The Road Not Taken – Robert Frost

Summary
The speaker, walking through a forest whose leaves have turned yellow
in autumn, comes to a fork in the road. The speaker, regretting that he or
she is unable to travel by both roads (since he or she is, after all, just
one person), stands at the fork in the road for a long time and tries to
see where one of the paths leads. However, the speaker cannot see
very far because the forest is dense and the road is not straight.
The speaker takes the other path, judging it to be just as good a choice
as the first, and supposing that it may even be the better option of the
two, since it is grassy and looks less worn than the other path. Though,
now that the speaker has actually walked on the second road, he or she
thinks that in reality the two roads must have been more or less equally
worn-in.
Reinforcing this statement, the speaker recalls that both roads were
covered in leaves, which had not yet been turned black by foot
traffic. The speaker exclaims that he or she is in fact just saving the first
road, and will travel it at a later date, but then immediately contradicts
him or herself with the acknowledgement that, in life, one road tends to
lead onward to another, so it is therefore unlikely that he or she will ever
actually get a chance to return to that first road.
The speaker imagines him or herself in the distant future, recounting,
with a sigh, the story of making the choice of which road to
take. Speaking as though looking back on his or her life from the future,
the speaker states that he or she was faced with a choice between two
roads and chose to take the road that was less travelled, and the
consequences of that decision have made all the difference in his or her
life.
Themes
Choices and Decision Making, Individuality and Non-Conformity
"The Road Not Taken" by Robert Frost delves into the profound theme of
choices and their enduring impact on an individual's life journey. The
poem explores the speaker's contemplation at a pivotal moment when
faced with two diverging paths in a yellow wood.
Themes of decision-making and the consequences of choices unfold as
the speaker expresses regret at being unable to travel both paths. Within
the narrative, the significance of individuality and nonconformity
emerges, as the speaker opts for the road less travelled, symbolizing a
desire to forge a unique and independent path.
The theme of the road not taken pervades the poem, inviting reflection
on unexplored possibilities and the intrinsic value of the chosen path.
The natural imagery, such as the yellow wood and the grassy path, adds
layers of symbolism, emphasizing the transient nature of life and the
complexity of decision-making.
Through its timeless exploration of choice, individuality, and the enduring
impact of decisions, Frost's poem invites readers to contemplate the
roads they choose in their own journeys, resonating with the universal
human experience.
Many people read the poem straightforwardly, and believe the choice did
make "all the difference." The poem, however, is not clear about whether
the speaker's final assertion is true. The speaker explains that he or she
chose to take the second road because it seemed more “grassy” and
less worn than the first, but soon admits that the two roads were actually
worn to "about the same" degree.
By raising the question of whether there was actually anything special
about the road the speaker chose to take, the poem further questions
whether taking the second road could have possibly "made all the
difference," or even any difference at all.
The poem implies that the speaker in the future may look back and
construct a narrative of his or her life that is simpler and cleaner, and
which gives this choice more meaning than the truth would support.
Using this interpretation, the poem can be read as commenting more
broadly on how all people fictionalize their lives by interpreting their
choices, in hindsight, as being more purposeful and meaningful than
they really are.
Key Literary Devices
Metaphor: The entire poem is metaphorical, with the forked road
symbolizing life's choices and the paths individuals take. The speaker's
decision about which road to take represents the broader theme of
decision-making and its consequences.
Imagery: Frost employs vivid imagery throughout the poem to create a
visual and sensory experience for the reader. Descriptions of the "yellow
wood," the two diverging paths, and the "undergrowth" contribute to the
poem's rich imagery, evoking a sense of place and atmosphere.
Symbolism: The yellow wood symbolizes autumn, a season of transition
and change, which mirrors the speaker's own moment of decision and
transition in life. The two diverging paths symbolize the choices
individuals face, while the road less travelled represents the path of
individualism and nonconformity.

