Class 9 Beehive Poem Chapter 1 Question Answers - The Road Not Taken

Q1. Discuss the title of the poem “The Road Not Taken”. Is it appropriate for the poem?

Ans: The title of the poem The Road Not Taken reflects a significant choice made by a person in a wooded area. The traveller wishes to explore both paths but understands that he cannot take both at once. He selects the road that is less travelled, and years later, he believes that this decision has profoundly influenced his life.

Q2. Why does the poet say he shall tell people “this with a sigh”? Why do you think the final stanza starts with a sigh?

Ans: The poet finds himself at a fork in the road and chooses the path that seems less travelled. He wishes he could explore the other road another day but is uncertain if his choice was the right one. If someone were to ask him about his decision, he would likely respond with a sigh. This sigh could represent two feelings: it may express happiness and contentment for making a successful choice, or it could signify regret for missing out on a better opportunity.

Q3. Bring out the symbolism in the poem “The Road Not taken”.

Ans: The poem explores more than just the choice between two paths in a wood. The narrator's decision represents a symbol for any significant choice in life, where options seem equally appealing. It is only after many years that we can truly assess our decisions based on their outcomes. If we achieve success, we view the choice as correct; however, if we face failure and regret, we may question whether it was the right path.

Q4. The road is used as a metaphor for life in this poem. Can you think of another metaphor and explain why that has been used to describe life.

Ans: A puzzle serves as a fitting metaphor for life. Just like a puzzle, life involves constantly solving problems and making decisions. Once one issue is resolved, another often arises, creating a cycle of doubt and questioning. As we navigate through life, we continuously seek solutions, much like piecing together a puzzle. Therefore, life can be seen as a puzzle that we are always trying to complete.

Q5. “Then took the other, as just as fair, And having perhaps the better claim, Because it was grassy and wanted wear. –Robert Frost chose a road that was less travelled by. What does this choice show about his character? –Do you think people should regret their choices or decisions once they have been made? Why not?

Ans: Robert Frost's choice illustrates that he is an adventurous person who prefers to explore less common paths. He carefully considers his options before making decisions, showing a willingness to face life's challenges. By opting for the less travelled road, he acknowledges that this choice will shape his future. He understands that he cannot go back and that his life would have been different had he chosen the other path.

I believe people should not regret their choices once made. Firstly, life offers countless opportunities, so there is no need for regret. Secondly, it is impossible for anyone to do everything due to the constraints of time and space. Instead of dwelling on past decisions, it is more important to move forward without looking back. The rightness or wrongness of a choice will reveal itself over time. Lastly, we must take responsibility for our decisions and the paths we choose in life.

Q6. Bring out the contrast and similarities between the two roads mentioned in the poem.

Ans: The poem describes two roads that diverge in a yellow wood. Both roads seem equally appealing to the traveller, who is unsure which to choose. One road appears more worn and popular, suggesting it might be easier to travel. However, both paths are covered in leaves, indicating that neither has been used recently. Once a road is chosen, the other remains unexplored. In later reflection, the traveller may feel a sense of regret about not taking the other road, questioning whether the right choice was made.

Q7. Describe the two roads the author finds.

Ans: During his walk, the poet encountered a point where the path diverged. He faced a choice between two roads and had to select just one. He paused to carefully consider the advantages and disadvantages of each option. The poet examined one road as far as he could see until it disappeared into the undergrowth. He noticed that the other road appeared more grassy and seemed less travelled. However, after walking a short distance, he realised that the first road was also quite grassy.

Q8. What is the moral presented by the poet in the poem ‘The Road Not Taken’?

Ans: This inspirational poem by Robert Frost explores the theme of choice. The traveller encounters a fork in the road and wishes to take both paths, which is impossible. One road is described as grassy and less travelled, yet he observes that both roads appear similar. This reflects the common human dilemma of believing the grass is greener on the other side.

The poem encourages readers to carve their own path in life rather than following others. It highlights the importance of independent thinking and making decisions. Frost does not preach about choices; instead, he acknowledges that making a choice is unavoidable, and the true impact of that choice can only be understood through experience. There is no absolute right or wrong in choices; they are relative.

Ultimately, whatever path one chooses, it should be approached with determination and enthusiasm, as one cannot go back and relive that moment.

Q9. Why does the poet doubt he should ever come back?

Ans: This poem explores the themes of choices, decisions, and their consequences. Once a choice is made, there is no turning back. The traveller, standing at a crossroads in life, faces a dilemma as both paths appear equally inviting. After selecting a road, the traveller must continue forward, as there is no opportunity to return and reconsider. Time and the traveller's perspective will have changed, making it impossible to revisit the past. Thus, one must commit to the chosen path and allow it to lead to the predetermined destination.

Q10. Describe the two roads the author finds.

Ans: During his walk, the poet encountered a point where the path diverged into two roads. He paused to carefully consider the advantages and disadvantages of each option. The first road stretched out before him, disappearing into the undergrowth. The second road appeared more grassy and seemed to invite travellers. However, as he ventured a bit further, he realised that the first road was also quite grassy.