Role of Internet in EducationInternet is composed of two words, inter and net. In internet, a network of online computers is connected with each other. In this way , every information is shared mutually. Now a days, the internet is most speedy, low priced and less time consuming source of sharing knowledge. Every person can build his electronic mail address and website. Through e-mail, one can send and receive letters, documents and other informations within no time. A website is a home of information's on the online network.
Millions of websites are there. We can go to our relevant website and get informations on our required topics. Most of the websites facilitate for downloading and saving the required material.

Modern research is made very easy with the help of internet. Science, technology, religion, literature and other fields of life has been expanded vastly and fastly with the help of internet. Data collection is now possible with thousand times less effort for research.

With the invention of micro media like you tube, millions of animated videos about different topics are present online. We can download the videos of our interest and need. We can also upload our research online and share our contribution worldwide.

Internet provides us the facility to gain knowledge in each language. Thousands of websites are present in Urdu language and we can easily learn a number of educational disciplines in our national language. Urdu news literature, poetry, Islam and other fields are there in our easy approach.

We can use online dictionaries for better understanding the meaning of words. A number of Urdu English dictionaries are present online for our help. Translators of many languages have been developed by which we can translate easily something easily from different languages. MS Office 2003 and 2007 are also now available in Urdu interface with downloading facility which makes possible for us to learn and work conveniently. Urdu poetry has vast variety on you tube which has made our national language more popular in the world. People all over the world are using these websites in the millions daily. Fast internet connection made most of the educational and literary things easy to download.

Our Govt should pay special attention to build up such software to translate the knowledge from different languages to Urdu. Because Urdu is our national language and every person can learn easily in his own language naturally. It is very easy to do this as compared to the past. Our Govt should develop a counseling platform online which helps the students for their better carrier.

PROBLEM OF ILLITERACY
"Read in the name of they Lord who created you."
(Al Quran)
The first revelation on the prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H) aptly reveals the importance of education. Education and civilization are broader in their sense and practice. They are co-relative. The nations which have high rate of literacy progress rapidly and are now leaders in the world.

"Education is a better safeguard of liberty than a standing army."
(Edward Everett)
It is commonly observed that people who are educated have better understanding of the governance. They are prone to act on the principles more accurately than those who have no formal or informal education. Following the rules or principles ensures smooth flow of the affairs in any society. On the other hand, illiterate persons or masses disturb peace and order as they do not follow the principles, rules

"The most violent element in society is ignorance."
(Emma Goldman)
An illiterate person has a limited thought and narrow canvas. He does not and cannot think beyond a
certain level. He is confined to his own interests and personal motives. He is unable to appreciate
new aspects and possibilities. Illiteracy hinders his personal as well as collective growth.
"All the knowledge in the world is found within you."
(Anthony J. D 'Angelo)
An industrial worker who has skill and has proper training in the related field can act for the good of himself and for his company. He is an efficient worker and can increase the production of that industrial concern. He is matchless in his performance. He works by using his skills and gains knowledge in a better way.
Illiteracy breeds crimes. People who are not educated do not have a clear idea of the importance of laws. They violate laws for their petty benefits. Illiteracy is the greatest threat to the integrity of a nation. Illiterate nations do not value their freedom. They involve in petty quarrels and disgrace their country.
"Some folks are wise and some are otherwise."
(Tobias Smot/et)
There are many countries that have high rate of literacy even though they have limited natural resources and low per capita income. They survive in the world with grace and dignity. So, it is the level of education an literacy that makes a nation powerful politically, technologically and economically.
Education should be free for all the members of the society. Incentives should be given for those who have some financial problems. A programme of mass education can enhance the rate of literacy and wipe out the curse of illiteracy.

DEMOCRACY IN PAKISTAN
"Democracy is the government of the people, for the people and by the people."
(Abraham Lincoln)
Representative democracy involves the selection of government officials by the people being represented. The most common systems involve election of the candidates with a majority vote.
Pakistan is a democratic and Islamic country, but democracy in Pakistan has been the most irregular and unsatisfactory. The principles of democracy are equality, freedom and social justice which are, unfortunately, not being fully enjoyed by the people of Pakistan. The reason is that the dictators never allow the principles of democracy to flourish in our country.
True democracy anywhere in the world is only possible if the people are educated. It is a fact that more than 80 percent of our people are illiterate. Some of them do not even know how to write their names. They do not understand what is happening around the world. They cannot use their right to vote intelligently and sensibly. It is the people who elect the candidates for the assemblies, and if the people do not exercise their right to vote freely and fairly, corrupt and unsuitable people will govern the country.
'When people fear the government, there is tyranny; when the government fears the people, there is liberty"

