Keeping Quiet Class 12 English Flamingo Poem 2 Summary is available here. This summary was created by the subject experts of our website, CBSE Wale. By reading this summary, students can better understand the poem and improve their English language skills.
Keeping Quiet Class 12 English Flamingo Poem 2 Summary
Keeping Quiet Short Summary
Keeping Quiet by Pablo Neruda is a poem that urges individuals to pause their busy lives and embrace moments of silence. It highlights the negative consequences of human actions and suggests that through collective stillness, people can break the cycle of destruction and gain a sense of unity with nature and each other. The poem emphasizes the discomfort of silence but encourages perseverance, as it leads to personal growth and a deeper appreciation for the world. Ultimately, Neruda believes that this introspective silence can inspire positive change and a more conscious and harmonious way of living.
Keeping Quiet Short Summary In Hindi
पाब्लो नेरुदा की “Keeping Quiet” एक कविता है जो लोगों से अपने व्यस्त जीवन को विराम देने और मौन के क्षणों को गले लगाने का आग्रह करती है। यह मानव कार्यों के नकारात्मक परिणामों पर प्रकाश डालता है और सुझाव देता है कि सामूहिक शांति के माध्यम से लोग विनाश के चक्र को तोड़ सकते हैं और प्रकृति और एक दूसरे के साथ एकता की भावना प्राप्त कर सकते हैं। कविता मौन की बेचैनी पर जोर देती है लेकिन दृढ़ता को प्रोत्साहित करती है, क्योंकि यह व्यक्तिगत विकास और दुनिया के लिए एक गहरी प्रशंसा की ओर ले जाती है। आखिरकार, नेरुदा का मानना है कि यह आत्मनिरीक्षण मौन सकारात्मक परिवर्तन और जीने के अधिक सचेत और सामंजस्यपूर्ण तरीके को प्रेरित कर सकता है।
Keeping Quiet Summary
The poem “Keeping Quiet” talks about how important it is to take time for ourselves and be silent. When we do this, it can change our lives and even make the world a better place. The poet says that it doesn’t take much time to look inside ourselves and think about who we are. It’s easy and only takes as long as counting to twelve. During this time, we need to stay quiet and not say anything. Without silence, this self-reflection won’t be effective. When we silently think about ourselves, it can make us feel connected to others in a special way.
At first, it might feel a bit strange, but eventually, something amazing can happen. This silence will be different from the noisy sounds of engines and the rush of people trying to finish their work. The author imagines a world where things change in those quiet moments. Even the workers who suffer while collecting salt will find some relief. Even those who want war and destruction will have a chance to dress nicely and walk together with their fellow human beings. They will experience a life without hatred and enemies. Their harmful activities will stop, even if just for a little while, and everywhere there will be peace and calmness.
The poet wants to make it clear that his wish doesn’t mean complete laziness or doing nothing at all. He simply wants to pause the violent, cruel, and sad things happening in the world for a short time and give people a chance to think about their actions. Actually, what he’s saying is connected to life, not death. Being active is a vital part of living, but sometimes a little bit of stillness is necessary for new and better activities to happen.
The poet uses the earth as an example to show that even things that appear still and lifeless can have life within them. During winter, the earth seems very quiet and it looks like nothing is happening. But then, in spring, the earth becomes vibrant and full of life again. It gets new and beautiful colors. Similarly, humans can also resume their activities in a better way after a little bit of silence and quietness.
