Summary:
“To Mary” is a heartfelt poem by William Cowper, dedicated to his close companion Mary Unwin. The poem reflects Cowper’s deep gratitude, love, and appreciation for Mary, who supported him through his struggles with mental illness and depression.
- The poem conveys Cowper’s admiration and thankfulness for Mary’s unwavering care and kindness.
- He expresses his reliance on her companionship, which provided him with emotional strength during difficult times.
- The tone of the poem is tender, affectionate, and melancholic, as Cowper acknowledges the hardships they faced together.
- Through gentle and lyrical language, he portrays Mary as a source of comfort and stability in his life.
- The poem is a tribute to love, devotion, and the healing power of companionship, making it a touching reflection on friendship and support in times of distress.
MCQs:
- Who is the poet of To Mary?
A) William Blake
B) William Cowper
C) Samuel Taylor Coleridge
D) Lord Byron
Answer: B) William Cowper - Who is “Mary” in the poem?
A) Cowper’s sister
B) His romantic lover
C) His close friend and caretaker, Mary Unwin
D) A fictional character
Answer: C) His close friend and caretaker, Mary Unwin - What is the primary theme of the poem?
A) War and heroism
B) Friendship and gratitude
C) Political revolution
D) Religious devotion
Answer: B) Friendship and gratitude
To Mary - What emotion dominates the poem?
A) Anger
B) Love and appreciation
C) Jealousy
D) Indifference
Answer: B) Love and appreciation - What struggles does the poet acknowledge in the poem?
A) Poverty and hunger
B) War and exile
C) Mental illness and emotional suffering
D) Political oppression
Answer: C) Mental illness and emotional suffering - Which literary device is frequently used in To Mary?
A) Satire
B) Imagery and emotional appeal
C) Allegory
D) Paradox
Answer: B) Imagery and emotional appeal - What kind of relationship did Cowper and Mary Unwin share?
A) They were married
B) She was his sister
C) A deep friendship and emotional companionship
D) They were literary rivals
Answer: C) A deep friendship and emotional companionship - How does the poet view Mary in the poem?
A) As a burden
B) As a symbol of hope and support
C) As an enemy
D) As a distant acquaintance
Answer: B) As a symbol of hope and support - What is the tone of the poem?
A) Humorous and sarcastic
B) Sad and regretful
C) Warm, tender, and grateful
D) Angry and rebellious
Answer: C) Warm, tender, and grateful - What does the poem suggest about companionship in times of suffering?
A) It is unnecessary
B) It can provide emotional strength and comfort
C) It leads to isolation
D) It causes more pain
Answer: B) It can provide emotional strength and comfort
| Question | Answer |
| Poem Name | To Mary |
| Poet | William Cowper |
| Main Theme | Friendship, gratitude, emotional support |
| Dedication To | Mary Unwin |
| Dominant Emotion | Love, appreciation, and warmth |
| Literary Devices Used | Imagery, emotional appeal |
| Poetic Tone | Tender, affectionate, melancholic |
| Historical Context | Reflects Cowper’s struggles with mental illness and his reliance on Mary’s support |