The existence of feudal system controls the lives of millions of villagers and farmers. They are in majority in the country, but they do not enjoy even the rights of minority. The uneducated people will continue to vote for their lords and they will always remain illiterate, backward and down-trodden. The members of our elected national and provincial assemblies are big guns. Their own benefits keep the country backward .The big industrialists also jump into politics to share the political and commercial benefits with their "jagirdaar" brothers. These "jagirdaars" and industrialists have always joined hands with the military dictators. The result is that Pakistan has a history of martial-laws and dictatorial democracies.
Our top political leaders, ministers, chief ministers, prime ministers and presidents have been coming from upper classes. They do not understand the layman's problems because they do not have the required ability and vision. They are responsible for martial-laws. Democracy cannot flourish in the country in the absence of suitable leaders. Selfish leaders destroy the process of democracy and keep the country poor and backward.
"Be not overcome by evil but overcome evil by good"
(Romans)
The rise in terrorism, the growth of provincialism and sectarianism, population explosion and bad economic policies has also damaged democracy. For the last sixty years, there have been . dictatorial governments in Pakistan which have led the country to irreparable losses. Every ruler promised to redress the grievances and miseries of the common people of Pakistan but always proved to be oppressor, tyrant, and destroyer of the country. The opposing forces are still working hard to sabotage the democratic process. We need another Quaid-e-Azam to free us from the mental slavery and put the country back on the track of true democracy, progress and prosperity.
In a democracy, the poor will have more power than the rich, because there are more of them, and the will of the majority is supreme.-
(Aristotle)
Democracy did not fail in Pakistan because of illiteracy or caste or ethnic differences or any of the other reasons put forward. The real reason is the ideology; Pakistan is wedded to .Sadly this is true of any Islamic country .The current argument can be finished on these words of G.B Shaw.

The Democracy is a system ensuring that people are
governed no better than they deserve.

Under the Green Wood Tree

Reference to the Context

Introduction

The lines given for explanation are an extract from the poem Under the Green Wood Tree which is the title of a song taken from the play, As You Like It written by William Shakespeare. The play tells the story of two brothers, the Elder Duke and the younger brother, Duke Frederick. The younger brother is very greedy, selfish and ambitious and wishes to usurp the dukedom. He forces the Elder Duke to go into exile and pass the rest of his life in the forest of Arden. The Elder Duke is accompanied by some his devoted companions and followers. Among them is Lord Amiens, who is gifted with a very sweet, melodious voice. The lines given for explanation are an extract from one of the songs sung by him. In this song, he desribes the pleasant and carefree life of the forest. He also extends an open invitation to anyone who wishes to join him in that cheerful surrounding. Such a person should be free from all worldly wishes, and should feel happy and contented to live in the open, natural environment. The only problem one has to face there is the harsh unbearable winter weather.

Lines

UNDER THE GREEN WOOD TREE
WHO LOVES TO LIE WITH ME,
AND TURN HIS MERRY NOTE
UNTO THE SWEET BIRD’S THROAT,
COME HITHER, COME HITHER, COME HITHER:
HERE SHALL HE SEE
NO ENEMY
BUT WINTER AND ROUGH WEATHER
Explanation

In these lines, the singer is giving an open invitation to any one who wishes to join him in the forest of Arden. The singer desires the newcomer to rest under the shady trees and sing a song in such a manner that his voice mingles with the sweet notes of the bird to produce one single harmony. The singer reminds that the life of the forest is free from all enmity and petty rivalries. The only snag in the life of the forest is the unpleasant and unbearable winter wind. If one is brave and willing enough to endure the harshness of the weather, the life of the forest is almost an ideal one.

Lines

WHO DOTH AMBITION SHUN,
AND LOVES TO LIVE I’ THE SUN,
SEEKING THE FOOD HE EATS,
AND PLEASED WITH WHAT HE GETS-
COME HITHER, COME HITHER, COME HITHER,
HERE SHALL HE SEE
NO ENEMY
BUT WINTER AND ROUGH WEATHER
Explanation

In the lines given for contextual explanation, the singer is laying down certain conditions to be fulfilled by one who wishes to come and pass his life in the forest of Arden. In the first place, such a person should have no worldly wishes. He should not be materialistic in his approach and should never run after fame, wealth, power and glory. He should be willing to pass his life in the open atmosphere under the bright sun. He should look for his own sustenance and nourishment and should be contented with whatever he gets to eat. The singer reiterates that the life of the forest is free from all anxieties, problems and difficulties except the unpleasantness of the chilly winter weather.

