Dust of Snow- Robert Frost

Dust of Snow

By Robert Frost

The way a crow

Shook down on me

The dust of snow

From a hemlock tree

Has given my heart

A change of mood

And saved some part

Of a day I had rued.

Notes on "Dust of Snow" written by Robert Frost 

                                 By Gargi Ghosh  

©2023 G. Ghosh, All rights reserved 

    About Robert Frost 

Frost’s poetry is often characterized by themes of nature, isolation, and the human condition. His poems are often rooted in the rural landscape of New England, and he often employs traditional forms and rhythms. Frost’s style is direct, and accessible, and often uses simple language to express complex ideas.

About The Poem 

"Dust of Snow" is a poem written by American poet Robert Frost. It was first published in "New Hampshire" in 1923. The poem describes a moment of unexpected beauty in an otherwise gloomy day, as a crow shakes snow off a tree branch and it falls on the speaker, changing their mood for the better. Frost's works often explore the themes of nature, human experience, and the struggle between individuality and conformity. "Dust of Snow" is a concise example of Frost's ability to capture everyday moments and make them resonate with readers.

In “Dust of Snow”, Robert Frost explores the theme of how even the smallest things in life can bring us joy and change our mood. The poem consists of two stanzas in which the speaker describes how he was feeling down about his day until a crow shaking snow off a hemlock tree caused some of the snow to fall on him. This seemingly insignificant event caused a shift in the speaker’s mood and he feels uplifted.

Relevance in Today's World 

The relevance of “Dust of Snow” in today's world is that it reminds us to take pleasure in the small things in life. In a world that often seems overwhelming, we can find moments of joy and upliftment in the most unexpected places. This poem encourages us to appreciate the natural world around us and to find beauty and solace in moments of ordinary simplicity.

Elaboration: 

Frost's poem describes a moment of transformation, where an ordinary experience becomes extraordinary. While walking in the woods, the speaker is suddenly showered with snow by a crow shaking a hemlock tree. This unexpected event transforms the speaker's mood from one of "disdain" to one of "delight." The simplicity of the moment highlights the power of small, unexpected joys, and suggests that even seemingly insignificant experiences can have a profound impact on our lives. 

The theme of the poem: 

The theme of "Dust of Snow" is the transformative power of nature. The poem suggests that even small, seemingly mundane experiences can have a profound impact on our lives, altering our moods and perspectives. Additionally, the poem highlights the role of nature in providing these transformative experiences, suggesting that the natural world has the power to lift our spirits and change our outlooks. 

About the Characters: 

There are two main characters in the poem: the speaker and the crow. While the speaker is not explicitly characterized, their mood and perspective are key to the poem's message. Meanwhile, the crow is personified as an agent of change, shaking the tree and showering the speaker with snow. 

   The poem is written in simple language and form, with a clear narrative arc. Its brevity and accessibility make it a popular choice for students and poets alike. 

Conclusion: 

"Dust of Snow" is a simple yet powerful poem that explores the transformative power of nature. Through a brief and unexpected encounter with a crow and hemlock tree, the speaker's mood and perspective are changed, highlighting the importance of small, unexpected joys in our lives. By focusing on the role of nature in these transformative experiences, the poem encourages readers to stay attuned to the beauty and power of the natural world around them.

©2023 G. Ghosh, All rights reserved 

Written by Gargi Ghosh

Gargi Ghosh (M.A, B.Ed, M.B.A, TEFL) is an Educator, an artist, and a graphic designer. A winner of awards in the categories of Women's Award-An Inspiring Woman (2019), Most Socially Active Principal (2020), Top Educators of India (2020), and Top 100 Iconic Educators of India (2021). She has published her poems in several international anthologies and secured the 8th position in a Global Poetry Competition. 

10 Books That Every Literature Students Should Read

10 Books That Every Literature Student Should Read

By Gargi Ghosh  

©2023 G. Ghosh, All rights reserved 

1. The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer: A classic collection of stories that demonstrates the diversity of medieval literature forms. It offers a glimpse into how people lived during that period and the issues they faced.

2. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen: A quintessential novel that encapsulates the Regency era of English literature. It is an insightful social commentary on the cultural conventions, social norms, and class hierarchy of the time.

3. Hamlet by William Shakespeare: Considered one of Shakespeare's masterpieces, it explores themes of death, love, revenge, and the human psyche. It is a timeless play that continues to resonate with audiences today.

4. Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte: A Gothic novel that captures the raw emotions of love, jealousy, and revenge. It is a haunting story that showcases the creative ingenuity of Bronte's writing.

5. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald: An iconic novel that paints a picture of the aristocracy's lavish lifestyle during the Jazz Age. It is a critique of the American Dream and how it is often unattainable.

6. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee: A powerful novel that sheds light on racial injustice in America. It is a poignant tale that underscores the importance of tolerance, compassion, and equality.

7. Dubliners by James Joyce: A collection of short stories that capture the essence of Ireland. It is a celebration of the human condition and the struggles of an ordinary person.

8. Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen: Another classic from Austen that highlights the importance of finding a balance between emotion and rationality. It is a poignant reminder that our decisions can have a profound impact on our happiness and well-being.

9. The Waste Land by T.S. Eliot: A seminal poem that reflects the disillusionment of the post-World War I era. It explores themes of death, decay, and loss of faith.

10. A Room of One's Own by Virginia Woolf: A seminal essay that deliberates on the importance of gender identity and equity in the literary world. It is a call to action for women to claim their autonomy and voice in a society that seeks to silence them.

These ten books offer a diverse range of narrative styles, themes, and eras that can enrich any English literature student's reading journey. They remind us of the complexity, beauty, and transcendence of the human experience.

©2023 G. Ghosh, All rights reserved 

Written by Gargi Ghosh

Gargi Ghosh (M.A, B.Ed, M.B.A, TEFL) is an Educator, an artist, and a graphic designer. A winner of awards in the categories of Women's Award-An Inspiring Woman (2019), Most Socially Active Principal (2020), Top Educators of India (2020), and Top 100 Iconic Educators of India (2021). She has published her poems in several international anthologies and secured the 8th position in a Global Poetry Competition. 

Sample Letters- To Bank

How to Write an Application to the Bank Manager to Change Your Mobile Number

r

©2023 G. Ghosh, All rights reserved 

By Gargi Ghosh  

Application 1:

Flat No. 3C, Nayee Disha Apartments

Rohini Nagar, Lajpat Road

Delhi – 

February 11, 2023

The Bank Manager

State Bank of India

Rohini Nagar Branch 

Delhi – 

Subject: Application to change the mobile number

Respected Madam/Sir,

I am writing this letter to bring to your notice that my mobile number which is linked to my bank account has been changed. The current mobile number registered with my bank account is [old mobile number] which is no longer in use. My new mobile number is [new mobile number], and I would like to request you to kindly update my mobile number on record.

I would appreciate it if you could take the necessary steps to update my mobile number in your records as soon as possible. This would enable me to receive any SMS alerts, notifications, OTPs, and other bank-related updates promptly. Furthermore, it would help me to stay informed about any changes or transactions taking place in my Bank account.

I hope you will take prompt action and update my mobile number in your records. If you have any queries or require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me on my new mobile number.

Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.

Yours Sincerely,

Signature of the sender

[Your Name]

Application 2:

Flat No. 4B, Sunayani Apartments

Vasant Vihar, Purani Dilli

Delhi – 

February 11, 2023

The Bank Manager

State Bank of India

Vasant Vihar Branch 

Delhi – 

Subject: Request for change of Registered Mobile Number with Bank Account

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing this letter to request you to change the registered mobile number with my bank account. My current mobile number which is linked to my bank account is [old mobile number]. However, due to some personal reasons, I have switched to a new mobile number, and I would like to update it as soon as possible.

Therefore, I request you to kindly update my mobile number in your records and inform me of the same. I have already submitted a photocopy of my identity proof along with this letter for your reference.

I hope you will take prompt action and update my mobile number in your records as soon as possible. This will enable me to receive SMS alerts, notifications, OTPs, and other bank-related updates without any delay. Please contact me on my new mobile number if you require any further information or have any queries.

Thanking you,

Signature of the sender

[Your Name]

Application 3:

Flat No. 8C, Family Apartments

Sarojini Market, Naiyee Dilli

Delhi – 

February 11, 2023

The Bank Manager

State Bank of India

Sarojini Market Branch 

Delhi – 

Subject: Request for Updation of Mobile Number

Dear Bank Manager,

I am a long-time customer of your bank and have been holding a Savings Account in your bank for the last [number of years/months]. My account number is [account number], and my name is [Your name].

Through this letter, I request you to kindly update and modify the mobile number registered with my Bank account. My current mobile number [old mobile number] is no longer in use, and I have switched to a new mobile number [new mobile number].

