class 12 English (CBSE)

Poem: A Roadside Stand

Poet: Robert Frost
Theme: The poem highlights the economic disparity between rich town dwellers and poor villagers. It depicts the villagers’ struggle to make a living by selling their goods at the roadside, facing the indifference of city people.

Description/Teaching Details:

1. Introduction:
   The poem describes a small, humble roadside stand where villagers try to sell fruits and other items to travelers. This stand symbolizes the villagers’ attempt to earn a livelihood despite their poverty.

2. Setting:
   The roadside stand is located on the outskirts of a prosperous town, representing the boundary between wealth and poverty.

3. Theme and Message:

   • Economic Inequality: The poem contrasts the wealthy city folks who drive by without stopping and the poor villagers who rely on this stand to survive.

   • Human Indifference: It highlights the lack of concern shown by the urban population toward the villagers' hardships.

   • Dream vs. Reality: Villagers dream of better opportunities, but harsh realities keep them trapped in poverty.

4. Tone and Mood:
   The tone is sympathetic and contemplative, evoking feelings of pity and frustration over social injustice.

5. Language and Style:
   The poet uses simple, direct language with vivid imagery to paint a clear picture of the roadside stand and its surroundings.

6. Important Lines to Discuss:

   • “The country people barely raise a hand / To pick the fruit that grows.”

   • “They set their hopes on the passing trade, / And that is all they can depend on.”

7. Questions for Class Discussion:

   • What does the roadside stand symbolize in the poem?

   • How does the poet highlight the difference between rich and poor?

   • What emotions does the poem evoke in you?

   • How can this poem be relevant to today’s society?