Piano – D.H. Lawrence
Introduction
D.H. Lawrence (1885–1930) was an English novelist and poet. "Piano" is a lyric poem included in the NEB Class 11 English syllabus. It explores the power of music to evoke childhood memories and emotions.
Summary
The poem describes how the sound of a woman singing and playing the piano transports the speaker back to his childhood. He recalls sitting under the piano as his mother played, feeling safe and loved. The music stirs deep nostalgia, making the adult speaker long for the innocence and comfort of his youth.
Detailed Summary of "Piano"
"Piano" by D.H. Lawrence is a touching lyric poem that explores how music can awaken powerful childhood memories. The poem begins with the adult speaker listening to a woman singing and playing the piano. The music instantly transports him back to his early years, when he would sit under the piano as his mother played, feeling safe, warm, and deeply loved.
As the melody continues, the speaker’s emotions grow stronger. He remembers the gentle touch of his mother’s hands on the keys, the cozy atmosphere of their home, and the sense of belonging he felt as a child. The music stirs a deep longing for the innocence and comfort of his youth, making him feel both happy and sad at the same time.
The poem’s language and rhythm mirror the flow of music and memory, drawing readers into the speaker’s emotional journey. By the end, the adult is moved to tears, overwhelmed by nostalgia and the realization that those cherished moments are gone but never forgotten. "Piano" beautifully captures the universal experience of longing for the past and the special bond between a mother and her child.
Themes & Analysis
- Nostalgia: The longing for childhood and the past.
- Power of Music: Music’s ability to evoke strong emotions and memories.
- Mother-Child Bond: The deep connection between the speaker and his mother.
Speaker
- The Poet: Reminisces about his childhood and his mother.
- Mother: Plays the piano and sings, creating cherished memories.
Important Vocabulary
- Nostalgia: A sentimental longing for the past.
- Vista: A pleasing view, especially one seen through a long, narrow opening.
- Glamour: An alluring beauty or charm.
NEB Exam-Style Questions & Answers
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Q:
What triggers the speaker’s memories in the poem "Piano"?
A: The sound of a woman singing and playing the piano. -
Q:
What does the speaker remember from his childhood?
A: Sitting under the piano while his mother played and sang. -
Q:
What is the main theme of the poem?
A: Nostalgia and the longing for the innocence of childhood. -
Q:
How does the poem use imagery?
A: It vividly describes the sights and sounds of the speaker’s childhood. -
Q:
Why is this poem relevant for students today?
A: It highlights the emotional power of music and the importance of family memories.
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