Question

Read the given extract and answer the questions that follow by selecting the correct options.

I linger by my shingly bars; I loiter round my cresses; And out again I curve and flow To join the brimming river, For men may come and men may go, But I go on forever

(i) Choose the option that includes words that best describe the characteristics of the brook, as revealed in the given extract.

1. perpetual
2. silent
3. twisted
4. unbound
5. interrupted
   1. 1, 3 and 4
   2. 1, 2, 4 and 5
   3. 1, 2, and 3
   4. 1, 2 and 4

(ii) The line, ‘men may come and men may go’ ______.

1. mocks the shortness of the brook’s life as it goes through its journey.
2. highlights the eternal nature of human life as opposed to its own.
3. contrasts the eternal nature of brook against short-lived human life-span.
4. highlights the eternal story of men that the brook comes across during its journey.

(iii) What do the words, ‘linger and loiter’ show about the brook?

1. Its continuity
2. Its slow movement
3. Its powerful force
4. Its ultimate purpose

Answer 1

(i) 1. 1, 3 and 4

Explanation:

The brook is perpetual because it flows forever, twisted because it curves and changes direction, and unbound because it keeps flowing freely.

(ii) The line, ‘men may come and men may go’ contrasts the eternal nature of brook against short-lived human life-span.

Explanation:

The line shows that human beings are temporary, while the brook continues to flow forever. It highlights the contrast between human life and the brook’s everlasting journey.

(iii) Its slow movement

Explanation:

“Linger” and “loiter” mean to stay or move slowly. These words show that the brook slows down as it flows around the plants and stones.