The Toys

Reference to the Context

Introduction

In this narrative poem, the poet points out that God is always kind and merciful to man but man often fails to follow the commands of his Creator. The poem relates the story of father and son. The father treats the son harshly but later realizes his mistake and asks for forgiveness from God for his foolish behaviour. He hopes that as he has forgiven his son, God would pardon him for his childishness.

Lines

AND MOVED AND SPOKE IN QUIET GROWN-UP WISE,
HAVING MY LAW THE SEVENTH TIME DISOBEY’D,
I STRUCK HIM, AND DISMISS’D
WITH HARD WORDS AND UNKISS’D,
-HIS MOTHER, WHO WAS PATIENT, BEING DEAD.
Explanation

The poem tells the story of a father and his son. The little boy always appeared to be serious and thoughtful. He behaved like grown-ups but sometime his childish instinct made him commit follies. When he disobeyed his father for the seventh time, he was beaten, scolded and turned out without being kissed. There was no one to defend or console him because his mother was no more in this world.

Lines

THEN FEARING LEST HIS GRIEF SHOULD HINDER SLEEP,
I VISITEDHIS BED,
BUT FOUND HIM SLUMBERING DEEP,
WITH DARKEN’D EYELIDS, AND THEIR LASHES YET
FROM HIS LATE SOBBING WET.
Explanation

The father realized that he had been too harsh with his son. He feared that the child might not be able to sleep due to his grief. He visited his son’s bed and found him sound asleep. The boy had fallen into a slumber while weeping because his eyes appeared swollen and his eyelashes were still wet with tears.

Lines

AND I, WITH MOAM,
KISSING AWAY HIS TEARS, LEFT OTHERS OF MY OWN;
FOR, ON A TABLE DRAWN BESIDE HIS HEAD,
HE HAD PUT, WITHIN HIS REACH,
A BOX OF COUNTERS AND A RED-VEIN’D STONE,
A PIECE OF GLASS ABRADED BY THE BEACH,
AND SIX OR SEVEN SHELLS,
A BOTTLE WITH BLUE BELLS,
AND TWO FRENCH COPPER COINS RANGED THERE WITH CAREFUL ART,
TO COMFORT HIS SAD HEART.
Explanation

The father felt very repentant and aggrieved. He absorbed the tears of his son in his lips but left his own tears on his face. He noticed that the boy had sought consolation in small, ordinary objects. Near his bed, he had pulled a table on which he had arranged very skillfully things like counters, a red stone, a rough piece of glass, some flowers and shells and two coins. All these insignificant things provided ease and comfort to his sad heart.

Lines

SO WHEN THAT NIGHT I PRAY’D
TO GOD, I WEPT AND SAID:
AH! WHEN AT LAST WE LIE WITH TRANCED BREATH,
NOT VEXING THEE IN DEATH,
AND THOU REMEMBEREST OF WHAT TOYS
WE MADE OUR JOYS,
HOW WEAKLY UNDERSTAND,
THY GREAT COMMANDED GOOD,
THEN, FATHERLY NOT LESS
THAN I WHOM THOU HAST MOULDED FROM THE CLAY,
THOU’LT LEAVE THY WRATH, AND SAY,
‘I WILL BE SORRY FOR THEIR CHILDISHNESS.’
Explanation

The father was so overawed with shame and grief that when that night he prayed to God, he could not help shedding tears of sincere regret. He pointed out that man fails to understand the commands of God, and there are some who do not fear God even on their death-bed. However, God is the most Beneficent and the most Merciful. He provides man with all the simple joys of life. The father forgives his son and hopes that God, being like and guardian and benefactor of the entire human race would pardon him for his rash and unreasonable behaviour towards his son.

The Lay of the Last Minstrel

Reference to the Context

Introduction

The given lines are an extract from the poem The Lay of the Last Minstrel written by Sir Walter Scott. The poem deals with the theme of patriotism. The poet believes that love and loyalty towards one’s motherland is a natural feeling, and anyone devoid of it, is nothing but a symbol of greed and selfishness. In the first place, the poet wishes to know whether there are such people in the world who have no sense of attachment and allegiance towards their nation, and never feel proud and honoured to speak of the homeland, where they are born and brought up. Then the poet suggests that we should be vigilant of such elements and always keep an eye on them. They are worthless and deserve to be condemned in spite of all their wealth, high rank and authority. Finally the poet believes that such unpatriotic people face an unceremonious end. They lose, their reputation during their lifetime, and when they die, it means death for them in two ways. Firstly they suffer physical death when their body perishes and then their name is also buried forever. No one shed tears of sorrow at their death, no one pays homage to them and no one sings songs of appreciation for them. In this way, they get a well-deserved death.

