“The Snail” by William Cowper

Summary: In "The Snail," William Cowper explores the life of a snail, which is portrayed as a self-sufficient and cautious creature. The snail sticks closely to its home (its shell), which it carries wherever it goes. When in danger or when disturbed, the snail quickly retreats into its shell, finding comfort and safety within. The snail is content to be alone, independent, and self-reliant, symbolizing a life of simplicity and solitude. The poem also suggests that the snail's hermit-like existence is ideal for someone who seeks peace and security.

 

Analysis of "The Snail":

The poem focuses on the snail's independence and self-sufficiency. Cowper contrasts the slow, deliberate movements of the snail with the chaos of the outside world, where the snail has no need for external help or company. The snail’s ability to retreat into its shell represents the idea of self-protection and inner security, choosing a peaceful, solitary life over the complexities of the world. The poem praises the snail for its contentment and self-reliance, suggesting that a life free from dependency on others is fulfilling.

 

Explanation of Important Lines and Phrases

 

1. “To grass, or leaf, or fruit, or wall, / The snail sticks close, nor fears to fall”

 

This line shows the snail’s attachment to its environment and its confidence in its ability to stay safe, without fear of falling. It suggests a strong connection between the snail and its surroundings, symbolizing self-sufficiency.

 

2. “Within that house secure he hides, / When danger imminent betides”

 

The snail retreats into its shell (its "house") when it feels threatened. This highlights its self-protective nature, seeking refuge and security when in danger.

 

3. “Give but his horns the slightest touch, / His self-collecting power is such”

 

The "horns" refer to the snail's antennae. Upon the slightest disturbance, the snail quickly withdraws into its shell, demonstrating its ability to protect itself at the first sign of danger.

 

4. “Where’er he dwells, he dwells alone, / Except himself has chattels none”

 

The snail lives alone and is content with its solitude. It does not need possessions or companions to be happy, emphasizing the value of independence and simplicity.

 

5. “Thus, hermit-like, his life he leads, / Nor partner of his banquet needs”

 

The snail lives like a hermit, solitary and independent. It doesn’t require companionship, even while feeding, underscoring its self-sufficiency.

 

6. “Who seeks him must be worse than blind, / (He and his house are so combined)”

 

The snail’s home is inseparable from it; anyone trying to find the snail must be very unaware, as the snail and its shell are one.

 

7. “As if he grew there, house and all / Together.”

 

This suggests that the snail’s shell is so closely attached to its body that it seems as if the snail and its house are inseparable. The phrase highlights the snail’s total dependence on its shell for protection and comfort.

 

8. “When danger imminent betides / Of storm, or other harm besides / Of weather.”

 

This indicates that the snail retreats into its shell when it faces any danger, whether from a storm or any other threat. It emphasizes the snail’s instinctive reaction to seek safety when danger approaches.

 

9. “His self-collecting power is such.”

 

This phrase refers to the snail’s ability to retreat into its shell at the slightest touch. It shows the snail’s quick, instinctive response to perceived danger and its power to protect itself by withdrawing into its shell.

 

10. “Well satisfied to be his own / Whole treasure.”

 

The snail is content with its solitary existence, finding fulfillment in being independent and not needing anything beyond itself. This phrase underscores the theme of self-sufficiency and contentment with what one has.

 

11. “Thus, hermit-like, his life he leads.”

 

The phrase compares the snail to a hermit, a person who lives alone and avoids the company of others. It reflects the snail’s solitary nature and its preference for independence over social interaction.

 

12. “And if he meets one, only feeds / The faster.”

 

If the snail encounters another snail, instead of engaging socially, it continues to focus on feeding. This shows that the snail prefers solitude and does not seek companionship, even when given the opportunity.

 

13. “He and his house are so combin'd / If, finding it, he fails to find / Its master.”

 

This highlights the inseparable nature of the snail and its shell. It’s almost impossible to find one without the other. The snail and its house are so intertwined that anyone seeking the snail would be "blind" if they didn’t recognize both together.

 

** These phrases deepen the theme of solitude, self-sufficiency, and protection in the poem, showcasing how the snail is a symbol of independence and peaceful existence.

 

 

 

Title Significance

 

The title "The Snail" is significant as it directly refers to the creature that symbolizes self-reliance, independence, and contentment with a simple life. The snail’s ability to carry its home on its back and retreat into it when threatened represents a metaphor for living life in a way that is detached from external worries and dependencies. The title reflects the core message of the poem: the snail’s life of solitude and security is a model of peaceful, self-sufficient living.