Accordingly, I request you to please update my new mobile number in your records and kindly acknowledge the same via SMS or email. To ensure the authenticity of my request, I am attaching a copy of my identity proof to this letter.

I thank you in advance for your prompt attention to this matter. Please let me know if any further information or documentation is required from my end.

With Respect and Gratitude,

Signature of the sender

[Your Name]

©2023 G. Ghosh, All rights reserved 

Written by Gargi Ghosh

Gargi Ghosh (M.A, B.Ed, M.B.A, TEFL) is an Educator, an artist, and a graphic designer. A winner of awards in the categories of Women's Award-An Inspiring Woman (2019), Most Socially Active Principal (2020), Top Educators of India (2020), and Top 100 Iconic Educators of India (2021). She has published her poems in several international anthologies and secured the 8th position in a Global Poetry Competition.  

Role play- Road Trip Planning

Role play - Friends Planning a Road Trip

©2023 G. Ghosh, All rights reserved      

By Gargi Ghosh  

Characters:

- Jessica

- Michael

- Emma

- Tyler

Setting: a school library

Jessica: Hey guys, I was thinking about going on a road trip during our upcoming break. Anyone else interested?

Michael: Yeah, definitely! But where do you want to go?

Emma: I’ve always wanted to go to Yellowstone National Park. Maybe we could start there?

Tyler: Sounds like a plan. What about transportation?

Jessica: We can rent a van. We’ll need to split the costs, though.

Michael: How many days are we thinking?

Emma: I was thinking a week. That should give us enough time to see everything we want.

Tyler: Great! Let’s make a list of all the things we want to see and do.

Jessica: And we’ll need to figure out our accommodations, too.

Michael: I know a website where we can rent an RV. That could be a fun option.

Emma: Yeah, but it might be more expensive. We could always camp, though.

Tyler: I have a tent we can use, and I’m sure we could rent some camping gear.

Jessica: There are also some cheap motels along the way if we wanted to mix it up.

Michael: So, we have transportation, activities, and accommodations. What else do we need?

Emma: Food, of course! We should bring snacks for the trip and plan out our meals.

Tyler: And don’t forget about gas and other expenses.

Jessica: Right. Let’s make a budget and divide up the responsibilities. I can be in charge of food.

Michael: I’ll take care of gas and the van rental.

Emma: I’ll be in charge of finding campsites and RV rentals.

Tyler: And I’ll handle any other expenses and make sure we stay on budget.

Jessica: This is going to be so much fun! We should start booking things soon before everything gets booked up.

Michael: Agreed. Let’s get started on our planning checklist.

Emma: And make sure we communicate with each other regularly to keep everyone in the loop.

Tyler: And don’t forget to bring your cameras to capture all the memories we’ll make!

All together: Let’s go on an adventure!

 ©2023 G. Ghosh, All rights reserved 

Written by Gargi Ghosh

Gargi Ghosh (M.A, B.Ed, M.B.A, TEFL) is an Educator, an artist, and a graphic designer. A winner of awards in the categories of Women's Award-An Inspiring Woman (2019), Most Socially Active Principal (2020), Top Educators of India (2020), and Top 100 Iconic Educators of India (2021). She has published her poems in several international anthologies and secured the 8th position in a Global Poetry Competition.  

Standing Against Ragging- Play

 Title: "Break the Chain: Standing Against Ragging"                  ©2023 G. Ghosh, All rights reserved                        

By Gargi Ghosh  

Characters:

- Maya (Main protagonist)

- Rohit (Maya's friend)

- Senior Student (Ragger)

- College Principal

- Supportive Students (Sara, Rahul, and Priya)

Scene 1: Freshers' Induction Day

(Maya and Rohit enter the college campus, excited but nervous.)

Maya: (whispering) Rohit, I've heard about ragging. I hope we don't have to go through that.

Rohit: Don't worry, Maya. We'll stick together and support each other. Let's find our classrooms first.

Scene 2: Encounter with the Senior Student

(Senior Student approaches Maya and Rohit with an intimidating demeanor.)

Senior Student: Hey, freshers! Welcome to our college. We have some traditions here.

Maya: (nervously) What kind of traditions?

Senior Student: Well, let's just say we like to have some fun with the newbies. You'll find out soon enough.

Scene 3: Maya and Rohit's Conversation

(Maya and Rohit discuss their concerns.)

Maya: We can't let them intimidate us, Rohit. We need to stand up against ragging.

