"Childhood" by Markus Natten is a [contemplative ] and [introspective ] poem that grapples with the delicate transition from innocence and naivety in childhood to understanding and maturity in adulthood. The poem explores the theme of lost innocence and the poet's struggle....
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Childhood - Hornbill - Class 11 - CBSE English
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Extra Questions - Childhood | Hornbill | Class 11 Literature | CBSE English
When did my childhood go?
Was it the day I ceased to be eleven,
Was it the time I realised that Hell and Heaven,
Could not be found in Geography,
And therefore could not be,
Was that the day!
- When does the poet realize that his childhood has gone?
- Who is ‘I’ above?
- What does the poet realize after eleven?
- Which two double abodes do you find in the above stanza?
- What did he feel about hell and heaven?
Was it the day I ceased to be eleven,
Was it the time I realised that Hell and Heaven,
Could not be found in Geography,
And therefore could not be,
Was that the day!
- The poet expresses the realization that his childhood has gone through a series of questions and reflections throughout the poem. The realization came when the poet was not eleven years old anymore
- The 'I' in the poem refers to the poet himself, Markus Natten. He uses the first-person perspective to give the poem a personal, introspective tone, reflecting on his own experiences of growth and the loss of innocence.
- The poet ponders whether his transition from childhood happened when he ceased to be eleven. He questions if it was the time he realized that abstract concepts like Heaven and Hell couldn't be found in Geography, implying that they were not physical locations but moral and philosophical constructs. This realization indicates a shift from a literal, child-like understanding to a more abstract, adult comprehension of the world.
- The two 'double abodes' mentioned in the above stanza are Heaven and Hell. These are traditionally depicted as opposing realms of the afterlife in many religious beliefs, representing ultimate reward (Heaven) and punishment (Hell).
- The poet reflects on a time when he realized that Hell and Heaven were not physical places that could be located on a map, contrary to the literal interpretation often understood by children. This signifies the poet's maturing understanding that these concepts are philosophical and moral in nature rather than geographical realities. This realization might have marked a significant step in his transition from the naivety of childhood to the discernment of adulthood.
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When did my childhood go?
Was it the time I realised that adults were not all they seemed to be,
They talked of love and preached of love,
But did not act so lovingly, Was that the day!
- What realization dawned on the poet?
- Explain ‘all they seemed to be’.
- What is the message poet has tried to give?
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Why do you think the poet feels that his childhood had hidden itself in an infant’s face?
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Back Questions - Childhood | Hornbill | Class 11 Literature | CBSE English
Identify the stanza that talks of each of the following.
Individuality rationalism hypocrisy
Individuality:
The theme of individuality is principally highlighted in the following stanza:
"Was it when I found my mind was really mine,
To use whichever way I choose,
Producing thoughts that were not those of other people
But my own, and mine alone
Was that the day!"
In this stanza, the poet talks about realizing that his mind is his own, capable of forming thoughts independent of others, thereby underscoring his individuality.
Rationalism:
Rationalism is mainly discussed in this stanza:
"Was it the day I ceased to be eleven,
Was it the time I realised that Hell and Heaven,
Could not be found in Geography,
And therefore could not be,
Was that the day!"
The poet's realization that Heaven and Hell are not geographical places, but abstract concepts, reflects a shift from a child's literal interpretation to a more rational understanding.
Hypocrisy:
The theme of hypocrisy is prominently showcased in this stanza:
"Was it the time I realised that adults were not all they seemed to be,
They talked of love and preached of love,
But did not act so lovingly,
Was that the day!"
Here, the poet observes the discrepancy between what adults say and how they behave, particularly regarding the concept of love, portraying their hypocrisy.
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What, according to the poem, is involved in the process of growing up?
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What is the poet’s feeling towards childhood?
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Which do you think are the most poetic lines? Why?
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Quiz - Childhood | Hornbill | Class 11 Literature | CBSE English
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About the Author - Childhood | Hornbill | Class 11 Literature | CBSE English
Markus Natten was a Norwegian poet known for his introspective and philosophical verses . Born on October 13, 1925, in Oslo, Norway, Natten's poetry often delved into the themes of identity , love, and the passage of time . His works were characterized by their thoughtful exploration of human emotions and the complexities of life.
Natten's poetic style was marked by a keen sense of observation and a lyrical expression of his thoughts and feelings. He had a talent for capturing the essence of moments and conveying profound insights through his carefully chosen words. His poetry often reflected a deep understanding of the human condition , exploring the mysteries of existence and the search for meaning .
Summary - Childhood | Hornbill | Class 11 Literature | CBSE English
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Themes - Childhood | Hornbill | Class 11 Literature | CBSE English
1. Loss of Innocence and the Transition to Adulthood:
A prominent theme in Markus Natten's "Childhood" is the loss of innocence and the transition from childhood to adulthood. The poet persistently questions when his childhood ended, emphasizing a transition that's intangible yet profound. He pinpoints various realizations .....
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Symbols - Childhood | Hornbill | Class 11 Literature | CBSE English
1. Age Eleven:
The age of eleven mentioned in the first stanza symbolizes the boundary between childhood and adolescence. Eleven is an age when children are often beginning to grapple with more complex issues and emotions, and it serves as a potent symbol of the transition ....
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Poetic Devices - Childhood | Hornbill | Class 11 Literature | CBSE English
1. Repetition :
Natten repeatedly uses the phrase "When did my childhood go?" throughout the poem. This Repetition emphasizes the poet's continuous, persistent Contemplation about his transition from childhood to adulthood, thereby enhancing the theme of lost innocence and the mysterious, Elusive nature of Maturation .
2. Rhetorical Question :
The poem is structured....
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