NCERT Solutions Class 9 English Poem Chapter 1 The Road Not Taken
Class 9 English Poem Chapter 1 The Road Not Taken:- The Road Not Taken" by Robert Frost is a widely studied poem in Class 9 English. It explores the theme of decision-making and its lasting impact on our lives. Through vivid imagery and introspective storytelling, Frost encourages readers to think about the choices we face and the paths we take. This poem prompts reflection on personal decisions, aspirations, and the uncertainties that accompany them. It remains a timeless piece that resonates with readers, urging us to consider the significance of our choices and the narratives they create in our journey through life. Check out the NCERT Solutions Class 9 English Poem Chapter 1 The Road Not Taken along with the summary from the below article.
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NCERT Solutions Class 9 English Poem Chapter 1 The Road Not Taken
1. Where does the traveller find himself? What problem does he face?
Ans: The traveller stands amidst the fork in the road within a sunlit wood of golden hues, pondering his next path, contemplating the choice ahead with thoughtful deliberation.
2. Discuss what these phrases mean to you:
(i) A yellow wood
Ans: Yellowwood symbolizes the autumn season in the forest, signifying nature's cycle of renewal and change. As leaves fall, the tree sheds the old, much like humans in old age losing physical abilities, preparing for the next stage of existence.
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(ii) It was grassy and wanted wear
Ans: It suggests that the road was overgrown with untouched vegetation due to its infrequent use. The poet personifies the road by suggesting it "wanted wear," implying a desire for exploration or travelers' footsteps, which it lacked.
(iii) The passing there
Ans: The phrase refers to the other path, often trodden by visitors. He considered this road secondary, expressing a greater eagerness to explore the one overgrown with vegetation.
(iv) Leaves no step had trodden black
Ans: The poet employs the phrase to depict the path's pristine condition. Unlike the roads he usually traversed, where the edges of leaves turned black underfoot, here they remained untouched. He ventured out early in the morning, finding both roads untraveled, with fresh leaves from the trees lying undisturbed upon them.
(v) How way leads on to way
Ans: The phrase reveals the poet's eagerness to explore both roads and discover their destinations. Yet, he soon comprehends that each path leads to another, potentially veering far from the starting point. It reflects how every decision in life sets the stage for the next, shaping our unique life journeys, individual to each person.
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3. Is there any difference between the two roads as the poet describes them
(i) In stanzas two and three?
Ans: In stanza two, the poet describes two types of roads: one well-used, clear of vegetation, and another overgrown and rarely traveled.
In stanza three, the poet notes that in the morning, both roads were untouched, covered with fresh autumn leaves and without any footprints.
(ii) In the last two lines of the poem?
Ans: In the poet's view, the significance lies in his decision to take the road less traveled, setting him on a distinct journey divergent from what the more frequented path would have offered. It's not merely about the physical appearance but about the destination each road leads to.
4. What do you think the last two lines of the poem mean? (Looking back, does the poet regret his choice or accept it?)
Ans: The final lines of the poem reveal the poet's embrace of reality and responsibility for his choice. He bravely opted for the challenging, uncharted path, driven by a desire for novelty. As years passed, he found no regret in his decision.
For the average person, the phrase encapsulates the everyday struggle of making choices. Regardless of where those choices lead, one must avoid dwelling on the path not taken and imagining a better life that might have been.
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II. Thinking About the Poem
1. Have you ever had to make a difficult choice (or do you think you will have difficult choices to make)? How will you make the choice (for what reasons)?
Ans: No, I haven't faced such a situation yet. Life often presents us with minor instances where choices must be made. In such moments, following our hearts can lead to the right decisions.
As I approach the end of my general education, I'll need to decide on a career path. There will be several options available to me, and I'll prioritize choosing a path that brings me fulfillment and peace of mind. Similar to the poet in the poem, I'm inclined to embrace a challenging and unexplored journey in my life.
2. After you have made a choice do you always think about what might have been or do you accept the reality?
Ans: I always take my time to carefully consider all potential outcomes before making plans. Certain decisions have the power to shape our lives indefinitely, so it's important to follow our heart's desires. It's crucial not to live solely to please others but to prioritize our own aspirations and put in the effort to achieve them. Therefore, I believe in making firm decisions and taking responsibility for them.
Class 9 English Poem Chapter 1 The Road Not Taken Summary
The poem vividly portrays a traveler standing at a crossroads, facing a profound decision in life. Each path is covered with fallen leaves, offering equal allure and uncertainty. Carefully examining both routes, the traveler weighs their options.
One path is well-trodden, clear, and shows signs of past travelers. The other path is less used, with grass and vegetation beginning to reclaim it. Despite the uncertainty, the traveler chooses the less traveled path, understanding it represents a commitment without the chance to turn back.
The poem suggests that while the chosen path is embraced with determination, it may not guarantee greater rewards or easier passage. Over time, the traveler reflects on their decision, wondering if they will one day look back with a sigh, pondering the unexplored possibilities of the alternate path.
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Class 9 English Poem Chapter 1 The Road Not Taken FAQs
Q1. What is the central theme of the poem "The Road Not Taken"?
Ans. The central theme revolves around the choices we make in life and their long-term impact. It explores the idea of decision-making, regret, and the uncertainty of the future.
Q2. Who is the poet of the poem "The Road Not Taken"?
Ans. The poem is written by Robert Frost, an American poet known for his contemplative and rural themes.
Q3. What is the significance of the title "The Road Not Taken"?
Ans. The title suggests the focus of the poem on the path that the speaker did not choose, highlighting the importance of choices and their consequences.
Q4. How does the speaker describe the two roads in the poem?
Ans. The speaker describes one road as well-trodden, showing signs of frequent use, while the other is grassy and less traveled.
Q5. What does the poem suggest about the speaker's choice of the less traveled road?
Ans. The poem suggests that the speaker's choice to take the less traveled road has made a significant difference in their life. It implies that choosing the unconventional path has defined their journey and possibly set them apart from others.
