The Snail by William Cowper: A line-by-line explanation, summary, analysis and some questions answers

 

"The Snail" by William Cowper:

A line-by-line explanation, summary, and analysis

 

 Line 1:  The poet begins by describing the snail's behavior, noting how it clings to various surfaces such as grass, leaves, fruits, or walls.

 

 Line 2:  The snail adheres closely to these surfaces and doesn't appear to fear falling, as if it's an integral part of them.

 

 Line 3:  The snail's attachment to its surroundings is emphasized, creating an image of the snail as if it were naturally integrated with these elements.

 

 Line 4:  The poet highlights that within its shell, the snail feels secure and protected. It retreats into its shell when there is imminent danger, particularly from weather-related harm, like storms.

 

 Line 5:  The snail's antennae, often called "horns," are extremely sensitive. Even the slightest touch prompts it to withdraw into its shell, and it does so with some discomfort.

 

 Line 6:  The snail's preference for solitude is conveyed. It is content with being alone and self-sufficient, possessing no possessions or belongings ("chattels").

 

 Line 7:  The snail is satisfied with being self-contained and considers its shell as its most valuable possession or "whole treasure."

 

 Line 8:  The poet likes the snail's lifestyle to that of a hermit. The snail doesn't require any companions to share its meals or "banquet."

 

 Line 9:  If the snail does encounter another snail, it actually consumes its food more rapidly ("feeds the faster"), suggesting competition.

 

Line 10: The poet humorously suggests that someone who seeks to find the snail must be even more inept than a blind person, as the snail and its shell are so well-matched and integrated.

 

Line 11: Even if someone does find the snail's shell, they may still struggle to locate the snail itself because it often remains hidden inside its shell.

 

Summary:

In "The Snail," William Cowper observes the behavior of a snail and uses it as a metaphor for human qualities. The snail clings closely to natural surfaces, seeking safety in its shell during adverse conditions. It is self-sufficient, content with solitude, and quick to withdraw when touched. The poem playfully suggests that finding the snail, even when its shell is discovered, is a challenging task, as the snail and its shell are so well-integrated.

 

Analysis:

This poem reflects Cowper's fascination with the natural world and his ability to find deeper meaning in simple observations. The snail serves as a symbol of self-containment, self-preservation, and solitude. It contrasts the snail's unassuming and solitary existence with the complexities of human relationships and the paradox of seeking solitude and companionship at the same time. Cowper's gentle humor and keen observations make "The Snail" a charming exploration of the natural world and human behavior.

Answer the following questions (SAQ type):

1. What does the snail do when it faces danger?

Ans. When the snail faces danger, it hides in its house (shell).

2. What does the snail stick close to?

Ans. The snail sticks close to various surfaces, such as grass, leaves, fruit, or walls.

3. When does the snail hides in his house?

Ans. The snail hides in its house (shell) when there is imminent danger, particularly from storms or other harmful weather conditions.

4. Why does the snail have no fear to fall?

Ans. The snail has no fear of falling because it clings closely to the surfaces it moves on, giving the impression that it is a natural and inseparable part of those surfaces.

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

Ans. When the snail's horns are given the slightest touch, it reacts by retracting into its house (shell) with displeasure.

6. How does the snail stick to its places?

Ans. The snail sticks to its places by adhering closely to them, as if it naturally belongs there.

7.Who wrote the poem. The Snail' ?

Ans. The poem "The Snail" was written by William Cowper.

8. What do you know about the house of the snail?

Ans. The house of the snail is its protective shell, which serves as its dwelling and shelter.

9. How does the snail use its house?

Ans. The snail uses its house (shell) as a place of security and refuge, particularly when it faces danger.

10. What causes the snail's displeasure?

Ans. The snail experiences displeasure when its horns are touched lightly, prompting it to retract into its shell.

11. What do you know about the world of a snail?

Ans. The world of a snail, as depicted in the poem, is one of solitude and self-sufficiency, where it clings to various surfaces and values its own protection and independence.

12. Why does the snail dwell alone?

Ans. The snail dwells alone, possibly because it prefers solitude and self-reliance.

13. What makes the snail well-satisfied?

Ans. The snail is well-satisfied with being self-contained and considers its house (shell) its most valuable possession.