ATHENA GLOBAL SCHOOL

ANSWER KEY FOR DUST OF SNOW

1. Why does the poet use such poetically uncommon bird and tree? What does it reflect?
Ans. The poet seems to be in a depressive and sorrowful mood. In such a mood, one cannot think
of a sweet and beautiful side of nature. The harsh, bitter and poisonous images come to his mind.
That is why he uses an uncommon, harsh, ugly crow and poisonous tree lik e hemlock.

2. The crow and hemlock are usually used as negative references in literature. How is this different in
this poem?
Ans: Crows and hemlock trees are often associated with negative references in literature. However, in
the poem "Dust of Snow" by Robert Frost, their portrayal differs from the typical negative connotations.

3.What did the poet think of the day before the dust of snow fell on him?

Before the fall of the dust of snow, the poet thought that his day was ruined. He was in a bad mood. But
then t use of snow fell on him. It signalled something good and joyful. His mood changed.
Before the dust of snow fall on the poet, he was in a sorrowful and depressive mood. He thought that
his day was ruined. He felt bad and hopeless.

4. Justify the role of the crow in the poem “Dust of Snow” in changing the poet’s mood.
Ans. I think, ‘the way snow dust was shaken off’ changed his mood. Perhaps it gave
the poet inspiration/idea to behave in the same manner—shake off his depressive
thoughts and revive his cheerful mood.

In the poem, the crow and the hemlock tree play pivotal roles in bringing about a positive change for the
poet. The crow's action of shaking down the dust of snow from the hemlock tree serves as a catalyst for
transforming the poet's mood and salvaging his day. This contrasts with the negative associations
usually attributed to crows and hemlock trees.
While crows are often associated with darkness, omens, or even death in some literary contexts, in this
particular poem, the crow becomes a harbinger of renewal and change. Its action of shaking the dust of
snow symbolizes a small, purifying act of nature that interrupts the poet's negative state of mind and
brings about a positive transformation.
Similarly, hemlock trees are typically seen as symbols of danger, poison, or even death due to their
toxic properties. However, in "Dust of Snow," the hemlock tree serves as the setting for this
transformative moment. It becomes a witness to the poet's change of mood, offering a connection to
the natural world and emphasizing the potential for redemption and solace in even the harshest
environments.
In essence, Frost subverts the conventional negative associations with crows and hemlock trees,
presenting them in a more positive light within the context of this poem. By doing so, he emphasizes
the transformative power of nature and highlights the potential for finding beauty and salvation even in
unexpected or seemingly negative elements of the world.

5. What role does nature play in the poem dust of snow?

Nature has always played a vital role in literature, especially in poetry. Writers and poets have often
used nature to explain their emotions and their thoughts about life, death, love and war. The poet has
observed nature as a positive medium of change for him. The poet had been in pensive mood in the
poem. But when the way a crow shooks snow dust off, It changes his mood. Nature gave him the
inspiration to behave in a positive manner.
6. How doe Frost present nature in his poem?
Ans: Frost has presented a crow and hemlock tree from the nature and associated these two with his
mood of regret. Crow and hemlock tree respectively symbolize sorrow. So the poet used the two
images to match his mood of regret. The poet, on the other hand, has also made use of ‘dust of snow’
from nature to represent state of joyfulness. 'Dust of Snow' has presented nature in a fresh manner.
Breaking stereotypes- Usually, birds like the crow and poisonous plants like the hemlock are
considered ill omens or unlucky. Such aspects of nature are not mentioned in poems, but Frost has
shown them in a positive light.

7.‘Dust of Snow’ is one of Frost’s most loved poems. Elaborate why you think this is so.

Dust of Snow" by Robert Frost is cherished by many for its simplicity and profound message. The poem
captures a transformative moment in nature where a seemingly insignificant event—a crow shaking off
snow onto the poet—brings about a change in perspective.The poem 'Dust of Snow' by Robert Frost is
a poem which enlightens us how small things of nature can refresh us and cheer us for the rest of the
day

8.The poem evokes a sense of black and white. Justify.

The poem "Dust of Snow" by Robert Frost does evoke a sense of black and white through its imagery
and themes. Here are a few justifications for this interpretation:
1. Contrast of Colours: The poem highlights the contrasting colours of black and white. The crow, with
its black feathers, shakes down the dust of snow, which is white. This contrast between the dark and
light colours emphasizes the starkness of the scene and contributes to the sense of black and white.

2. Symbolism of Light and Dark: The blackness of the crow can be associated with darkness or
negative emotions, while the whiteness of the snow represents purity or a positive change. This
symbolism of light and dark reinforces the dichotomy of black and white, suggesting a contrast between
negativity and positivity, or despair and hope.