Lines

BREATHES THERE THE MAN WITH SOUL SO DEAD,
WHO NEVER TO HIMSELF HATH SAID,
THIS IS MY OWN, MY NATIVE LAND!
WHOSE HEART HATH NE’ER WITHIN HIM BURN’D,
AS HOME HIS FOOTSTEPS HE HATH TURN’D,
FROM WANDERING ON A FOREIGN STRAND!
Explanation

In the lines given for contextual explanation, the poet wants to know whether there are unpatriotic people existing on this earth. He wishes to identify such people who are absolutely devoid of the love of the nation. Such people never take due pride in their motherland. If a person remains away from his country for a long time, it is natural that he should feel delighted and satisfied while re-tracing his steps to his own soil. However if such sentiments are not aroused in him, it indicates that the noble feeling of patriotism is not found in him and he has no affiliation with his own land.

Lines

IF SUCH THERE BREATHE, GO MARK HIM WELL;
FOR HIM NO MINSTREL RAPTURES SWELL;
HIGH THOUGH HIS TITLES, PROUD HIS NAME,
BOUNDLESS HIS WEALTH AS WISH CAN CLAIM;
DESPITE THOSE TITLES, POWER AND PELF,
THE WRETCH, CONCENTRED ALL IN SELF
Explanation

In the lines given for elucidation, the poet is sounding a word of caution against those who have not the slightest trace of patriotism in them. The poet wishes that such selfish and unscrupulous people should be identified. We should always be watchful of such people. It is possible that such elements possess high titles and ranks. They may be exercising great power and authority. They may also be rolling in wealth and having all the luxuries and amenities of life. However, they prove to be the most miserable people since they are too self-centered, and always look to their own gains. They pay no heed to the glory and integrity of the nation but go on filling their own coffers.

Lines

LIVING, SHALL FORFEIT FAIR RENOWN,
AND, DOUBLY DYING, SHALL GO DOWN
TO THE VILE DUST FROM WHENCE HE SPRUNG,
UNWEPT, UNHONOUR’D, AND UNSUNG.
Explanation

In the lines given for explanation, the poet is referring to the fate of such a person who is completely devoid of the spirit of patriotism. People begin recognizing such elements during their lifetime and they begin losing their name and fame. When such unpatriotic people die, it means a “double death” for them. In the first place, their body perishes and they are buried. They go back to the same dust from which they were created. At the same time their name and fame is also lost forever. When such an unpatriotic person departs from this world no eyes are filled with tears and no one mourns over her grief. No homage or tribute is paid to such a person as no one utters a word of praise or appreciation for him. No songs are sung in his memory and no one remembers him after his death. Thus, he suffers a death of disgrace and ignominy.

The Deserted Village

Reference to the Context

Introduction

The lines given for explanation are an extract from the poem The Deserted Village written by Oliver Goldsmith. The poem presents two contrasting pictures of an Irish village which fell a victim to the cruelty and inhuman treatment of the feudal lords. The simpler, hardworking rustics were forced to leave their native land as a result of the agricultural revolution when the big land owners switched over from general farming to sheep farming in order to earn greater profits. On the one hand, this poem shows the joy and activities of the people before the village was deserted, while on the other hand, it presents a gloomy picture of the same village after the eviction of the rural population.

Lines

SWEET AUBURN! LOVELIEST VILLAGE OF THE PLAIN,
WHERE HEALTH AND PLENTY CHEERED THE LABOURING SWAIN,
WHERE SMILING SPRING ITS EARLIEST VISIT PAID,
AND PARTING SUMMER’S LINGERING BLOOMS DELAYED:
DEAR LOVELY BOWERS OF INNOCENCE AND EASE,
SEATS OF MY YOUTH, WHEN EVERY SPORT COULD PLEASE
HOW OFTEN HAVE I LOITERED O’ER THY GREEN,
WHERE HUMBLE HAPPINESS ENDEAR’D EACH SCENE!
HOW OFTEN HAVE I PAUSED ON EVERY CHARM
THE SHELTERED COT, THE CULTIVATED FARM,
THE NEVER FAILING BROOK, THE BUSY MILL,
THE DECENT CHURCH THAT TROPPED THE NEIGHBOURING
THE HAWTHORN BUSH, WITH SEATS BENEATH THE SHADE,
FOR TALKING AGE AND WHISPERING LOVERS MADE !
Explanation

In the lines given for explanation, the poet points out that Auburn was the most Beautiful village of the area. The rustics enjoyed good health and found all the necessities of life in abundance. They worked hard and remained happy. The first signs of the spring were visible and summer lasted the longest. The poet had passed his childhood and early youth in this village. He had participated in different kinds of activities. He had observed all the beautiful sights of Nature. He had seen the beautiful cottages and the picturesque natural surrounding. He had also admired the flowing stream, the working mill and the ploughed fields. The seats under the trees were occupied either by the old, fond of talking all the time or the young lovers whispering to each other.

