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All questions of Upon the Songs of Whales for Class 6 Exam

Based on the stanza, what effect does the humpback whale's song have on the poet?
  • a)
    It makes the poet fall back asleep
  • b)
    It startles the poet awake
  • c)
    It soothes the poet into a deeper sleep
  • d)
    It awakens the poet to consciousness
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Nilanjan Unni answered
Effect of the humpback whale's song on the poet:
The humpback whale's song awakens the poet to consciousness. This is evident from the line in the stanza that mentions the whale's song as the reason for the poet's awakening.

Explanation:
- The poet was likely in a state of sleep or deep relaxation before being stirred awake by the sound of the humpback whale's song.
- The powerful and haunting melody of the whale's song acts as a natural alarm clock for the poet, pulling them out of their slumber.
- The beauty and depth of the whale's song captivate the poet's senses, causing them to transition from a state of sleep to a state of wakefulness.
- The poet's sudden awakening to the sound of the whale's song may evoke a sense of wonder, awe, or connection to the natural world, prompting them to reflect on the beauty and mystery of the ocean and its inhabitants.
In conclusion, the humpback whale's song has the effect of awakening the poet to consciousness, inspiring them to appreciate the wonders of the natural world and perhaps sparking a sense of curiosity or contemplation.

How does the poet suggest that whale communication differs from human communication?
  • a)
    Whales use visual signals more than vocalizations
  • b)
    Human communication is more complex and varied
  • c)
    Whales rely solely on physical gestures for communication
  • d)
    Human communication does not involve long-distance interactions
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Manasa Saha answered
Human communication is more complex and varied
Human communication is depicted as being more complex and varied compared to whale communication in the poem. This is evident through the poet's portrayal of the intricate ways in which humans communicate with one another, using a combination of verbal language, body language, facial expressions, tone of voice, and other forms of nonverbal communication to convey their thoughts and emotions.

Whales use visual signals more than vocalizations
The poet suggests that whale communication differs from human communication in that whales rely more on visual signals than vocalizations. Whales are known to communicate through a variety of visual cues, such as breaching, spyhopping, and tail slapping, which serve as forms of nonverbal communication among members of their species. In contrast, humans primarily rely on verbal language to convey their messages, making their communication style distinct from that of whales.
In conclusion, the poet highlights the differences between whale communication and human communication to underscore the unique ways in which each species interacts and communicates with one another. While humans engage in complex and varied forms of communication, whales rely more on visual signals in their interactions with one another, showcasing the diversity of communication methods present in the natural world.

What is the central theme conveyed in the stanza where the poet expresses joy and gratitude for the existence of whales?
  • a)
    Celebration of marine life
  • b)
    Reverence for the natural world
  • c)
    Reflection on God's creations
  • d)
    Emphasis on the importance of biodiversity
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Saikat Rane answered
Reverence for the natural world
The central theme conveyed in the stanza where the poet expresses joy and gratitude for the existence of whales is a deep reverence for the natural world.

Celebration of marine life
The poet celebrates the majestic presence of whales in the oceans, highlighting their beauty and significance in the ecosystem. This celebration extends to all marine life, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all living beings in nature.

Gratitude for biodiversity
Through expressing gratitude for the existence of whales, the poet also underscores the importance of biodiversity. Each species, like the whales, plays a vital role in maintaining balance and harmony in the environment.

Connection to the divine
The poet's awe and wonder at the sight of whales also reflect a sense of connection to something greater than themselves. The magnificence of these creatures inspires a sense of reverence and appreciation for the wonders of the natural world, possibly hinting at a spiritual or divine presence.
In conclusion, the stanza conveys a central theme of reverence for the natural world, celebrating marine life, emphasizing biodiversity, and hinting at a connection to the divine through the poet's joy and gratitude for the existence of whales.

In the provided stanza, what animal is described as the "canary of them all"?
  • a)
    Blue whale
  • b)
    Humpback whale
  • c)
    Beluga
  • d)
    Orca
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Coachify answered
The animal described as the "canary of them all" in the stanza is the beluga. Known for its distinctive and pleasant vocalizations, the beluga is compared to the canary bird, which is recognized for its melodious voice. Belugas are unique among whales due to their white coloration and their ability to produce a range of sounds, making them stand out in the ocean's chorus.

