Difficult Words
with their Meanings: Nose Versus Eyes by William Cowper
1. Spectacles -
Glasses used for clear vision.
2. Unhappily - In
a manner causing sorrow or unhappiness.
3. Wig - A
special covering for the head made of artificial hair worn by judges or
lawyers.
4. Baron - A
powerful person or nobleman.
5. Discerning -
Showing good judgment or perception.
6. Amounts to -
Becomes equivalent to or is considered as.
7. Straddle -
Extend across or be placed on both sides of.
8. Ridge - An
edge or raised part.
9. Saddle - A
seat for a rider on a horse or camel.
10. Visage or
countenance - The face or facial expression.
11. Dispute - A
disagreement, argument, or debate between two parties.
12. Ought -
Should, indicating a moral obligation or duty.
13. Lawyer - A
person who practices law and represents clients in legal matters.
14. Talent -
Natural aptitude or skill in a particular area.
15. Possession -
Ownership or control of something.
16. Time out of
mind - A phrase meaning for a very long time, beyond memory or recorded
history.
17. Nicely - With
great precision or delicacy.
18. Visage -
Another term for the face or facial features.
19. Decree - An
official order or decision issued by a legal authority.
20. Solemn -
Serious, dignified, or formal in manner.
21. Cause - In
this context, it means the reason or grounds for an action or argument.
22. Argument - A
logical reason or series of reasons presented to support a point of view or
persuade others.
23. Equally - To
the same extent or degree.
24. Decisive -
Settling an issue or producing a definite result.
25. Daylight -
The natural light from the sun during the day.
26. Candlelight -
The light produced by a candle.
27. Enlist - To
engage or secure someone's help or support.
28. Famed -
Famous or well-known for a particular quality or achievement.
29. Condemn - To
express strong disapproval or judgment against something.
30. Plead - To
present arguments or make a case in a court of law.
In the poem Nose versus Eyes by William Cowper, there are three main characters:
1. Nose:
Represents the nose, one of the facial features, and argues that the spectacles
were designed for the nose and should belong to it.
2. Eyes:
Represents the eyes, another facial feature, and argues that the spectacles
should belong to the eyes instead.
3. Chief Baron
Ear: Serves as the judge in the strange contest between the nose and the eyes.
He is known for his talent in discerning and balancing the laws.
Summary of the
Poem Nose versus Eyes by William Cowper
The poem
"Nose versus Eyes" by William Cowper presents a playful and whimsical
contest between two facial features, the Nose and the Eyes, over the ownership
of a pair of spectacles. The poem personifies these features and uses them as
characters in a light-hearted dispute.
The poem starts
by setting the stage for the contest between the Nose and the Eyes. The Nose
and the Eyes are unhappy because the spectacles are set on them in a way that
doesn't suit their individual needs. A powerful person, the Chief Baron Ear,
serves as the judge in this contest and is known for his discernment and good
judgment.
The lawyer,
Tongue, argues the case on behalf of the Nose. He points out that the Nose has
had spectacles "time out of mind," suggesting that spectacles have
always been naturally positioned close to the nose, like a saddle on a horse or
camel. Tongue contends that the spectacles were made for the Nose and the Nose
was intended to wear them.
Then, Tongue
shifts his argument to represent the Eyes. However, the poem doesn't delve into
the specific arguments he presents for the Eyes, implying that they were not as
convincing as those for the Nose. The judge, Chief Baron Ear, ultimately makes
his decisive ruling: whenever the Nose puts on the spectacles, the Eyes should
be shut, implying that the Nose is the rightful owner of the spectacles.
Figures of speech
from the Poem Nose versus Eyes" by William Cowper :
1.
Personification:
Example:
"The spectacles set them unhappily wrong."
Explanation: In
this line, the spectacles are personified as having the ability to set the Nose
and Eyes unhappily wrong. It attributes human characteristics to an inanimate
object, enhancing the whimsical and playful nature of the poem.
Example:
"Your lordship observes they are made with a straddle As wide as the ridge
of the Nose is; in short, Designed to sit close to it, just like a
saddle."
Explanation:
Here, the poet compares the design of the spectacles to a saddle that fits
closely to the ridge of the Nose. The metaphor emphasizes the perfect fit of
the spectacles for the Nose, highlighting the Nose's claim of ownership.
Example:
"Then shifting his side, as a lawyer knows how..."
Explanation: The
repetition of the "s" sound in "shifting his side" is an
example of alliteration. Alliteration adds a rhythmic quality to the line, drawing
attention to the lawyer's change in argument.
Example:
"With a reasoning the court will never condemn..."
Explanation: This
line employs hyperbole by suggesting that the court will never condemn the
lawyer's reasoning. It exaggerates the strength of the lawyer's argument for
dramatic effect.
Example:
"That the spectacles plainly were made for the Nose, And the Nose was as
plainly intended for them."
Explanation: The
repetition of the word "plainly" emphasizes the clear and obvious
connection between the spectacles and the Nose, reinforcing the Nose's claim to
ownership.
