LAQ (6–10 marks / ~120 words).
1. Who wrote the poem Hawk Roosting? To which literary era did he belong?
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Who is the poet of Hawk Roosting? Mention his nationality.
Hawk Roosting is composed by Ted Hughes, a leading figure of modern English poetry. He is associated with the post-war literary movement in Britain. Ted Hughes was British by birth and nationality. His poems are widely known for their striking imagery and deep engagement with the natural world. Hughes frequently portrays animals as symbols of raw energy, survival, and dominance. In Hawk Roosting, these qualities appear strongly, reflecting his interest in instinctive power and the harsh realities of nature.
2. Who is the speaker of the poem Hawk Roosting? What does it represent?
The speaker of Hawk Roosting is a hawk, speaking directly in the first person. However, the hawk is more than a bird; it serves as a symbol of unchecked authority and dominance. It represents pride, cruelty, and the mindset of rulers who believe their power is natural and unquestionable. Many readers view the hawk as a metaphor for dictatorial or oppressive forces. Through this voice, the poet reveals how power can lead to arrogance and moral blindness.
3. Discuss the significance of the title Hawk Roosting.
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Why is the poem titled Hawk Roosting?
The title Hawk Roosting is meaningful because it focuses on the hawk during a quiet moment of rest. Although “roosting” suggests calmness, the hawk’s thoughts are filled with pride, violence, and control. This contrast highlights the bird’s aggressive nature even when it is still. The title also suggests that power does not rest; it remains active even in silence. Thus, the title reflects the poem’s central ideas of authority, dominance, and arrogance beneath outward calm.
4. What is the meaning of the word “roosting”? Where and how does the hawk roost?
The word “roosting” refers to resting or perching, especially in a secure place. In the poem, the hawk rests high on a tree branch, holding it firmly with its claws. It is comfortable, stable, and confident in its position. From this height, the hawk surveys everything below and feels complete control over its environment. The act of roosting emphasizes the hawk’s sense of superiority and reinforces its belief that nature exists to serve its needs.
5. What is the structure of the poem? How does it help the flow of the poem?
Hawk Roosting is arranged into six stanzas, each containing four lines. The poem follows a free-verse form, without a regular rhyme pattern. This simple and controlled structure supports the steady flow of the hawk’s thoughts. The balanced stanzas reflect the bird’s confidence and authority. The clear and direct style helps maintain a strong, commanding tone throughout the poem, reinforcing its theme of power and dominance.