Keeping Quiet Summary In Hindi
“Keeping Quiet” कविता बताती है कि खुद के लिए समय निकालना और चुप रहना कितना जरूरी है। जब हम ऐसा करते हैं, तो यह हमारे जीवन को बदल सकता है और दुनिया को एक बेहतर जगह भी बना सकता है। कवि कहता है कि अपने भीतर झाँकने और यह सोचने में देर नहीं लगती कि हम कौन हैं। यह आसान है और बारह तक गिनने में केवल इतना ही समय लगता है। इस दौरान हमें चुप रहना चाहिए और कुछ भी नहीं कहना चाहिए। मौन के बिना यह आत्मचिंतन प्रभावी नहीं होगा। जब हम चुपचाप अपने बारे में सोचते हैं, तो यह हमें दूसरों से एक खास तरह से जुड़ा हुआ महसूस करा सकता है।
पहले तो यह थोड़ा अजीब लग सकता है, लेकिन आखिरकार, कुछ आश्चर्यजनक हो सकता है। यह सन्नाटा इंजनों की शोर-शराबे और अपना काम खत्म करने की कोशिश कर रहे लोगों की भीड़ से अलग होगा। लेखक एक ऐसी दुनिया की कल्पना करता है जहां उन शांत क्षणों में चीजें बदल जाती हैं। नमक इकट्ठा करने वाले मजदूरों को भी कुछ राहत मिलेगी। यहाँ तक कि युद्ध और विनाश चाहने वालों को भी अच्छे कपड़े पहनने और अपने साथी मनुष्यों के साथ चलने का अवसर मिलेगा। वे घृणा और शत्रुओं के बिना जीवन का अनुभव करेंगे। उनकी हानिकारक गतिविधियां बंद हो जाएंगी, भले ही थोड़ी देर के लिए ही सही, और हर जगह शांति और शांति होगी।
कवि यह स्पष्ट करना चाहता है कि उसकी इच्छा का अर्थ पूर्ण आलस्य या कुछ भी न करना नहीं है। वह बस थोड़े समय के लिए दुनिया में हो रही हिंसक, क्रूर और दुखद घटनाओं को रोकना चाहता है और लोगों को उनके कार्यों के बारे में सोचने का मौका देना चाहता है। दरअसल, वह जो कह रहा है वह जीवन से जुड़ा है, मृत्यु से नहीं। सक्रिय होना जीवन का एक महत्वपूर्ण हिस्सा है, लेकिन कभी-कभी नई और बेहतर गतिविधियों के होने के लिए थोड़ी सी शांति आवश्यक होती है।
कवि पृथ्वी को एक उदाहरण के रूप में यह दिखाने के लिए उपयोग करता है कि जो चीजें स्थिर और बेजान दिखाई देती हैं उनमें भी जीवन हो सकता है। सर्दियों के दौरान, पृथ्वी बहुत शांत लगती है और ऐसा लगता है कि कुछ भी नहीं हो रहा है। लेकिन फिर, वसंत ऋतु में, पृथ्वी फिर से जीवंत और जीवन से भरपूर हो जाती है। यह नए और सुंदर रंग प्राप्त करता है। इसी तरह मनुष्य भी थोड़ी सी खामोशी और खामोशी के बाद अपनी गतिविधियों को बेहतर तरीके से फिर से शुरू कर सकता है।
The Explanation of the Poem “Keeping Quiet”
Stanza 1
Now we will count to twelve
and we will all keep still.
For once on the face of the Earth
let’s not speak in any language,
let’s stop for one second,
and not move our arms so much.
Important Word Meaning
Count: To say or recite numbers in order.
Keep: To remain or stay.
Still: Without movement or sound.
Explanations
In the first stanza of the poem “Keeping Quiet”, the poet suggests that everyone should take a moment to be silent together. They will count to twelve, and during that time, they should not speak in any language. The poet wants everyone to pause for just one second and not move their arms too much. It’s like a call for a brief moment of stillness and quietness, where people can stop their usual activities and just be calm together.
Poetic Devices
Repetition: The repetition of the phrase “we will” in the first and second lines emphasizes the collective action and creates a sense of unity.
Enjambment: The lines do not end with punctuation marks, which creates a sense of flow and continuation from one line to the next. For example, the first line continues into the second line without a pause.
Imagery: The phrase “on the face of the Earth” creates a vivid image of the Earth’s surface, emphasizing the universal nature of the poet’s message.
Alliteration: The repetition of the “s” sound in “speak,” “still,” and “so” creates an alliterative effect, adding musicality to the stanza.
Imperative Mood: The use of the imperative verb forms “let’s” in the fourth and fifth lines creates a commanding tone, urging the reader to follow the suggested actions.
Symbolism: The act of counting to twelve and keeping still represents a moment of reflection and introspection, while not speaking in any language and not moving the arms symbolizes a pause in communication and physical activity.
Stanza 2
It would be an exotic moment
without rush, without engines,
we would all be together
in a sudden strangeness.
Fishermen in the cold sea
would not harm whales
and the man gathering salt
would look at his hurt hands.
Important Word Meaning
Exotic: Unusual, unique, or unfamiliar in a fascinating way.
Rush: To move quickly or hurriedly.
Sudden: Happening quickly or unexpectedly.
Strangeness: The quality of being strange or unfamiliar.
Fishermen: People who catch fish for a living or as a hobby.
Whales: Large marine mammals.
Gathering: Collecting or bringing together.
