The Rattrap

Summary 

"The Rattrap" is a poignant story by Swedish author Selma Lagerlöf. Set against the backdrop of Sweden's countryside, it follows a rattrap seller who ekes out a living by making rattraps from materials he begs for. His harsh life fosters a bleak worldview, leading him to see the world as a giant rattrap, with money, comfort, and affection acting as bait.

One evening, seeking shelter, the rattrap seller arrives at a small roadside cottage where an old, lonely man who was a crofter in the past warmly welcomes him with food and a place to stay. The old man shares stories of his life and proudly shows the rattrap seller his savings of thirty kronor. The next day, after leaving the cottage, the peddler returns to steal the thirty kronor. Proud of his theft, he continues his journey but soon loses his way in a forest.

Exhausted and cold, he stumbles upon an iron mill where the ironmaster mistakes him for an old friend Captain Von Stahle and invites him home for Christmas. Though the peddler initially declines, the ironmaster's daughter Edla, sensing his distress, persuades him to accept their hospitality. During dinner, the ironmaster realizes the mistake and threatens to call the sheriff. The rattrap seller admits he felt trapped by their kindness, but the daughter insists he stay for Christmas, continuing to show him compassion.

On Christmas morning, when the ironmaster and his daughter are at the church, the rattrap seller leaves, returning the stolen money along with a rattrap as a gift for the daughter. In a note, he asks her to return the money to the crofter who lives by the roadside and thanks her for the kindness that helped free him from his metaphorical rattrap.

The rattrap thus becomes a powerful motif in this story with temptation and redemption as major themes.

Questions 

Q1. How does the peddler interpret the acts of kindness and hospitality shown by the crofter, the ironmaster, and his daughter?

The peddler interprets the acts of kindness and hospitality from the crofter, the ironmaster, and his daughter in different ways. He betrays the crofter, who offers him companionship in his loneliness, by stealing his money. The peddler views the ironmaster’s warmth as an opportunity to gain a few kronors, believing it’s only extended because the ironmaster mistakes him for an old acquaintance. He is genuinely surprised by the stark contrast between the ironmaster’s behaviour and that of his daughter, Edla, who touches him with her kindness, care, and efforts to make him feel comfortable.

Q2. What are the instances in the story that show that the character of the ironmaster is different from that of his daughter in many ways?

The ironmaster is impulsive, whereas his daughter is calm, logical, kind, and considerate. The ironmaster mistakenly identifies the stranger as his old regimental comrade and invites him home, taking care of his needs. However, in the light of day, he realizes the mistake, accuses the man of dishonesty, and considers calling the sheriff. In contrast, his daughter is more perceptive; she senses the stranger's fear and suspects he might be a thief or an escaped prisoner. Despite this, she remains gentle, kind, and friendly, continuing to treat him well even after learning of her father’s mistake.

Q3. The story has many instances of unexpected reactions from the characters to others’ behaviour. Pick out instances of these surprises.

The peddler is taken aback by the warm reception, generous meal, and friendly company the crofter offers. Despite this, the crofter is later robbed by his guest, the peddler, in return for his hospitality. The ironmaster surprises the peddler by addressing him as "Nils Olof" and then calls him Captain von Stahle. The ironmaster assumes the peddler’s refusal of his invitation is due to embarrassment over his shabby clothing. Additionally, the peddler’s comparison of the world to a rattrap amuses the ironmaster, leading him to abandon the idea of involving the sheriff. The peddler is further astonished when Edla gives him the suit as a Christmas present and invites him to return for the next Christmas, despite knowing the mistake about his identity.

Q4. What made the peddler finally change his ways?

Edla Willmansson’s friendly and kind treatment of the tramp had a profound impact on him. She showed compassion by defending him when her father wanted to turn him away, and she continued to treat him warmly even after discovering the truth about him. Her offer of the suit as a Christmas present and her invitation to spend the next Christmas with them stirred the peddler’s conscience, awakening his innate goodness and leading him to change his ways.

Q5. How does the metaphor of the rattrap serve to highlight the human predicament?

The metaphor of the rattrap illustrates how the world entices people with various pleasures like wealth, joy, shelter, and food, much like bait in a rattrap. Once someone succumbs to these temptations, they are trapped, plagued by guilt and regret. The peddler, lured by the thirty kronor he stole from the crofter, hides and wanders through the woods, fearing capture. His peace of mind only returns when he decides to give back the money, symbolizing his release from the trap.

Keeping Quiet - Summary and Analysis

"Keeping Quiet" by Pablo Neruda is a reflective and philosophical poem that urges humanity to take a moment of silence and introspection. Through this, the poet encourages people to pause from their hectic lives, reflect on their actions, and cultivate a deeper sense of connection with each other and the natural world. 

Summary

The poem begins with the speaker asking for a moment of silence, where everyone on earth would stop their activities and remain still. The poet imagines that if we could all be quiet and still at the same time, it would lead to a profound moment of introspection and unity. He suggests that this silence is not just about stopping work or being idle, but about reflecting on the meaning of our actions.

