Students rely on Class 9 English Extra Questions and Class 9 English Kaveri Poem 7 Words Extra Questions and Answers to improve their grades.
Words Poem Extra Question Answer
Words Class 9 Extra Question Answer
Words Short Question Answer
Question 1.
How does the comparison of words to ‘summer birds’ strengthen the poet’s idea about the temporary and ineffective nature of empty speech?
Answer:
The comparison with ‘summer birds’ shows that words stay only for a short time and then fly away. Like birds that leave after a season, empty words do not last. This image strengthens the idea that such speech is temporary and ineffective.
Question 2.
Why does the poet describe words as something that ‘leave but empty air’ and what does this expression suggest about their impact on the human heart?
Answer:
The poet says words ‘leave but empty air’ to show that they often disappear without giving real comfort. This expression suggests that words may sound nice but fail to satisfy the human heart. They do not always reduce pain or give true emotional support when needed.
Question 3.
In what way does the poet compare the heart to a pilgrim upon earth, and how does this comparison help in understanding the heart’s emotional journey?
Answer:
The poet compares the heart to a pilgrim to show that it is always searching for peace and comfort. Just like a pilgrim travels to find spiritual meaning, the heart looks for true understanding. This comparison explains the heart’s emotional journey and its deep needs.
Question 4.
What does the poet’s comparison of words to ‘weeds’ suggest about their value and usefulness, especially in times of emotional need?
Answer:
The poet compares words to ‘weeds’ to show that they are often useless in times of emotional need. Just like weeds have little value and grow everywhere, empty words do not give real comfort. This comparison highlights that words without sincerity lack true worth.
Question 5.
Summarise the different ways in which the poet highlights the limitations and weaknesses of words in the poem.
Answer:
The poet highlights the weaknesses of words by comparing them to summer birds, weeds and fruitless plants. These images show that words are often temporary and empty. He explains that when tested in difficult times, words usually fail to give real support.
Question 6.
How does the poet clearly bring out the contrast between words that only reach the head and those that truly touch the heart?
Answer:
The poet shows the contrast by saying some words only reach the head, meaning they are logical but not emotional. However, a few sincere words touch the heart and bring true joy. This difference shows that feelings matter more than long speeches.
Question 7.
How does the repetition of important ideas and words in the poem strengthen the poet’s main argument about the limitations of speech?
Answer:
The repetition of words like ‘heart’ and ‘words’ strengthens the poet’s main idea that speech often fails to satisfy emotions. By repeating these ideas, the poet makes the message clear and powerful. It helps readers understand that empty words cannot replace true feelings.
Question 8.
How does the poet suggest that real and meaningful communication should be expressed in order to bring comfort and joy?
Answer:
The poet suggests that real communication should be simple and sincere. A few honest words spoken from the heart can bring comfort and joy. Meaningful speech should show true feelings instead of using many empty words that have no impact.
Question 9.
Why does the poet state that words ‘oft satisfy the least’ when they are put to the test, and what does this reveal about their limitations?
Answer:
The poet says words ‘oft satisfy the least’ when tested because they fail during difficult times. When people truly need comfort, words alone are not enough. This shows the limitation of speech and proves that actions and sincerity are more important.
Question 10.
What does the phrase ‘summoned to the test’ indicate about challenging or difficult situations in life where words are expected to provide comfort?
Answer:
The phrase ‘summoned to the test’ means words are used during difficult or emotional situations. It suggests moments when people expect comfort or support. However, the poet shows that at such times, words often fail to help, proving their limitations.
Question 11.
Explain the central message of the poem in your own words and describe what the poet wants to convey about words and emotions.
Answer:
The central message of the poem is that words alone cannot always satisfy emotions. The poet wants to show that long speeches without feelings are useless. Only true and heartfelt words can bring real joy and comfort to the human heart.
Question 12.
Do you agree with the poet’s view that words often fail during moments of emotional need? Give reasons to justify your opinion.
Answer:
Yes, I agree with the poet that words often fail during emotional need. When someone is sad or hurt, words alone may not help. At such times, understanding, support and actions matter more than long speeches or empty promises.
Words Long Question Answer
Question 1.
Analyse how the poet makes effective use of natural imagery such as summer birds, weeds, and fruitless plants to develop and strengthen his central idea about the limitations and emptiness of words.