Explanations
The second stanza of the poem “Keeping Quiet” describes a unique and peaceful moment that could happen. It would be a special time without any hurry or noise from engines. Everyone would be united, feeling a sudden sense of strangeness or newness. In this moment, even the fishermen in the cold sea would stop harming whales, and the person collecting salt would take a moment to look at their injured hands and reflect on their work. It portrays a scene of harmony and reflection, where people are more aware of their actions and their impact on the world around them.
Poetic Devices
Imagery: The use of descriptive language creates vivid mental images. Words like “exotic moment,” “rush,” “engines,” “cold sea,” “whales,” “gathering salt,” and “hurt hands” paint visual pictures in the reader’s mind, enhancing the sensory experience of the poem.
Alliteration: ‘we would’ – ‘w’ sound is repeated, ‘sudden strangeness’ – ‘s’ sound is repeated, ‘his hurt hands’ – ‘h’ sound is repeated.
Repetition: The repetition of the phrase “would” at the beginning of each line creates a rhythmic pattern and emphasizes the desired scenario being described.
Contrast: The stanza presents contrasting ideas and situations, such as “without rush” versus “engines,” “fishermen” harming whales versus the man “gathering salt,” and the hurt hands. This contrast creates tension and emphasizes the desired change or moment of tranquility.
Symbolism: The idea of “an exotic moment” and “sudden strangeness” represents a departure from the ordinary or mundane. It symbolizes a unique, transformative experience where people come together and experience something out of the ordinary.
Stanza 3
Those who prepare green wars,
wars with gas, wars with fire,
victory with no survivors,
would put on clean clothes
and walk about with their brothers
in the shade, doing nothing.
What I want should not be confused
with total inactivity.
Life is what it is about;
I want no truck with death.
Important Word Meaning
Green: In this context, “green” refers to wars that are focused on environmental or ecological issues.
Gas: In the context of warfare, gas refers to chemical weapons used as weapons of mass destruction.
Survivors: Those who manage to stay alive or endure a dangerous or deadly situation.
Brothers: In this context, “brothers” refers to comrades or fellow soldiers.
Total inactivity: Complete lack of action or movement.
Truck: In this context, “truck” means to have dealings or associations with.
Explanations
The third stanza of the poem “Keeping Quiet” talks about those who plan and engage in destructive wars. They use weapons like gas and fire, seeking victory without leaving any survivors. However, the stanza suggests that even these war-minded individuals would put on clean clothes and walk with their fellow soldiers in a peaceful environment, doing nothing related to war. The poet clarifies that their idea of peace and stillness should not be mistaken for complete inactivity. The essence of life is what matters, and the poet wants nothing to do with death. The stanza conveys a desire for a peaceful existence and emphasizes the importance of life over destruction.
Poetic Devices
Repetition: The repetition of the word “wars” in the first two lines emphasizes the destructive nature of the conflicts being described. This repetition creates a rhythmic pattern and adds emphasis to the idea of war.
Alliteration: The repetition of the “w” sound in “wars with gas, wars with fire” creates an alliterative effect, adding musicality and emphasis to the description of different types of warfare.
Contrast: The stanza presents a contrast between the preparation for destructive wars and the peaceful image of putting on clean clothes, walking with brothers, and doing nothing in the shade. This contrast highlights the poet’s desire for peace and the dissonance between the destructive actions of war and the simplicity of a peaceful existence.
Imagery: The stanza creates vivid mental images through the use of descriptive language. Words like “green wars,” “clean clothes,” “walk about with their brothers,” and “in the shade” paint visual pictures, allowing the reader to visualize the scenes being described.
Rhetorical Question: The question “What I want should not be confused with total inactivity?” is a rhetorical question that prompts the reader to consider the distinction between the poet’s desired state and complete inactivity. It engages the reader and encourages reflection on the poet’s intentions.
Stanza 4
If we were not so single-minded
about keeping our lives moving,
and for once could perhaps a huge silence
might interrupt this sadness
of never understanding ourselves
and of threatening ourselves with death.
Important Word Meaning
Single-minded: Having a strong focus or determination on one thing, not easily distracted.
Silence: The absence of sound or noise.
Interrupt: To temporarily stop or break the continuity of something.
Sadness: The state of feeling unhappy or sorrowful.
Threatening: Expressing or indicating a potential danger or harm.
Death: The cessation of life or the end of the living state.
Explanations
The fourth stanza of the poem “Keeping Quiet” conveys the idea that if we weren’t so focused on constantly keeping ourselves busy and distracted, there is a possibility that a moment of profound silence could interrupt the sadness and confusion we often feel. This sadness arises from our inability to truly understand ourselves and our tendency to fear death. The stanza suggests that taking a pause from our hectic lives and embracing silence might offer us a chance to reflect, gain clarity, and find solace from our inner struggles.
