The Peacock
NCERT Class 11 English Chapter 9: The Peacock (Pages 107–108)
Summary of The Peacock
Playing 00:00 / 00:00
The Peacock at a Glance
CBSE
Class 11
English
Woven Words
9
107–108
6 study resources
The Peacock Summary
In this chapter, we delve into the poem 'The Peacock' by Sujata Bhatt, which beautifully describes the majestic bird and its surroundings. The poem begins with the startling sound of the peacock, whose loud, sharp call captures our attention. The imagery of the peacock is vivid, with a flash of turquoise color seen in a pipal tree. The way the poet describes the peacock's slender neck and its movement conveys a sense of elegance and grace. As the poem progresses, Bhatt invites us to observe the peacock closely while we sit on the veranda, emphasizing the need for concentration and focus. The advice to read a favorite book suggests that immersing ourselves in literature prepares us to notice the subtle changes in our environment. The moment we lose ourselves in a story, our awareness of the outside world transforms; a blue shadow falls over us, indicating the presence of the peacock. The poet touches on the interconnectedness of nature, highlighting how silence envelops the area when the peacock appears. The steady buzz of bees ceases, and even the cat in the nearby bushes seems to pause. This moment illustrates the serene and captivating nature of the peacock, whose presence commands attention. Should we look up just in time, we might catch a glimpse of the peacock as it gathers its magnificent tail, demonstrating the flash of color and movement associated with this beautiful bird. Bhatt skillfully draws a connection between the peacock's tail and its eyes. The image of the tail blinking as the peacock closes its glowing, amber-fringed eyes adds a layer of depth to the visual experience. This portrayal of the peacock captures both its physical beauty and its elusive nature. The chapter emphasizes how the peacock’s vivid colors and intricate movements invite both wonder and contemplation. Finally, the poet reflects on the symbolism associated with peacocks, particularly in India, where they are revered as the national bird. Their association with pride and beauty is well-noted, yet Bhatt helps us see beyond this stereotype, inviting us to appreciate the subtleties and nuances of the peacock in a broader context. Overall, 'The Peacock' is not just a celebration of a bird; it’s an exploration of the beauty in our natural surroundings and the enchantment that can be found when we pause to observe the world around us.