Lines

HOW OFTEN HAVE I BLEST THE COMING DAY,
WHEN TOIL REMITTING LENT ITS TURN TO PLAY,
AND ALL THE VILLAGE TRAIN, FROM LABOUR FREE,
LED UP THEIR SPORTS BENEATH THE SPREADING TREE;
WILL MANY A PASTIME CIRCLED IN THE SHADE,
THE YOUNG CONTENDING AS THE OLD SURVEYED;
AND MANY A GAMBOL FROLICKED O’ER THE GROUND,
AND SLEIGHTS OF ART AND FEATS OF STRENGTH WENT ROUND;
AND STILL AS EACH REPEATED PLEASURE TIRED,
SUCCEEDDING SPORTS THE MIRTHFUL BAND INSPIRED;
THE DANCING PAIR THAT SIMPLY SOUGHT RENOWN
BY HOLDING OUT TO TIRE EACH OTHER DOWN;
THE SWAIN MISTRUSTLESS OF HIS SMUTTED FACE,
WHILE SECRET LAUGHTER TITTERED ROUND THE PLACE;
THE BASHFUL VIRGIN’S SIDE-LONG LOOKS OF LOVE,
THE MATRON’S GLANCE THAT WOULD THOSE LOOKS REPROVE!
THESE WERE THEY CHARMS, SWEET VILLAGE, SPORTS LIKE THESE,
WITH SWEET SUCCESSION,TAUGHT EVEN TOIL TO PLEASE;
THESE ROUND THY BOWERS THEIR CHEERFUL INFLUENCE SHED
THESE WERE THY CHARMS-BUT ALL THESE CHARMS ARE FLED.
Explanation

In the lines given for elucidation, the poet is describing the leisure activities of the simple villagers, which have now come to an end as the village wears a deserted look. The toiling masses worked hard for the whole week and eagerly waited the seventh day when they could enjoy themselves to their heart’s content. On a holiday, the people gathered at different places and took part in various activities. While the young people competed with one another, the old observed them. When the people were tired of one game, they began something else. They divided themselves into couples, each couple trying to dance for the longest time to get renown. They also blackened the face of some innocent rustic and then laughed at him secretly. Young girls tried to look secretly at their lovers but such looks were disapproved of by their matron. Once the laborer rustics were compelled to leave their native land, the village looked barren and deserted. All the charms of the village were gone with the rustics no more being there.

Lines

ILL FARES THE LAND, TO HASTENING ILLS A PREY
WHERE WEALTH ACCUMULATES, AND MEN DECAY;
PRINCESS AND LORDS MAY FLOURISH, OR MAY FADE;
A BREATH CAN MAKE THEM, AS A BREATH HAS MADE;
BUT A BOLD PEASANTRY, THEIR COUNTRY’S PRIDE
WHEN ONCE DESTROYED CAN NEVER BE SUPPLIED.
Explanation

The lines given for explanation present a picture of the village after it was deserted. The simple abode of the innocent rustics had fell a prey to injustice and cruelty. Wealth was accumulating in a few hands while the common man suffered from misery, poverty and deprivation. The bulk of the population consists of hardworking villagers. The rich may grow richer and get all the honour and titles but that does not make much difference. The real asset and wealth of the country are the poor, toiling formers. If they are once destroyed, no one can replace them. The joy and satisfaction life is lost forever.

The Character of a Happy Life

Reference to the Context

Introduction

The lines given for explanation are an extract from the poem, The Character of a Happy Life written by Sir Henry Wotton. In this moralizing piece of writing, the poet points to the sterling qualities of head and heart needed in a person to lead a life of contentment and bliss. Such a person should enjoy full freedom and should never be dictated by others. He should remain steadfast and firm on the path of honesty. Truthfulness should be his most prominent trait. He should exercise complete control over his passion and should never be swept away by his emotions. He should be brave enough to face all the challenges in life and should have the courage to encounter death any moment. He should believe in simplicity and keep away from the evils of jealousy and flattery. The accumulation of wealth and the acquisition of worldly name and fame should never be his goal in life. He should be pious and God-fearing and pass his time in healthy activities. Such a person may bot be playing in riches but he is gifted with all the noble qualities required by a person to lead a contented life.

