The Extra important Questions for the Class 12 English Poem “A Thing of Beauty” by John Keats include Competency Focused Practice Questions (CFQs), CBSE Question bank (CBSE QB) and other Questions from our side. Click here for more resources.
Competency Focused Questions (CFPQs)
1. Rich with a sprinkling of fair musk-rose blooms: And such too is the grandeur of the dooms. Why is the ‘grandeur of the dooms’ being compared to ‘musk-rose blooms’ in ‘A Thing of Beauty’? Answer in 20–30 words. [CBSE CFPQ]
Ans. The “grandeur of the dooms” refers to the inspiring legacy of the mighty dead. Like musk-rose blooms, their stories add beauty and positivity to human life.
OR
The ‘grandeur of the dooms’ is compared to musk-rose blooms because both are beautiful and everlasting. Just like the blooms spread joy, the deeds of great people inspire forever.
2. In the poem ‘A Thing of Beauty’, the poet has mentioned several attributes of beautiful things. Write about one beautiful thing/relationship/ experience from your life and describe any two of its attributes. Answer in 100–120 words. [CBSE CFPQ]
Ans. One of the most beautiful experiences of my life was watching the sunrise on a quiet beach. Its first attribute is its ability to fill the mind with peace. The calm waves, golden hues, and soft breeze create a soothing environment. The second attribute is its inspiring nature. As the sun rises, it symbolizes a new beginning and fills the heart with hope and motivation. This beautiful moment stays in my memory as a source of positivity, reminding me to cherish the simple joys of life. Just like the poem highlights, this beauty leaves an everlasting impact.
OR
One beautiful relationship in my life is with my mother. She cares for me selflessly, always understanding my feelings. Two of her best attributes are kindness and patience. Her love gives me comfort and strength during tough times. Her patience teaches me how to deal calmly with challenges in life. Like a beautiful thing, her care remains a constant joy and inspiration.
3. Why are things of beauty not fleeting pleasures, according to the poet of ‘A Thing of Beauty’? How does this relate to the imagery of ‘an endless fountain of immortal drink’? Answer in 100–120 words. [CBSE CFPQ]
Ans. According to Keats, things of beauty are not fleeting because they leave a lasting impression on our minds and hearts. They provide us with joy, peace, and hope that endure beyond temporary moments. This connects to the imagery of “an endless fountain of immortal drink,” which symbolizes the eternal and divine nature of beauty. Just like a fountain nourishes the body, beauty nourishes the soul. Its influence is everlasting, refreshing our spirits and helping us cope with challenges in life. Keats emphasizes that beauty provides an eternal source of happiness, unlike worldly pleasures that fade with time.
OR
According to the poet, things of beauty are not short-lived because they give us joy and comfort forever. They inspire us and refresh our minds. The imagery of ‘an endless fountain of immortal drink’ shows that beauty is like a constant source of happiness that never dries up. It pours positivity and peace into our lives, making it eternal and uplifting.
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Class 12 English Core CBSE Question Bank- 2021
1. Imagine you are John Keats, the poet of ‘A Thing of Beauty’. What advice might you offer to Robert Frost, the poet of ‘A Roadside Stand’ in the context of his ‘The sadness that lurks near the open window’? Pen down your advice in a letter to Frost on how to deal with sadness. You may begin this way : [120-150 Words]
Dear Robert,
I have recently read your poem ‘A Roadside Stand’ and ….….
You may end this way :
Despite the fact that our lives are full of sorrow and suffering, the beautiful things around us give us the strength to endure the sadness of life.
Warmly
John Keats
Ans. A letter is given below:
Dear Robert,
I have recently read your poem A Roadside Stand and deeply felt the sadness in it. Life, as you describe, is full of sorrows, but I believe we can find solace in beauty. Beautiful things, whether in nature or human relationships, act as a balm for troubled souls. The sun, trees, flowers, and even inspiring stories of the past can uplift our spirits.
While the sadness of the world may lurk near us, I urge you to seek joy in the eternal beauty around you. Appreciate the simple things—a blooming flower, a child’s laughter, or a kind gesture. These moments may seem small, but they have the power to renew our strength and give meaning to life.
Despite our sorrows, the beautiful things around us help us endure and even cherish life.
Warmly,
John Keats
OR
Dear Robert,
I have recently read your poem A Roadside Stand and deeply felt the sadness expressed about the plight of rural folk. Your portrayal of their struggles moved me profoundly. I understand the sorrow that lurks near the open window of life, reminding us of the injustices and suffering around us.
However, I urge you to turn to the enduring beauty that surrounds us. In my poem A Thing of Beauty, I have expressed how beauty provides solace and hope, like an “endless fountain of immortal drink.” Nature’s bounty, acts of kindness, and the stories of courage we encounter can heal our hearts and uplift our spirits.
