poem and the poet.

The poem is ‘A Thing of Beauty’ and the poet is John Keats.

Question 2: What is the thing of beauty mentioned in these lines?

In these lines, the thing of beauty is the beautiful and inspiring stories we’ve heard or read about the greatness of those who lived before us.

Question 3: What image does the poet use in these lines?

The poet presents the image of an ‘endless fountain’ flowing down from heaven, symbolizing an everlasting stream of joy and inspiration from beautiful things around us.

Question 4: What is the effect of this ‘immortal drink’ on us?

This immortal drink fills our lives with lasting happiness and peace. It nourishes our soul and gives us continuous joy that never fades away.

Or

Question 1: Who are the ‘mighty dead’? How do we know about them?

The ‘mighty dead’ are our great ancestors and heroes of the past. We learn about their lives and achievements through the inspiring stories that have been passed down to us.

Question 2: What images does the poet use to convey that beauty is everlasting?

The poet uses the image of an ‘endless fountain’ of joy to express the idea that beauty never fades. It continues to uplift us with its eternal charm.

Question 3: What is the effect of that immortal drink?

This immortal drink, offered by nature’s beauty, brings unending delight and emotional nourishment, making life more meaningful and joyful.

Question 4: Point out the words from the extract which mean

• stories: tales
• magnificence: grandeur

A Thing of Beauty Extra Questions Value Based Type

Question 1: ‘A thing of beauty is a joy forever.’ This is what John Keats says in the poem. Do you think in the present times of acute stress and violence, proximity to beautiful things can lead man to everlasting happiness? Discuss.

A thing of beauty provides us with lasting happiness. The joy we experience when we encounter beautiful objects stays with us even after they are no longer in sight, creating a sense of everlasting pleasure. In the present times, characterized by stress and violence, the significance of beautiful things is even greater. In moments of anxiety and trouble, these objects offer us relief, comfort, and happiness, if only for a short while.

Appreciating beauty is akin to recognizing the divine, for it is God who has gifted us with such wonders to soothe our troubled minds. Proximity to beautiful things can draw us closer to the creator, from whom true peace and happiness flow. Therefore, encountering beauty in any form can bring a sense of everlasting happiness, offering solace amid the chaos of life.

A Thing of Beauty: About the Poem

Beauty, they say, is nine days’ wonder. Beauty is skin deep. These are common sayings. But Keats has a different opinion. For him, a thing of beauty is a joy forever. By beauty, he means much more than physical charm. A lovely young face will become wrinkled in old age, but the sweet memory of our beloved, a mountain scene, a painting, or the eighth wonder of the world haunts us for years on end.

A melodious tune or an emotional song delights us forever. Life is not always a bed of roses. We suffer mental and physical pain very often. We complain about the treachery of our friends, our ailments, and misfortunes. But this pall of sadness disappears when we hear or see a lovely thing. It soothes our nerves. The beauty of a poem or music is no less effective.

A Thing of Beauty: Summary in English

Beautiful Things: An Eternal Source of Joy

Beautiful things are truly worth treasuring. They offer an eternal source of joy that never fades with time. In fact, the sweet memories associated with such beauty grow lovelier as the years pass, remaining with us until our final breath. A beautiful thing gives us pleasure in the present and continues to delight us in the future. It is as comforting as the cool shade of a bower or the peace brought by good health and a calm mind. This is why human beings continue to seek and preserve their connection with nature.

Each morning, as we prepare a garland of fresh flowers, we momentarily forget our sorrows. Our worries and complaints about human cruelty and life’s hardships are pushed aside. These struggles, though inevitable, are softened by the presence of beauty. Despite all the challenges we face, nature has the power to lift our spirits and brighten our mood. Whether it’s a beautiful idea, an uplifting memory, or a scenic sight, these experiences remove the pall of sadness that often clouds our minds.

Nature is filled with endless objects of beauty. The sun and the moon—celestial bodies that shine on us—bring warmth and cheer. Tall trees and cool, shady bowers provide shelter and serenity. Daffodils nestled in green fields, flowing streams creating cool passageways in summer, and flowering bushes all contribute to nature’s soothing charm.

Beyond the natural world, literature and art also elevate our spirits. Plays and poems, as well as the tales of mighty heroes—both their glorious deeds and their tragic ends—inspire and move us deeply. These creations, passed down through generations, are like an endless fountain of immortal drink, constantly replenishing our hearts with everlasting joy.

A Thing of Beauty: Summary in Hindi

सुन्दर वस्तुएं: अनन्त काल तक की खुशी

सुन्दर वस्तुएं संजोने के लायक होती हैं। वे अनन्त काल तक खुशी देने वाली होती हैं। समय के बीतने के साथ-साथ मधुर स्मृतियाँ और अधिक मधुर होती जाती हैं। हम उन्हें अपनी अंतिम श्वास तक सँभाले रखते हैं। एक सुन्दर वस्तु आज और इसके बाद दीर्घकाल तक खुशी देती है। वह इतनी शांतिदायक होती है जैसे कोई ठण्डी छाँह देने वाली झाड़ी या अच्छा स्वास्थ्य तथा मानसिक शांति हो। यही कारण है कि हम प्रकृति से अपना लगाव बनाये रखते हैं। हर प्रातः हम ताजे फूलों का हार बना लेते हैं।