Lines

HOW HAPPY IS HE BORN OR TAUGHT
THAT SERVETH NOT ANOTHER’S WILL:
WHOSE ARMOUR IS HIS HONEST THOUGHT
AND SIMPLE TRUTH HIS UTMOST SKILL!
Explanation

In the lines given for elucidation, the poet is referring to three outstanding characteristics of a person willing to pass a happy, contented life. Such a person should be independent in all his actions. He should never be a slave to the will of others. His honest and humble thoughts prove to be his best protective device and truthfulness is his most outstanding and remarkable feature.

Lines

WHOSE PASSIONS NOT HIS MASTERS ARE,
WHOSE SOUL IS STILL PREPARED FOR DEATH,
UNTIED UTO THE WORLD BY CARE
OF PUBLIC FAME, OR PRIVATE BREATH;
Explanation

The lines given for explanation bring out some prominent qualities of a person who wishes to life a cheerful, satisfied life. He should have full control over his feelings and should never be swayed by his emotions. He should not be afraid of death and should be bold enough to encounter all the ups and downs in life. He should follow the path of simplicity and sobriety. He should not care for the individual and collective opinion form about him. He should never run after earthly name and fame.

Lines

WHO ENVIES NONE THAT CHANCE DOTH RAISE,
NOR VICE; WHO NEVER UNDERSTOOD
HOW DEEPEST WOUNDS ARE GIVEN BY PRAISE;
NOR RULES OF STATE, BUT RULES OF GOOD;
Explanation

In these lines, the poet is referring to the qualities needed in a person desirous of leading a simple, innocent life. Such a person never fall a victim to the green-eyed monster by looking at others who acquire wealth and reputation. He never gets involved in any kind of evil of sight, speech or hearing. He is not interested in politics and government and is simply aware of the golden principles of a life without ostentation. He realizes that flattery is harmful for both who is flattered and the one who is over-praising. Thus he keeps away from false praise at all cost.

Lines

WHO HATH HIS LIFE FROM RUMOURS FREED;
WHOSE CONSCIENCE IS HIS STRONG RETREAT;
WHOSE STATE CAN NEITHER FLATTERERS FEED,
NOR RUIN MAKE OPPRESSORS GREAT;
Explanation

In the lines given for explanation, the poet believes that a person who wants to live a simple, contented life keeps his life free from rumours by never trying to become a public figure. Such a person always depends upon his conscience and acts according to it. He is not so affluent that people may flatter him and take undue advantage of his wealthy state. Such flatterers often fill their own coffers but when their benefactors are ruined and deprived of their wealth, they accuse them and find all kinds of faults in them.

Lines

WHO GOD DOTH LATE AND EARLY PRAY
MORE OF HIS GRACE THAN GIFTS TO LEND;
AND ENTERTAINS THE HARMLESS DAY
WITH A RELIGIOUS BOOK OR FRIEND
Explanation

The lines given for elucidation points to one of the salient features of the character of a person wishing to live a happy life. Such a person is religious-minded, morally sound, pious and God-fearing. He prays to Almighty God whenever it is possible. He asks God for his benevolence and blessings and not for worldly comfort and luxuries. He passes his time in healthy activities by reading good books or being in the company of good, virtuous friends.

Lines

THIS MAN IS FREED FROM SERVILE BANDS
OF HOPE TO RISE, OR FEAR TO FALL:
LORD OF HIMSELF, THOUGH NOT OF LANDS,
AND HAVING NOTHING, YET HATH ALL.
Explanation

The lines given for explanation present in a nutshell all the advantages of having sterling qualities of head and heart, so necessary to pass a life of joy and satisfaction. A person who is the master of his won will, follows the path of honesty, truthfulness, simplicity, piety and self-confidence, and is courageous enough to face all the challenges, can definitely lead a life of contentment. He is not bound by the chains of slavery, and has neither the hope of achieving loftier goals nor the fear of suffering a fall. He is not a feudal lord, possessing big estates but is lord of himself, having all the noble qualities. Thus he is able to pass his life in ease, joy and comfort.

The Abbot of Canterbury

Introduction

The poem The Abbot of Canterbury, included in our book, is a ballad. Ballads have crude language because fine writing would not be suitable for the telling of this straightforward and amusing folk story. King John ruled England from 1199 to 1219, was a very unpleasant man and a thoroughly bad kind.

