2.2. The Sower - Class 11 -English Yuvakbharati

Author: Victor Hugo (Translated by Toru Dutt) | Genre: Poetry

1. Comprehensive Glossary

2. Introduction & Summary

Ice Breakers:

1. Discuss the activities carried out by a farmer, such as ploughing, sowing, and harvesting, which make agriculture the backbone of the Indian economy.

2. Reflect on why professions like farming do not always get their due respect despite their significant contribution to society.

   
   

Summary (200 Words):

"The Sower" is a poem originally written by the French Romantic writer Victor Hugo and translated into English by the Bengali poetess Toru Dutt. The poem describes the observation of a lone, elderly sower working in a field during twilight. While the rest of the world retires for the day, the sower remains, patiently scattering seeds into the deep furrows of the earth.

The narrator, sitting in a porchway, watches the sower with deep admiration. The sower’s silhouette against the darkening sky appears "august" and "sublime," as his gestures of throwing grain seem to reach the stars. The poem highlights the dignity of labor and the selfless dedication of the farmer, who works silently to ensure a future harvest for others. It serves as a tribute to the "backbone of the economy" and celebrates the rhythmic, almost spiritual nature of the sower's work.

4. HSC Board Activity Sheet Pattern (Poetry Section)

Part A: Appreciation of Poem (Q3-B Pattern)

• About the Poem / Poet / Title: "The Sower" is a translation of Victor Hugo's poem by Toru Dutt, the first Indian poetess to write in English and French. The title refers to the central figure, a farmer whose simple act of sowing becomes a symbol of hope and perseverance.

• The Theme: The central theme is the dignity of agricultural labor and the nobility of the farmer. It portrays the sower as a majestic figure whose hard work is essential for human survival.

• Poetic Style: The poem uses vivid visual imagery and a respectful, observational tone. The translation maintains a rhythmic flow that captures the "solemn" and "peaceful" atmosphere of the twilight setting.

  
  

• Figures of Speech:

  1. Alliteration: "Sower, lingering still," where the 's' sound is repeated for a soothing effect.

  2. Personification: "Twilight hastens on her shades," giving the evening the human quality of moving quickly.

  3. Imagery: "Old, in rags, he patient stands," creating a clear mental picture of the sower's humble appearance.

     
     

• Message / Values / Morals: The poem conveys that the farmer's work is sacred and deserves our highest respect. It values patience, hard work, and the selfless contribution of those who provide food for the world.

• Your Opinion: In my opinion, the poem successfully transforms a common sight into something heroic. The way the sower's shadow "dominates the furrows" makes the reader realize the true importance of agriculture.

  
  

Part B: Poetic Creativity (2 Marks)

• Topic 1: The Sower’s Work ->

  He scatters hope with every hand,

  Across the brown and thirsty land.

  Though shadows grow and day is done,

  His noble task has just begun.

  
  

• Topic 2: Backbone of India ->

  In fields of gold and mud so deep,

  The promises he means to keep.

  The strength of nations in his stride,

  With ancient earth as his only guide.

  
  

• Topic 3: Sunset in the Field ->

  The sky is dressed in purple light,

  As day surrenders to the night.

  A lonely form against the grey,

  Still working at the end of day.

  
  

• Topic 4: The Grain of Life ->

  A tiny seed, a giant dream,

  Beside the slow and quiet stream.

  Nurtured by the sower's care,

  To feed the world everywhere.

  
  

• Topic 5: Dignity of Labor ->

  No crown of gold upon his head,

  He works so others may be fed.

  His rags are robes of honor true,

  In every task he has to do.

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