Example:
"For the court did not think they were equally wise."
Explanation: This
line uses irony to reveal that the court did not find the lawyer's arguments on
behalf of the Eyes as equally wise as those for the Nose. It adds a humorous
twist to the poem's courtroom setting.
Example:
"Between Nose and Eyes a strange contest arose..."
Explanation: The
poet uses a simile to compare the contest between the Nose and the Eyes to
something strange, emphasizing the unusual nature of the dispute.
Example:
"Then holding the spectacles up to the court..."
Explanation: This
line creates a vivid mental image of the lawyer holding the spectacles up for
the court to see, utilizing visual imagery to enhance the reader's imagination.
Example: "By
daylight or candlelight-Eyes should be shut!"
Explanation: The
pun is used here to create a humorous play on words. "Eyes should be shut"
can be interpreted literally as the Eyes closing their eyelids when the Nose
wears the spectacles, but it also suggests that the Eyes should refrain from
claiming ownership.
10. Metonymy:
Example:
"The Eyes"
Explanation:
Metonymy is used here when the poet refers to the Eyes to represent the entire
person, highlighting the Eyes' perspective in the contest.
Example: "A
case that has happened, and may be again."
Explanation: The
poet uses euphemism to refer to a hypothetical situation where someone has a
visage or countenance without a Nose. It softens the idea of someone being
noseless, making it less direct and potentially humorous.
Example:
"With great deal of skill, and a wig full of learning; While Chief Baron
Ear sat to balance the laws..."
Explanation: This
line highlights the contrast between the lawyer Tongue's presentation of
arguments with skill and knowledge and the Chief Baron Ear's role of
objectively weighing and judging those arguments.
Example:
"But what were his arguments few people know..."
Explanation: The
poet uses understatement to downplay the importance of the Eyes' arguments,
suggesting that they were not as well-received or convincing as those of the
Nose.
Example: "By
daylight or candlelight-Eyes should be shut!"
Explanation: The
spectacles in this line symbolize the ownership and control over one's
perspective or vision. When the Nose wears the spectacles, the Eyes are
symbolically "shut" to acknowledge the Nose's ownership.
Write an
appreciation of Nose versus Eyes by William Cowper:
· About the poem, poet and title
· Theme Poetic style, language,
· poetic devices used in the poem
· Special features Message/values/morals in the poem
· Your opinion about the poem
About the Poem,
Poet, and Title:
"Nose versus
Eyes" is a delightful and humorous poem written by William Cowper, a
renowned English poet and hymnodist of the 18th century. The title itself
piques the reader's curiosity, hinting at a playful rivalry between two facial
features. Cowper's witty and imaginative approach to personifying the Nose and
the Eyes adds a whimsical touch to the poem, making it an enjoyable and
entertaining read.
Theme:
The central theme
of the poem revolves around a light-hearted contest between the Nose and the
Eyes over the possession of spectacles. The poem humorously explores the
perspectives of these facial features and cleverly uses them as characters in a
legal dispute. Underlying this amusing tale, the poem also touches on the idea
of individuality and the unique roles that different parts of our body play in
our lives.
Poetic Style,
Language, and Poetic Devices:
Cowper employs a
playful and light-hearted poetic style that engages the reader from the
beginning. The language is accessible, and the use of simple and vivid imagery
allows the reader to visualize the comical spectacle of the Nose and the Eyes
vying for the ownership of the spectacles. The poem utilizes rhyme and rhythm,
contributing to its musical flow and creating a pleasant reading experience.
Special Features:
One of the
special features of the poem is its personification of facial features and the
incorporation of legal language and courtroom imagery to present their
arguments. The poem cleverly uses these features to create a unique and
imaginative narrative. Additionally, the poem's brevity adds to its charm, as
it delivers its playful message concisely.
Message/Values/Morals
in the Poem:
While the poem is
primarily a humorous and light-hearted work, it also subtly emphasizes the
importance of accepting individual differences and uniqueness. Each facial
feature, represented by the Nose and the Eyes, plays a distinct role, and the
poem suggests that it is essential to embrace and appreciate these differences
rather than competing for superiority.
Your Opinion
about the Poem:
As a reader, I
find "Nose versus Eyes" to be an endearing and entertaining poem that
showcases William Cowper's creative and witty imagination. The poem's unique
concept of anthropomorphizing facial features adds a touch of whimsy to the
narrative, making it an enjoyable piece of literature. Beyond its humor, the
poem subtly reminds us to value and respect the diversity of our physical
attributes, an important lesson to carry into our daily lives. Overall,
"Nose versus Eyes" is a charming and cleverly crafted poem that
leaves a smile on the reader's face.
Questions and
Answers on the poem Nose versus Eyes by William Cowper
Q1: Who are the
main characters in the poem "Nose versus Eyes"?
A: The main characters
in the poem are the Nose and the Eyes, which represent facial features engaged
in a contest over the ownership of spectacles. Additionally, the Chief Baron
Ear serves as the judge in the strange contest.
