Introduction:
In the poem "The Road Not Taken" by Robert Frost, the speaker comes across a fork in the road and has to make a choice between two paths. The poem explores the theme of decision-making and the consequences of the choices we make in life.

The First Word:
The first word of the poem, "Two roads diverged in a yellow wood," sets the stage for the entire poem. The word "Two" emphasizes the speaker's dilemma of having to choose between two paths. It highlights the existence of options and the need to make a decision.

The Meaning of "Keep":
In the line "And sorry I could not travel both," the word "keep" suggests that the speaker wishes he could have taken both paths simultaneously. However, since that is not possible, he has to make a choice and keep to one road. The word "keep" conveys a sense of commitment to the chosen path and the idea of not being able to go back on the decision.

Equally Lay:
The line "And both that morning equally lay" refers to the two paths being equally inviting and appealing to the speaker. By using the word "equally," the poet emphasizes that both roads seemed equally promising and desirable. The phrase "lay that morning" implies that the speaker encountered the fork in the road in the morning, symbolizing a new beginning or a fresh start.

Implications:
The significance of the first word and the line "And both that morning equally lay" lies in the speaker's realization that whichever road he chooses, he will always wonder what would have happened if he had taken the other one. The poem explores the idea of the unknown and the consequences of our choices. It suggests that the paths we do not take continue to exist in our imagination, leaving us with a sense of longing and curiosity.

Conclusion:
The first word and the line mentioned in the question highlight the speaker's dilemma and the equal allure of both paths. It emphasizes the theme of decision-making and the idea that our choices shape our lives. The poem encourages readers to reflect on their own choices and the roads they have taken or left behind.