TeeVee – Eve Merriam

Summary
The poem "TeeVee" by Eve Merriam tells the story of Mr. and Mrs.
Spouse, a married couple who spend their time watching television
without speaking to each other. Their lack of communication continues
until the day the television breaks down. With the distraction of the
television removed, Mr. Spouse finally initiates a conversation with Mrs.
Spouse, introducing himself and asking for her name. To their surprise,
they realize that they share the same last name, prompting speculation
about whether they could be related. However, their attempt to explore
this possibility is interrupted when the television suddenly starts working
again, preventing them from discovering any potential connection. The
poem highlights the isolating effect of television on human relationships,
illustrating how it can hinder communication and prevent genuine
connections from forming between individuals, even within the context of
marriage.
Themes
Communication Breakdown, Isolation
One of the central themes of the poem is the breakdown of
communication within the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Spouse. The couple
spends their time watching television without speaking to each other,
indicating a lack of verbal communication and emotional connection.
This theme underscores the isolating effect of television on human
relationships, as it prevents meaningful interaction and dialogue between
individuals.
Another theme evident in the poem is the dependency on technology,
specifically television, as a form of entertainment and distraction. The
constant presence of the television in Mr. and Mrs. Spouse's lives
prevents them from engaging with each other and addressing the
underlying issues in their relationship. The malfunction of the television
briefly disrupts this dependency, allowing for a moment of potential
connection between the couple.
The poem briefly touches on themes of identity and connection through
the shared last name of Mr. and Mrs. Spouse. When they realize they
have the same surname, they speculate about whether they could be
related, suggesting a desire for connection, and understanding within
their marriage. However, the interruption caused by the television
prevents them from exploring this possibility further, highlighting the
barriers to intimacy and communication that technology can create.
Overall, the poem explores the theme of isolation and disconnection
within modern society, exacerbated by the pervasive influence of
technology. Mr. and Mrs. Spouse's reliance on television as a form of
entertainment isolates them from each other and inhibits genuine human
connection. The interruption caused by the malfunctioning television
symbolizes the fleeting nature of their attempt to connect, underscoring
the pervasive sense of loneliness and detachment that can result from
excessive reliance on technology.
Key Literary Devices
Symbolism: The shared last name of Mr. and Mrs. Spouse symbolizes
their connection as a married couple. Their speculation about whether
they could be related based on their surname serves as a symbol of their
desire for connection and understanding within their marriage.
Repetition: The repetition of the word "Spouse" throughout the poem
emphasizes the central characters and their relationship. This repetition
reinforces the idea that the poem is focused on the dynamics between
Mr. and Mrs. Spouse and their interaction with the television.
Alliteration: The use of alliteration, or the repetition of consonant sounds,
adds rhythm and emphasis to certain phrases in the poem. For example,
the repetition of the "s" sound in "said she to he" creates a sense of flow
and musicality in the language.
Imagery: The poem uses vivid imagery to depict the scene of Mr. and
Mrs. Spouse watching television together without speaking.

