Directions (Q.1 –5) Reading poem in this section is followed by questions based on the content of the reading poem. Read the poem carefully and chose the best answer to each question. The questions are to be answered on the basis of what is stated or implied in the poem.

As you set out for Ithaka Hope the journey is a long one, Full of adventure, full of discovery. Laistrygonians and Cyclops, Angry Poseidon – don’t be afraid of them: You’ll never find things like that on your way.

As long as you keep your thoughts raised high, As long as a rare excitement Stirs your spirit and your body. Laistrygonians and Cyclops, Wild Poseidon – you wont encounter them Unless you bring them along inside your soul, Unless your soul sets them up in front of your. Hope the voyage is a long one, May there be many a summer morning when With what pleasure, what joy, You come into harbours seen for the first time; May you stop at Phoenician trading stations Mother of pearl and coral, amber and ebony Sensual perfumes as you can; And may you visit many Egyptian cities To gather stores of knowledge from their scholars. Keep Ithaka always in your mind. Arriving there is what your are destined for. But do not hurry the journey at all Better if it lasts for years. So you are old by the time you reach the island. Wealthy with all you have gained on the way Not expecting Ithaka to make you rich. Lthaka gave you a marvelous journey, Without her you would not have set out. She has nothing left to give you now. And if you find her poor, Ithaka wount have fooled you Wise as you will have become, so full of experience, You will have understood by then what these Ithaka mean.

1. Which of the following best reflects the central theme of this poem?

(A) If you don’t have high expectations, you will not be disappointed (B) Don’t rush to your goal; the journey is what enriches you.
(C) The longer the journey, the greater the experiences you gather
(D) You cannot reach lthaka without visiting Egyptian ports.

2. The poet recommends a long journey. Which of the following is the most comprehensive reason for it?

(A) You can gain knowledge as well as sensual experience
(B) You can visit new cities harbours
(C) You can experience the full rane of sensuality
(D) You can buy a variety of fine things

3. In the poem, lthaka is a symbol of

(A) The divine mother
(B) Your inner self
(C) The path to wisdom
(D) Life’s distant goal

4. What does the poet mean by ‘Laistrygonians’ and ‘Cyclops’?

(A) Creatures which, along with Poseidon, one find during a journey
(B) Mythological characters that one should not be afraid of.
(C) Intra-personal obstacles that hinder one’s journey.
(D) Problems that one has to face to derive the most form one’s journey

5. Which of the following best reflects the tone of the poem?

(A) Prescribing
(B) Exhorting
(C) Pleading
(D) consoling