"Keeping Quiet" is a powerful call for mindfulness, unity, and environmental awareness. Pablo Neruda uses the idea of a collective moment of silence to inspire reflection on our actions and their impact on ourselves, society, and the planet. The poem advocates for a shift in consciousness, urging us to slow down, reconnect with our inner selves, and embrace a more harmonious way of living. It is a timeless reminder of the importance of introspection in the pursuit of a more peaceful and meaningful existence.

Themes

Reflection and introspection: The poem emphasizes the importance of pausing and reflecting on our lives. In the modern world, people are constantly busy, often losing sight of the deeper meaning of their actions. Neruda suggests that a moment of silence can help us reconnect with our inner selves and evaluate our purpose.

Unity and Peace: By proposing a simultaneous silence across the world, the poet envisions a moment of global unity, where all divisions and conflicts are momentarily set aside. This moment of peace would allow people to recognize their shared humanity.

Critique of Materialism and Modern Life: Neruda critiques the endless pursuit of progress and the materialistic tendencies of modern society. He points out that this relentless drive can lead to destruction and alienation from the natural world and each other.

Environmental Consciousness: The poem also touches on environmental concerns, implying that our constant exploitation of nature has led to its degradation. A pause would allow us to consider the impact of our actions on the planet.

Death and Rebirth: Neruda makes a subtle reference to death, suggesting that through this symbolic “stillness” or “death” of our current way of life, a new, more harmonious existence could be born. This theme is particularly evident when he talks about the Earth being able to “teach us as when everything seems dead and later proves to be alive.”

Structure

The poem is written in free verse, with no set rhyme scheme or meter. The language is simple yet profound, allowing the message to resonate clearly with the reader. Neruda uses repetition effectively, particularly with the words "let's" and "we would," to emphasize collective action and shared responsibility.

The imagery in the poem is stark and direct, with references to fishermen in the cold sea, workers, and the Earth. This creates a vivid picture of everyday life that is immediately relatable.

The Laburnum Top - Summary and analysis

"The Laburnum Top" is a poem by Ted Hughes that explores the relationship between nature and life, particularly focusing on the connection between a tree and a bird. The poem is filled with vivid imagery and symbolism, reflecting the poet's deep observation of nature.

The poem begins with a description of a laburnum tree. The tree is quiet, silent, and seems almost lifeless. The top of the laburnum tree is described as "silent" and "still," emphasizing a sense of emptiness and dormancy. The tree is yellow as it is September and autumnal changes have begun to show. The seeds have fallen from the pod for a new cycle of life to begin. The tree appears lifeless without any activity around it. 

Suddenly, a goldfinch, a small, lively bird, arrives on the scene. The bird's arrival brings a burst of energy and life to the otherwise quiet and still tree. A machine starts up as the tree "trembled and thrills" representing the power of nature and its creatures combined. The tree is depicted as a metaphorical engine now full of life and movement with its branches swinging, leaves dancing and the bird hopping on it and flying from branch to branch. There is a flurry of activity.

The goldfinch is seen feeding her young ones who are hidden in the thick leaves of the tree. This interaction between the bird and her chicks is the source of life and vitality for the tree. The once still tree is now buzzing with the chirping of the chicks and the fluttering of the goldfinch.

The poet beautifully captures the scene where the tree and the bird are interconnected, symbolizing how nature's elements depend on each other for survival and vitality.

After feeding her chicks, the goldfinch flies away, and with her departure, the tree returns to its former stillness. The laburnum top becomes silent and empty once more, as if the life had left with the bird.

The poem ends with the image of the tree being silent and empty again, symbolizing the transient nature of life and activity. This can be seen as a metaphor for how life itself is fleeting and constantly changing.

The poem highlights the interdependence between the laburnum tree and the goldfinch. The tree provides shelter to the bird and its chicks, while the bird brings life and energy to the tree.

The use of vivid imagery, such as "the engine of her family," and "a machine," to describe the bird and its effect on the tree, makes the scene dynamic and visual. The contrast between the silence before and after the bird's visit creates a powerful effect, emphasizing the impact of even a small creature on the environment.

A Thing of Beauty (Line-Wise Explanation)

Here’s a line-by-line explanation of John Keats’s poem "A Thing of Beauty":

### **Lines 1-2:**

*"A thing of beauty is a joy for ever:"*

*"Its loveliness increases; it will never"*

- **Explanation:** Keats begins by declaring that anything beautiful provides lasting joy. The beauty of such an object or experience continually grows, never fading. This establishes the central theme that beauty has an enduring, ever-increasing quality.

### **Lines 3-4:**

*"Pass into nothingness; but still will keep"*

*"A bower quiet for us, and a sleep"*

- **Explanation:** Unlike other transient pleasures, a beautiful thing does not vanish into oblivion. It remains in our memory, offering us a peaceful retreat or a comforting rest, symbolizing enduring tranquility and solace.

