Be the Best

 Answers to textual questions given in page in 105

2. Answer the following questions.

a. The poem works through a contrast of the ‘the high’ and ‘the low’. Can you give examples from the poem and explain this statement?

The poet uses phrases like a hill and a valley, a bush and a tree, bush and grass, Muskie and bass, captain and crew, highway and trail, sun and star to highlight contrast. The poet makes it clear that we can remain where we are and yet be the best.

b. What should be our attitude towards our work?

We must always try to do our best in whatever we do.

c. The poet makes effective use of the repetition of the refrain ‘If you can’t be ….’. What kind of an effect does this have on the reader? Does the repetition help the poet influence the reader in any way?

Yes. The poet is effective in using the repetition of the refrain. By repeating it, the poet stresses the point that we have to be the best.

d. Do you believe that some occupations are ‘low’ while some are ‘high’? Give reasons to support your answer.

No. I don’t believe that one occupation is ‘low’ and the other occupation is ‘high’. Every job is equally important. A gatekeeper is as important as the boss of the company. Both have specific works to do and each work plays a role for the smooth running of the company.