CBSE Class 11 English Chapter 5: Luburnum Top NCERT Solutions

Reviewed by · Updated on

NCERT Solutions PDF Class 11 PDF

This chapter, 'Luburnum Top' from CBSE Class 11 English, explores the symbiotic relationship between a laburnum tree and a goldfinch. The NCERT Solutions delve into the poem's rich imagery, likening the tree and bird to natural elements and even mechanical devices. Students will analyze the goldfinch's dynamic movements, its vital role in sustaining its family, and the symbolic meaning of phrases like 'her barred face identity mask'. The solutions also examine the poem's structure and its evocative use of language. These explanations aim to enhance students' understanding of the poem's subtleties, encourage analysis of literary techniques, and provide clear, concise answers to aid in exam preparation, covering sections like 'Find Out' and 'Think It Out'.

Home

Quick info

BoardCBSE
ClassClass 11
SubjectEnglish
Session2026
LanguageEnglish
TypeNCERT Solutions
Chapter5. Lubrnum Top

Chapter summary

NCERT Solutions for 'Luburnum Top' (Chapter 5) for Class 11 English. This chapter focuses on understanding the poem's central imagery, including the description of the laburnum tree and the goldfinch. It explores comparisons made between the bird's movements and those of a lizard and an engine, analyzing the poet's intent and the effectiveness of these literary devices. The solutions also clarify specific phrases and the overall mood and structure of the poem.

Learning outcomes

  • Identify and understand the local name for the laburnum tree.
  • Recognize the bird described in the poem and its comparison to the goldfinch.
  • Analyze the poet's use of imagery and similes, such as comparing the bird's movement to a lizard and an engine.
  • Explain the significance of the 'engine' metaphor in relation to the bird's role in its family.
  • Interpret the meaning of the phrase 'her barred face identity mask'.
  • Appreciate the simplicity and pictorial quality of the poem.

Topics covered

Paper topics

  • Laburnum Tree
  • Goldfinch Bird
  • Poetic Imagery
  • Simile and Metaphor
  • Bird's Movement
  • Source of Energy
  • Identity Mask
  • Poem Analysis
  • Literary Devices
  • Hindi Name for Laburnum

Important topics

  • Analysis of Imagery (Lizard, Engine)
  • Metaphor of the Engine
  • Interpretation of 'Identity Mask'
  • Bird's Role in Family
  • Poem's Structure and Mood

PDF preview

Read page by page below. PDF is streamed from the official NCERT website — no download button on this page.

Loading document …
Page of
Loading page …

Questions and Solutions

Find Out

What is the laburnum tree called in your local language?
Solution: In Hindi, the laburnum tree is commonly known as 'Amaltaas'. This name reflects its cultural significance and presence in various regions where Hindi is spoken.

Find Out

Which local bird is similar in appearance or behaviour to the goldfinch mentioned in the poem?
Solution: The 'Indian Lutino Ringneck' is a local bird that shares similarities with the goldfinch, particularly in its vibrant appearance and perhaps its lively nature, making it a relatable comparison for readers.

Think It Out

What do you observe about the state of the laburnum tree at the beginning and at the end of the poem?
Solution: At the beginning of the poem, the laburnum tree is depicted as being calm, silent, and perhaps dormant, waiting for life to arrive. By the end of the poem, after the goldfinch's visit, the tree returns to a state of motionless stillness, appearing empty once more, highlighting the transient nature of the bird's presence.

Think It Out

To what is the goldfinch's movement compared in the poem, and what is the basis for this comparison?
Solution: The goldfinch's movement is compared to that of a lizard. The basis for this comparison lies in the quick, sleek, and alert manner in which both the lizard and the goldfinch move. The abrupt and sudden actions of the bird as it lands on and moves along the branches are reminiscent of a lizard's quick, darting movements.

Think It Out

Why does the poet evoke the image of an engine when describing the bird?
Solution: The image of an engine is evoked to emphasize the bird's crucial role as a source of energy and vitality for its family. Just as an engine is essential for a machine to function and operate, the mother bird is the driving force that sustains and energizes her young ones. Her presence brings life and activity to the nest.

Think It Out

What aspects of the poem do you find most appealing or memorable?
Solution: Many readers find the poem appealing due to its simplicity and the vivid, pictorial imagery it creates. The skillful comparisons between the bird's movements and those of a lizard and an engine are particularly effective. The sounds of the goldfinch, such as its chirruping and trilling, also add to the poem's charm and sensory richness.

Think It Out

What is the meaning of the phrase "her barred face identity mask"?
Solution: The phrase "her barred face identity mask" refers to the distinctive striped or barred pattern on the goldfinch's face. This pattern serves as a unique identifier, much like a mask, making the bird recognizable and distinguishing it from others. It emphasizes the specific markings that form part of the bird's identity.

Common mistakes

  • Misinterpreting the comparison between the bird's movement and a lizard or engine.
  • Failing to understand the symbolic meaning of the 'engine' as a source of energy.
  • Not grasping the literal and figurative meaning of 'her barred face identity mask'.

Revision tips

  • Read the poem carefully to visualize the imagery described.
  • Focus on the comparisons made in the poem and their underlying reasons.
  • Pay close attention to the explanation of specific phrases and metaphors.
  • Discuss the poem's themes and literary devices with classmates for better understanding.

Practice MCQs

Q1. What is the laburnum tree called in Hindi?

Q2. The movement of the goldfinch is compared to which creature?

Q3. Why is the image of an engine evoked in the poem?

Q4. What does the phrase 'her barred face identity mask' refer to?

Q5. Which local bird is mentioned as being similar to the goldfinch?

Frequently asked questions

What is the main subject of the poem 'Luburnum Top'?

The poem 'Luburnum Top' primarily focuses on the arrival and presence of a goldfinch on a laburnum tree, exploring the imagery and life it brings to the otherwise still tree.

How does the poem describe the goldfinch's movement?

The goldfinch's movement is described as sleek, abrupt, and alert, similar to that of a lizard. This liveliness is contrasted with the stillness of the laburnum tree.

What is the significance of comparing the bird to an engine?

The comparison to an engine highlights the bird's vital role as a source of energy and life for its family, much like an engine powers a machine.

What does the phrase 'her barred face identity mask' mean in the poem?

It refers to the distinctive striped pattern on the bird's face, which serves as its unique identifier or 'mask'.

What is the Hindi name for the laburnum tree mentioned in the solutions?

The Hindi name for the laburnum tree, as provided in the solutions, is 'Amaltaas'.

How can these NCERT Solutions help students?

These solutions provide clear, rewritten answers to the poem's questions, helping students understand its themes, imagery, and literary devices, which is crucial for exam preparation.

Important links

Content reviewed by the NCERT Help team. Editorial Team and update policy

NCERT Solutions PDF PDF on NCERT Help. URL unchanged for search indexing.