"To a Mouse"

Front

What do the 'best laid plans of mice and men' signify in the poem?

Back

They signify that despite careful planning, things can go wrong, leading to pain and grief.

Front

Why is the mouse hiding underground in stanza five?

Back

The mouse is hiding underground to stay safe from the incoming winter weather.

Front

How does the speaker compare his suffering to that of the mouse in stanza 8?

Back

The speaker notes that the mouse will only be sad for a moment, while he will remember his setbacks longer.

Front

What crime is the mouse guilty of according to the speaker in stanza three?

Back

The mouse is guilty of thievery.

Front

What is the 'murderous weapon' mentioned in stanza one?

Back

The 'murderous weapon' is a plow staff.

Front

What theme does the poem 'To a Mouse' explore regarding human and animal experiences?

Back

The poem explores the theme of the unpredictability of life and the shared vulnerabilities of both humans and animals.

Front

What does the speaker express about the nature of plans in the poem?

Back

The speaker expresses that plans, whether made by humans or animals, often do not turn out as expected.

Front

How does the poem reflect on the concept of empathy towards animals?

Back

The poem encourages readers to empathize with the struggles of animals, highlighting their own fears and challenges.

Front

What literary device is used in the phrase 'the best laid plans'?

Back

This phrase is an example of irony, as it suggests that even the most careful plans can fail.

Front

What does the speaker imply about the mouse's home in stanza 8?

Back

The speaker implies that the mouse's home, though lost, is easier to rebuild compared to his own losses.