Worksheet Solutions: Poem - Keeping Quiet | English Class 12 PDF Download

Fill in the Blanks 

Q1: According to the poet, self-introspection takes only as long as it takes to count to _______.
Ans: twelve
The poet suggests that introspection doesn't require a long time; it can be done quickly, in the time it takes to count to twelve.

Q2: During moments of introspection, one should keep _______.
Ans: quiet
The poet emphasizes the importance of silence during introspection as it helps in self-reflection.

Q3: The silence advocated by the poet is free from the disturbing sounds of _______ and people rushing to get their work done.
Ans: engines
The poet envisions a silence that is free from the usual noise and rush of daily life, allowing for deeper introspection.

Q4: The poet believes that by interrupting cruel activities for a few moments, people can reflect on their _______.
Ans: actions
The poet wants to interrupt cruel activities temporarily to make people reflect on their actions and make positive changes.

Q5: In the poem, the poet uses the image of _______ to illustrate the idea of stillness and subsequent renewal.
Ans: the earth
The poet uses the earth as a metaphor to show how stillness and silence can lead to a renewed, vibrant life.

Q6: The poet doesn't advocate for total inactivity, but rather wants people to be fully involved with _______.
Ans: life
The poet does not suggest complete inactivity but rather advocates for a brief pause to think and then resume life more purposefully.

Q7: According to the poet, the imbalance between man and nature is the reason for _______ and war.
Ans: discord
The poet attributes discord and war to the imbalance between human activities and the natural world.

Q8: Quiet introspection will establish a spiritual and _______ union.
Ans: physical
The poet believes that quiet introspection can bring about a deep connection or union between individuals on both a spiritual and physical level.

Q9: The poem emphasizes the importance of _______ and reflection in a chaotic world.
Ans: peace
The central theme of the poem is the importance of silence and introspection in a noisy and chaotic world.

Q10: The main theme of the poem "Keeping Quiet" is the importance of _______ and silence.
Ans: peace
The primary theme of the poem is not just peace and silence but the transformative power of quiet introspection.

Assertion and Reason Based

Q1: Assertion: The poet wants to interrupt total inactivity.
Reason: The poet believes that inactivity is the essence of life.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Ans: (b)
The poet does not want total inactivity but rather a brief interruption to reflect. He believes that life's essence is activity, not inactivity.

Q2: Assertion: The poet uses the image of the earth to illustrate stillness.
Reason: In spring, the earth becomes lively again.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Ans: (a)
The poet uses the image of the earth in stillness to later contrast it with the vibrancy of spring, showing the cycle of stillness and renewal.

Q3: Assertion: The poet believes that quiet introspection will lead to destruction.
Reason: Quiet introspection establishes a spiritual and physical union.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Ans: (b)
The poet does not believe that quiet introspection leads to destruction. Instead, it promotes unity and reflection.

Q4: Assertion: The poet advocates for total inactivity during moments of introspection.
Reason: The poet believes that activity is the essence of life.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Ans: (c)
The poet doesn't advocate for total inactivity but rather a brief pause to engage in introspection. He believes that life's essence is activity.

Q5: Assertion: The poet believes that the imbalance between man and nature is the cause of destruction.
Reason: The poet wants to interrupt sad and cruel activities for a few moments.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Ans: (a)
The poet suggests that the imbalance between man and nature leads to destruction, and he aims to interrupt cruel activities briefly to make people reflect.

Very Short Answer Type Questions

Q1: Who is the speaker in the poem "Keeping Quiet"?
Ans: The speaker in the poem is not explicitly identified.

Q2: What is the main theme of the poem "Keeping Quiet"?
Ans: The main theme of the poem is the importance of peace, silence, and self-introspection.

Q3: What does the poet want to interrupt for a few moments and make people reflect on their actions?
Ans: The poet wants to interrupt sad and cruel activities for a few moments to make people reflect on their actions.

Q4: What is the significance of the title "Keeping Quiet"?
Ans: The title "Keeping Quiet" signifies the importance of silence during introspection.

Q5: What literary devices are used in the poem "Keeping Quiet"?
Ans: The poem employs literary devices such as imagery (the earth), symbolism, and metaphor.

Q6: According to the poet, what is the essence of life?
Ans: According to the poet, the essence of life is activity and engagement.

Q7: Why does the poet use the image of the earth in the poem?
Ans: The poet uses the image of the earth to symbolize stillness and renewal.

Q8: How does the poet describe the stillness in the poem?
Ans: The poet describes the stillness as a moment when one should "count to twelve" and remain quiet.