Structure of Poem

The Abbot of Canterbury is a ballad of unknown poet telling an ancient story consisting of 100 lines of regular rhythm.

Summary

There was a king of England whose name was King John. He ruled England very cruelly and he always did the wrong thing. Once he came to know that there was an Abbot of Canterbury who was leading life better than the king. He had one hundred servants and each one there wore fifty gold chains and velvet coat. They where always ready to serve the Abbot. For very minor things they used to go to the city of London.
This way of leading life angered the king and his sent for the Abbot to explain his position before the king. The Abbot said to him that he was spending the money so luxuriously because he had inherited a lot of money from his fore fathers. The king disbelieved him and charged him to be a traitor.
The king said to Abbot that his life and properties would be confiscated by the government if he could not answer his three questions. There was given three weeks time to answer those questions.

The first question was what his worth and value was when he was having such a precious crown on his head.
The second question was how soon he could make the journey of the whole world.
The third question was that he was thinking at that time when he was talking to the Abbot of Canterbury.
After listening three questions the Abbot was very much confuse. He confessed that he had no mind to answer those difficult questions. He went to many universities but no one was able to answer him.
Then the shepherd of the Abbot offered him that he would imposter the Abbot prodded he was given the relevant dress of the Abbot.
In reply to the first question he said that his value was twenty-nine pence. In response to the second question he said if he rose with the sun and rode with the same he would complete the journey of the world in 24 hours. In response to the third question he said that he thinking that he was talking to the Abbot by he was not the Abbot but the shepherd. The king was very happy, he rewarded him and pardoned the Abbot.

Lucy Gray

Reference to the Context

Introduction

William Words Worth is considered to be one of the greatest and the most prominent figures in the realm of English literature. He was an ardent worshipper of the beauty of Nature. For him, Nature is a living entity, throbbing with life and intensity. Word worth believed poetry to be a spontaneous over flow of emotion but while expressing that spontaneity, he always made use of very simple words which touched the hearts of the readers. In this narrative poem, which is one in the series of Lucy poems, Lucy, the innocent child becomes a symbol of charm and naivete. She is full of playfulness and vivacity but she fall a prey to an unfortunate incident and the span of her life is cut short due to it. The poem relates the story of the tragic end and sudden death of the sweet child.

Lines

NO MATE, NO COMRADE LUCY, KNEW;
SHE DWELT ON A WIDE MOOR-
THE SWEETEST THING THAT EVER GREW
BESIDE A HUMAN DOOR!
Explanation

In the lines given for explanation, the poet is referring to the sweet, innocent child, Lucy. She is presented as a simple, Beautiful creation of Nature. She is passing a life of serene solitude on a barren land. She has no friends or companions. The poet compares her to a fragrant flower blossoming in the wildness.

Lines

YOU YET MAY SPY THE FAWN AT PLAY,
THE HARE UPON THE GREEN;
BUT THE SWEET FACE OF LUCY GRAY
WILL NEVER MORE BE SEEN.
Explanation

In these lines, the note of tragedy creeps in. The poet admires all the beautiful creations of Nature. He appreciates the jocundity of the young deer and the frivolity of the loping hare on the green grass but he is overcome with gloom and sadness to realize that he would not be able to see the face of Lucy anymore. Then the poet begins describing the unfortunate incident which results in the death of Lucy.

Lines

NOT BLITHER IS THE MOUNTAIN ROE:
WITH MANY A WANTON STROKE
HE FEET DISPERSE THE POWDERY SNOW
THAT RISES UP LIKE SMOKE.
Explanation

In the lines given for explanation, the poet describes the playfulness and jolly mood of the sweet child, Lucy. As Lucy is proceeding to the town to bring her mother back from there, she seems to be in a very cheerful countenance. She is more active and agile then a deer. She goes on kicking at the snow. The tender flakes of snow rise in the form of smoke. It presents an Beautiful sight as Lucy appears to be enraptured in her world of gaiety and gamboling.

Lines

THE WRETCHED PARENTS ALL THAT NIGHT
WENT SHOUTING FAR AND WIDE;
BUT THERE WAS NEITHER SOUND NOR SIGHT
TO SERVE THEM FOR A GUIDE.
Explanation

In the given lines, the poet points out that after Lucy loses he way in the tempest, she suffers a tragic death. Thereafter, her parents go on looking for her in every nook or corner. They are overcome with misery and depression as they fail to find her whereabouts. They are unable to visualize her charming face, neither is her sweet voice audible to them. They get no trace of her, and in the end, they are compelled to accept the tragic fact that Lucy is no more alive.

