“Keeping Quiet Questions Answers for Class 12 in 2024” serves as a valuable study resource for CBSE Class 12 students. This material includes essential Q&A based on NCERT guidelines and additional significant questions extracted from the ‘Flamingo’ English textbook for Class XII (Core Course).
The Substance of Keeping Quiet Class 12
“Keeping Quiet” by Pablo Neruda is a reflective and philosophical poem that encourages a moment of collective silence and contemplation. The poem envisions a world where, for a brief period, humanity stops its usual activities and remains still. Neruda suggests that during this collective pause, people should refrain from speaking, moving, and engaging in the usual noise and chaos of daily life.
The poet proposes this act of stillness as a means to understand the interconnectedness of humanity and the world. Through silence, people can break down barriers, both physical and metaphorical, fostering a sense of unity and shared existence. Neruda envisions this quietude as a powerful gesture that transcends nationalities and ideologies, bringing people together in a moment of reflection and solidarity.
The poem also touches on themes of environmental awareness, urging people to consider their impact on the Earth. By ceasing destructive actions, the poet suggests that individuals can contribute to the preservation of the planet.
In essence, “Keeping Quiet” advocates for the importance of collective introspection, unity, and environmental responsibility in the face of a world often marked by haste and discord.
Translation
पाब्लो नेरुदा की “कीपिंग क्विट” एक चिंतनशील और दार्शनिक कविता है जो सामूहिक मौन और चिंतन के एक क्षण को प्रोत्साहित करती है। कविता एक ऐसी दुनिया की कल्पना करती है, जहां थोड़े समय के लिए मानवता अपनी सामान्य गतिविधियों को रोक देती है और स्थिर रहती है। नेरुदा का सुझाव है कि इस सामूहिक विराम के दौरान, लोगों को बोलने, हिलने-डुलने और दैनिक जीवन के सामान्य शोर और अराजकता में शामिल होने से बचना चाहिए।
कवि शांति के इस कार्य को मानवता और दुनिया के अंतर्संबंध को समझने के साधन के रूप में प्रस्तावित करता है। मौन के माध्यम से, लोग एकता और साझा अस्तित्व की भावना को बढ़ावा देते हुए, भौतिक और रूपक दोनों बाधाओं को तोड़ सकते हैं। नेरुदा इस शांति को एक शक्तिशाली संकेत के रूप में देखते हैं जो राष्ट्रीयताओं और विचारधाराओं से परे है, लोगों को प्रतिबिंब और एकजुटता के क्षण में एक साथ लाता है।
कविता पर्यावरण जागरूकता के विषयों को भी छूती है, लोगों से पृथ्वी पर उनके प्रभाव पर विचार करने का आग्रह करती है। विनाशकारी कार्यों को रोककर, कवि का सुझाव है कि व्यक्ति ग्रह के संरक्षण में योगदान दे सकते हैं।
संक्षेप में, “चुप रहना” अक्सर जल्दबाजी और कलह से चिह्नित दुनिया के सामने सामूहिक आत्मनिरीक्षण, एकता और पर्यावरणीय जिम्मेदारी के महत्व की वकालत करता है।
People also ask
Q4 Keeping Quiet Questions Answers Class 12 MCQ Extract Based 1
Read the following extract and choose the correct option.
A. For once on the face of the Earth
let’s not speak in any language,
let’s stop for one second,
and not move our arms so much.
It would be an exotic moment
without rush, without engines,
we would all be together
in a sudden strangeness.
i The poet uses the word “let’s” to _______
a) initiate a conversation between the poet and the readers.
b) invite readers as part of the poem’s larger call to humanity.
c) welcome readers into the world of the poem and its subject.
d) address readers as fellow members of the human race.
Ans: b) invite readers as part of the poem’s larger call to humanity.
ii Margaret Atwood said, “Language divides us into fragments, I wanted to be whole.”
Choose the option that correctly comments on the relationship between Margaret Atwood’s words and the line from the above extract – “let’s not speak in any language”
a) Atwood endorses Neruda’s call to not speak in any language.
b) Atwood justifies Neruda’s request to not engage in any speaking.
c) Atwood undermines Neruda’s intent to stop and not speak in any language.
d) Atwood surrenders to Neruda’s desire for silence and not speak in any language.
Ans: a) Atwood endorses Neruda’s call to not speak in any language.
iii Why do you think the poet employs words like “exotic” and “strangeness”?
a) To highlight the importance of everyone being together suddenly for once.
b) To emphasize the frenetic activity and chaos that usually envelops human life.
c) To indicate the unfamiliarity of a sudden moment without rush or without engine.
d) To direct us towards keeping quiet and how we would all be together in that silence.
