Question

Read the given extract and answer the questions:

Though to distinguish beasts of prey A novice might nonplus, The crocodile you always may Tell from the Hyena thus: Hyenas come with merry smiles But if they weep they’re crocodiles.

1. What is the most likely reason the poet uses the ‘nonplus’ instead of confused? 1
2. Explain the irony in the last two lines of the stanza. 2
3. Fill in the blank with one word: 1
   “The word ‘novice’ signifies a/an ______ person. 
4. What kind of atmosphere is created through these lines? 1
   Select the correct option:
   1. humorous
   2. mysterious
   3. aggressive
   4. confusing
   5. fearful
      Options:
      
      1. 1 and 4
      2. Only 5
      3. 1, 2 and 3
      4. 4 and 5

Answer 1

1. “Nonplus” is an older, slightly humorous/poetic word meaning to be puzzled or at a loss; the poet chooses it for its tone and sound (and because it fits the poem’s rhythm and playful diction) rather than the plain word “confused.”
2. Hyenas are popularly thought to “laugh” (they come with merry smiles), while crocodiles are associated with fake sorrow (“crocodile tears”). The ironic twist is that if a laughing animal like a hyena were ever to weep, that weeping would be insincere, in other words, it would be like a crocodile’s tears. The line plays on these popular images to create a witty, ironic contrast.
3. “The word ‘novice’ signifies a/an inexperienced person.
4. 1 and 4