What is the central theme of the poem that celebrates the beauty and significance of whales in the sea?
  • a)
    The power dynamics within whale communities
  • b)
    The poem's exploration of various marine ecosystems
  • c)
    The unique characteristics and importance of whales
  • d)
    The history of whale hunting and conservation efforts
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Rohini Seth answered
The central theme of the poem revolves around highlighting the unique characteristics and significance of whales in the sea. Whales are portrayed as majestic creatures with distinct qualities that make them vital to the marine ecosystem. For example, their role in maintaining ecological balance and their complex communication systems are aspects that underscore their importance in the poem.

What characteristic of the beluga is emphasized by comparing it to the canary bird in the stanza?
  • a)
    Size
  • b)
    Color
  • c)
    Vocalizations
  • d)
    Habitat
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

EduRev Class 6 answered
The characteristic of the beluga emphasized by comparing it to the canary bird in the stanza is its vocalizations. Just as the canary is known for its melodious voice, the beluga is highlighted for its distinctive and pleasant vocalizations. This comparison underscores the unique and appealing sounds produced by the beluga in the ocean environment.

What is the significance of the acoustic signals mentioned in the stanza?
  • a)
    They are primarily used for hunting prey
  • b)
    They indicate distress or danger
  • c)
    They facilitate social interactions and navigation
  • d)
    They are a form of mating call
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

The acoustic signals, such as the clicking bursts of sperm whales and the vocalizations of other whale species, play a crucial role in facilitating social interactions and navigation among whales. These sounds help whales communicate with each other across vast distances in the ocean, aiding in activities like finding food, locating mates, and navigating the marine environment effectively.

In the stanza provided, what does the term "lithe" most likely suggest about the humpback whale's movements?
  • a)
    Slow and cumbersome
  • b)
    Graceful and agile
  • c)
    Erratic and unpredictable
  • d)
    Forceful and aggressive
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Praveen Kumar answered
The term "lithe" in the stanza indicates that the humpback whale's movements are graceful and agile. This word suggests that the whale is moving in a smooth and effortless manner, showcasing a sense of agility and elegance in its actions as it navigates through the water.

How does the stanza reflect the poet's appreciation for the diversity of whale species?
  • a)
    By describing the beluga as the largest whale species
  • b)
    By highlighting the beluga's hunting habits
  • c)
    By emphasizing the unique characteristics of different whale species
  • d)
    By discussing the migration patterns of whales
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

EduRev Class 6 answered
The stanza reflects the poet's appreciation for the diversity of whale species by emphasizing the unique characteristics of different whale species. As the poet's thoughts broaden to include various species of whales, the mention of the beluga as the "canary of them all" draws attention to the distinctiveness of each species and their contributions to the ocean's chorus. This appreciation showcases the poet's recognition of the varied and remarkable traits of different whales.

What aspect of the humpback whale's sound is emphasized by the term "wailing" in the stanza?
  • a)
    Joyful and jubilant
  • b)
    Melancholic and mournful
  • c)
    Energetic and lively
  • d)
    Serene and peaceful
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Praveen Kumar answered
The term "wailing" used to describe the humpback whale's sound in the stanza suggests a melancholic and mournful quality. This emphasizes the emotional depth and haunting beauty of the whale's song, evoking a sense of sadness or longing in its melodic tones.

In the provided stanza, what aspect of whale behavior does the poet highlight?
  • a)
    Their ability to leap out of the water
  • b)
    The variety of sounds they produce for communication
  • c)
    Their preferred feeding grounds
  • d)
    Their physical size and coloration
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Gunjan Lakhani answered
The poet in the stanza emphasizes the diverse sounds produced by different whale species for communication. This showcases the intricate language of whales, with each species having its unique set of vocalizations. Whales use these sounds to connect with one another over long distances in the ocean, indicating a complex system of communication essential for their social interactions and navigation.