Poetic Devices
Enjambment: Enjambment is used in this stanza where a thought or sentence does not end with a line break, but continues onto the next line. For example, “If we were not so single-minded / about keeping our lives moving” and “and for once could perhaps a huge silence / might interrupt this sadness” flow seamlessly from one line to the next, creating a sense of continuity and fluidity.
Repetition: The repetition of the word “ourselves” in the phrases “never understanding ourselves” and “threatening ourselves with death” adds emphasis to the personal nature of the struggle and highlights the importance of self-reflection.
Alliteration: The repetition of the “s” sound in “single-minded,” “silence,” “sadness,” and “ourselves” creates an alliterative effect, adding musicality and enhancing the flow of the stanza.
Metaphor: Silence itself is being compared to something immense or substantial, suggesting that it has the power to interrupt the sadness and lack of self-understanding.
Caesura: There are caesuras (pauses) within the lines that break the flow and add emphasis. For example, the pause after “and for once” and “a huge silence” allows the reader to reflect on those particular phrases.
Stanza 5
Perhaps the Earth can teach us
as when everything seems dead
and later proves to be alive.
Now I’ll count up to twelve
and you keep quiet and I will go.
Important Word Meaning
Proves: In this context, it means to demonstrate or provide evidence for something.
Count: It refers to the action of enumerating or calculating a series of numbers.
Quiet: The absence of noise or sound; the state of being silent or still.
Explanations
The fifth stanza of the poem “Keeping Quiet” suggests that we can learn from the Earth’s example. Sometimes things may appear lifeless, but later reveal that they are actually alive and full of potential. The speaker then suggests counting up to twelve, asking the listener to stay silent while they depart. In simple terms, the stanza encourages us to observe and learn from the cycles of life in nature and invites us to practice silence and observation ourselves.
Poetic Devices
Repetition: The repetition of the word “and” at the beginning of each line creates a rhythmic flow and adds emphasis.
Enjambment: The use of enjambment is seen in the lines “as when everything seems dead / and later proves to be alive.” It carries the thought from one line to the next without a pause, enhancing the flow and continuity of the stanza.
Imagery: The contrast between something appearing dead but later proving to be alive creates vivid imagery and engages the reader’s senses.
Symbolism: The Earth is symbolically portrayed as a teacher, suggesting that there are lessons to be learned from nature.
Metaphor: The metaphor in the stanza compares the Earth teaching us to a situation where things appear dead but are actually alive. It implies that, like the Earth, there is wisdom to be learned from seemingly lifeless things. The Earth is depicted as a teacher who imparts valuable lessons through its cycles of life and death.
Poet of the Poem “Keeping Quiet”
The poem “Keeping Quiet” was written by Pablo Neruda.
About the Poet of the Poem “Keeping Quiet”
Pablo Neruda (12 July 1904 – 23 September 1973) was a Chilean poet who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1971. He is considered one of the most important poets of the 20th century. Neruda’s poetry is known for its beauty, its passion, and its political engagement. He wrote in a variety of styles, including love poems, political poems, and surrealist poems. Neruda was born in Parral, Chile, in 1904. He began writing poetry at a young age, and his first book of poems was published in 1923. Neruda traveled extensively throughout his life, and he lived in a number of different countries, including Spain, Mexico, and the United States. He was a vocal critic of the Chilean government, and he was forced to go into exile during the Pinochet dictatorship.
Theme of the Poem “Keeping Quiet”
The poem “Keeping Quiet” by Pablo Neruda is about the importance of taking time to be still and reflect. It encourages people to disconnect from their busy lives and harmful actions. By being silent and looking within ourselves, we can gain a better understanding of who we are and how we are connected to others. The poem suggests that silence can unite us, even across language barriers, and bring about peace and harmony. It urges readers to find moments of quiet contemplation to develop empathy and strengthen their connection with themselves and others.
Central Idea of the Poem “Keeping Quiet”
The central idea of the poem “Keeping Quiet” by Pablo Neruda is that silence and self-reflection can help us to understand ourselves and others better, and to build a more peaceful world.
The poem suggests that by pausing and disconnecting from our busy lives, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and our connection to others. Through silence and introspection, we can break free from destructive patterns and foster unity and peace.