Q9: What is the reason for discord and war according to the poet?
Ans: According to the poet, the reason for discord and war is the imbalance between man and nature.

Q10: What will quiet introspection establish, as mentioned in the poem?
Ans: Quiet introspection will establish a spiritual and physical union, fostering unity among people.

Short Answer Type Questions

Q1: Explain the poet's view on the importance of silence and self-introspection.
Ans: The poet underscores the significance of silence and self-introspection in a world characterized by chaos and noise. He believes that taking a moment to reflect on one's actions and thoughts can lead to positive changes, both in individuals and in society. It allows people to understand themselves better and promotes a feeling of togetherness. The poet sees introspection as a means to interrupt destructive behaviors, encourage empathy, and create a more harmonious world.

Q2: How does the poet envision the effects of quiet introspection on people's behavior?
Ans: The poet envisions that quiet introspection will lead to a positive transformation in people's behavior. By interrupting sad and cruel activities for a brief moment of self-reflection, individuals can reconsider their actions and choices. This reflection fosters empathy and a sense of unity with others. The poet believes that people who engage in destructive actions can, through introspection, find a path to a more peaceful and considerate way of living.

Q3: Describe the poet's perspective on inactivity and its relationship to life.
Ans: The poet does not advocate for total inactivity but rather emphasizes that inactivity is akin to death. He believes that life thrives on activity and engagement. However, he suggests that within the continuum of active life, moments of stillness and quiet introspection are essential. These moments of stillness allow individuals to reevaluate their actions and thoughts, leading to a more purposeful and meaningful life.

Q4: Discuss the symbolism of the earth in the poem and its connection to human life.
Ans: The earth serves as a powerful symbol in the poem, representing the cycles of life and the need for stillness. In the winter, the earth appears dormant and still, resembling death. However, in spring, it becomes lively again, with new beauties and colors. This symbolism parallels the poet's message that moments of introspection and stillness are necessary for personal and collective renewal. The earth's cycles mirror the potential for growth and positive change in human life through quiet reflection.

Q5: Explain how quiet introspection can lead to a spiritual and physical union, as per the poet.
Ans: The poet believes that quiet introspection can bring about a spiritual and physical union among people. When individuals take a moment to reflect in silence, they develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their actions. This understanding fosters empathy and a sense of togetherness with others. As a result, people come together not only on a spiritual level, where they empathize with each other's experiences and emotions, but also on a physical level, where they can unite in peaceful coexistence and collaboration.

Q6: What does the poet mean by "the imbalance between man and nature" and how does it relate to destructive activities?
Ans: The imbalance between man and nature, as described by the poet, refers to the unsustainable and destructive actions of humans that disrupt the natural harmony of the environment. These actions can include activities that harm the environment, exploit resources, and lead to ecological problems. The poet believes that such imbalances cause discord and even lead to destructive activities like wars. By interrupting these destructive actions and reflecting on the consequences of these imbalances, people can seek a more harmonious relationship with nature and with each other.

Q7: How does the poet suggest that stillness and silence can bring about positive change in the world?
Ans: The poet suggests that stillness and silence can bring about positive change in the world by allowing individuals to interrupt their destructive activities for a moment of introspection. During this moment of quiet, people can reflect on their actions, empathize with others, and foster a sense of unity. This, in turn, can lead to a more peaceful and considerate world. The poet envisions that even those who engage in harmful behaviors can, through introspection, change their ways and live in harmony with their fellow human beings.

Q8: Why does the poet emphasize the importance of reflection and introspection in a chaotic world?
Ans: The poet emphasizes the importance of reflection and introspection in a chaotic world because he believes that amidst the chaos and noise, individuals need moments of stillness to understand themselves and their actions. In a world filled with rush and destructive activities, introspection offers a chance for individuals to pause and reconsider their choices. This introspection leads to a deeper awareness of one's impact on the world and fosters empathy, creating a path toward a more harmonious and peaceful existence.

