Understanding 'Come Up From The Fields, Father' by Walt Whitman

The poem 'Come Up From The Fields, Father' by Walt Whitman describes a family's receipt of a letter about their son, Pete, who has been injured in a cavalry skirmish. The narrative unfolds in Ohio during autumn, painting a serene setting that contrasts with the tragic news. The mother is devastated by the letter, which is not in her son's handwriting, indicating his grave condition. Despite the daughter's attempt to reassure her, the mother is consumed by grief, longing to join her deceased son.

What season is described at the beginning of the poem?

• Winter

• Summer

• Spring

• Autumn

Who is the letter addressed to in the poem?

• The daughter

• The mother

• The father

• The son

What is the daughter's reaction upon receiving the letter?

• Calm and composed

• Joyful and excited

• Anxious and trembling

• Indifferent

What does the mother notice about the handwriting on the letter?

• It is neat and familiar

• It is illegible

• It is not her son's handwriting

• It is written in a different language

What injury does the letter mention Pete has suffered?

• A head injury

• A gunshot wound

• A sprained ankle

• A broken leg

How does the daughter try to comfort her mother?

• By leaving the room

• By laughing it off

• By ignoring the letter

• By saying Pete will recover

What is the reality about Pete's condition?

• He is recovering well

• He is already dead

• He is in a coma

• He is missing

What does the mother long for after learning about Pete's death?

• To celebrate his life

• To move to a new place

• To be with her son

• To write a letter

How is the mother's physical state described after the news?

• Thin and dressed in black

• Energetic and lively

• Healthy and strong

• Cheerful and bright

What does the poem highlight about the mother's emotional state?

• Her indifference

• Her joy and happiness

• Her anger and frustration

• Her deep sorrow and longing