Summary:
“Humming-Bird” is a poem by D.H. Lawrence that vividly describes the prehistoric past and the evolution of life, focusing on the hummingbird as a symbol of nature’s endurance and transformation. The poem imagines a time before human civilization, when creatures like the hummingbird were new and mysterious. Lawrence portrays the bird as a delicate yet powerful being, emphasizing its uniqueness and agility.
Through rich imagery and symbolism, the poem explores themes of nature’s beauty, evolution, and the contrast between ancient life and modern existence. The hummingbird represents a bridge between the past and present, serving as a reminder of the wonders of the natural world that persist despite time’s passage.
MCQs:
- Who wrote the poem Humming-Bird?
A) William Wordsworth
B) D.H. Lawrence
C) Robert Frost
D) John Keats
Answer: B) D.H. Lawrence - What is the central theme of the poem?
A) The struggle for survival
B) The beauty and evolution of nature
C) The dangers of industrialization
D) The power of love
Answer: B) The beauty and evolution of nature - What does the hummingbird symbolize in the poem?
A) Strength and aggression
B) Nature’s endurance and transformation
C) The fleeting nature of time
D) The destruction of the environment
Answer: B) Nature’s endurance and transformation
Humming-Bird - What era does the poet imagine in the poem?
A) The future
B) Prehistoric times
C) The medieval period
D) The industrial revolution
Answer: B) Prehistoric times - What literary device is most prominent in the poem?
A) Simile
B) Hyperbole
C) Imagery
D) Alliteration
Answer: C) Imagery - How is the hummingbird described in the poem?
A) As a slow and fragile creature
B) As an ancient and powerful being
C) As a symbol of destruction
D) As a domesticated pet
Answer: B) As an ancient and powerful being - What contrast does the poem highlight?
A) Nature versus technology
B) The past versus the present
C) Love versus hate
D) War versus peace
Answer: B) The past versus the present - What does the poet suggest about life in prehistoric times?
A) It was chaotic and meaningless
B) It was mysterious and full of wonder
C) It was ruled by humans
D) It was identical to modern life
Answer: B) It was mysterious and full of wonder - What is the tone of the poem?
A) Nostalgic and reflective
B) Angry and critical
C) Humorous and playful
D) Sad and regretful
Answer: A) Nostalgic and reflective - What is the message of the poem?
A) Modern life is superior to the past
B) Nature’s beauty and power remain timeless
C) The hummingbird is an extinct species
D) Technology is destroying the planet
Answer: B) Nature’s beauty and power remain timeless
| Question | Answer |
| Poem Name | Humming-Bird |
| Author | D.H. Lawrence |
| Year Published | 1923 |
| Main Themes | Evolution, nature’s endurance, time’s passage |
| Literary Devices | Imagery, symbolism, contrast |
| Mood | Nostalgic, reflective, awe-inspired |
| Symbolism | The hummingbird as a link between past and present |
| Message | Nature’s power and beauty are eternal |