Question

Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:

These perturbations, this perpetual jar Of earthly wants and aspirations high, Come from the influence of an unseen star An undiscovered planet in our sky.

1. What brings about balance in our lives, as mentioned earlier in the context? (Analysis)
2. Explain the metaphor used by the poet in the first two lines. (Analysis)
3. What do you mean by ‘earthly wants and aspirations high’? (Analysis)
4. What are ‘perturbations’? (Understanding)
5. What is determined by an unseen, undiscovered planet in our sky? (Understanding)

Answer 1

1. Earlier in the poem, the poet says that balance in our lives comes from two opposite feelings. One is the desire for enjoyment, and the other is the desire to achieve higher and better goals.
2. In the first two lines, the poet uses a metaphor. He compares the constant conflict between our worldly desires and our high dreams to a continuous disturbance or struggle in life.
3. ‘Earthly wants’ mean our material needs, worldly desires, and pleasures. ‘Aspirations high’ mean our noble goals, dreams, and the desire to become a better person or achieve something great.
4. In this context, ‘perturbations’ mean mental worries, anxieties, and disturbances. They are caused by the struggle between our worldly desires and our higher goals.
5. According to the poet, our worries, fears, and mental struggles may be influenced by unseen and mysterious forces, like an unknown star or planet. These hidden powers affect our thoughts and feelings.