 

 

 

 

Questionnaire from ABTA Test Paper:

 

Page: 21

 

1.Where does the snail stick itself and how?

Ans:

 

2. When does the snail hide in his house?

Ans:

 

Page: 70

 

1.How does the snail react when someone touches its horns?

Ans:

 

2. When does the snail feed faster?

Ans:

 

Page:

 

1.?

Ans:

 

2.?

Ans:

 

Additional Questions:

 

1. What does the snail do in the prospect of danger?

The snail retreats into its shell to protect itself in prospect of danger.

2. What makes the snail well-satisfied and why?

The snail is content with its solitary life, being independent and carrying its own shelter, which makes it self-sufficient.

 

3. Where does the snail stick?

The snail sticks to grass, leaves, fruit, or walls.

 

4. How does the snail react when his horns are given the slightest touch?

The snail quickly withdraws into its shell with discomfort.

 

5. What is meant by "self-collecting pow'r"?

It refers to the snail’s ability to pull itself into its shell when it senses danger.

 

6. Where does the snail hide himself?

The snail hides inside its shell.

 

7. What does the word 'chattels' mean?

'Chattels' means possessions or belongings. In the poem, it refers to the snail’s lack of external possessions.

 

8. When does the snail feel uneasy? Or, What is the cause of displeasure of the snail?

The snail feels uneasy or displeased when its horns are touched or when it senses danger.

 

9. How does the snail shrink into the house in times of danger?

The snail shrinks quickly into its shell, using its self-protective instinct.

 

10. How does the snail live his life?

The snail lives a solitary, hermit-like life, content to be alone and self-reliant.

 

11. How does the snail stick itself to various objects?

The snail sticks itself to surfaces like grass, leaves, fruit, or walls by using its slime.

 

12. What danger does a snail have?

The snail is vulnerable to environmental threats, like predators or bad weather.

 

13. Why doesn't the snail fear to fall?

The snail is not afraid of falling because it moves slowly and has its house for protection.

 

14. Why does the snail shrink himself?

The snail shrinks into its shell to protect itself when it senses danger.

 

15. How strong is the self-collecting power of a snail?

The snail has a strong instinct to quickly retreat into its shell at the slightest touch or danger.

 

16. What does the snail carry with himself?

The snail carries its shell, which serves as its home and protection.

 

17. How does the snail sense danger?

The snail senses danger through its antennae (horns), which detect disturbances around it.

 

18. Why does the snail dwell alone?

The snail lives alone because it is self-sufficient and does not need companionship.

 

19. What is meant by the expression "whole treasure?"

"Whole treasure" refers to the snail's complete contentment with its own self and its home, symbolizing the idea that its most valuable possession is its independence.

 

20. How does the snail use its house?

The snail uses its shell as a protective shelter, retreating into it whenever it feels threatened.

BACK


NEXT

 

“Sea Fever” by John Mansfield

Summary: "Sea Fever" is a poem where the speaker expresses a deep desire to return to the sea. The speaker longs for the freedom of the open ocean, craving the simple life aboard a ship, with the wind, the sky, and the waves. The poem captures the adventurous spirit and the natural beauty of the sea, as well as the speaker’s connection to it. The speaker imagines the excitement of the wild sea journey and the sense of peace it brings, suggesting that the sea is where the speaker truly belongs.

 

Analysis of "Sea Fever":

The poem reflects Masefield’s deep love for the sea and his yearning for adventure. The repetition of “I must go down to the seas again” shows the speaker’s irresistible pull toward the ocean, as though life on land cannot satisfy him. The sea represents both freedom and a challenge, with its vast, untamed nature. The poem’s rhythm mirrors the movement of the waves, creating a musical quality that evokes the motion of the sea. It also highlights the theme of escapism, where the speaker seeks liberation from the pressures of life by returning to nature.

 

Explanation of Important Lines

 

1. “I must go down to the seas again, to the lonely sea and the sky”

 

This line expresses the speaker’s strong desire to return to the sea, where he feels free and connected to nature. The use of "lonely" suggests that the sea offers solitude and peace.

 

2. “And all I ask is a tall ship and a star to steer her by”

 

The speaker desires nothing more than a simple ship and a guiding star, symbolizing the basic, natural elements needed for a life of adventure and exploration.

 

3. “And the wheel’s kick and the wind’s song and the white sail’s shaking”

 

This line captures the sensory experiences of being at sea. The “wheel’s kick” refers to the ship’s steering wheel moving due to the force of the sea. The “wind’s song” is the sound of the wind blowing through the sails, and the “white sail’s shaking” refers to the sail fluttering as the wind fills it. Together, they evoke the excitement and movement of a sea voyage.