What is the significance of the poet's thoughts turning to whales in the stanza provided?
  • a)
    It symbolizes the poet's fear of large marine creatures
  • b)
    It represents the poet's interest in biodiversity
  • c)
    It signifies the awakening of the poet's mind to broader thoughts
  • d)
    It highlights the poet's dream of swimming with whales
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

The poet's thoughts turning to whales in the stanza symbolize the awakening of the poet's mind to broader thoughts. This shift reflects a moment of contemplation and appreciation for the diversity and uniqueness of whale species. It signifies a deepening of the poet's reflection and a broader perspective on the natural world and its inhabitants.

How does the poet describe the singer's tone in the first stanza?
  • a)
    Beautiful and soothing
  • b)
    Strange and sonorous
  • c)
    Harsh and grating
  • d)
    Melancholic and haunting
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Dr Manju Sen answered
In the first stanza, the poet describes the singer's tone as "strange, sonorous." This choice of words suggests that the singer's voice is unusual yet rich and resonant. The term "sonorous" indicates a deep, full, and impressive sound, while "strange" hints at a certain mysterious or unfamiliar quality. This description sets the stage for the profound experience the poet had while listening to the singer in the sea.

Which type of whale is specifically mentioned in the poem as having been encountered in a mesmerizing manner?
  • a)
    Blue whale
  • b)
    Humpback whale
  • c)
    Sperm whale
  • d)
    Beluga whale
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

The poem specifically describes a mesmerizing encounter with a humpback whale. Humpback whales are known for their acrobatic displays, haunting songs, and distinctive features such as their long pectoral fins and knobbly head. This encounter in the poem captures the awe-inspiring nature of these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

What is the poet's primary intention in highlighting the great blue whale's loud cry despite its rarity in the poem?
  • a)
    To emphasize the whale's unique features
  • b)
    To draw attention to the whale's endangerment
  • c)
    To celebrate the whale's presence in the ocean
  • d)
    To showcase the whale's hunting abilities
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Subset Academy answered
The poet's primary intention in highlighting the great blue whale's loud cry despite its rarity in the poem is to draw attention to the whale's endangerment. By mentioning the whale's remarkable vocal ability while also noting its endangered status, the poet aims to create awareness about the tragic decline of this majestic creature in the face of human-induced threats like hunting, pollution, and habitat destruction.

What effect does the poet's use of the phrase "a universe was born" have in the first stanza?
  • a)
    It highlights the singer's loneliness
  • b)
    It emphasizes the singer's beauty
  • c)
    It underscores the singer's power
  • d)
    It reveals the singer's fear
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

The phrase "a universe was born" in the first stanza serves to underscore the immense power and impact of the singer in the sea. By likening the singer's voice to the creation of a universe, the poet conveys the idea that the singer's song is not just melodious but carries a transformative force capable of giving rise to something as vast and awe-inspiring as a universe. This choice of wording emphasizes the profound effect and significance of the singer's voice.

What characteristic of whales is highlighted in the poem as a unique feature contributing to their survival in the sea?
  • a)
    Ability to camouflage in deep waters
  • b)
    Exceptional speed and agility
  • c)
    Dependence on echolocation for navigation
  • d)
    Adaptation of baleen or toothed structures for feeding
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

EduRev Class 6 answered
The poem emphasizes the adaptation of whales with baleen or toothed structures for feeding as a unique feature contributing to their survival in the sea. Baleen whales use baleen plates to filter small fish and plankton from the water, while toothed whales rely on their teeth to catch and consume prey. This feeding adaptation showcases the diversity and ingenuity of whales in their marine environment.

What does the poet suggest by comparing the singer's voice to the creation of a universe?
  • a)
    The singer's voice is overpowering
  • b)
    The singer's voice is divine
  • c)
    The singer's voice is melodious
  • d)
    The singer's voice is magical
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Dr Manju Sen answered
By comparing the singer's voice to the creation of a universe, the poet suggests that the singer's voice is divine. This comparison elevates the singer's vocalization to a celestial level, implying that it possesses a transcendent and otherworldly quality akin to the act of cosmic creation. It conveys a sense of reverence and awe towards the singer's voice, portraying it as something extraordinary and spiritually significant.