3. Mood and Atmosphere: The poem's concise and straightforward nature, along with its focus on a
single transformative moment, creates a sense of simplicity and clarity. This simplicity can be
associated with the starkness of black and white. The poem's mood is also introspective and
contemplative, enhancing the contrast between opposing emotions or states of mind.

4. Symbolic Representation: The black and white imagery in the poem can be seen as symbolic of life's
contrasts and the choices we make. The encounter with the crow and the dust of snow represents a
turning point, where a seemingly insignificant moment has the power to shift the poet's mood. This
symbolizes the transformative potential in even the smallest experiences, highlighting the contrast
between moments of despair and moments of redemption or salvation.
Overall, the poem "Dust of Snow" evokes a sense of black and white through its imagery, symbolism,
and the contrasting emotions it portrays. This interplay of colors and themes reinforces the dichotomy
between darkness and light, despair and hope, and adds depth to the overall interpretation of the
poem.

9.What is the substance of the poem?

The short poem by Robert Frost throws light upon the unimaginable healing power of nature and tiny
things. From a bad mood to ill-health, there is nothing that can't be cured by nature. The author was
experiencing one such bad day when a crow's movement near a hemlock tree dusted snow upon him .
Thus, The poem tries to convey that even a small incident like a fall of the dust of snow is capable of
transforming our mood. Therefore, we should appreciate the simple and ordinary things in our
life. There are things that appear mundane, but they add happiness in our life

10. explain the symbols used in the poem dust of snow

Answer: In this poem, the poet has introduced three symbols; the hemlock tree, the crow and the dust
of snow. Hemlock is the name of the poison that was used to kill Socrates. , the hemlock tree is a
symbol of death. Walking by the hemlock tree could, in fact, have seemed like an ill omen to the poet,
and could have upset him further on this unpleasant day. Again, the crow is an ambiguous symbol and
could stand for many things. Generally, the crow is considered to be the ugliest among all birds. Hence,
it could be another sight to degrade the poet’s mood once again. The dust of snow is the symbol of
natural joy and energy. The dust of snow that the crow shakes off a hemlock tree means passing
through the sad and depressing moments the poet is entering into the time full of joy and optimism.

The poet uses two negative symbols to represent the negative upset him further aspects of mind. The
shower of snow created by the crow certainly improves his mood. Perhaps the poet is saying that even
something that one usually associates with negativity can have a positive impact. Hence, Frost’s use of
symbols is very profound and meaningful.

Long answer type

1.The poet has succeeded in giving valuable information in a light-hearted manner. What creates the
desired effect? Highlight its importance in present-day life.
Answer
Truly, Frost has used simple language to drive home a very significant message, that little thing
sometimes, have a big impact. An easy, uncomplicated language, coupled with unusual visual imagery
and brevity of words creates the desired effect. The poet’s bitterness finds reflection even in the
environment around him. The noisy, dark crow, the poisonous hemlock and the icy snow around—all
are essentially depressing images. However, despite the negativity, when the crow shakes down the
dust of snow onto the poet, it also shakes off some of the author’s regretful thoughts. Today, when all of
us live in stressful atmospheres, the poem teaches us to gain happiness from little things.

2.A simple moment proves to be very significant and saves the rest of the day of the poet from being
wasted. Explain on the basis of the poem ‘Dust of Snow’. (Answer in about 80 words)?

Explanation of the Significance of the Simple Moment:

1. The Poet's Initial State of Mind: At the beginning of the poem, the poet is described as feeling
burdened and troubled. This is evident from the description of the "hemlock tree" and the "crow" as
symbols of darkness and gloom. The poet's day seems to be wasted as he is weighed down by his
problems and sorrows.
2. **The Unexpected Encounter:** The turning point in the poem occurs when the poet witnesses a
crow shaking off snow from a hemlock tree. This simple act catches the poet's attention and disrupts
his negative thoughts. The crow's actions symbolize a moment of release and freedom from the weight
of the snow, which can be seen as a metaphor for the poet's burdens.

3.. **The Transformation of the Snow:** The falling snow, which initially represents the poet's troubles,
is transformed into a positive force. The "dust of snow" that falls on the poet's path acts as a catalyst for
change, lifting his spirits and providing him with a renewed sense of hope and inspiration. It serves as a
reminder that even in the midst of darkness, there is always the possibility for redemption and renewal.