 

4. “And a grey mist on the sea’s face, and a grey dawn breaking”

 

This imagery highlights the beauty of the sea at dawn. The "grey mist" on the "sea’s face" describes the fog that often covers the ocean’s surface in the early morning. The "grey dawn breaking" signifies the start of a new day, symbolizing hope and the beginning of a new adventure.

 

5. “I must go down to the seas again, for the call of the running tide”

 

The phrase “call of the running tide” personifies the tide, suggesting that the sea is calling the speaker back. This line emphasizes the speaker’s deep, instinctive longing to return to the sea, as if it is pulling him back.

 

6. “Is a wild call and a clear call that may not be denied”

 

The “wild” and “clear” call refers to the irresistible pull of the sea, which is powerful and undeniable. The speaker cannot ignore this call, symbolizing a deep inner connection with the sea.

 

7. “And the flung spray and the blown spume, and the sea-gulls crying”

 

Ø  “Flung spray” and “blown spume” describe the water being thrown into the air as waves crash against the ship.

Ø  The crying of the sea-gulls adds to the natural sounds of the sea, immersing the reader in the dynamic and lively atmosphere of the ocean.

 

8. “To the gull’s way and the whale’s way where the wind’s like a whetted knife”

 

Ø  “The gull’s way and the whale’s way” represent the freedom of the birds and marine life at sea, showing the wild, untamed nature of the ocean.

Ø  The simile “where the wind’s like a whetted knife” emphasizes the sharp, cutting nature of the wind at sea, highlighting both the beauty and harshness of the ocean environment.

 

9. “And quiet sleep and a sweet dream when the long trick’s over”

 

The speaker hopes for rest and peace after the journey, suggesting that after facing life’s challenges, he seeks comfort and fulfillment.

 

** These phrases reinforce the poem’s theme of longing for adventure and freedom at sea. They evoke vivid images and sounds of the ocean, portraying both its challenges and its allure, while also reflecting the speaker's deep emotional connection to the sea.

 

Title Significance:

The title "Sea Fever" reflects the speaker’s intense, almost uncontrollable desire to return to the sea. The word “fever” implies a deep yearning or obsession, suggesting that the speaker feels incomplete and restless without the sea. The sea is not just a physical place, but a calling that the speaker feels compelled to answer, highlighting the strong emotional connection to the sea.

 

 

 

 

 

Questionnaire from ABTA Test Paper:

 

Page: 115

 

1. What kind of a day does the poet prefer for his journey to the sea?

Ans: The poet prefers a windy day with white clouds flying for his journey.

 

2. Why does the speaker use the word ‘lonely’ to describe the sea and the sky?

Ans: The speaker uses the word ‘lonely’ to show the vast, empty, and peaceful space of the sea and sky, which gives a sense of solitude.

 

Page: 163

 

1. What does the poet seek from his fellow-rover?

Ans: The poet seeks merry companionship and laughter from his fellow-rover.

 

2. What may not be denied?

Ans: The call of the sea, which is wild and clear, may not be denied by the poet.

 

Page: 186

 

1. What does the poet require to go down to the sea in the first two stanzas?

Ans: The poet requires a tall ship, a star to steer by, and a windy day to go down to the sea.

 

2. Who are calling?

Ans: The sea-gulls, the wind, and the running tide of the sea are calling the poet.

 

Page: 236

 

1. Why does the poet want to go down to the sea again?

Ans: The poet wants to go down to the sea again because of his deep love for the freedom and adventure it offers.

 

2. What does the poet ask for his sea voyage in the 1st stanza?

Ans: The poet asks for a tall ship and a star to steer by in the first stanza.

 

Page: 333

 

1. What things does the poet want for going on a sea voyage?

Ans: The poet wants a tall ship, a star, and a windy day for going on a sea voyage.

 

2. What birds and animals can the poet see during his journey?

Ans: The poet can see sea-gulls during his journey and imagines the presence of whales.

Page: 355

 

1. Who are calling the poet to go down to the seas again?

Ans: The sea-gulls, the wind, and the running tide are calling the poet to go down to the seas again.

 

2. What kind of day does the poet prefer for sailing?

Ans: The poet prefers a windy day with white clouds flying for sailing.

 

Page: 518

 

1. What does the poet want to go to the sea again?

Ans: The poet wants to experience the freedom, adventure, and natural beauty of the sea again.

 

2. Along with a windy day, what does the poet want during his voyage?

Ans: Along with a windy day, the poet wants the sound of sea-gulls and the sight of white clouds flying.