Long Answer Type Questions

Q1: Discuss the poet's perspective on the role of silence and introspection in bringing about positive change in the world, with reference to specific lines from the poem.
Ans: The poet in "Keeping Quiet" emphasizes the transformative power of silence and introspection. He believes that a moment of stillness and self-examination can bring about not only personal change but also a positive shift in the world. The poet states that it takes as long as it will take to count to twelve for this introspection to occur. During this moment, individuals should keep quiet and refrain from speaking.
The poet's vision for this quiet introspection is profound. He envisions people feeling a sense of togetherness and mutual love, fostering a connection that transcends individual differences. This pause from the rush and noise of daily life provides a temporary respite, free from the disturbing sounds of engines and hurried work. In this brief silence, individuals can reflect on their actions, fostering a sense of unity.
The poet does not advocate for total inactivity but rather a pause in the sad, cruel, and baleful activities of the world. He understands that activity is the essence of life but believes that a moment of stillness is essential to interrupt negative patterns. He draws a parallel with the earth's seasonal cycles, where winter's apparent stillness is followed by the lively and colorful spring. Similarly, after a moment of introspection, people can engage in fresh and better activities.
In conclusion, the poet's message is clear: silence and introspection can lead to positive change in individuals and, by extension, the world. It is a call for self-reflection, unity, and the restoration of harmony between man and nature.

Q2: How does the poet use the image of the earth to convey his message in the poem "Keeping Quiet"?
Ans: In "Keeping Quiet," the poet uses the image of the earth to convey a powerful message about the cyclical nature of life and the potential for positive change through stillness and introspection. He describes how, in winter, the earth becomes seemingly dormant, still, and silent to the point of appearing dead. This image symbolizes a state of inactivity and quiet, where growth and life processes seem to come to a halt.
However, the poet's message goes beyond the surface appearance of stillness. He points out that, despite the apparent dormancy of winter, the earth eventually transitions into spring. During this season, it comes to life with new beauties and colors. The earth's rejuvenation signifies a fresh start, growth, and vitality.
The poet draws a parallel between this cycle of the earth and the concept of stillness and introspection in human life. Just as the earth experiences a period of dormancy followed by a resurgence of life, individuals can benefit from a moment of quiet introspection. This pause allows for self-examination, self-improvement, and the potential for a fresh and better way of living.
The poet's message is that just as the earth regenerates and blooms after its winter stillness, humans can also experience renewal and positive change by embracing moments of silence and self-reflection.

Q3: Discuss the poet's perspective on the consequences of the imbalance between man and nature, and how quiet introspection can help address this issue.
Ans: In "Keeping Quiet," the poet emphasizes the dire consequences of the imbalance between man and nature and highlights how quiet introspection can play a crucial role in addressing this issue.
The poet suggests that discord and war are the direct results of this imbalance. When humanity disrupts the delicate equilibrium of the natural world, it leads to conflict and disharmony. Destructive activities, such as wars and environmental degradation, are manifestations of this discord. The poet implies that the world's problems, including environmental crises and conflicts, are rooted in the disregard for the balance between human activities and the natural world.
The solution, according to the poet, lies in quiet introspection. By pausing to reflect on their actions, individuals can begin to understand the consequences of their behavior on the environment and on their fellow human beings. This self-reflection fosters a sense of unity and mutual love. It allows people to recognize the importance of restoring balance with nature.
Quiet introspection is seen as a means to establish a spiritual and physical union, not only with one's fellow humans but also with the natural world. This union is considered essential for the survival of the earth and humanity. It suggests that by embracing moments of stillness and introspection, individuals can reconnect with nature, harmonize their actions, and work towards a more sustainable and peaceful future.
In summary, the poet's perspective is that the imbalance between man and nature results in discord and conflict, and quiet introspection can be a catalyst for restoring harmony and balance in the world.

Q4: Explain the poet's assertion that inactivity is equivalent to death and discuss how a moment of stillness and introspection is not a plea for total inactivity.
Ans: The poet's assertion that inactivity is equivalent to death conveys a profound message about the importance of remaining active in life. However, the poet also clarifies that a moment of stillness and introspection is not a plea for total inactivity.
When the poet states that inactivity is equivalent to death, he is emphasizing that a lack of engagement, growth, and purpose in life can lead to stagnation and a loss of vitality. In other words, a life devoid of productive activity can become meaningless and unfulfilling. It is akin to a state of dormancy, where there is no progress or development.
The poet's message is not a call for complete idleness or a halt to all activities. Instead, he advocates for a brief pause from the sad, cruel, and negative activities that often dominate the world. This temporary interruption allows individuals to reflect on their actions, understand themselves better, and make positive changes.
The poet recognizes that activity is the very essence of life. People need to engage in productive, meaningful, and purposeful actions. Stillness, in this context, is a means to interrupt destructive patterns, promote self-improvement, and foster positive change. It is a call for balance, not for a permanent state of inactivity.
In summary, the poet's assertion underscores the importance of staying active and engaged in life. A moment of stillness and introspection serves as a tool for self-improvement and does not advocate for complete inactivity or death. It is a call for a temporary pause in negative activities to pave the way for a more positive and purposeful existence.