Class 9 English Chapter 2: The Road Not Taken Questions and Answers

 

I. 1. Where does the traveller find himself? What problem does he face?

Answer: The traveller finds himself at a split in the road in a yellow forest. His problem is deciding which of the two roads to take, since he can only choose one.

2. Discuss what these phrases mean to you.

(i) a yellow wood

(ii) it was grassy and wanted wear

(iii) the passing there

(iv) leaves no step had trodden black

(v) how way leads on to way

Answer:

(i) A yellow wood: This phrase suggests a forest during autumn when the leaves have turned yellow.

(ii) It was grassy and wanted wear: This means the path was covered with grass and had not been used much. It implies that the path was less traveled and perhaps more inviting because it was less worn down.

(iii) The passing there: This refers to the people who have walked on the paths. In the poem, it implies that both paths have been worn about the same by the people who have traveled them.

(iv) Leaves no step had trodden black: This phrase means that the leaves on the paths had not been walked on enough to turn black. It suggests that both paths were relatively unused.

(v) How way leads on to way: This means that one choice or path in life often leads to another. Once a path is chosen, it can be difficult to return and choose a different one.

3. Is there any difference between the two roads as the poet describes them

(i) in stanzas two and three?

(ii) in the last two lines of the poem?

Answer:

(i) In stanzas two and three: The poet initially describes one road as "grassy and wanted wear," suggesting it was less traveled. However, he then notes that the passing of travelers had worn them "really about the same," indicating that both roads were equally worn and there wasn't a significant difference between them.

(ii) In the last two lines of the poem: The poet reflects on his choice and claims that taking the road "less travelled by" has made all the difference. This suggests that, in hindsight, he perceives the road he chose as having been the less common and more impactful choice, even if at the time, the roads seemed quite similar.

4. What do you think the last two lines of the poem mean? (Looking back, does the poet regret his choice or accept it?)

Answer:

The last two lines of the poem,

I took the one less travelled by,

And that has made all the difference

suggest a sense of acceptance and perhaps even pride in the poet's choice. Looking back, the poet does not express regret but instead acknowledges that choosing the less common path has significantly shaped his life. The phrase "all the difference" indicates that this choice was impactful, implying that the poet views his decision as meaningful and defining, rather than something to regret.

II. 1. Have you ever had to make a difficult choice (or do you think you will have difficult choices to make)? How will you make the choice (for what reasons)?

Answer:

Yes, everyone faces difficult choices at some point in their lives, and it's likely that I will have to make difficult choices as well. When making such choices, it's important to consider several factors:

1. Values and Priorities: Understanding what is most important to me—whether it's family, career, personal growth, or something else—can guide my decision.

2. Long-term Impact: Considering how each option will affect my future can help me make a more informed choice. It's important to think about the long-term consequences rather than just immediate benefits.

3. Information and Advice: Gathering as much information as possible about the options and seeking advice from trusted people can provide different perspectives and insights.

4. Intuition and Gut Feeling: Sometimes, listening to my intuition or gut feeling can be crucial, especially when all other factors seem equally balanced.

5. Pros and Cons: Listing the advantages and disadvantages of each option can help clarify which choice aligns best with my goals and values.

Ultimately, making difficult choices involves balancing rational analysis with personal values and intuition. It’s about finding the path that feels right and aligns best with what I hope to achieve in life.

2. After you have made a choice do you always think about what might have been, or do you accept the reality?

Answer: From the poem "The Road Not Taken," the poet reflects on the choice he made and acknowledges that taking the less traveled path has made a significant difference in his life. While he may think about the alternative path ("the road not taken"), he ultimately accepts the reality that his chosen path has shaped his experiences and outcomes. The poem suggests a sense of acceptance and even satisfaction with the path taken, despite the curiosity about what could have been.