Books

– Eleanor Farjeon

What worlds of wonder are our books!

As one opens them and looks,

New ideas and people rise In our fancies and our eyes.

The room we sit in melts away,

And we find ourselves at play

With some one who, before the end,

May become our chosen friend.

Or we sail along the page

To some other land or age.

Here’s our body in the chair,

But our mind is over there.

Each book is a magic box,

Which with a touch a child unlocks.

In between their outside covers

Books hold all things for their lovers.

বই
– এলিনর ফারজিওন

কি বিস্ময়ের জগৎই না আমাদের বই!
যখন কেউ খুলে দেখে তাই,
নতুন ভাবনা আর মানুষ উঠে আসে
আমাদের কল্পনায় ও চোখে ভাসে।

ঘরটা যেন গলে যায় দূরে,
আর আমরা খেলি এক অজানা সুরে—
কেউ একজন, গল্পের শেষে,
হয়ে উঠতে পারে প্রিয় সঙ্গী বেশে।

পাতার সাথে আমরা ভেসে চলি
ভিন্ন কালের, ভিন্ন দেশের গলি।
চেয়ারে আমাদের শরীর বসে,
কিন্তু মন যেন চলে যায় দূর দেশে।

প্রত্যেক বই এক যাদুর বাক্স,
একটি ছোঁয়ায় খুলে দেয় শিশু–হাতের স্পর্শে লক্ষ লক্ষ রক্স।
বাইরের মলাটের মাঝে
বই প্রেমিকদের জন্য রাখে সবকিছু সাজিয়ে।

Theme (মূলভাব) in English:

This poem shows the magic of books. Books take us to new places, times, and adventures. They help us meet new friends and learn new things. Even when we sit still, our minds can travel far. Books are full of joy and knowledge for those who love to read.

বাংলায় মূলভাব:

এই কবিতাটি বইয়ের জাদু দেখায়। বই আমাদের নতুন জায়গা, সময় এবং রোমাঞ্চে নিয়ে যায়। বই পড়ে আমরা নতুন বন্ধু পাই এবং অনেক কিছু শিখতে পারি। আমরা চেয়ারে বসে থাকলেও, আমাদের মন অনেক দূরে ভ্রমণ করতে পারে। যারা বই ভালোবাসে, তাদের জন্য বই আনন্দ আর জ্ঞানে ভরা।

Summary (সারাংশ) in English:

The poet says that books are full of wonder and magic. When we open a book, it brings new ideas and people into our minds. The room we are in disappears, and we feel like we are playing or talking with someone from the story. Sometimes, the person in the story becomes our good friend. Books can take us to faraway lands or even to the past. Though our body stays in the chair, our mind goes on a journey. Books are like magic boxes that children can open and enjoy. Inside every book, there are many wonderful things for those who love reading.

বাংলায় সারাংশ:

কবি বলেন, বই এক বিস্ময়কর জিনিস। যখন আমরা বই খুলি, তখন নতুন নতুন ভাবনা আর মানুষ আমাদের কল্পনায় আসে। আমরা যে ঘরে বসে আছি, তা যেন হারিয়ে যায়, আর আমরা গল্পের মানুষের সঙ্গে খেলতে বা কথা বলতে থাকি। অনেক সময় সেই মানুষটা আমাদের প্রিয় বন্ধুও হয়ে যায়। বই আমাদের অনেক দূরের জায়গায় বা পুরানো সময়ে নিয়ে যায়। আমাদের দেহ চেয়ারে থাকলেও, মন অনেক দূরে চলে যায়। বই একেকটি জাদুর বাক্সের মতো, যেগুলো শিশুরা খুলে আনন্দ পায়। বইয়ের ভেতরে যারা পড়তে ভালোবাসে, তাদের জন্য আছে অনেক কিছু শেখার ও উপভোগ করার। 