4. **The Saving of the Poet's Day:** The significance of this simple moment lies in its ability to save the
rest of the poet's day from being wasted. The poet's mood is uplifted, and he is able to see the beauty
and potential in the world around him. The encounter with the crow and the falling snow act as a
catalyst for a change in perspective, allowing the poet to overcome his initial state of despair and find
meaning in his day.

In conclusion, the poem 'Dust of Snow' highlights the significance of a simple moment in saving the rest
of the poet's day from being wasted. It demonstrates the power of unexpected encounters and the
transformative nature of even the smallest acts of beauty and grace. The poem serves as a reminder
that amidst the challenges and burdens of life, there is always the possibility for redemption and
renewal.

3.As a crow you feel highly insulted by the incorrect perception humans have about your species.
Imagine yourself to be a crow and write your opinion about this prejudice. Make an appeal for breaking
stereotypes. [CBSE Question Bank 2021]

Ans. It is disheartening to see how we are often portrayed as harbingers of doom, symbols of death,
and creatures of ill omen. This letter serves as an attempt to break these stereotypes and provide a
fresh perspective on the true nature of crows.
It is disheartening to see how we are often portrayed as harbingers of doom, symbols of death, and
creatures of ill omen. This letter serves as an attempt to break these stereotypes and provide a fresh
perspective on the true nature of crows.As per human perceptions the word ‘crow’ is often related to
‘bad omens’ and ‘inauspiciousness’. This stereotype thinking towards our species is illogical and heart-
breaking. I feel hopeless that without even having any valid evidence to it, people refer to us as being
‘ominous’. Perhaps because we are ‘black’, people consider us inauspicious and doves are considered
‘good omen’ maybe because they are ‘white’. This ruthless prejudice makes me emotionally hurt. I want
to break this stereotype for all my fellow crows too in the same way my friend did by changing a
person’s mood and making him happy. I hope that one day,judgmental humans will realize that what
they think of us is completely wrong.

4.Our attitude towards a situation evokes both negative and positive response. Analyze this with
reference to the poem, 'Dust of Snow' to bring out the inherent valuable lessons.

Whatever situation life throws at us, it evokes both positive and negative responses. The poet, in the
poem, was in a sorrowful mood. However, when a crow shook down the .dust of snow. on him, his
bitter mood changed into a more optimistic one. Now, being in a sorrowful mood already, the poet could
have got angry at the crow also. However, the dust of snow made him cheerful to some extent and
helped him forget his sadness. Thus, we see that instead of seeing the negative aspects of a
happening, one should see the positive aspects and one’s response may greatly affect the outcome of
incidents
The poem "Dust of Snow" by Robert Frost is a short yet meaningful piece of literature that explores the
idea of how a small incident can change one's attitude and perspective towards life. The poem
highlights the impact of a positive and negative attitude towards a situation.

Negative Attitude towards a situation:The poem describes the speaker's negative attitude towards life
when he is feeling low and dejected. He uses the metaphor of being "hemmed in" by the snow to
represent his sense of confinement and despair. The speaker is in a negative frame of mind, and
everything around him seems to be dull and lifeless.

Positive Attitude towards a situation: However, the speaker's attitude changes when a crow shakes the
snow off a hemlock tree, and some of the dust of snow falls on him. The dust of snow acts as a catalyst
and transforms his mood. The speaker suddenly feels uplifted and inspired by this small incident. He
realizes that even the smallest things in life can bring joy and happiness

Conclusion: The poem "Dust of Snow" teaches us that our attitude towards a situation can evoke both
negative and positive responses. The same incident can be interpreted differently depending on our
perspective. The poem also emphasizes the importance of finding joy in the small things in life, as they
can have a significant impact on our overall well-being.

1.Read the extract given below and answer the questions:

1.What do the crow and hemlock symbolize?
The crow and the hemlock tree represent sorrow. They represent something inauspicious and negative
2. What does the poet mean when he says,’ saved some part of his day ‘?
The poet said that he had saved some part of the day because he means that he had not ruined his
whole day in the depressive thoughts that made him sad but recognise the reality and shook off all the
bad thoughts which burdened him and saved the rest of his day that he can utilise it for a good dead.
3.where do you think was the poet then?
The poet was under the Hemlock tree then.
4.What is the rhyme scheme of this stanza?
The rhyme scheme is abab
2. i. b –Metaphor
ii b- 2,4 and 6
iii c- from despair to cheer
iv .d- others finally rue trhe one whois dishonest and heartless.
v. d- Ais false,but R is true
vi.d- I,III and V
vii b- 1 and 4
viii d-1,2,and 5
ix a- ill omens
x a- both I and II are correct