Weathers by Thomas Hardy [Travel & Adventure] - NEB English Class 10 Poem Summary & Exercise

Summary of the Poem Weather

Thomas Hardy's poem "Weather" describes the different reactions creatures have to change weather conditions. The first stanza portrays the joy felt by the cuckoo and the speaker during rainy weather, while the second stanza describes the discomfort felt by the shepherd and the speaker during cold and wet weather. The poem explores the relationship between humans and nature and emphasizes the importance of being in tune with the natural world. Hardy uses language to create a vivid image of the effects of weather on the world. The poem is a reminder of the beauty and power of nature.

Interpretation of the Poem Weathers

The poem "Weather" by Thomas Hardy is a simple but evocative piece that explores the different reactions people have to changing weather conditions. Hardy describes two opposing views of the weather, one that is enjoyed by the cuckoo and the speaker, and one that is shunned by the shepherd and the speaker. Through his description of the weather and its effects on nature, Hardy paints a picture of a world in transition, where different creatures respond to change in different ways.

In the first stanza, Hardy describes the weather that the cuckoo likes, and the speaker agrees. This is a time when the weather is wet and showers come frequently, which encourages the growth and spread of plants. The chestnut spikes, which are the flowers of the chestnut tree, are described as being "betumbled" by the showers. This implies that they are being jostled around by the rain and wind, which creates a sense of movement and energy. The nestlings, or baby birds, are also mentioned, and are described as flying. This suggests that they are taking their first flights and exploring the world around them. The little brown nightingale is also mentioned, and is described as singing his best. This suggests that the bird is feeling energized and joyful, perhaps because of the abundance of food and water that the rain has brought.

Hardy also describes the human response to this weather. He mentions "The Traveller's Rest," which is likely a pub or inn where people gather to socialize and enjoy the good weather. Maids are described as wearing sprig-muslin dresses, which suggests that they are dressing up for the occasion. Citizens are dreaming of the south and west, which are warmer and more pleasant places to be. The speaker also agrees that he likes this weather, which suggests that he is also enjoying the sense of renewal and energy that it brings.

In the second stanza, Hardy describes the weather that the shepherd shuns, and the speaker agrees. This is a time when the weather is cold and wet, and the leaves on the trees are changing color. The beeches are described as dripping in browns and duns, which are muted colors that suggest a sense of decay and decline. The shepherd is said to "ply and thresh," which implies that he is busy with the work of the season, but is not enjoying it. The hill-hid tides are described as throbbing and throeing, which suggests a sense of unease or discomfort. The meadow rivulets are overflowing, which suggests that the rain has brought more water than the land can handle. Drops on gate bars hang in a row, which creates a sense of stillness and stagnation. Rooks in families are going home, which suggests that the day is coming to a close and the creatures of the night are taking over.

The speaker also agrees that he shuns this weather, which suggests that he feels the same sense of unease and discomfort that the shepherd does. The two stanzas of the poem present two different perspectives on the same weather conditions, and show how different creatures respond to change in different ways. The first stanza presents a sense of renewal and energy, while the second stanza presents a sense of decay and decline. The poem suggests that the weather has a powerful effect on the world around us, and that different creatures respond to it in different ways.

One interesting aspect of the poem is the way that Hardy uses language to create a sense of movement and energy. In the first stanza, the chestnut spikes are described as being "betumbled" by the rain and wind, which creates a sense of motion and vitality. The nestlings are described as flying, which suggests that they are exploring the world and experiencing new things. The little brown nightingale is described as singing his best, which suggests that he is feeling energized and joyful. Similarly, in the second stanza, the hill-hid tides are described as throbbing and throeing, which creates a sense of movement and unease. The meadow rivulets are overflowing, which suggests that the rain has brought more water than the land can handle, and creates a sense of chaos and disruption. By using language in this way, Hardy creates a vivid picture of the weather and its effects on the world around us.