Answer:
The poet uses natural imagery like summer birds, weeds, and fruitless plants to show that many words do not have real value. He compares words to summer birds that fly away quickly, which means they do not stay long or give lasting comfort. He also compares words to weeds, which grow everywhere but are not useful.
In the final stanza, he describes plants that look bright and attractive but cannot grow even one fruit. This shows that empty words may sound impressive but have no real meaning.
Through these simple images from nature, the poet makes his idea clear. He teaches us that words without honesty and true feelings cannot satisfy the heart or give emotional support.
Question 2.
“The poem presents a strong criticism of superficial communication in society.” Justify this statement with suitable references and examples from the text.
Answer:
The poem clearly criticises superficial communication in society. The poet shows that many words are empty and do not satisfy the heart. He compares such words to summer birds that fly away quickly and leave nothing behind. He also compares them to weeds, which grow everywhere but have little value.
In the final stanza, he describes plants that look bright and attractive but cannot produce even one fruit. This means that impressive speech without true feelings is useless.
The poet believes that people often speak too much but do not say anything meaningful. Through these comparisons, he warns us against shallow communication and encourages sincere words that truly comfort and connect people.
Question 3.
Discuss how the poet carefully balances his criticism of empty and meaningless speech with his appreciation for a few sincere and heartfelt words in the poem.
Answer:
The poet balances criticism and appreciation by presenting two clear sides of words in the poem. On one side, he criticises empty speech by comparing it to summer birds that fly away, weeds that have little use, and fruitless plants that only look beautiful.
These images show that many words are temporary and useless. On the other side, he appreciates ‘a little said, and truly said’. He believes that a few sincere words can bring deeper joy than long and meaningless speeches. This balance makes the poem thoughtful and fair.
The poet does not reject all speech, but only speech without honesty. Through this contrast, he teaches that sincerity and depth in communication matter more than quantity of words.
Question 4.
Examine the contrast between appearance and reality presented in the final stanza of the poem. How does this contrast help to reinforce the poet’s overall message about superficial speech?
Answer:
In the final stanza, the poet shows a clear contrast between appearance and reality by using the image of showy plants. These plants look bright and beautiful and make a ‘gaudy show’, but they cannot grow even one fruit. This means that they look attractive from outside but have no real usefulness.
In the same way, empty words may sound impressive and pleasing, but they do not give real comfort or meaning. The poet uses this contrast to explain that outward beauty or long speeches are not important. What truly matters is honesty and depth of feeling.
Through this example, the poet highlights the weakness of superficial speech in human communication clearly.
Question 5.
In ‘Carrier of Words’, communication connects distant people physically, while in the poem ‘Words’, communication fails emotionally. Discuss this contrast with reference to both texts.
Answer:
In ‘Carrier of Words’, communication connects people who live far away from each other. The postman travels long distances through the desert to deliver letters. These letters bring news, hope, and happiness to families.
Even though the sender is far away, the message reaches safely and builds emotional bonds. However, in the poem ‘Words’, the poet shows that words often fail to satisfy the heart.
He compares empty words to summer birds and weeds to show that they do not give real comfort. While the postman’s letters create connection and trust, the poem suggests that spoken words without sincerity cannot truly comfort people.
Thus, one text shows the power of communication, while the other highlights its emotional limitations.
Question 6.
Your friend is upset because someone gave a long apology but did not change their behaviour. Using ideas from the poem ‘Words’, explain whether words alone are enough in such situations. What advice would you give your friend based on the poet’s message?
Answer:
According to the poem ‘Words’, words alone are not always enough, especially when they are not sincere.
The poet says that many words may sound nice, but they often fail to satisfy the heart. He compares empty words to summer birds and weeds, which have little value.
In this situation, a long apology without change in behaviour is like those empty words. It may reach the head but not the heart. I would advise my friend to look at the person’s actions, not just their speech.
True apology should be shown through improved behaviour. The poem teaches us that honest feelings and actions matter more than long speeches without meaning or responsibility.
You have noticed that people today speak a lot on social media but often fail to express true feelings. Based on the poem ‘Words’ by Charles Swain, write an article for your school magazine on the topic: ‘The Importance of Meaningful Communication in Today’s World’.