 

Page: 547

 

(Questions not provided)

 

Page: 738

 

1. Whose call must the poet respond to and why?

Ans: The poet must respond to the call of the sea because he feels a strong, irresistible connection to it.

 

2. What is meant by ‘the flung spray’ and ‘the blown spume’?

Ans: ‘Flung spray’ refers to the water splashing up from the waves, and ‘blown spume’ is the foam carried by the wind from the sea’s surface.

 

Page: 800

 

1. Suggest a title for the poem.

Ans: A suitable title for the poem is "The Call of the Sea".

 

2. What does the poet ask during his sea voyage (in each stanza in different para)?

Ans: In each stanza, the poet asks for a tall ship, a star, a windy day, and peaceful rest at the end of the voyage.

 

Page: 819

 

1. What does the phrase ‘blown spume’ signify?

Ans: ‘Blown spume’ signifies the foam from the waves being carried by the wind, showing the sea’s lively and energetic movement.

 

2. What does the poet want at the end of his sea-voyage?

Ans: The poet wants quiet sleep and a sweet dream at the end of his sea voyage, symbolizing peace and contentment.

 

Page: 839

 

1. What kind of mood of the poet is revealed in the 1st stanza of the poem?

Ans: The poet's mood in the first stanza is one of restlessness and longing for the sea and adventure.

 

2. What is meant here by ‘tall ship’?

Ans: A ‘tall ship’ refers to a large sailing ship with high masts, necessary for long sea voyages.

 

Additional Questions:

 

1. What does the poet expect after the end of his voyage?

Ans: The poet expects peace and rest, a “quiet sleep and a sweet dream” after the end of his journey.

 

 

2. Name the poem and the poet.

Ans: The poem is "Sea Fever," and the poet is John Masefield.

 

 

3. Why has the poet mentioned the wind as a 'whetted knife'?

Ans: The wind is described as a 'whetted knife' to show that it is sharp and cold, cutting through the air like a blade.

 

 

4. Which things does the poet need for sailing?

Ans: The poet needs a tall ship and a star to steer by.

 

 

5. Why does the poet want a windy day for his journey?

Ans: The poet wants a windy day because it will fill the sails and make the journey more exciting and adventurous.

 

 

6. What do you understand by 'Sea Fever'?

Ans: "Sea Fever" refers to the poet’s strong, almost uncontrollable desire to return to the sea.

 

 

7. Why does the speaker think of going down to the seas again?

Ans: The speaker longs for the freedom, adventure, and beauty of the sea, which is why he repeats the line. The word "again" shows that this is a familiar, recurring desire.

 

 

8. How is the wind?

Ans: The wind is described as sharp and strong, like a "whetted knife."

 

 

9. What does the poet wish?

Ans: The poet wishes to return to the sea for an adventurous life and, after the journey, to find peace and rest.

 

 

10. What does the poet mean by 'a tall ship'?

Ans: A “tall ship” refers to a large sailing vessel with high masts and sails, suitable for long sea voyages.

 

 

11. What are the elements of Nature that call the narrator out for a voyage?

Ans: The wind, the running tide, and the natural beauty of the sea call the poet out for a voyage.

 

 

12. When do the white clouds fly?

Ans: The white clouds fly when the wind is strong, moving them quickly across the sky.

 

 

13. Whose call must the poet respond to and why?

Ans: The poet must respond to the call of the sea because he feels a deep emotional connection to it and cannot resist its pull.

 

 

14. How will the poet go down to the seas?

Ans: The poet will go down to the seas in a tall ship, following the guiding star.

 

 

15. Quote an expression which shows that this is not the poet's first voyage.

Ans: The repetition of "I must go down to the seas again" shows that this is not the poet's first voyage.

 

 

16. During what time of the day does the poet wish to go down to the seas?

Ans: The poet wishes to go down to the seas at dawn, as indicated by “the grey dawn breaking.”

 

 

17. In what other terms does the poet describe the sea? And why?

Ans: The poet describes the sea as lonely and wild, reflecting its untamed beauty and his personal connection to it.

 

 

18. What does the poet ask for during his sea-voyage in the last stanza of the poem?

Ans: In the last stanza, the poet asks for a quiet sleep and a sweet dream after the journey.

 

 

19. What does the poet ask for to start his voyage?

Ans: The poet asks for a tall ship and a star to steer by.

 

 

20. Why is life on sea described as 'vagrant gypsy life'?

Ans: Life at sea is called a “vagrant gypsy life” because it is nomadic, free, and adventurous, like the wandering lifestyle of gypsies.

BACK


NEXT