Silence In The Square - Ben Barnes

The poem 'A Listening Post' by Robert Benid explores the contrast between the natural world and human conflict. It begins with a serene setting, where a blackbird sings unaware of the surrounding tension. The narrator and a rifleman await an enemy, contemplating the dire consequences of failure, which could lead to a world in chains and a loss of moral values. The poem reflects on the irony of planning violence while nature remains indifferent. Ultimately, it expresses hope that harmony can emerge from discord, suggesting a divine intervention that brings sweetness from strength.

What natural elements are described at the beginning of the poem?

• A blue sky and a flowing river

• A red sun and dew-covered grass

• A windy day and falling leaves

• A snowy mountain and a frozen lake

What is the rifleman and the narrator's main concern as they wait?

• The consequences of their failure

• The potential for world peace

• The beauty of the forest

• The sound of the blackbird

What does the poem suggest might happen if the narrator and rifleman fail?

• The blackbird will stop singing

• Nature will reclaim the land

• England will be forgotten and chaos will reign

• The world will become a better place

What is the irony highlighted in the poem's conclusion?

• The bird sings while the men plan violence

• The world is at peace while they are at war

• The sun shines while it rains

• The rifleman laughs while the narrator cries

What hope does the poem offer despite the discord?

• That the blackbird will guide them

• That God can create harmony from chaos

• That the war will end soon

• That the rifleman will change his mind