Happy People - William Ralph Inge

Overview –
In Happy people William Inge explores the question & what makes
people happy and who are considered to be happy people. William
Ralph Inge is a clergyman who has strong belief in God. He says that we
have no answer for the question that who really the happiest people are.
He says that he can separate the years when he was unhappy. He
contradicts the opinion that young people are happier than the old.
In his opinion young people are often very unhappy, tom by conflicting
elements in their characters. In his opinion marriage is the happiest
state. He feels that the happiest people have no particular cause for
being happy except the fact that they are so. He says he has noticed
that the biographies of great men reveal that they were subject to
frequent and severe depression. He says that the Sermon on the Mount
ranks worry as one of the deadly sins. So, he prefers happiness to worry
or depression. He opines that religion is a great source of happiness
because it gives us right standard of values and enables us to regard our
troubles as light for a moment.
Most of us feel that happiness is 'our being's end and aim. We are never
so happy or so unhappy as we suppose ourselves to be. The successful
man generally tells us that he was happy while he was struggling for his
success. In the days of the commonwealth, Bulstrezdte white lock.
Ambassador to the Hague, was tossing about through the night Its
anxiety about the condition of his country. An old servant, lying in the
same room addressed him by saying whether he might ask him a
question. The Ambassador immediately agreed. The Servant thin asked
the ambassador whether he could not trust Him to rule the world well
while the ambassador was in the world. Then the ambassador turned on
his side and fell 1, asleep.
This episode is relevant to Inge's essay as it is not in our hands to be
happy or unhappy. It is the will of the god which makes us happy. The
lesson that the author wishes to communicate through this story is that
faith and trust in God can enhance one's state of happiness. He feels
that running away from life ought not to make people happy. In his view
a life without affection and sympathy could give only a very negative kind
of happiness.
Summary -
"Happy People," attributed to William Ralph Inge, succinctly
encapsulates a profound truth about happiness: it is an internal state of
being rather than a product of external circumstances. This concise
statement implies that genuine happiness originates from within
individuals, stemming from their mindset, attitude, and inner
contentment. It suggests that while external factors such as wealth or
success may provide temporary pleasure, lasting happiness is cultivated
through inner peace, positivity, and gratitude. Essentially, the quote
prompts reflection on the intrinsic nature of happiness, emphasizing the
importance of nurturing one's inner well-being as the foundation for true
fulfilment.
Moreover, "Happy People" highlights the role of authenticity, purpose,
and meaningful connections in fostering happiness. Living authentically,
true to one's values and passions, is portrayed as essential for leading a
fulfilling life. This authenticity enables individuals to align their actions
with their inner selves, promoting a sense of coherence and satisfaction.
Additionally, the quote underscores the significance of cultivating
meaningful relationships with others. These connections, built on trust,
love, and shared experiences, provide support, belonging, and joy,
contributing significantly to overall happiness and well-being.
Furthermore, "Happy People" invites consideration of the complex
interplay between individual disposition and external factors in shaping
happiness. While inner contentment and positive outlook are crucial, the
quote acknowledges that external circumstances can also influence
one's happiness to some extent. However, it emphasizes that the most
resilient and genuinely happy individuals are those who cultivate inner
strength and positive mindset, allowing them to navigate life's inevitable
challenges with grace and resilience.
In essence, "Happy People" encourages a holistic understanding of
happiness, encompassing both internal well-being and external
relationships. It prompts individuals to reflect on their values, mindset,
and connections with others, recognizing that true fulfilment arises from
a harmonious blend of inner peace, authenticity, purposeful living, and
meaningful relationships.
Explanation –
The prose "Happy People" attributed to William Ralph Inge succinctly
conveys a profound insight into the nature of happiness, suggesting that
it is an internal state of being rather than a result of external conditions.
In just two words, Inge implies that true happiness originates from within
individuals, grounded in their mindset, attitude, and inner sense of
contentment. This concise yet powerful statement invites deep reflection
on the essence of happiness, indicating that while external factors like
wealth or success may provide fleeting pleasure, lasting fulfilment is
cultivated through inner peace, positivity, and gratitude. By emphasizing
the intrinsic nature of happiness, the prose prompts us to consider the
importance of nurturing our inner well-being as the foundation for
genuine and enduring happiness.
Furthermore, "Happy People" suggests that authenticity, purpose, and
meaningful connections are essential components of a happy and
fulfilling life. Living authentically, in alignment with one's values and
passions, is portrayed as fundamental to experiencing a sense of
meaning and fulfilment. This authenticity allows individuals to live in
harmony with themselves, fostering a deep sense of satisfaction and
wholeness. Additionally, the prose underscores the significance of
cultivating profound and meaningful relationships with others. These
connections, based on trust, empathy, and shared experiences, serve as
sources of support, belonging, and joy, enriching our lives and
contributing significantly to our overall well-being. In essence, "Happy
People" invites us to explore the intricate interplay between our inner
state of being and our external relationships and circumstances, urging
us to cultivate both inner contentment and meaningful connections in our
pursuit of genuine happiness and fulfilment.
What according to Inge, is happiness? List the kind of people
he considers happy.
William Ralph Inge's quote "Happy People" encapsulates a profound
understanding of happiness and its sources. Although Inge does not
explicitly enumerate them, his words imply a multifaceted view of
happiness rooted in various aspects of human experience. Central to
this understanding is the notion that genuine happiness emanates from
within individuals, arising from their inner state of being rather than
external circumstances.
Happy people, according to Inge, are characterized by a deep sense of
inner contentment and peace. They have cultivated a positive mindset
that enables them to find joy and satisfaction in the simplest of pleasures
and experiences. This inner contentment serves as a resilient foundation
upon which they navigate the ups and downs of life with grace and
equanimity.
Furthermore, Inge suggests that authenticity is a hallmark of happiness.
Happy individuals live in alignment with their true selves, unspayed by
external pressures or societal expectations. By honouring their values,
passions, and intrinsic motivations, they experience a profound sense of
fulfilment and coherence in their lives.
In addition to authenticity, happy people exhibit resilience and optimism
in the face of adversity. They maintain a hopeful outlook, believing in
their capacity to overcome challenges and grow from setbacks. This
resilience allows them to adapt to change and bounce back from
adversity stronger and more resilient than before.
Moreover, Inge emphasizes the importance of gratitude and appreciation
in fostering happiness. Happy individuals cultivate a mindset of gratitude,
finding joy in the abundance of blessings present in their lives. They
acknowledge and Savor the beauty of everyday moments, relationships,
and experiences, which enriches their lives and deepens their sense of
fulfilment.
Additionally, meaningful connections and relationships play a vital role in
the happiness of individuals, according to Inge. Happy people prioritize
nurturing deep and authentic connections with others, fostering a sense
of belonging, support, and companionship. These meaningful
relationships provide a source of joy, fulfilment, and emotional well-
being, contributing significantly to overall happiness.
Overall, Inge's perspective on happiness underscores the multifaceted
nature of human well-being, highlighting the importance of inner
contentment, authenticity, resilience, optimism, gratitude, and meaningful
connections in fostering happiness and fulfilment in people's lives.

