a) What is a poem? Write any four features of a good poem. [2] b) Write a poem on “Environmental Pollution.” [3]

a) What is a poem? Four features of a good poem

A poem is a form of literary expression that uses language, rhythm, imagery, and emotion to convey meaning. It is often written in verse (metrical lines) and may include rhymes, metaphors, and symbols to evoke feelings or ideas. Poems can range from short lyrical pieces to long epic narratives, but they all rely on artistic techniques to create a unique effect.

Four features of a good poem:

1. Imagery and Figurative Language

   • A good poem uses vivid descriptions (imagery) and figurative language (metaphors, similes, personification) to paint pictures in the reader’s mind.
   • Example: "The fog comes on little cat feet" (Carl Sandburg) creates a soft, sneaky image of fog.

2. Rhythm and Meter

   • Poems often follow a rhythmical pattern (meter) such as iambic pentameter (e.g., Shakespeare’s sonnets).
   • Even free-verse poems use natural rhythm to create musicality.

3. Emotional Depth and Theme

   • A strong poem conveys deep emotions (love, sorrow, joy) or explores universal themes (nature, time, human struggles).
   • Example: "Do not go gentle into that good night" (Dylan Thomas) expresses defiance against death.

4. Conciseness and Precision

   • Poems are brief yet meaningful; every word is carefully chosen to avoid unnecessary details.
   • Example: "Hope is the thing with feathers" (Emily Dickinson) conveys hope in just three lines.

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b) Poem on "Environmental Pollution"

**The Earth’s Cry**

The rivers weep in silent pain,
Their waters black with toxic stain.
The trees stand still, their leaves turn brown,
As factories cough and belch their frown.

The air we breathe is thick with smoke,
A choking shroud that never breaks.
The birds no longer sing their song,
Their nests lie empty, lost along.

The children play on cracked dry ground,
Where once green fields and flowers crowned.
The fish now gasp in poisoned streams,
Their scales like silver, now like dreams.

Oh, wake and see the world we’ve marred,
The beauty fading, torn and scarred.
Before it’s too late, before we fade,
Let’s heal the Earth—our home, our shade.

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Explanation of the poem:

• Structure: Written in quatrains (4-line stanzas) with a rhyming pattern (AABB) for musical flow.
• Imagery: Uses vivid descriptions (e.g., "toxic stain," "choking shroud") to show pollution’s effects.
• Theme: Highlights human neglect of nature and urges action to save the environment.
• Rhythm: Follows a steady, mournful beat to match the poem’s serious tone.