Ans: b) To emphasize the frenetic activity and chaos that usually envelops human life.
iv Choose the option that correctly matches the idioms given in Column A with their meanings in Column B.
| Column A | Column B |
| 1. On the face of the earth | (i) In existence |
| 2. What on earth | (ii) To do all possible to accomplish something |
| 3. Move heaven and earth | (iii) To express surprise or shock |
| 4. The salt of the earth | (iv) To be good and worthy |
a) 1 – (i); 2 – (iv); 3 – (iii); 4 – (ii)
b) 1 – (i); 2 – (iii); 3 – (ii); 4 – (iv)
c) 1 – (ii); 2 – (i); 3 – (iv); 4 – (iii)
d) 1 – (iv); 2 – (ii); 3 – (iii); 4 – (i)
Ans: b) 1 – (i); 2 – (iii); 3 – (ii); 4 – (iv)
Q4 Keeping Quiet Questions Answers Class 12 MCQ Extract Based 2
Read the following extract and choose the correct option.
B. If we were not so single-minded
about keeping our lives moving,
and for once could do nothing,
perhaps a huge silence
might interrupt this sadness
of never understanding ourselves
and of threatening ourselves with
death.
i Look at the images given below. Choose the image to which the above extract can be seen as an appropriate response.
a) Option (i)
b) Option (ii)
c) Option (iii)
d) Option (iv)
Ans: d) Option (iv)
ii What do you think is the mood of the poet in the above extract?
a) gloomy, cynical
b) reflective, inspired
c) introspective, aware
d) critical, demotivated
Ans: c) introspective, aware
iii Pick the option that DOES NOT complete the given sentence suitably, as per the extract. Threatening ourselves with death __________
a) feeds on the fear of death.
b) challenges finiteness of life.
c) keeps us rushing through life.
d) makes us restless and impatient.
Ans: b) challenges finiteness of life.
iv What might the “huge silence” signify?
a) melancholy
b) understanding
c) discomfort
d) flexibility
Ans: b) understanding
Q5 Keeping Quiet Questions Answers Class 12 Stand-alone MCQs
I Read the statements given below carefully. Choose the option that best describes these statements, with reference to the poem.
1. Statement I – The poem ‘Keeping Quiet’ calls for change as much in the individual as human society at large.
2. Statement II – The poem ‘Keeping Quiet’ implies that individual change will lead to bigger societal change.
3. Statement III – Neruda believes that when people come together as a community, they will be able to bring a transformation in each person.
a) Statement I is True, Statement II is False, and Statement III cannot be inferred.
b) Statement I and II cannot be inferred, Statement III is True.
c) Statement I is True, Statements II and III cannot be inferred.
d) Statement I cannot be inferred, Statement II cannot be inferred, Statement III is False.
Ans: a) Statement I is True, Statement II is False, and Statement III cannot be inferred.
ii “What I want should not be confused with total inactivity.” Choose the option that draws the most accurate parallel.
keeping quiet: total inactivity = ______ : ______
a) reflection and death
b) silence and chaos
c) stagnation and introspection
d) mindfulness and fear
Ans: a) reflection and death
iii What statement does Neruda make about wars?
a) Wars are of varied kinds – internal, green wars, wars with gas, with fire etc.
b) Wars are wasteful and cause irrecoverable loss and damage to property and life.
c) Wars never yield any winners, and the loss is far greater than what can be measured.
d) Wars are unavoidable in the enduring struggle for human dignity and power.
Ans: c) Wars never yield any winners, and the loss is far greater than what can be measured.
iv “Now I’ll count up to twelve and you keep quiet and I will go.” Why does the poet wish to go at the end of the poem?
a) The poet does not believe people will be quiet.
b) The poet has already invested enough time.
c) The poet will move on and seek to inspire others.
d) The poet is marking the end of the poem by leaving.
Ans: c) The poet will move on and seek to inspire others.
Q10 Keeping Quiet Questions Answers Class 12 in 30-40 words
i In a world that is constantly running after ‘more’ chasing the next new thing, would it be fair to think of Neruda’s call as merely a fanciful idea?
Ans: In a world relentlessly pursuing ‘more,’ one might dismiss Neruda’s call in “Keeping Quiet” as fanciful. Yet, his plea for collective introspection remains relevant, urging us to pause, reflect, and find unity. In the cacophony of progress, Neruda’s words echo as a poignant reminder of the value in stillness.
ii The world has become a global village, and people across boundaries, nationalities and communities are now connected to one another.