Refund - Fritz Karinthy

Summary –
Fritz Karinthy is a well know short story writer who wrote the one act play
“Refund” in the year 1938. This is the story of a former student
Wasserkopf, who demands that his tuition should be refunded because
he feels his education was worthless. But he loses his fight when he is
tricked by the mathematics master. The play “Refund” is full of humour
which deals with an extraordinarily absurd situation.

Wasserkopf is forty years old. He could not get any job and wherever he
goes people tell him that he is fit for nothing. One day he meets
Leaderer and asks him about his business. When Leaderer tells him
about foreign exchange and Hungarian money, he could not able to
understand anything and starts asking questions about foreign
exchange. Leaderer says when Wasserkopf does not know the silly thing
then what had he studied? He better can go to the school and get his
tuition fees back. Wasserkopf who is jobless and does not have any
finance, thought this idea as something beneficial. So, he went to the
school where he studied once.

Wasserkopf wanted the refund of his tuition fees which were paid
eighteen years ago because he was taught badly. When he asks for it,
the principal is shocked. The principal is in a peculiar situation now and
he calls for an urgent meeting with all other staff members. The masters
realized that Wasserkopf’s real intention was to fail in the exam and
claim the refund. Therefore, they decided to outsmart the old student by
proving all his answers right. The Mathematics Master said that they had
to be united and ought to help each other in implementing their plan. The
exam was an oral one as Wasserkopf’s refusal to write. They decide that
whatever answers he gives whether it is right or wrong they will prove
him right.

The first question was from the History Master. The Master asked him
how many years the ‘Thirty Years’ war lasted. The answer was in the
question itself. But Wasserkopf, who was keen on giving wrong answers,
said that the ‘Thirty Years war,’ lasted seven metres. The History Master
did not know how to prove this answer right. Fortunately for him, the
Mathematics master aided him by proving that the answer was right on
the basis of Einstein’s Theory of Relativity. The Master argued that time
and space are relative terms and therefore years can be represented in
terms of meter. The war took place during half of each day, three hours
a day to eat, hours given up to noon day, so totally seven years. The
actual time spent in fighting was seven years and it has been by
Einstein’s equivalence of seven meters. Wasserkopf called the History
Master a numskull.
The Physics Master asked Wasserkopf whether clocks in church
become smaller if one walks away from it or is it because of optical
illusion. He called The Physics master as an ass. The master says that
the answer is correct because ass does not have any illusion of
vision. Therefore, Wasserkopf has given a metaphorical explanation.
Wasserkopf called him a cannibal.
The Geography Master asks Wasserkopf for the name of a city which
has the same name as the capital of German Providence of Brunswick.
He replied as ‘Same.’ Master said it as the correct answer. There was a
legend that once as the emperor Barbarossa was riding in the city, he
met a young peasant (farmer) girl, who was munching a bun mouthful.
He called out her God Bless you and asked her the name of the city, she
answered same to you sir for his wishes, and Emperor mistaken the city
name as ‘Same.’

One by one each teacher justified his wrong answer to be correct one
and they mark him excellent. Though Wasserkopf gives wrong answers
and use abusive words to each teacher, they do not show their anger
because they have to prove him as an excellent student.

At last, the mathematics master asks him a difficult question and an easy
question. For the easy question he gives wrong answer and the master
gets angry and says that he has failed in his examination so he should
be given his tuition fees back. The master says that they have decided
to give him his tuition fees back and asks for the exact amount which he
has to get. Wasserkopf without knowing that he is going to fall into their
trap gives them the list of exact amounts. The mathematics master says
that was his difficult question and he gave the right answer. Now he is
proved excellent in the entire subject and they throw him out without
allowing him to say anything further. It shows the ability of the teachers
to manage the situation and how they tackle Wasserkopf without spoiling
the reputation of their school.