3.3 The Road Not Taken - Std 9 - Kumarbharati

Author: Robert Frost

Genre: Reflective / Inspirational Poem

Textbook: English Kumarbharati – Std X

Board: Maharashtra State Board

English Summary

The poem describes a traveller standing in a yellow wood, where two roads diverge. The traveller regrets that he cannot travel both roads and studies one path as far as possible before deciding to take the other. This second road appears grassy and less worn, though both are almost equally travelled. He keeps the first road for another day but doubts he will ever return. In the future, he will recall this choice with a sigh, realising that taking the less-travelled road has made a significant difference in his life. The poem uses this journey as a metaphor for life’s choices, showing how decisions define our paths and shape our futures.

Theme / Central Idea

The poem reflects on the importance of choices in life. It encourages taking unique, independent decisions and accepting their consequences. It conveys that even small choices can have lasting effects.

Character Sketches

The Traveller / Poet

• Physical traits: Not described directly in the poem

• Personality and behaviour: Observant, thoughtful, and reflective

• Important actions: Carefully studies both paths before deciding; chooses the less-travelled road

• Values or qualities: Independent thinking, courage to take a different path, acceptance of consequences

Word Meanings

Grammar Questions

1. Identify the infinitive: 

   “I doubted if I should ever come back.”

   Answer: to come back

   
   

2. Change to passive voice:

    “No step had trodden the leaves black.”

   Answer: The leaves had not been trodden black by any step.

   
   

3. Use a modal to rewrite (possibility): 

   “I shall be telling this with a sigh.”

   Answer: I might be telling this with a sigh.

4. Change the tense to past perfect: 

   “I took the one less travelled by.”

   Answer: I had taken the one less travelled by.

   
   

5. Frame a Wh-question:

    “The road was grassy and wanted wear.”

   Answer: What was the condition of the road?

   
   

Personal Response Questions

1. What does the yellow wood symbolise to you?

   The yellow wood symbolises a turning point in life when an important decision must be made. It represents maturity, change, and new opportunities. This stage requires careful thought before choosing a path that may shape the future.

   
   

2. Do you agree with the poet’s choice of the less-travelled road? Why?

   Yes, I agree with the poet’s choice because it shows courage and individuality. Taking the less-travelled road often leads to unique experiences. It teaches us to follow our beliefs rather than simply following others.

   
   

3. Describe a situation where you had to make a difficult choice.

   I had to choose between participating in a sports competition and attending extra study classes. Both options were important, but I chose the study classes to improve my academic performance. This decision helped me score well in exams.

   
   

4. Why is it difficult to choose between two equally good options?

   Choosing between two equally good options is difficult because both have benefits and possible risks. The fear of missing out on the unchosen option adds to the confusion. Such situations require confidence and clarity of thought.

   
   

True or False

1. The poet could travel both roads at the same time.

   – False

   
   

2. The road taken by the poet was grassy and less worn.

   – True

   
   

3. The poet is certain he will return to the first road.

   – False

   
   

4. Both roads were equally covered with leaves that morning.

   – True

   
   

5. The poet feels his choice has made no difference.

   – False

   
   

Probable Board Questions

1. Why did the poet take the road less travelled?

   The poet took the road less travelled because it appeared grassy and less worn. This choice reflects his independence and willingness to explore a different path. It symbolises his belief in making unique life decisions.

   
   

2. How does the poet feel about his choice in the future?

   In the future, the poet will recall his choice with a sigh, realising that it shaped his life. The sigh may reflect satisfaction, nostalgia, or a mix of emotions. This shows the lasting impact of important decisions.

   
   

3. What does the fork in the road symbolise?

   The fork in the road symbolises a point in life where a person must choose between two different paths. Each choice leads to a different future, and the decision cannot be reversed.

   
   

4. Why does the poet doubt he will come back to the first road?

   The poet doubts he will return because one decision often leads to new opportunities and further choices. Once a path is taken, life moves forward, making it difficult to go back to the original point.

   
   

5. What message does the poem convey about decision-making?

   The poem conveys that decisions must be made with courage and self-belief. It teaches us to value our choices and accept the consequences, as they can significantly influence our future.

   
   

Appreciation / Reflection Paragraph

The Road Not Taken by Robert Frost is a timeless poem about life’s choices and their consequences. The fork in the road represents important decisions we face. The poet’s choice of the less-travelled road reflects individuality and courage. The poem uses rich symbolism, such as “yellow wood” for change and “road” for life’s path. Its reflective tone and simple language make it relatable to everyone. The rhyme scheme adds a musical flow, making it pleasant to read. The poem leaves a lasting impression by reminding us that our decisions shape who we are and the life we lead.

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