Dust of Snow

Robert Frost

Summary
'Dust of Snow' by Robert Frost is a simple poem that throws light upon the healing power of
nature. The poet had been having a rough day and was regretting it but all of a sudden a crow
shook off the snow that had collected on a hemlock tree. The cold, white snow, which is often
associated with barrenness, caused the poet's mood to change. The dust of snow is a symbol of
tranquility that suits the poet's soul. The crow and the hemlock tree are often associated with
morbidity and evil; but the poet contradicts this belief by presenting these objects as carriers of
happiness. Thus, the poet conveys subtly through the poem that nature can be full of surprises.

1. What is a 'dust of snow'? How has it changed the poet's mood?

Ans. The poet, Robert Frost, has used this reference to talk about fine particles or flakes
of snow that are accidentally dusted off the hemlock tree only to land on the poet, and fill
his mind with peace.
The poet was experiencing a rough day that he regretted. While he was passing by the
hemlock tree, he was dejected and despondent. All of a sudden, a crow shook down the
dust of snow from the hemlock tree. As the snow touched the poet, there was an
immediate change of mood; he was filled with renewed energy and hope that led him to
look forward to the rest of the day that might have had something good in store for the
poet.

2. Comment on the use of symbolism in the poem.

Ans. In the poem, Robert Frost talks about the healing power of nature through
symbolism. The poet mentions three natural elements — snow, a hemlock tree, and a
crow, each of which is used as a symbol. These are used to represent three different
ideas. The hemlock tree and the crow are associated with evil and morbidity. Hemlock
tree is poisonous and a crow is believed to be an ominous creature. Snow, which
generally is witnessed during the winter, usually represents a picture of gloom and
barrenness. However, the poet contradicts these common beliefs and superstitions
associated with these three objects and talks of these as carriers of happiness and
hope. Initially, the poet was upset and was in despair but when the crow shook down the
snow from the hemlock tree that accidentally landed on the poet, it soothed his soul,
giving him hope and filling his mind with peace.

Reference to the context

Has given my heart
A change of mood
And saved some part
Of a day I rued.

a) What had helped in changing the speaker's mood?

Ans. The dust of snow had helped in changing the speaker's mood.
 b) What other agents were involved in the act?
Ans. The crow and the hemlock tree were responsible for changing the speaker's mood,
along with the dust of snow.
c) Choose the correct option that describes the speaker's mood earlier.
1. Filled with regret and despair
2. Happy and excited
3. Relaxed and peaceful
4. Angry and agitated

Ans. Option 1

d) From the following,choose the correct literary device used in the poem.
1. Refrain
2. Alliteration
3. Symbolism
4. Simile

Ans. Option 3

e) Mention the rhyme scheme of the poem.

Ans. abab cdcd