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NCERT Solutions for Class 10 English First Flight Chapter 1 - Dust of Snow

Q1. What is a “dust of snow”? What does the poet say has changed his mood? How has the poet’s mood changed?
Ans: The 'dust of snow' means tiny snowflakes. The poet's mood changed when the snowflakes suddenly fell on him. He was feeling sad at first, but then he became happy and refreshed, ready to enjoy the rest of his day.
Dust of SnowDust of SnowQ2. How does Frost present nature in this poem? The following questions may help you to think of an answer.
(i) What are the birds that are usually named in poems? Do you think a crow is often mentioned in poems? What images come to your mind when you think of a crow?
(ii) Again, what is “a hemlock tree”? Why doesn’t the poet write about a more ‘beautiful’ tree such as a maple, or an oak, or a pine?
(iii) What do the ‘crow’ and ‘hemlock’ represent − joy or sorrow? What does the dust of snow that the crow shakes off a hemlock tree stand for?

Ans: 
(i) Poets usually see birds and trees as symbols of beauty and good qualities. They often write about birds like parrots, peacocks, and cuckoos, and trees with lovely flowers or tasty fruits. In this poem, Frost talks about a crow, which is not common in poems. A crow is a black bird with a rough voice and is often seen as a bad sign. So, the word 'crow' in the poem makes us think of dark or sad things.

(ii) Frost also mentions a "hemlock tree," which is a poisonous plant with small white flowers. He didn’t pick a maple, pine, or oak tree that usually stand for beauty and happiness. Instead, he chose the hemlock tree to show his sadness and regret.

(iii) The 'crow' and 'hemlock tree' reflect the sorrow and sadness the poet feels. The dust of snow, however, brought him joy and energy. When the crow shook the snow off the hemlock tree, it symbolizes the poet moving from sadness to a happier, more hopeful feeling.
Q3. Have there been times when you felt depressed or hopeless? Have you experienced a similar moment that changed your mood that day?

Ans: Yes, there have been many times when I felt sad, down, and hopeless because of things I couldn’t control in my life. Sometimes, it was because of how others treated me, and sometimes it was due to my own actions. One time, I came home from school feeling tired and upset. When I got home, my puppy jumped up and hugged me. This small moment of happiness completely changed my mood, and I felt so much better. I spent the rest of the day in a good mood, playing with my puppy and showing him love and care.

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FAQs on NCERT Solutions for Class 10 English First Flight Chapter 1 - Dust of Snow

1. What is the main theme of the poem "Dust of Snow"?
Ans. The main theme of the poem "Dust of Snow" by Robert Frost revolves around the idea of nature's ability to uplift human spirits. It explores how a simple event, such as snow falling from a tree, can bring about a significant change in one's mood and perspective. The poem emphasizes the beauty of nature and its power to transform feelings of despair into hope.
2. How does the poet describe the setting in "Dust of Snow"?
Ans. In "Dust of Snow," the poet describes a serene winter setting where snow is gently falling from the branches of a hemlock tree. The imagery of the snow and the tree creates a tranquil atmosphere that reflects the stillness of nature. The setting plays a crucial role in conveying the mood of the poem and highlights the contrast between the coldness of winter and the warmth of emotional transformation.
3. What is the significance of the hemlock tree in the poem?
Ans. The hemlock tree in "Dust of Snow" carries a dual significance. Traditionally, hemlocks are associated with poison and death, which can symbolize negativity. However, in the poem, it becomes a source of beauty and positivity when the snow falls from its branches. This contrast illustrates the idea that even from dark and seemingly negative sources, positive experiences can emerge, leading to a change in perspective.
4. How does the poet's mood change throughout the poem?
Ans. The poet's mood shifts from one of gloom and despair to one of joy and appreciation. Initially, the speaker feels downcast, but the unexpected falling of snow from the hemlock tree transforms his outlook. This change signifies the power of nature to influence emotions and suggests that small, simple moments can have a profound impact on one's state of mind.
5. What literary devices are used in "Dust of Snow"?
Ans. "Dust of Snow" employs several literary devices, such as imagery, symbolism, and alliteration. The imagery of snow and the hemlock tree creates vivid pictures in the reader's mind. Symbolism is evident in the hemlock tree representing both negativity and positivity. Additionally, alliteration can be found in phrases that enhance the rhythm of the poem, contributing to its overall musical quality.
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