Another interesting aspect of the poem is the way that it presents two opposing views of the same weather conditions. The first stanza presents a positive view of the weather, and shows how it can bring renewal and energy to the world. The second stanza presents a negative view of the weather, and shows how it can bring decay and decline. By presenting these two views, the poem suggests that the weather can have different effects on different creatures, and that our response to it depends on our individual perspective.

The poem also explores the relationship between humans and nature. In the first stanza, Hardy describes how people are enjoying the good weather and socializing at "The Traveller's Rest." In the second stanza, however, the shepherd is described as shunning the weather and being busy with the work of the season. This suggests that humans are not always in tune with nature, and that we sometimes see it as something to be controlled and worked with, rather than something to be appreciated and enjoyed.

Overall, "Weather" is a simple but evocative poem that explores the effects of weather on the world around us, and the different ways that creatures respond to change. Through his use of language and imagery, Hardy creates a vivid picture of the weather and its effects, and shows how different creatures can have different perspectives on the same conditions. The poem also touches on the relationship between humans and nature and suggests that we need to be more in tune with the natural world if we are to truly appreciate its beauty and power.

Exercise of the NEB English Grade 10

A. Find the words from the poem that are similar in meaning to the following words/phrases.

a. a brief and usually light fall of rain-showers

b. sings - bills

c. young women - maids

d. to tumble about; throw into disorder - betumble

e. baby birds - nestlings

f. dislikes - shuns

g. a dull greyish -brown color - duns

h. beat or sound with a strong, regular rhythm - throb

i. small rivers; streams - rivulets

B. Answer these questions.

a. What do the nestlings do in the spring?

In the spring, the nestlings fly.

b. What does the nightingale do?

The nightingale sings its best.

c. How do the girls come out in spring?

In spring, the girls come out dressed in sprig-muslin.

d. What plan do people make?

People plan to visit different places in the south and west. 

e. What happens to beeches in winter?

In winter, beeches turn brown and dun.

f. Where do rooks go? Why do they migrate?

Rooks go to their nests or rookeries. They might migrate for various reasons, including breeding, access to food, social bonding, and seeking suitable environmental conditions that support their survival and reproductive success.

g. Does the poet enjoy the winter or the spring? Why?

The poet enjoys the spring weather. The repetition of the phrase "And so do I" suggests that the poet shares the same preference for the weather as the cuckoo, nestlings, nightingale, maids, and citizens who dream of the south and west.

C. Complete the interpretation of the poem using suitable words or phrases given below.

[chestnut, young girls, south and west, Thomas Hardy, severity sunny, beeches, rooks, hang]

The poem 'Weathers' was composed by an English poet, Thomas Hardy, who talks about two different seasons which are the spring and the winter. In the first stanza, the pleasant spring season is described. Cuckoo and Nightingale feel good in this season. The light rain flows over the pointed leaves of the chestnut tree.

The poet is pleased as the nightingale sings at his best tune. People come out of their houses to enjoy the weather and the birds' song. The young girls are seen in their fine clothes. The people plan to visit different places in the south and west. To an English person, the south and the west are associated with summer holiday destinations, where the weather at that time is often warm and sunny, and many coastal towns provide welcoming accommodations and amusements. The poet likes this weather as it is liked by all the birds, animals, and humans as well.

In the second stanza, he talks about the winter's coldness and severity. All the natural beauty turns into dullness and discomfort. The cuckoo hates this weather. The beeches turn dull and brown as their leaves are threshed by the wind. The water drops hang from the wooden bars of the gates. One can see some streams overflowing as it has been raining a lot. The rooks fly to their homes as the harshness of winter gradually grows. The poet dislikes the winter season because it is very cold and wet.

Symbolically the poet tries to state the bright and dark aspects of human life and the word 'weathers' indicates human life. The spring represents the bright whereas the winter represents the dark aspects of our life.

