Thinking about the Poem
1. (i) “Beneath all uniforms …” What uniforms do you think the poet is speaking about?
Answer:
The “uniforms” referred to in the poem symbolize the different identities and roles that people take on in society, such as nationality, religion, occupation, or even social status. These external labels can create divisions among people, but beneath these “uniforms,” we are all human beings with similar feelings and desires.
1. (ii) How does the poet suggest that all people on earth are the same?
Answer:
The poet suggests that all people on earth are the same by emphasizing that beneath all the external differences, such as uniforms, we are all human beings. The poet says that the same blood flows through our veins, and we all share the same essential qualities like love, fear, and desire. This conveys that despite our outward appearances or societal roles, we are all essentially the same in our humanity.
2. In stanza 1, find five ways in which we all are alike. Pick out the words.
Answer:
In stanza 1, the poet highlights five ways in which all human beings are alike. The words that suggest these similarities are:
- “Beneath” (refers to what is common beneath the surface—our humanity).
- “uniforms” (symbolizes the external identities that people wear).
- “love” (refers to a shared human emotion).
- “blood” (refers to the commonality of our physical being).
- “life” (symbolizes the shared human experience of existence).
These words convey the poet’s message that, despite the surface-level differences, all human beings are fundamentally the same.
3. How many common features can you find in stanza 2? Pick out the words.
Answer:
In stanza 2, the poet describes some common features that unite all people. The features mentioned in the stanza are:
- “tears” (show that all human beings experience sorrow).
- “hunger” (refers to basic human needs and struggles).
- “pain” (acknowledges the shared experience of suffering).
- “smile” (shows the universal human response to happiness or kindness).
- “life” (again emphasizes the shared human existence).
These words further support the poet’s message of commonality among all people, regardless of their external differences.
4. “…whenever we are told to hate our brothers …” When do you think this happens? Why? Who ‘tells’ us? Should we do as we are told at such times? What does the poet say?
Answer:
This line refers to times when people are encouraged to hate others, often due to external factors like war, propaganda, political differences, or religious divides. These “instructions” to hate often come from leaders, governments, or other authorities who manipulate emotions for their own purposes.
The poet suggests that we should not follow these instructions to hate, as it goes against our shared humanity. Instead, the poet urges us to recognize our common humanity, to love rather than hate, and to see beyond the differences that may be imposed upon us. The poet’s message is one of unity, compassion, and understanding, emphasizing that we are all “brothers” and should treat each other as such.
Summary
In this poem, the poet reflects on the unity of human beings, encouraging us to look beyond societal divisions like uniforms and labels. The poet emphasizes the common features that bind us together, such as love, pain, hunger, and life itself. The poet also warns against the harmful influence of hatred, reminding us that we are all part of one human family and should treat each other with compassion and respect.
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