Lines

-YET SOME MAINTAIN THAT TO THIS DAY
SHE IS A LIVING CHILD;
THAT YOU MAY SEE SWEET LUCY GRAY
UPON THE LONESOME WILD.
Explanation

In this closing stanza of the poem, the poet refers to the wild imagination of those who are still living in the world of fancy believing Lucy to be a “Living Child.” They have not yet reconciled to the fact that Lucy has suffered physical death. They not only think that she is alive but also imagine that she is running and playing all over the place. They also imagine Lucy singing a sweet song and her voice reverberating all over the natural surrounding. However, it is nothing more than their imagination because Lucy has already fallen a prey to tragic end.

Incident of French Camp

Introduction of the Poet

The poem The Incident of French Camp is composed by great English poet Robert browning. The browning was extremely religious and because of his religious opinions, he was excluded from university or public school. He was educated at home under a private tutor, and spends his modest time in gathering the best literature in English, French, Latin and Greek.

Introduction of the Poem

This is subjective poem; the incident reported in this dramatic poem happened in 1809. The poem for all its weaknesses is fast moving and exciting, the poem consisting of 35 lines of regular rhythm.

Summary

In this poem, Browning paints the picture of an incident of the French Camp, in dramatic version. He describes the heroic action of a wounded soldier, who’s heroic devotion to duty and his pride in it and inspiring and worthy of admiration. The poet has given a poetic amount of incidence that took place during the attack of French army on German City Ratisbon.
During the attack of French army on Ratisbon, Napoleon was much worried about the result. Germans were defending Ratisbon with great determination and coverage. Napoleon’s future plan depends upon the result. Napoleon was not able to conquer Germany and neighboring states. He was standing on mound near the battlefield watching the war.
All of sudden a rider appeared from the closed smoke and dust. Full galloping he approached near the mound where Napoleon was standing. As the came closer Napoleon notice that he was a young boy seriously wounded and not far from his death. As he came near he jumped of the horse and gave happy news of victory. He exclaimed with joy that French had conquered the Ratisbon and he himself has hoisted the flag of France on German city with a little touch of pride in lie tone he informed Napoleon that he has played an important role in the victory at the risk of his life. Actually he expected some words of appreciation from his Emperor.
“A work of real merit wants favour at last.”
____________________________________________________A.B. Alcott

Napoleon was very much delighted by the news of victory. He reflected an expression of joy just for a moment but he quickly connected his feeling. In fact he had noticed showing concern he asked the young boy about his injuries.
The formula question was misunderstood by the young soldier. He thought that the Emperor had utterly ignored his remarkable courage.
“A killing tongue but a quite sword.”
__________________________________________________Shakespeare
The young soldier had done a great job for his homeland and hand almost bride down his life for the victory of France. Napoleon’s question deeply hurt his self respect. He announced:
“I am killed sire.”
After saying these words he fell before his master and died with a grateful smile on his face. He was proud that he had done his duty for his homeland at the cost of his life.

Abou Ben Adhem summary and introduction

Abou Ben Adhem

Introduction of the Poet

James Henry Leigh Hunt was born in 1784. He was a religious man educated at Christ Hospital. He then became the editor and writer of a newspaper called The Examiner. His early poems are The Story of Rimini and Endymion. The earliest poems he wrote were published when he was in school. In English Literature, Leigh Hunt is known for his achievements as an editor, a critic and an essayist and not so much as a poet.

Introduction of the Poem

Abou Ben Adhem is a poem with a religious concept. The poet has conveyed the ideas of happiness, peace and love through easy and flowing rhymed couplets.
“Love is in your heart which is given by God, so give it to others.”
_____________________________________________________________________ John Keats
The poem consists of 2 stanzas, which are composed of 11 lines. It also has some archaic words.

Summary

Abou Ben Adhem was a religious person. One night when he was sleeping peacefully in his room, a sparkling light woke him up.
He found out that this bright light was due to the presence of an angel who was writing something in a golden book. Being a pious man, Abou was not afraid of the Angel and the silence in the room made him more courageous. He asked the angel what he was writing in the book. The reply Abou heard was that he was writing the names of all those people who love God. About asked the angel curiously if his name was in the list. The angel replied was negative. He then politely requested the angel to write his name as those people who love God’s fellow men. The angle wrote and disappeared.
The other night, it came again with a still glistening light and displayed the names of people whom God had blessed. Abou Ben Adhem saw that his name was on the top of the list and it led all the rest.
Moral

This poem conducts the idea that we should love humanity and care for people.
“To get love from God, love the board.”
________________________________ Williams Wordsworth

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