Dust of Snow Summary- Robert Frost
A crow perched on a hemlock tree shakes fine "dust of snow" onto the gloomy poet below. This simple winter moment instantly heals his "heart full of sorrows," saving his entire day from regret. Nature's tiny act sparks profound joy and fresh perspective. CBSE highlights transformation through symbolism.
A Tiger in the Zoo Summary - Leslie Norris
Vivid-striped tiger paces his concrete cage on velvet paws, seething in quiet rage behind bars. Poet contrasts this with wild life: lurking in shadows, hunting deer at waterholes, snarling near villages. Night brings longing stares at stars amid patrolling cars. Pleads for animal freedom over captivity.
How to Tell Wild Animals Summary - Carolyn Wells
Humorous guide identifies jungle beasts by deadly encounters—Asian Lion roars you dead; Bengal Tiger eats to confirm stripes; Leopard "leps" endlessly; Bear hugs fatally. Crocodile cries false tears crunching; Hyena laughs, swallowing; Chameleon blends invisibly on trees. Witty rhyme warns explorers.
The Ball Poem Summary- John Berryman
A young boy loses his ball, bouncing into the harbor water, watching it roll out of reach forever. Money can't buy another exactly the same; teaches irreplaceable loss and growing up. Grief exacts "money's no good," mirroring adult losses. Explores innocence facing reality.
Amanda Summary- Robin Klein
Nagging mother scolds dreamy Amanda: don't slouch (like mermaid), eat properly (not orphan), tidy hair (not wizard). Amanda silently escapes mentally—to golden beach, jade sea, emerald island, forbidden palace. Inner freedom triumphs external commands. Celebrates imagination over conformity.
The Trees Summary- Adrienne Rich
House-bound trees yearn for the forest; at night they revolt—stiff twigs creak, leaves strain toward moon. They escape pots, curtains open wide, moon urges them home through office roofs. By morning, they're free, poet hears distant birdsong. Symbolizes nature's reclaiming liberty.
Fog Summary- Carl Sandburg
Fog arrives silently on "little cat feet," sits watching harbor and city perched on silent haunches. Then moves on without notice. Ultra-short poem captures nature's stealthy, transient beauty through perfect cat simile. Urban nature's quiet power.
The Tale of Custard the Dragon Summary- Ogden Nash
Cowardly dragon Custard begs safety despite fierce looks; owners mock him against brave dogs, parrot. Pirate invades—everyone flees, but Custard gobbles him up with "Ooop!" Later they boast, he cries. Satire on false bravery; true courage shines.
For Anne Gregory Summary- W.B. Yeats
Old poet sighs, only yellow-haired girls move him; young Anne vows inner goodness outshines hair. He counters even God's priest prefers her hair; only Heaven has "honey" for inner gold. Playful debate: outer beauty vs. soul in rhyme.