With the advancement of technology, and the advent of social media, do you think that the task of keeping quiet, as envisaged by Neruda, has become easier or more complicated? Justify your stance.
Ans: The world’s transformation into a global village, facilitated by technology and social media, complicates Neruda’s call to “keep quiet.” While these tools enable connection, they also amplify noise. Distilling meaningful stillness amidst constant digital chatter becomes a challenging yet essential task in this interconnected era.
Q12 Keeping Quiet Questions Answers Class 12 in 120-150 words
i It could be said that the poem ‘Keeping Quiet’ presents the poet’s philosophy for a different kind of world.
If you were asked to highlight elements of Neruda’s vision that resonate in your specific social, political and cultural context, which three main ideas would you engage with?
Use relevant textual details to support your analysis.
Ans: In the contemporary context, Neruda’s “Keeping Quiet” resonates with its plea for global unity, environmental consciousness, and the power of collective silence. His vision aligns with the urgent need for international cooperation, transcending borders. Neruda’s emphasis on stillness echoes today’s call for environmental mindfulness, urging societies to reflect on ecological consequences. The poet’s idea of shared silence finds relevance in a world inundated with digital noise, advocating for moments of contemplation amid incessant connectivity. Additionally, his call for pausing to “stop the machinery of the world” mirrors contemporary discussions on slowing down, advocating for a more mindful and sustainable pace of life. Neruda’s timeless philosophy thus addresses pressing issues of our era, urging a reevaluation of interconnectedness, environmental responsibility, and the significance of collective introspection.
ii The last two years of school tend to be about planning for life after school. This can be motivating, overwhelming or encouraging for some, and stressful for others.
Write a diary entry recording your thoughts on the following:
• Neruda’s ideas in ‘Keeping Quiet’ as a guide in this situation.
• Thinking differently about your decisions with reference to Neruda’s ‘Keeping Quiet’.
Ans: Dear Diary,
Today, as I navigate the tumultuous sea of decisions about life after school, Neruda’s “Keeping Quiet” echoes in my mind. His call for collective introspection resonates amid the chaos of planning. In the rush to define my future, Neruda’s idea of pausing and “keeping quiet” prompts me to reflect on the authenticity of my choices. Instead of succumbing to societal pressures, I’m inspired to think differently, questioning conventional paths. Neruda’s vision challenges me to consider the impact of my decisions on a broader scale, emphasizing unity over individual pursuits. As I embark on this journey of self-discovery, I find solace in the notion that collective stillness can guide me towards a more meaningful and interconnected future.
Yours contemplatively,
[Your Name]
Extra Keeping Quiet Questions Answers Class 12
Ans: “Keeping Quiet” is related to life by advocating for moments of collective introspection and stillness amidst the hurried pace of existence. It suggests that in the quietude, individuals can gain insights, foster unity, and consider the impact of their actions on life and the world.
What is the significance of keeping quiet short answer?
Ans: The significance of “Keeping Quiet” lies in its call for collective introspection and stillness. It urges individuals to pause, fostering unity and environmental consciousness. The poem highlights the transformative power of silence in bringing about positive change in individuals and society.
What does the poem Keeping quiet teach us?
Ans: “Keeping Quiet” teaches us the transformative power of collective introspection and stillness. It emphasizes unity, environmental awareness, and the potential for positive change when individuals pause to reflect on their interconnectedness and the impact of their actions.
What is the moral of keeping quiet?
Ans: The moral of “Keeping Quiet” lies in the value of collective introspection and stillness. It teaches us to reflect on our interconnectedness, fostering unity and environmental responsibility. The poem suggests that moments of quietude can lead to positive change and understanding.
What does green war mean?
Ans: “Green war” could refer to a conflict or struggle related to environmental issues, often associated with efforts to protect or preserve nature. It signifies battles for ecological conservation, sustainable practices, and the mitigation of environmental degradation.
What is man single minded about?
Ans: The question is quite broad, and without specific context, it’s challenging to pinpoint what exactly “man” may be single-minded about. People can be single-minded about various pursuits, such as career goals, personal aspirations, relationships, or specific beliefs and ideologies.
What sadness does the poet refer to?
Ans: Without specific details about the poem or poet in question, it’s challenging to identify the referred sadness. Poets often explore a range of emotions, from personal sorrows to broader societal concerns. Context about the poem or poet would be necessary for a more accurate interpretation.
What does the poet mean by single-minded?
Ans: “Single-minded” refers to a person who is intensely focused, determined, or unwavering in pursuing a particular goal or objective. It implies a concentration of efforts and attention on a singular purpose, often indicating a strong and undivided commitment to that pursuit.
