Hi Everyone!! This article will share The Earth Speaks Questions & Answers.
This poem is written by Lenore Hetrick. In my previous posts, I have shared the questions and answers of The Magic Wardrobe, The Mark Of A Champion and Saving The Sparrow so, you can check these posts as well.
The Earth Speaks Questions & Answers
Word Galaxy
- Turning earth – the earth spinning around its axis (an imaginary line through the earth’s centre). Seasons are caused by the earth’s tilted axis and its revolution around the sun.
- Somber – serious; spelling of ‘sombre’ In American English
- Lilacs – a bush or a small tree with purple or white flowers with a sweet smell
- Maple – refers to the maple leaf that has five points and turns bright red or yellow in autumn
- Pleasures – feeling or being happy or satisfied
- Worthy record – an account or list that will win praise
- Dare – have the courage.
Question 1: Complete the table:
| Season | Symbol | What it says about the season |
| 1. Spring | Lilacs bloom | Leaves grow and flowers bloom as it becomes warmer and the sun begins to shine brightly |
| 2. Autumn | Red maple leaves | Green leaves turn yellow, orange, red and brown and fall from the trees. |
| 3. Summer | Sunshine | The sun shines brightly and it is warm everywhere. |
| 4. Winter | Snow and icicle | There is snowfall and icicles hang from roofs and trees. It is very cold. |
Question 2: Who does ‘you’ refer to in the poem?
Answer: ‘You’ refers to the mankind.
Question 3: What are the four gifts mentioned in the poem? How can they be used ‘wisely, kindly and well?
Answer: The four gifts mentioned in the poem are the four seasons: spring, summer, autumn and winter. They can be used wisely, kindly, and well by appreciating their unique qualities, living in harmony with nature and making the most of the opportunities and challenges each season presents.
Question 4: What do you think are the joys, pleasures and fears of each season?
Answer:
Spring:
- Joys include new growth and blooming flowers.
- Pleasures include the warmer weather and vibrant colours.
- Fears might include allergies or unpredictable weather.
Summer:
- Joys include long days and sunshine.
- Pleasures include outdoor activities and vacations.
- Fears might include extreme heat or drought.
Autumn:
- Joys include the beauty of changing leaves.
- Pleasures include the harvest and cooler weather.
- Fears might include the approach of winter and shorter days.
Winter:
- Joys include the beauty of snow and festive holidays.
- Pleasures include cozying up indoors and winter sports.
- Fears might include cold temperatures and hazardous conditions.
Question 5: What is meant by the word ‘task’ here? Why does the earth say this?
Answer: The ‘task’ refers to the responsibility of humans to use the four seasons in a meaningful and positive way. It means that we should use the qualities of seasons by all possible ways without harming the nature.
The earth says this to remind us that we have a duty to appreciate and wisely utilize the gifts of nature.
Question 6: Why does the earth’s voice change from ‘somber’ to ‘low’?
Answer: In the beginning, the earth’s voice is ‘somber’ as if it seems to command human beings to take care of nature, while at the end of the poem, it is ‘low’, as if it is more of a request or a plea.
Question 7: How can the gifts given by the earth be used best?
Answer: The gifts given by the earth can be used best by appreciating their unique qualities, living sustainably, and respecting the natural cycles. This includes planting plants in spring, conserving energy in summer, harvesting in autumn, and resting in winter. It is our duty and task to use these gifts without harming the nature.
Question 8: Find examples of imagery in the poem.
Answer: Examples of imagery in the poem are:
Spring when the lilacs bloom – Appeals to sight and smell, creating an image of colourful and fragrant flowers.
Summer all crowned with sunshine – Appeals to sight and touch, creating an image of bright, warm sunlight.
Autumn when the maple is red – Appeals to sight, creating an image of vibrant red leaves.
Winter of snow and icicle spears – Appeals to sight and touch, creating an image of cold, sparkling snow and sharp icicles.
So, these were The Earth Speaks Questions & Answers.