Despite the fact that our lives are full of sorrow and suffering, the beautiful things around us give us the strength to endure the sadness of life.
Warmly,
John Keats
7. If you were the poet of “A Thing of Beauty”, how would you interpret the need for quiet introspection as mentioned in “Keeping Quiet”? [120-150 Words]
Ans. As the poet of A Thing of Beauty, I would interpret the need for quiet introspection as a way to reconnect with the beauty around us. In our fast-paced lives, we often overlook the small joys that nature and life provide. Quiet introspection allows us to pause and appreciate these moments—like the rustling leaves, a clear stream, or the grandeur of the mighty dead.
It also helps us reflect on our actions and find inner peace. Keats emphasizes that beauty is eternal and helps us overcome sadness. Similarly, Keeping Quiet advocates for silence and stillness to bring harmony to our minds. Together, both poems suggest that introspection and an appreciation of beauty can guide us toward a fulfilling and peaceful life.
1.If you were given an opportunity to share your perception of beauty, what would you say? Explain. [CBSE Question Bank, 2021]
Ans. Beauty, for me, lies in everything that inspires joy, peace, and wonder. It could be the smile of a loved one, the silence of a sunrise, or a kind gesture. True beauty is not about appearance but about the emotions it evokes and the harmony it creates within us. As Keats says in “A Thing of Beauty,” beauty is eternal, a source of comfort and strength that uplifts our spirits and helps us endure life’s challenges.
OR
Beauty, for me, is not limited to physical appearances. True beauty lies in acts of kindness, selflessness, and the ability to inspire others. It can be found in the small moments of life, like the smile of a loved one, the warmth of a sunset, or the innocence of a child. Beauty, as Keats describes, is eternal—it uplifts our spirits and gives us hope even in difficult times. It is not just about what pleases the eyes but also what touches the soul. A kind heart and a peaceful mind are more beautiful than any external feature because they radiate positivity and joy.
OR
Ans. Beauty, for me, lies in simplicity and positivity. It can be found in the laughter of a child, a peaceful sunset, or the kindness of a stranger. True beauty touches the soul and brings peace, much like the things Keats describes in A Thing of Beauty. It is not limited to appearances but resides in the emotions and experiences that uplift us. Beauty is eternal—it inspires hope, provides joy, and strengthens us during difficult times. Like the endless fountain Keats describes, beauty flows into our lives, making everything brighter and more meaningful.
OR
Beauty, to me, is not just about appearances but the emotions and values it evokes. It lies in kindness, selflessness, and the small joys of life. A radiant smile, a selfless act, or the calmness of nature are beautiful because they touch the heart. Like in A Thing of Beauty, beauty gives hope and heals us in difficult times. It isn’t perfect or fixed—it’s found in imperfections and fleeting moments that leave lasting impressions. Beauty inspires us to be better and connects us with the world, making life worth cherishing. It is a feeling that cannot be measured but only experienced.
2.‘Beauty is best left undefined’. Support your position on this statement with your rationale, coupled with ideas in the poem. [QB 2021]
Ans. Beauty is subjective and personal, making it impossible to define universally. As Keats conveys in “A Thing of Beauty,” beauty is timeless and transcends words. It can be found in nature, art, and noble deeds, all of which offer endless joy and solace. Defining beauty might limit its essence, while leaving it undefined allows each individual to experience and interpret it uniquely, making it a deeply personal and eternal source of inspiration.
OR
Beauty is a subjective and abstract concept, and it is best left undefined because it varies from person to person. In Keats’ poem, beauty is described as eternal and life-giving. He does not limit it to physical appearances but associates it with nature, noble deeds, and the joy they bring to our lives. Attempting to define beauty restricts its meaning and diminishes its power to inspire. Beauty lies in the emotions it evokes, the peace it brings, and the hope it nurtures in our hearts. By leaving it undefined, we allow ourselves to experience it in diverse forms, whether in art, relationships, or nature.
OR
Beauty is best left undefined because it varies from person to person. In A Thing of Beauty, Keats shows how beauty exists in nature, human deeds, and inspiring stories. The endless fountain of beauty nourishes the soul, transcending definitions. Beauty can be a flower, the sun, or even the legacy of the mighty dead. By leaving it undefined, we allow everyone to find their own connection with beauty. Keats believes that beauty is eternal and personal, making it a source of universal joy without needing strict boundaries.
