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Desiderata by Max Ehrmann

 Desiderata by Max Ehrmann

Max Ehrmann

  • Max Ehrmann (1872-1945) was an American poet and attorney.
  • Best known for his poem "Desiderata," which gained popularity in the 1960s.
  • Born in Indiana, he practiced law and also wrote poetry and essays.
  • Ehrmann's works often explored themes of inner peace, simplicity, and the pursuit of happiness.
  • His poetry reflects a strong sense of humanistic and philosophical values.

Summary

"Desiderata" is a timeless and inspiring poem by Max Ehrmann that imparts wisdom on how to live a meaningful and fulfilling life. The poem encourages readers to find peace and contentment within themselves and their surroundings, despite life's challenges and distractions.

The poem begins with the advice to "go placidly amid the noise and haste" and to appreciate the value of silence. It urges individuals to maintain positive relationships and to speak their truth with grace and clarity, while also being open to the stories of others, even if they seem dull or ignorant.

Ehrmann advises against comparing oneself to others, as it can lead to vanity and bitterness. Instead, he suggests celebrating one's achievements and plans and staying focused on personal growth and development.

The poem emphasizes the importance of integrity in business affairs and encourages recognizing the presence of virtue and heroism in the world. It also emphasizes the value of being genuine, especially in matters of affection and love, which remain enduring despite life's challenges.

Ehrmann recommends accepting the passage of time and the wisdom that comes with age, nurturing inner strength to withstand adversity, and avoiding unnecessary worry and dark thoughts. He encourages self-compassion and gentleness, understanding that many fears are rooted in fatigue and loneliness.

The poem then underscores the idea that every individual is a part of the universe and has the right to exist. It suggests that the universe is unfolding according to a grand design, promoting a sense of peace and acceptance, regardless of one's personal beliefs about God.

Despite acknowledging life's difficulties and disappointments, Ehrmann concludes by emphasizing the inherent beauty of the world. He encourages a cheerful disposition and the pursuit of happiness as a worthwhile endeavor.

"Desiderata" is a guide to living a life of tranquility, integrity, and fulfillment, reminding readers to find solace in the midst of life's chaos and to embrace the inherent beauty of the world.

 

Multiple Choice Questions:

  1. What is the central message of "Desiderata"?
    1. Embrace chaos and haste
    2. Seek wealth and power
    3. Find peace and fulfillment in life
    4. Pursue endless ambition

Answer: C. Find peace and fulfillment in life

 

  1. According to the poem, how should one treat other people?
    1. Ignore them
    2. Be on good terms with them
    3. Avoid them whenever possible
    4. Compete with them

Answer: B. Be on good terms with them

 

  1. What does the poem advise about speaking one's truth?
    1. Shout it loudly
    2. Whisper it secretly
    3. Speak it quietly and clearly
    4. Keep it to oneself

Answer: C. Speak it quietly and clearly

 

  1. According to "Desiderata," what is the potential danger of comparing yourself to others?
    1. It leads to wisdom
    2. It fosters humility
    3. It may make you vain and bitter
    4. It inspires gratitude

Answer: C. It may make you vain and bitter

 

  1. How does the poem recommend dealing with the challenges of life?
    1. Deny their existence
    2. Accept them with grace and positivity
    3. Avoid them at all costs
    4. Complain constantly

Answer: B. Accept them with grace and positivity

 

  1. What does the poem say about the nature of love and affection?
    1. They are fleeting and meaningless
    2. They are illusions
    3. They are as enduring as the grass
    4. They are easily replaceable

Answer: C. They are as enduring as the grass

 

  1. According to "Desiderata," how should one respond to the counsel of the years?
    1. Reject it
    2. Kindly take it into consideration
    3. Disregard it completely
    4. Act on it impulsively

Answer: B. Kindly take it into consideration

 

  1. What is the significance of the phrase "you are a child of the universe" in the poem?
    1. It suggests a belief in extraterrestrial life
    2. It emphasizes the importance of family
    3. It underscores an individual's place in the grand scheme of things
    4. It encourages childish behavior

Answer: C. It underscores an individual's place in the grand scheme of things

 

  1. What is the poem's stance on the nature of the universe and personal beliefs?
    1. It suggests the universe has no order or design
    2. It advises conformity to specific religious beliefs
    3. It encourages personal beliefs and acceptance
    4. It discourages any belief in the universe

Answer: C. It encourages personal beliefs and acceptance

 

  1. What is the poem's overall tone and message?
    1. Embrace despair and negativity
    2. Embrace life's chaos and uncertainties
    3. Find peace, wisdom, and beauty in life
    4. Embrace self-centeredness and arrogance

Answer: C. Find peace, wisdom, and beauty in life

 Short Answer Type Questions

1. What is the main message or central philosophy conveyed in "Desiderata"?

Answer: The main message of "Desiderata" is to find peace and fulfillment in life by embracing simplicity, being true to oneself, maintaining positive relationships, and having a sense of perspective and humility. It encourages readers to navigate life's challenges with grace and maintain inner tranquility.

2. How does the poem recommend dealing with other people, particularly those who may be difficult to interact with?

Answer: The poem advises readers to be on good terms with all persons and to speak their truth quietly and clearly. It suggests that even when dealing with difficult or ignorant individuals, one should listen to their stories and avoid loud and aggressive persons who might disrupt one's inner peace.

3. According to "Desiderata," why is it cautioned against comparing oneself to others? Answer: Comparing oneself to others is discouraged in the poem because it can lead to vanity and bitterness. The poem highlights that there will always be individuals who are greater or lesser in various aspects, and true contentment comes from recognizing one's uniqueness and focusing on personal achievements and growth.

4. What is the poem's perspective on love and affection, and why does it emphasize their enduring nature?

Answer: "Desiderata" suggests that love and affection are enduring, even in the face of life's challenges and disappointments. This emphasis is meant to remind readers that despite difficult circumstances and disenchantment, love remains a perennial and essential part of human existence, offering solace and connection.

5. What is the poem's view on the universe and personal beliefs?

Answer: The poem encourages individuals to have their own beliefs about the universe and God, emphasizing that it is their right to do so. It promotes acceptance of diverse beliefs and personal interpretations of the world, encouraging readers to find their sense of peace and spirituality amidst the noisy confusion of life.

 

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