Q2: What is the
central theme of the poem?
A: The central
theme of the poem is the humorous contest between the Nose and the Eyes over
the possession of spectacles. The poem playfully explores the unique roles of
different facial features and emphasizes the importance of accepting individual
differences.
Q3: What is the
role of the lawyer Tongue in the poem?
A: Tongue serves
as the lawyer in the poem, representing the Nose in the contest over the
spectacles. He argues on behalf of the Nose, presenting the case that the
spectacles belong to the Nose and were intended for it.
Q4: How does the
poem use personification to create a playful atmosphere?
A: The poem
personifies the Nose and the Eyes, treating them as if they were characters
with individual desires and perspectives. By giving human-like qualities to
facial features, the poem creates a playful and whimsical atmosphere.
Q5: What is the
decision of the Chief Baron Ear in the contest between the Nose and the Eyes?
A: The Chief
Baron Ear rules that whenever the Nose puts on the spectacles, the Eyes should
be shut. This decision implies that the spectacles belong to the Nose.
Q6: What poetic
devices does the poet use in the poem?
A: The poet uses
rhyme and rhythm to create a musical flow in the poem. Additionally, the poem
employs personification, metaphor (comparing spectacles to a saddle), and
imagery to add depth and humor to the narrative.
Q7: What values
or morals can be derived from the poem?
A: The poem
subtly emphasizes the importance of embracing individuality and appreciating
the unique roles that different body parts play in our lives. It encourages
acceptance and celebrates diversity.
Q8: What makes
"Nose versus Eyes" a unique and entertaining poem?
A: "Nose
versus Eyes" is unique and entertaining due to its imaginative
personification of facial features and the playful contest over the spectacles.
The poem's creative concept, humor, and concise storytelling make it an
enjoyable read.
Q9: How does the
poem use courtroom imagery to present the dispute between the Nose and the
Eyes?
A: The poem uses
legal language, references to a lawyer, and a judge (Chief Baron Ear) to
present the contest as a court case. This adds a humorous and formal element to
the poem's whimsical narrative.
Q10: How does the
poet create a lighthearted and humorous tone in the poem?
A: The poet
creates a lighthearted and humorous tone through the use of playful language
and witty arguments made by the lawyer Tongue. The comical imagery of the Nose
wearing spectacles like a saddle on a horse, and the Eyes having to be shut
when the Nose wears them, adds to the amusement of the poem.
Q11: How does the
poem explore the concept of possession and ownership in a humorous way?
A: The poem humorously
explores the concept of possession and ownership by personifying the Nose and
the Eyes and presenting them as having competing claims over the spectacles.
This playful dispute over a physical object, like spectacles, adds a whimsical
touch to the theme of ownership.
Q12: Does the
poem have any underlying social commentary or deeper meaning?
A: While the poem
primarily entertains with its humor and imaginative portrayal of facial
features, it does offer subtle social commentary on the importance of embracing
individual differences and avoiding unnecessary rivalry. The poem suggests that
each body part has its own purpose, and it is essential to appreciate and
respect these differences.
Q13: How does the
poem's brevity enhance its impact?
A: The brevity of
the poem allows the poet to deliver a concise and engaging narrative. By
presenting the dispute and the judge's ruling in a succinct manner, the poem
maintains a focused and light-hearted tone, capturing the reader's attention
throughout.
Q14: What emotions
does the poem evoke in the reader?
A: The poem
evokes amusement, delight, and a sense of whimsy in the reader. The clever
personification of facial features and the humorous courtroom setting create a
joyful and entertaining reading experience.
Q15: How does the
poet use rhyme and rhythm to enhance the poem's appeal?
A: The poet's use
of rhyme and rhythm creates a musical quality that makes the poem enjoyable to
read aloud. The rhyming lines and consistent rhythm contribute to the poem's
playful and light-hearted atmosphere.
Q16: Is there any
deeper philosophical or existential aspect to the poem?
A: While the poem
focuses on a light-hearted contest between the Nose and the Eyes, it indirectly
touches upon existential themes by highlighting the uniqueness of each
individual's physical attributes. The poem encourages readers to appreciate
their distinctiveness and embrace their roles in life, even in seemingly small
matters like owning a pair of spectacles.
Q17: How does the
poem engage the reader's imagination?
A: The poem
engages the reader's imagination through its personification of facial features
and the clever arguments presented by the lawyer Tongue. The reader is invited
to visualize the humorous scene of the Nose and the Eyes competing over the
spectacles, creating a vivid and entertaining mental picture.
Q18: In your
opinion, what is the most enjoyable aspect of the poem?
A: In my opinion,
the most enjoyable aspect of the poem is the poet's ability to turn a simple
and mundane subject into an imaginative and entertaining tale. The playful
personification of facial features and the humorous courtroom setting add a
delightful charm to the poem, making it a delightful read that brings a smile
to one's face.
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