हम कुछ समय के लिये अपनी चिन्ताओं को भूल जाते हैं। हम अपनी निराशा, मनुष्य के शैतान स्वभाव की शिकायत तथा जीवन की कठिनाइयों को दूर रख देते हैं। ये सब जीवन से जुड़ी चीजें हैं। हर व्यक्ति को दुख, कष्ट तथा शोक का कड़वा स्वाद चखना ही पड़ता है। फिर भी इन सब समस्याओं के बावजूद प्रकृति हमारे मूड को प्रसन्न बना देती है। सुन्दर वस्तु, सुन्दर विचार अथवा मधुर स्मृति हमारे मन से उदासी का आवरण हटा देती है।

प्रकृति में सुन्दर वस्तुओं की प्रचुरता है। आकाश में सूरज और चाँद हैं जो हमें आनन्द देते हैं। फिर वृक्ष, छायादार कुंज जो भेड़ों को आश्रय देते हैं, डैफोडिल फूल जो हरे आवरण से ढके रहते हैं, तथा जलधाराएँ जो तपती ग्रीष्म ऋतु में ठंडी सुरंग से होकर बहती हैं। ये नाले अपने लिये दोनों किनारों पर उगे पौधों से एक छायादार मार्ग बना लेते हैं। अन्त में फूलों से लदी झाड़ियाँ होती हैं।

सुन्दर प्राकृतिक वस्तुओं के अलावा हमारे भीतर खुशी भरने वाले नाटक और कविताएँ होती हैं। शूरवीर योद्धाओं की शानदार उपलब्धियाँ हमें उतना ही रोमांचित करती हैं जितना उनका दुखांत पतन और स्वर्गवास। साहित्य और स्वरचित या सुनी हुई कहानियाँ भी आनंद का स्थायी स्रोत होती हैं, वे हमें दैवी अमृत दिला देती हैं।

A Thing of Beauty: Extracts for Comprehension

Stanza I

A thing of beauty is a joy forever
Its loveliness increases, it will never
Pass into nothingness; but will keep
A bower quiet for us, and a sleep
Full of sweet dreams, and health, and quiet breathing. (Page 98)

(i) What does Keats mean by ‘A Thing of Beauty’?

A thing of beauty can be an idea, a story or poem, or a sweet memory. It is anything that uplifts our spirit and provides lasting joy and comfort.

(ii) How can a lovely object give lasting joy?

A lovely thing gives us heavenly joy for all time to come. We can bring to mind the dancing daffodils and share their joy. The sweetness of beauty gets sweeter with the passing of time.

(iii) How does Keats illustrate the thrill provided by a beautiful scene, tale, or memory?

A thing of beauty and its sweet memory is as soothing as a cool shade, sweet dreams, sound health, and inner peace. Keats emphasizes how these beautiful things calm our minds and nourish our souls.

(iv) Explain: quiet breathing.

Quiet breathing means a relaxed mood and mental peace. It refers to the sense of serenity and calm that beauty brings, helping us find harmony within ourselves.

Stanza II

Therefore, on every morrow, are we wreathing
A flowery band to bind us to the earth,
Spite of despondence, of the inhuman dearth
Of noble natures, of the gloomy days
Of all the unhealthy and o’er-darkened ways

Made for our searching.

(i) What for do we wreathe a garland of flowers every morning?

Man and nature are inseparable. Every morning, fresh flowers refresh our eyes and celebrate the day by making a garland. It symbolizes our connection to nature and beauty, which brings peace and joy.

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

The ingratitude or wickedness of man, misfortunes, and diseases cause us mental and physical suffering. These are the darker aspects of life that weigh down the human spirit.

(iii) What makes human beings live life in spite of all suffering?

Some object of beauty, some noble deed, or some powerful narrative removes our tension and sadness. These positive experiences uplift us and help us endure life’s challenges.

(iv) Explain: Over-darkened ways made for our searching.

Sorrow, grief, and physical pain are there to test man’s stamina. These over-darkened paths symbolize the difficult phases in life through which we search for meaning and resilience.

Stanza III

Yes, in spite of all,
Some shape of beauty moves away the pall
From our dark spirits. Such the sun, the moon,
Trees old, and young, sprouting a shady boon
For simple sheep; and such are daffodils
With the green world they live in and clear rills
That for themselves a cooling covert make
’Gainst the hot season; the mid forest brake,
Rich with a sprinkling of fair musk-rose blooms. (Pages 98-99)

(i) What do the above lines reveal about the mind-set or conviction of the poet?

Keats looks to the brighter side of every situation. Come what may, life must go on. Life is more a blessing than a curse.

(ii) List the objects that dispel the darkness from our spirit and cheer us up.

The objects of beauty are both natural and man-made. The sun and the moon, the trees and flowers, the streams and forests—are some of the gifts of God and nature.

(iii) How do rills make a cooling passage against the hot sun?

The streams make a cool covered passage for themselves with the help of plants that grow on either bank.

Stanza IV

And such too is the grandeur of the dooms
We have imagined for the mighty dead;
All lovely tales that we have heard or read;
An endless fountain of immortal drink,
Pouring unto us from the heaven’s brink. (Page 99)

(i) What does Keats mean by the grandeur of the dooms in relation to towering heroes?

Keats’ reference is to the great tragic plays written by great playwrights. We find the exploits of great heroes very exciting. Even their fall is no less glorious.

(ii) What is the function of fiction or imaginary tales?

All great stories and plays are like fountains of Amrita or heavenly drink. They keep entertaining the readers for centuries.

(iii) Elaborate the use of metaphor in the last two lines.

The great works of Shakespeare or Milton keep pouring endless beauty and joy to the reader. The beauty of literature has an eternal charm.