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WEB Animals- Important Extra Questions- Short Answer Type

Summary of Walt Whitman's “Animals”

The Poet's Admiration for Animals

In his poem “Animals,” Walt Whitman expresses his deep affection for the animal kingdom. He marvels at their serene and instinctive nature, contrasting their simplicity with the complexity and artificiality of human society.

Desire to Transform into an Animal

Whitman's admiration for animals reaches a point where he yearns to shed his human form and embrace the freedom and tranquility of the animal world. He expresses a longing to live alongside creatures such as the leopard, the elk, and the butterfly.

Symbolism of Animals

The animals in the poem serve as symbolic representations of different human qualities. The leopard embodies strength and agility, while the elk represents grace and elegance. The butterfly symbolizes transformation and the beauty of nature.

Conclusion

Whitman's “Animals” is a testament to the poet's deep appreciation for the beauty and tranquility of the natural world. It highlights the poet's belief in the inherent worth of all living creatures and the importance of living in harmony with nature.

Questions

Short Answer Type

1. What is the central theme of Walt Whitman's poem “Animals”? 2. How does the poet contrast animals with humans in the poem? 3. What human qualities are symbolized by the different animals mentioned in the poem? 4. Explain Whitman's desire to transform into an animal. 5. What is the significance of the animals in the poem's closing lines?