D. In which season would you like to travel? Why?

If I had to choose just one season to travel, I would personally lean towards autumn/fall. Autumn travel holds a special allure with its vibrant foliage, pleasant temperatures, and seasonal traditions. Witnessing nature's colorful transformation and indulging in harvest festivals create a unique and captivating experience. With milder weather and fewer crowds, it's an ideal time to explore both natural landscapes and cultural attractions, making autumn a perfect season for travel.

Grammar II

A. Add suitable question tags.

a. I'd rather go travelling,.....wouldn't I...?

b. Everything is okay,...isn't it...?

c. I shan't be in your position, .....shall I..... ?

d. I don't think he'll come soon, ....won't I.....?

e. Let's not have cold drinks,...shall we.....?

f. All is well, .......isn't it.........?

g. There is a coffee shop near the gate,.......isn't there... ?

h. Nothing was there,.....was it.... ?

i. The car sped along the road,...didn't it....?

j. He's got a very peculiar voice,...hasn't he..... ?

k. Asmina, bring me your pen,...will you..... ?

l. Nawaraj seldom plays cards, ...does...he.....?

m. Everyone will be satisfied with my job,...won't they.....?

n. None met me last week,......did they....?

o. Everything is perishable,.......isn't it....... ?

p. I think he's busy, ......isn't he......?

Writing II

Prepare a brochure of a tourist place in your locality. Include the following points:

i. Name of the place ii. Location iii. Accessibility iv. Major attractions v. Entry requirements (if any) vi. Contact information

Explore the Wonders of Nepal: A Journey to Serenity

Welcome to Nepal, a land of mystical beauty and cultural treasures! Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes, ancient temples, and warm hospitality that make this country a must-visit destination. Prepare to embark on an unforgettable adventure to one of Nepal's most enchanting places:

I. Name of the Place: Pokhara

II. Location: Nestled in the picturesque foothills of the Annapurna mountain range, Pokhara is situated in central Nepal. It is approximately 200 kilometers west of Kathmandu, the capital city. This tranquil city is situated at an altitude of 820 meters above sea level and is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and serene lakes.

III. Accessibility: Pokhara is easily accessible by air and road transportation. Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu serves as the main international gateway. From Kathmandu, you can take a scenic 25-minute domestic flight to Pokhara or enjoy a pleasant 6-7 hour drive through the Prithvi Highway.

IV. Major Attractions:

1. Phewa Lake: A shimmering lake that offers mesmerizing views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Take a boat ride or kayak across the tranquil waters and visit the Tal Barahi Temple located on an island in the middle of the lake.

2. Sarangkot: A hilltop viewpoint renowned for its panoramic sunrise and sunset vistas over the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) mountains. Experience the breathtaking sight as the first rays of the sun illuminate the Himalayan peaks.

3. World Peace Pagoda: Located on a hilltop overlooking Pokhara, this gleaming white stupa is a symbol of peace and harmony. Enjoy the panoramic views of the city, Phewa Lake, and the surrounding mountains from this serene spot.

4. Devi's Fall (Patale Chhango): Witness the powerful cascades of the Pardi Khola river as it vanishes into an underground tunnel. This mystical waterfall is a sight to behold.

5. Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave: Discover the ancient stalactites and stalagmites within this sacred cave, which also houses a revered Shiva lingam. The cave is an important religious site and offers an intriguing glimpse into Nepal's spiritual heritage.

V. Entry Requirements: Most travelers to Nepal require a valid passport with at least six months of validity and a visa. Visas can be obtained upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport and various land border crossings. Please check with the Nepalese embassy or consulate in your country for the latest visa requirements and procedures.

VI. Contact Information: For further inquiries and assistance, please feel free to contact: Nepal Tourism Board Address: Bhrikuti Mandap, Kathmandu, Nepal Phone: +977-1-4256909 / 4256229 Email: [email protected] Website: www.nepaltourismboard.org

Don't miss the opportunity to explore Pokhara, a city that embodies the serenity and natural beauty of Nepal. Plan your journey today and create memories that will last a lifetime. Discover Nepal, where adventure meets tranquility!