What is the primary message conveyed by the stanza regarding pilot whales and orcas?
  • a)
    They are aggressive predators
  • b)
    They have limited vocal abilities
  • c)
    They possess advanced communication skills
  • d)
    They are solitary creatures
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Coachify answered
The stanza conveys the message that pilot whales and orcas possess advanced communication skills, as indicated by the "whistles quite complex" of pilot whales and the varied "dialects" of orcas. This suggests a high level of linguistic diversity and social sophistication within these cetacean communities.

Which statement accurately reflects the poem's portrayal of different types of whales?
  • a)
    Whales vary greatly in size and behavior, with each species having distinct characteristics.
  • b)
    Whales are uniformly similar in appearance and habits across different species.
  • c)
    The poem focuses solely on the ecological threats faced by whales.
  • d)
    The poem highlights the fictional aspects of whales' existence in the sea.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Gunjan Lakhani answered
The poem accurately portrays that whales vary greatly in size and behavior, with each species possessing distinct characteristics. This diversity among whale species is a key aspect of their representation in the poem, showcasing the richness and complexity of the marine world through the lens of these fascinating creatures.

What does the poet's reference to "a world away" suggest about whale communication?
  • a)
    It is limited to short distances
  • b)
    It can transcend great distances
  • c)
    It is primarily used for aggressive encounters
  • d)
    It is only relevant within a single whale species
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Gunjan Lakhani answered
The mention of "a world away" in the stanza implies that whale communication can transcend vast distances in the ocean. Whales, through their unique vocalizations, can communicate with others who are far apart, showcasing the remarkable ability of these marine mammals to convey messages and maintain social connections across great expanses of the sea.

What does the poet imply about the social structure of pilot whales and orcas based on the stanza?
  • a)
    They are solitary creatures
  • b)
    They have a simple communication system
  • c)
    They exhibit hierarchical behavior
  • d)
    They engage in playful interactions
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Praveen Kumar answered
The poet implies a complex social structure among pilot whales and orcas by mentioning the "dialects" and "whistles quite complex" they use for communication. This suggests that these cetaceans have a sophisticated system of interaction and hierarchy within their communities, reflecting advanced social organization among them.

What does the singer in the sea represent in the first stanza of the poem?
  • a)
    An ocean current
  • b)
    A mystical creature
  • c)
    A whale
  • d)
    A mermaid
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

EduRev Class 6 answered
The singer in the sea in the first stanza of the poem represents a whale. Whales are known for their intricate and haunting vocalizations, often captivating listeners with the depth and beauty of their songs. The metaphorical use of the phrase "a universe was born" emphasizes the profound impact of the whale's song, suggesting it is so powerful and mesmerizing that it could give rise to an entire cosmos, underscoring the vastness and mystique of the oceanic realm.

In the context of the poem, what does the phrase "awful why" in reference to the great blue whale suggest?
  • a)
    Curiosity about the whale's behavior
  • b)
    Regret for the whale's endangerment
  • c)
    Wonder at the whale's loud cry
  • d)
    Praise for the whale's resilience
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Rohini Seth answered
In the context of the poem, the phrase "awful why" in reference to the great blue whale suggests regret for the whale's endangerment. It hints at the tragic, largely human-driven reasons behind the dwindling numbers of the great blue whale, such as hunting, pollution, and habitat loss. This phrase conveys a sense of sorrow and lament for the plight of this magnificent creature due to human activities that threaten its existence.

What does the phrase "made a turn and sounded deep" imply about the humpback whale in the stanza?
  • a)
    The whale is communicating with other whales
  • b)
    The whale is diving into the ocean depths
  • c)
    The whale is performing a playful maneuver
  • d)
    The whale is breaching the surface of the water
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

The phrase "made a turn and sounded deep" indicates that the humpback whale is diving into the ocean depths. This action showcases the whale's ability to navigate through the water with agility and grace, descending into the deep waters as part of its natural movements and behaviors.

What quality of the pilot whales and orcas does the poet emphasize in the stanza?
  • a)
    Their physical agility
  • b)
    Their visual acuity
  • c)
    Their intelligence
  • d)
    Their speed in the water
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Praveen Kumar answered
The poet highlights the intelligence of pilot whales and orcas by describing their communication as "whistles quite complex" and mentioning the varied "dialects" they use. This underscores the cognitive abilities and sophistication of these marine mammals in their social interactions and communication methods.

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