OR
Beauty is subjective, and defining it limits its infinite possibilities. In the poem A Thing of Beauty, John Keats portrays beauty as eternal and transformative. He shows how beauty uplifts the soul and provides comfort in adversity. The ‘endless fountain of immortal drink’ symbolizes how beauty is boundless, offering joy and hope to all. Similarly, the poet appreciates diverse forms of beauty, from nature to noble deeds, suggesting it cannot be confined to a single definition. By leaving beauty undefined, we embrace its universality and allow everyone to find their unique connection to it, making it truly eternal and personal.
3. Artists, singers and musicians have a different perception of beauty as compared to people who are in other professions. Comment. [QB, 2021]
Ans. Artists, singers, and musicians perceive beauty as an emotional and creative expression, often finding it in intangible elements like melodies, colours, or poetic words. They value the emotional depth and storytelling beauty can convey. On the other hand, professionals in other fields might see beauty in functionality, precision, or outcomes. For example, a scientist might find beauty in a groundbreaking discovery, while a doctor might see it in the healing of a patient. Both perspectives celebrate beauty in their unique ways.
OR
Artists, singers, and musicians perceive beauty through emotions and creativity. For them, beauty lies in expression, harmony, and the ability to touch the soul. A painter might find beauty in a blend of colours, a singer in a melody, and a musician in the rhythm of life. Their perception often transcends the physical realm and delves into the emotional and spiritual aspects of beauty. On the other hand, people in other professions may view beauty more practically or through tangible outcomes. This difference highlights the unique lens through which creative individuals see the world—focusing on inspiration, imagination, and feelings.
4. We have often heard the phrase: ‘Beauty is skin deep’. In spite of that, we often see people idolising actors and celebrities who are good looking and attractive. You have a conversation regarding this with your friend who believes that physical beauty defines a person. Write down that conversation. [QB, 2021]
Ans. Sample Conversations are given below:
Me: Hey, I was reading about the phrase “beauty is skin deep.” What do you think about it?
Friend: I think physical beauty matters a lot. It’s what everyone notices first.
Me: True, but don’t you think inner beauty lasts longer? Outer beauty fades, but kindness, empathy, and a good heart never do.
Friend: But isn’t it natural to admire good looks? Celebrities and actors are adored for their appearance.
Me: Sure, but aren’t the roles they play or the causes they support more inspiring? Real beauty lies in their actions and values, not just their looks.
Friend: You’re right. Maybe we should focus more on what’s beneath the surface.
Me: Exactly! Inner beauty creates lasting impressions, while outer beauty is temporary.
OR
You: I believe the phrase “beauty is skin deep” is true. Physical beauty fades, but a person’s character and kindness remain forever.
Friend: But don’t you think good looks matter? People admire actors and celebrities for their appearance.
You: True, appearances can attract attention initially. But it’s a person’s actions, words, and values that create a lasting impression.
Friend: So, you think physical beauty doesn’t matter at all?
You: It does, but it’s not enough. A beautiful soul and a kind heart are far more important. Think of Keats’ idea—true beauty gives joy and inspires us eternally.
Friend: That makes sense. I guess real beauty lies in how someone makes others feel.
5. You are a blogger who loves to record travel stories. You recently visited a picturesque location and you were enamoured by its beauty. Pen down the post for your blog giving vivid descriptions of the natural beauty of this place. Supplement your writing with Keats’ ideas about beauty. [QB, 2021]
Ans. Hidden in the heart of the valley, I discovered a paradise unlike any other. Towering mountains kissed the clouds, while streams danced joyfully, echoing nature’s melody. The scent of wildflowers filled the air, and the gentle rustle of leaves added a soothing rhythm. Every moment felt timeless, as though beauty had paused here.
Keats’ words from “A Thing of Beauty” resonated with me as I gazed at this wonder: “An endless fountain of immortal drink, pouring unto us from heaven’s brink.” Indeed, beauty in this place was eternal, a balm for my soul. It reminded me that even in our busy lives, such serene beauty can inspire hope and strength. Visiting this place wasn’t just a journey; it was a soulful experience that I’ll treasure forever.
OR
Title: Serenity in the Hills
Nestled amidst the rolling hills, I recently discovered a location that felt like paradise on Earth. The towering trees swayed gently in the breeze, their leaves whispering ancient secrets. Crystal-clear streams cascaded down rocky slopes, creating a soothing symphony of nature. The air was fragrant with the scent of wildflowers, and the golden rays of the sunbathed the landscape in a warm glow. As I stood there, I was reminded of Keats’ A Thing of Beauty. The place felt like an “endless fountain of immortal drink,” filling my soul with joy and peace. This beauty was eternal, not just in its appearance but in the emotions, it stirred within me. It was a reminder that beauty, in all its forms, nurtures the human spirit and provides comfort even amidst life’s chaos.