### **Lines 5-6:**

*"Full of sweet dreams, and health, and quiet breathing."*

*"Therefore, on every morrow, are we wreathing"*

- **Explanation:** The beauty provides not just a mental escape but also contributes to our well-being and health, giving us "sweet dreams" and "quiet breathing." Consequently, each day, we continually celebrate and cherish beauty.

### **Lines 7-8:**

*"A flowery band to bind us to the earth,"*

*"Spite of despondence, of the inhuman dearth"*

- **Explanation:** Beauty acts as a metaphorical "flowery band" that connects us to life, despite our struggles and the harshness of existence. It counteracts feelings of hopelessness and the lack of compassion in the world.

### **Lines 9-10:**

*"Of noble natures, of the gloomy days,"*

*"Of all the unhealthy and o'er-darkened ways"*

- **Explanation:** Beauty helps us endure the darker aspects of life, such as noble but sorrowful events or the overall gloominess. It provides a counterbalance to unhealthy and bleak experiences.

### **Lines 11-12:**

*"Made for our searching: yes, in spite of all,"*

*"Some shape of beauty moves away the pall"*

- **Explanation:** Despite the many challenges and sorrows we face, beauty always presents itself, lifting the gloom ("pall") and offering a respite from the dreariness.

### **Lines 13-14:**

*"From our dark spirits. Such the sun, the moon,"*

*"Trees old and young, sprouting a shady boon"*

- **Explanation:** Keats lists examples of beauty that brighten our spirits: the sun, the moon, and trees. These natural elements provide comfort and shelter, enhancing our lives.

### **Lines 15-16:**

*"For simple sheep; and such are daffodils"* 

*"With the green world they live in: and clear rills"*

- **Explanation:** He continues with examples of beauty: daffodils and flowing streams. These natural beauties, along with their environment, contribute to the joy and peace that beauty brings.

### **Lines 17-18:**

*"That for themselves a cooling covert make"*

*"'Gainst the hot season; the mid-forest brake,"*

- **Explanation:** Streams create cooling shelters for themselves and others against the heat, and dense forest glades provide relief from the summer’s warmth.

### **Lines 19-20:**

*"Rich with a sprinkling of fair musk-rose blooms:"*

*"And such too is the grandeur of the dooms"*

- **Explanation:** The beauty of musk-rose blooms and the grandeur of nature reflect the nobility of beauty. Even the "dooms" or grim fates can be softened by the splendor and richness of beauty.

### **Lines 21-22:**

*"We have imagined for the mighty dead;"*

*"All lovely tales that we have read:"*

- **Explanation:** Keats refers to the beauty found in stories and myths about great heroes and the dead. These imaginative tales add to the beauty we appreciate.

### **Lines 23-24:**

*"An endless fountain of immortal drink,"*

*"Pouring unto us from the heaven’s brink."*

- **Explanation:** Beauty is likened to an "endless fountain," a never-ending source of joy and inspiration ("immortal drink"). It flows from a divine or heavenly source, suggesting that beauty is a gift from a higher power.

Overall, the poem celebrates the idea that beauty has a profound and enduring impact on human life, providing joy, comfort, and a connection to the natural and spiritual realms.

A Thing of Beauty

"A Thing of Beauty" emphasizes the importance of appreciating the beauty around us. Anything that appears beautiful brings us joy, and this joy increases as we continue to enjoy it. The more closely we observe its beauty, the more we discover its remarkable features. Beautiful things leave a lasting impression on our minds because of the happiness and joy they provide. Their enduring impact brings us happiness and peace, much like the shade of a tree or a restful sleep. Consequently, our lives are enriched with good health, solace and tranquility.

Human beings have a deep connection with nature and engage in various activities to stay connected to it. This bonding with nature has been compared to weaving floral wreaths (the metaphor of "flowery band") which symbolises renewing our connection with nature every day. Despite the negative aspects of life—such as hopelessness, unkind people, struggles we need to persist in and immoral actions—that can diminish our faith in humanity, a beautiful thing always has the power to lift our spirits and help us forget our troubles.

Beauty can be found anywhere if we choose to look for it. It can be seen in everyday objects like the sun, moon, trees, or even something as simple as a shade for sheep. The poet provides additional examples of beauty, such as flowers, streams (rills), and forest glades "sprinkled with musk-roses". He also suggests that beauty can be discovered in places we often overlook, such as the stories behind the lives of great heroes and warriors, or in the intangible aspects of life, like the stories we read or hear.

The poet encourages us to recognize the vast reservoir of beauty around us, describing it as an "endless fountain of immortal drink." This phrase highlights the limitless nature of beauty and its lasting impact on our minds. The memory of a beautiful experience is eternal. The thing itself may perish but its impact lives on. We are fortunate to experience beauty in various forms, and the mention of "heaven" underscores that these sources of beauty are provided by the Almighty.