Chapter 1 of the Class 10 English textbook First Flight features two poems, and the first one is “Dust of Snow” by Robert Frost. This short poem shows how even a small moment in nature can change a person’s mood and bring a fresh perspective. The notes and summary provided here are designed to help students understand the poet’s viewpoint and the message he conveys through simple imagery and symbolism.
By going through this summary, students can revise important ideas effectively before exams. They can also explore additional CBSE English summary and essay materials to improve their writing and preparation for the language paper.
Dust of Snow – Summary
In this poem, Robert Frost describes a simple incident that changes his mood. The poet is feeling unhappy and regretful when a crow sitting on a hemlock tree shakes down a small amount of snow onto him. Though both the crow and the hemlock tree are usually linked with negativity, this unexpected event refreshes him and alters his state of mind. It makes him realize that even small moments in nature can bring comfort and positivity. As a result, he feels that the experience has saved part of his day from being wasted in sadness. The poem conveys that minor incidents can have a meaningful emotional impact and help transform negative feelings.
Stanza 1
“The way a crow
Shook down on me
The dust of snow
From a hemlock tree.”
In these lines, the poet describes how a crow sitting on a hemlock tree shakes some snow that falls on him. The incident is simple and unexpected. The crow and hemlock tree create a gloomy setting, suggesting the poet’s low mood. This stanza introduces the natural event that triggers an emotional change.
Stanza 2
“Has given my heart
A change of mood
And saved some part
Of a day I had rued.”
Here, the poet explains that the falling snow changes his mood and refreshes his mind. He feels relieved and realizes that this small moment has saved his day from being wasted in regret or sadness. The stanza conveys the message that even tiny experiences can positively transform our feelings.
Figures of Speech – Dust of Snow
Symbolism
- Crow and hemlock tree: Commonly associated with gloom, sorrow, or negativity, representing the poet’s initial mood.
- Snow: Symbolizes purity, freshness, and a positive change that lifts the poet’s spirits.
Metaphor
- “Dust of snow”: Not just literal snow — it metaphorically represents a small, seemingly insignificant incident that creates a meaningful emotional shift.
Alliteration
- Repetition of initial consonant sounds that enhance rhythm and musical quality, e.g., “Has given my heart”, “Saved some part.”
Imagery
- Vivid visual description of snow falling from the tree enables readers to clearly picture the scene and experience the moment alongside the poet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the main theme of the poem “Dust of Snow”?
The central theme of “Dust of Snow” is the transformative power of small moments. The poem shows how a simple natural event can change a person’s mood and encourage a more positive outlook on life.
2. Who wrote the poem “Dust of Snow” included in the CBSE Class 10 syllabus?
“Dust of Snow” was written by Robert Frost, an American poet known for using natural imagery to convey deeper emotional and philosophical ideas.
3. What do the crow and the hemlock tree symbolize in the poem?
The crow and hemlock tree are often interpreted as symbols of negativity, sorrow, or gloom, reflecting the poet’s initial unhappy state of mind.
4. How does the dust of snow affect the poet?
The falling snow unexpectedly improves the poet’s mood and helps him realize that his day need not be wasted in regret or sadness.
5. Why is “Dust of Snow” important for CBSE exam preparation?
The poem is frequently included in exam questions that test interpretation, symbolism, and theme analysis. Reviewing notes and summaries helps students develop clarity and answer effectively.
6. What message does Robert Frost convey through “Dust of Snow”?
Frost communicates that even brief, ordinary experiences can bring emotional renewal, reminding readers to remain receptive to positivity in everyday life.