Rohit: Absolutely, Maya. It's important to raise our voices and create awareness about its harmful effects.

Scene 4: The Ragging Incident

(Senior Student corners Maya alone in an empty corridor.)

Senior Student: Now, it's time to have some real fun with you, freshman.

Maya: (finding courage) No! I refuse to be a victim of ragging. It's against our rights and dignity as students.

Scene 5: Intervention of Supportive Students

(Sara, Rahul, and Priya appear on the scene.)

Sara: Leave her alone! Ragging is not acceptable in our college.

Rahul: We stand together against this cruel practice. It's time to break the chain of ragging.

Priya: Let's report this to the college authorities and demand action.

Scene 6: Meeting with the College Principal

(Maya, Rohit, and supportive students meet with the College Principal.)

College Principal: I am appalled to hear about this incident. Ragging has no place in our college. Thank you for bringing this to my attention.

Maya: We want to create awareness among students and promote a ragging-free environment.

Rohit: We request your support and guidance in organizing anti-ragging campaigns and workshops.

Scene 7: Anti-Ragging Campaign

(Maya, Rohit, and supportive students initiate an anti-ragging campaign within the college.)

Maya: (addressing a gathering of students) Friends, ragging not only hurts individuals, but it also creates a toxic environment that hampers learning and personal growth. It's time to break the silence and fight against ragging.

Rohit: Let's support each other, respect one another, and promote a culture of inclusivity and compassion.

Scene 8: Impact and Resolution

(Over time, the college becomes a safe and welcoming space for all students.)

Maya: I'm glad we took a stand against ragging. Our united efforts have created a positive change.

Rohit: It's important to remember that we all have a responsibility to foster a supportive and respectful environment.

(Scene ends with the college campus filled with students engaged in activities together, symbolizing unity and the eradication of ragging.)

Note: The script can be modified and adapted based on the specific requirements and preferences of the production team or educational institution. It is important to consult with relevant authorities and experts to ensure the accuracy of the information and the effectiveness of the message.

* The intention of this article is not to trigger any traumatic experience. 

 ©2023 G. Ghosh, All rights reserved 

Written by Gargi Ghosh

Gargi Ghosh (M.A, B.Ed, M.B.A, TEFL) is an Educator, an artist, and a graphic designer. A winner of awards in the categories of Women's Award-An Inspiring Woman (2019), Most Socially Active Principal (2020), Top Educators of India (2020), and Top 100 Iconic Educators of India (2021). She has published her poems in several international anthologies and secured the 8th position in a Global Poetry Competition.  

Role play: Restaurant conversation

 Role play: Restaurant conversation for students

                                                                                                            

                                   ©2023 G. Ghosh, All rights reserved 

By Gargi Ghosh  

Characters:

1. Waiter/Waitress 

2. Student 1 

3. Student 2 

Scene: Inside a restaurant

 

(Waiter/Waitress approaches the table)

 

Waiter/Waitress: Good evening. Welcome to our restaurant. May I know how many people are dining with us today?

 

Student 1: Hi. We’re just two.

 

Waiter/Waitress: Great. Please follow me and I’ll show you to your table.

 

(They follow the Waiter/Waitress to their table and sit down)

 

Waiter/Waitress: Here’s your menu. Can I get you anything to drink?

 

Student 2: I’ll have a coke, please.

 

Student 1: Same here, just coke.

Waiter/Waitress: Alright. Your drinks will be ready shortly. Would you like some time to go through the menu or do you know what you’d like to order?

Student 1: We need a few minutes, please.

 

Waiter/Waitress: Sure. Take your time.

 

(After a few minutes)

 

Waiter/Waitress: Are you ready to order?

 

Student 2: Yes, I’d like to have the spaghetti carbonara.

 

Student 1: And I’d like to have the grilled chicken burger with fries.

 

Waiter/Waitress: Sounds great. Anything else I can get for you?

 

Student 1: No, thank you.

 

Waiter/Waitress: Alright, your order will be ready soon.

 

(The Waiter/Waitress leaves to place their order)

 

Student 1: I’m so hungry. Can’t wait for the food.

 

Student 2: Me too. And I’ve heard the carbonara here is really good.

Student 1: That’s what I’ve heard too. Hope my chicken burger is as good as the reviews say.

 

(Their food arrives)

 

Waiter/Waitress: Here’s your order. Enjoy your meal.

 

Student 1: The burger looks amazing.

 

Student 2: And the carbonara smells so good.