Moral of the Poem “Keeping Quiet”
Silence and self-reflection are key to achieving peace and harmony, as depicted in Keeping Quiet. The poet imagines a world where a day of collective silence fosters a profound bond with nature and improved mutual comprehension. Through silence, we can truly grasp the magnificence of our surroundings and achieve clarity. The poem urges us to prioritize moments of stillness and introspection in order to nurture inner peace and promote global harmony.
Message of the Poem “Keeping Quiet”
The message of the poem “Keeping Quiet” is that silence can help us understand ourselves and others better, and it can help us create a more peaceful world.
Conclusion of the Poem “Keeping Quiet”
The poem Keeping Quiet by Pablo Neruda concludes by urging us to pause, reflect, and be silent in order to transform ourselves and the world. It reminds us to take a break from our busy lives and think about our actions and connections with others. Silence helps us understand and unite with one another. The poem encourages us to break harmful patterns, show empathy, and create a peaceful world. It reminds us to find moments of stillness and make a positive difference in the world around us.
Rhyme Scheme of the poem “Keeping Quiet”
The poem “Keeping Quiet” by Pablo Neruda does not have a rhyme scheme. It is written in free verse, which means that it does not follow any traditional poetic forms.
Frequently Asked Questions Related To The Poem Keeping Quiet
Question 1. What is the main theme of the poem “Keeping Quiet”?
Answer. The main theme of the poem “Keeping Quiet” is the importance of introspection, stillness, and unity.
Question 2. What does the poet suggest about silence and self-introspection in the poem ?
Answer. The poet suggests that silence and self-introspection can lead to personal transformation and a deeper understanding of oneself and others.
Question 3. How does the poem emphasize the need for silence?
Answer. The poem “Keeping Quiet” emphasizes the need for silence by highlighting its ability to interrupt the chaos of daily life, foster empathy, and create moments of reflection.
Question 4. How does the poem connect silence with unity?
Answer. The poem “Keeping Quiet” suggests that through silence, individuals can experience a sense of togetherness and unity, transcending language barriers and divisions.
Question 5. What does the poet mean by “counting to twelve”?
Answer. Counting to twelve symbolizes taking a moment of stillness and reflection, representing a specific duration of time for self-introspection.
Question 6. What is the significance of the phrase “doing nothing” in the poem?
Answer. The phrase “doing nothing” suggests the importance of pausing from our busy lives and engaging in quiet contemplation to gain insights and promote personal growth.
Question 7. How does the poem “Keeping Quiet” challenge destructive activities?
Answer. The poem “Keeping Quiet” suggests that by engaging in self-reflection and silence, individuals can break free from destructive patterns and contribute to a more peaceful world.
Question 8. How does the poet portray the Earth in the poem “Keeping Quiet”?
Answer. The poet portrays the Earth as a teacher, capable of imparting wisdom and valuable lessons through its cycles of life and death.
Question 9. How does the poem “Keeping Quiet” address the concept of understanding oneself?
Answer. The poem “Keeping Quiet” highlights the sadness of never understanding ourselves and suggests that silence and introspection can help us gain a deeper understanding of our own thoughts, actions, and motivations.
Question 10. What does the poet want to distinguish from “total inactivity” in the poem “Keeping Quiet”?
Answer. The poet wants to emphasize that silence and introspection should not be confused with complete inactivity; rather, they are essential for personal growth and positive action.
Question 11. What does the poet say about the connection between life and silence in the poem “Keeping Quiet”?
Answer. The poet suggests that a little stillness is necessary for a new, improved, and purposeful activity, and that silence is an integral part of life itself.
Question 12. How does the poem “Keeping Quiet” address the idea of unity among humanity?
Answer. The poem “Keeping Quiet” suggests that through moments of silence and self-reflection, individuals can cultivate empathy, understanding, and a sense of unity with others.
Question 13. How does the poem “Keeping Quiet” encourage readers to contribute to a more harmonious world?
Answer. The poem “Keeping Quiet” encourages readers to find moments of stillness within themselves, break free from destructive patterns, and actively engage in positive change, fostering a more peaceful and compassionate society.
Question 14. What is the role of silence in breaking language barriers in the poem “Keeping Quiet”?
Answer. The poem “Keeping Quiet” suggests that silence has the power to transcend language barriers and enable a deeper understanding and connection among people.
Question 15. What is the overall message of the poem “Keeping Quiet”?
Answer. The overall message of the poem “Keeping Quiet” Is that by embracing silence, introspection, and unity, individuals can bring about personal and collective transformation, fostering a more peaceful and harmonious world.