Answer:
The Importance of Meaningful
Communication in Today’s World
by XYZ
Today, people speak a lot on social media, but many words do not show real feelings. In the poem ‘Words’ by Charles Swain, the poet explains that empty words are like summer birds that fly away and leave nothing behind. This shows that speech without sincerity has no real value. Many people post long messages or apologies online, but their actions do not match their words.
True communication should come from the heart. A few honest words can give more comfort than many meaningless ones. We should think before we speak and express our feelings sincerely.
Meaningful communication builds trust and strong relationships. Therefore, we must choose our words carefully and speak with honesty and kindness.
Words Extract Based Questions and Answers
Extract 1
If words could satisfy the heart,
The heart might find less care;
But words, like summer birds,
depart, And leave us empty air.
I. What emotions are most appropriately conveyed by the idea that words leave ’empty air’?
(i) disappointment
(ii) relief
(iii) loneliness
(iv) sadness
(v) excitement
Select the correct option.
A. i, iii, iv
B. ii, v
C. i, v
D. iii, v
Answer:
A. i, iii, iv
II. How does the comparison of words to ‘summer birds’ highlight the poet’s view about the limitations of words?
Answer:
The poet compares words to summer birds to show their fleeting nature. Just as birds fly away quickly, words often disappear without leaving lasting comfort. This highlights that words alone cannot truly satisfy emotional needs or provide lasting reassurance.
III. Which line from the extract highlights the temporary nature of words?
Answer:
The line that highlights the temporary nature of words is ‘But words, like summer birds, depart’.
IV. Fill in the blank with a phrase to suitably complete the sentence.
The poet suggests that words often leave behind ______ in the heart.
Answer:
emptiness
Extract 2
The heart, a pilgrim open-eyed,
Finds often, in his needs,
That words are of as little worth
As just so many weeds.
I. What does the poet imply by calling the heart a ‘pilgrim open-eyed’?
A The heart travels blindly without experience.
B The heart learns from life’s experiences and remains observant.
C The heart avoids challenges and stays protected.
D The heart seeks material success in life.
Answer:
B. The heart learns from life’s experiences and remains observant.
II. Complete the following suitably.
The word ‘weeds’ in the extract refers to ______ .
Answer:
useless or worthless words
III. How does the poet use comparison to highlight the value of words?
Answer:
The poet compares words to words to show that they are often useless and lack real value, especially in times of emotional need.
IV. What does the poet compare words to in the extract?.
Answer:
The poet compares words to weeds to show they are often useless and have little real value.
Extract 3
A little said, and truly said,
Can deeply joy impart;
Than hosts of words,
which reach the head,
But never touch the heart.
I. What is implied by ‘never touch the heart’?
(i) Words fail to give emotional comfort
(ii) Words are physically weak
(iii) Words lack sincerity
(iv) Words are too loud
(v) Words do not create true happiness
Select the correct option.
A. i, iii, v
B. ii, iv
C. i, ii, iv
D. iii, iv
Answer:
A. i, iii, v
II. What does the phrase ‘reach the head, but never touch the heart’ suggest about long speeches?
Answer:
The phrase ‘reach the head, but never touch the heart’ shows that long speeches may sound smart but do not create real feelings. They reach the mind but not the heart. This means too many words often fail to show true care, warmth and sincerity in communication.
III. Which phrase from the extract conveys the poet’s idea that honesty in speech is powerful?
Answer:
The phrase from the extract conveys the poet’s idea that honesty in speech is powerful ‘A little said, and truly said’.
IV. Fill in the blank with a phrase to suitably complete the sentence.
The poet suggests that a few sincere words can bring ______ .
Answer:
deep joy
Extract 4
The voice that wins its sunny way,
A lonely home to cheer,
Hath oft the fewest words to say;
But, oh! those few how dear!
I. What does the poet imply by saying the voice ‘wins its sunny way’?
A The voice is loud and commanding.
B The voice spreads warmth and happiness.
C The voice forces people to listen.
D The voice is cheerful but meaningless.
Answer:
B. The voice spreads warmth and happiness.
II. Complete the following suitably.
The phrase ‘lonely home’ refers to ______ .