 

(They start eating)

 

Student 1: This burger tastes amazing.

 

Student 2: And the sauce on my spaghetti is spot on.

 

Student 1: Yeah, I gotta try that next time.

 

(The Waiter/Waitress checks on them)

 

Waiter/Waitress: Is everything to your liking?

 

Student 2: Absolutely, it’s delicious.

 

Student 1: Yes. Thank you.

 

Waiter/Waitress: Great. And can I get you anything else?

Student 1: Just the bill, please.

 

(The Waiter/Waitress brings the bill)

 

Waiter/Waitress: Here’s your bill. Please take your time.

 

Student 2: Can we split the bill, please?

 

Waiter/Waitress: Yes, of course. I’ll take care of that for you.

 

(Student 1 and Student 2 pay for their meal)

 

Waiter/Waitress: Thank you. Have a great evening.

 

Student 1: Thank you. You too.

 

(Student 1 and Student 2 leave the restaurant)

 

Student 2: That was a great dinner.

 

Student 1: Agreed. We should come back here sometime.

 

(They exit the restaurant)

End of scene.

 ©2023 G. Ghosh, All rights reserved 

Written by Gargi Ghosh

Gargi Ghosh (M.A, B.Ed, M.B.A, TEFL) is an Educator, an artist, and a graphic designer. A winner of awards in the categories of Women's Award-An Inspiring Woman (2019), Most Socially Active Principal (2020), Top Educators of India (2020), and Top 100 Iconic Educators of India (2021). She has published her poems in several international anthologies and secured the 8th position in a Global Poetry Competition.  

The Fourth Witch in "Macbeth"

How Lady Macbeth is misunderstood by critics who refer to her as the "fourth witch"?

                                ©2023 G. Ghosh, All rights reserved 

By Gargi Ghosh   

Lady Macbeth is one of the most iconic characters in Shakespearean literature. She is known for being a powerful and manipulative figure who convinces her husband to commit murder in the name of ambition. However, far too often, critics simplify her character, labeling her as merely the “fourth witch.” This statement is not only reductive but also diminishes the complexity of Lady Macbeth's character.

Lady Macbeth is not a witch, nor is she a simple villain. She is complex and multifaceted, driven by her own desires and struggles. Critics who disregard this complexity and label her as a mere witch fail to understand her true nature.

One of the reasons for this misinterpretation is Lady Macbeth's supposed connection to the supernatural. She makes a famous speech in which she calls upon the spirits to "unsex" her and fill her with cruelty, which some critics have taken as evidence of her witch-like nature. However, this speech is not an indication that she has any genuine connection to the supernatural. Instead, it is a reflection of her desperation to assert herself in a patriarchal world, where women are expected to behave in a meek and gentle manner.

Furthermore, the notion of Lady Macbeth being the fourth witch is entirely out of context. Her character is not based on the witches, and there is no textual evidence to support this association. The witches are cunning and mischievous, whereas Lady Macbeth is ambitious but purposeful. She is a complex character who is struggling to find her place in a world that is dominated by men.

Furthermore, the critics who label Lady Macbeth as a witch often fail to recognize the nuances and contradictions in her character. Yes, she is a manipulative figure who drives her husband to murder, but she is also intelligent and aware of her own inadequacies. She wants to break free from the constraints imposed upon women and achieve greatness, even if it means breaking social norms and ethical codes.

Finally, it is worth noting that Lady Macbeth's eventual downfall is a product of her own conscience and guilt. She recognizes the enormity of her actions and is ultimately unable to live with the burden of her sins. This is not the behavior of a witch; it is the behavior of a flawed human being who recognizes her own moral shortcomings.

Lady Macbeth is not the fourth witch. She is a complex and multifaceted character driven by her own desires and struggles. Critics who reduce her to a simple label fail to understand the complexity of her character and ignore the nuances and contradictions that make her such an engaging and compelling figure. Lady Macbeth is a powerful, intelligent, and ambitious woman, and she deserves to be understood as such.

 ©2023 G. Ghosh, All rights reserved 

Written by Gargi Ghosh

Gargi Ghosh (M.A, B.Ed, M.B.A, TEFL) is an Educator, an artist, and a graphic designer. A winner of awards in the categories of Women's Award-An Inspiring Woman (2019), Most Socially Active Principal (2020), Top Educators of India (2020), and Top 100 Iconic Educators of India (2021). She has published her poems in several international anthologies and secured the 8th position in a Global Poetry Competition.