Answer:
a place filled with loneliness or sadness
III. How does the poet show that a few words can be more meaningful than many words?
Answer:
The poet shows that a few true words can bring happiness and comfort. Long speeches may sound impressive but do not touch emotions. This shows that short, sincere words are more powerful because they create real feelings and stronger connections between people.
IV. Identify the phrase in the poem that expresses deep value and affection.
Answer:
The phrase in the poem that expresses deep value and affection is ‘those few how dear!’
Extract 5
If words could satisfy the chest, The world might hold a feast; But words, when summoned to the test, Oft satisfy the least!
I. What emotions are most appropriately conveyed by the idea that words fail when tested?
(i) disappointment
(ii) pride
(iii) doubt
(iv) frustration
(v) contentment
Select the correct option.
A. i, iii, iv
B. ii, iii
C. i, v
D. ii, v
Answer:
A. i, iii, iv
II. What does the phrase ‘summoned to the test’ tell us about the reliability of words?
Answer:
The phrase suggests that when words are judged in real situations, they often prove weak and insufficient. It shows that words may sound convincing at first, but they fail to give real comfort or support when they are truly needed in difficult times.
III. Which phrase from the extract conveys the poet’s idea that words often fail to meet expectations?
Answer:
The phrase from the extract conveys the poet’s idea that words often fail to meet expectations is ‘Oft satisfy the least’.
IV. Fill in the blank with a phrase to suitably complete the sentence.
The poet suggests that mere words often fail to provide ______ .
Answer:
genuine emotional comfort
Extract 6
Like plants that make a gaudy show,
All blossom to the root;
But whose poor nature cannot grow
One particle of fruit!
I. What does the poet imply by describing the plants as making a ‘gaudy show’?
A They are naturally beautiful and useful.
B They look attractive but lack real value.
C They grow quickly and produce fruit.
D They provide shade and comfort.
Answer:
B. They look attractive but lack real value.
II. Complete the following suitably.
The word ‘fruit’ in the extract symbolises ______
Answer:
meaningful results or useful outcomes
III. How does the poet show that empty words have little value?
Answer:
The poet compares empty words to showy plants that bloom but never bear fruit. This shows they may look impressive and attractive, yet they are useless. The comparison highlights that words without truth or action cannot bring meaningful results.
IV. Identify the phrase in the poem that suggests outward appearance without usefulness.
Answer:
The phrase in the poem that suggests outward appearance without usefulness is ‘make a gaudy show’.
Extra Questions of Words for Practice
Extract Based Questions
Read the following extracts carefully and answer the questions that follow.
If words could satisfy the heart,
The heart might find less care;
But words, like summer birds, depart,
And leave us empty air.
The heart, a pilgrim open-eyed,
Finds often, in his needs,
That words are of as little worth
As just so many weeds.
A little said, and truly said,
Can deeply joy impart;
Than hosts of words, which reach the head,
But never touch the heart.
I. What emotions are most appropriately conveyed by the idea that words leave ’empty air’?
(i) disappointment
(ii) relief
(iii) sadness
(iv) loneliness
(v) excitement
Select the correct option.
A. i, iii, iv
B. ii, v
C. i, v
D. iii, v
II. What does the phrase ‘a pilgrim open-eyed’ suggest about the heart’s experience?
III. Which phrase from the extract conveys the poet’s idea that sincere words bring happiness?
IV. Fill in the blank with a phrase to suitably complete the sentence.
The poet suggests that too many words often fail to touch the ______.
Short Answer Type Questions
Question 1.
What is the significance of the phrase ’empty air’ in describing the effect of words?
Question 2.
Why does the poet use the word ‘pilgrim’ instead of ‘traveller’ for the heart?
Question 3.
How does the poet show the difference between words that reach the head and those that touch the heart?
Question 4.
What warning does the poet give about excessive talking?
Question 5.
How can the message conveyed in the poem be applied to real-life communication and daily interactions with others?
Long Answer Type Questions
Question 1.
Explain the meaning of the lines, ‘If words could satisfy the heart, / The heart might find less care’, and describe what the poet wants to convey through them.
Question 2.
How does the poet clearly distinguish between communication that appeals to the mind and communication that touches the heart?
Question 3.
‘The poem teaches us the importance of understanding and managing emotions while speaking’. Discuss this statement with reference to the text.