1. What is the title of the poem?
   The title of the poem is Books. It reflects the poem’s focus on the magic of reading.
2. Who is the poet of the poem?
   The poet is Eleanor Farjeon. She is known for writing poems and stories for children.
3. What do books bring to us according to the poet?
   Books bring worlds of wonder. They open doors to imagination and discovery.
4. What rises when we open books?
   New ideas and people rise. They appear in our thoughts and imagination.
5. What melts away when we start reading?
   The room we sit in melts away. We forget our surroundings and dive into the story.
6. What does the poem say about our minds when reading?
   Our minds travel elsewhere. Though our body stays still, the mind journeys far.
7. Where do we find ourselves while reading?
   We find ourselves at play with new characters.
   They may become close to us by the end.
8. What kind of friend might we find in a book?
   A chosen friend. Characters in stories can feel as real as people we know.
9. What do we sail along in the poem?
   We sail along the page. Reading is compared to a journey on water.
10. To where can books take us?
    To some other land or age. They allow us to experience different times and places.
11. Where is our body while reading?
    In the chair. But our mind is elsewhere.
12. What is each book called in the poem?
    A magic box. Books are seen as magical objects full of surprises.
13. Who can unlock the magic of a book?
    A child with a touch. The poem emphasizes how easy and wonderful reading can be.
14. What lies between the covers of a book?
    All things for their lovers. Books hold joy, adventure, and imagination for those who love them.
15. What makes books magical according to the poet?
    Their power to transport us. They unlock different worlds instantly.
16. Who is the poem mainly written for?
    For readers and book lovers. It celebrates the joy of reading.
17. What happens to the room when we start reading?
    It disappears from our attention. The story takes over our mind.
18. Why are books compared to a magic box?
    Because they hold unexpected wonders. You never know what you’ll discover inside.
19. What kind of journey does the poet mention?
    A mental journey through reading. It’s like sailing to distant lands.
20. What does the phrase “New ideas and people rise” mean?
    Books introduce us to fresh thoughts and characters.
    They make our world bigger.
21. What is the main theme of the poem?
    The power and wonder of books. It celebrates how books transform our minds.
22. Who might children meet in books?
    Someone who may become a chosen friend. Characters can feel very real.
23. What does the poet say about book lovers?
    Books hold everything for them. Books reward readers who love them.
24. What does “we find ourselves at play” mean?
    Reading becomes an enjoyable, playful experience. It feels like we’re part of the story.
25. Why do people love books, according to the poem?
    Because they contain endless possibilities. Books give joy, adventure, and learning.
26. What happens to our imagination when we read?
    It becomes vivid and alive. Books fuel our creativity.
27. How does reading affect our thoughts?
    It fills them with new ideas. Books stretch the limits of our thinking.
28. What age group might relate most to this poem?
    Children and young readers.
    But the message applies to all ages.
29. Why is the chair mentioned in the poem?
    To contrast the still body with the traveling mind.
    It shows how books free our thoughts.
30. What is a ‘chosen friend’ in the poem?
    A character we grow fond of.
    Stories help us build emotional connections.
31. Why is reading called “play” in the poem?
    Because it’s fun and imaginative. It brings joy like a game.
32. How does the poem describe the act of reading?
    As magical and transformative.
    Books take us to new dimensions.
33. Why might the poet choose a child as the reader?
    Children are naturally curious and imaginative. They are easily enchanted by books.
34. What emotions do books give according to the poem?
    Joy, wonder, and friendship. They offer emotional fulfillment.
35. What physical object is compared to a magic box?
    A book. Its covers hide amazing treasures inside.
36. What makes a book come alive?
    Opening it and engaging with it. A reader’s imagination brings it to life.
37. Why does the poet use imagery like ‘sailing’?
    To show movement and adventure. Books take us on imaginary travels.
38. What happens ‘before the end’ of the book?
    We might meet a new friend. That friend is often a beloved character.
39. What does the poem encourage children to do?
    Open books and explore. Reading brings endless possibilities.
40. What is meant by “our mind is over there”?
    It travels to the story’s world. Our imagination leaves our physical space.
41. What kind of land might books take us to?
    Any land — real or imaginary. There are no limits to where books go.
42. What kind of age can we visit in a book?
    Any historical or futuristic time. Books transcend time periods.
43. How do books affect a child’s mind?
    They open doors to creativity and learning. Books help children think broadly.
44. What message does the poet send about imagination?
    That books are a doorway to it. They make imagination fly.
45. Why are book covers mentioned?
    To show that beauty is hidden inside. The real magic is between the covers.
46. What is meant by ‘all things for their lovers’?
    Books offer joy, wisdom, adventure — everything a reader desires. Lovers of books find endless gifts within.
47. Why do books never become boring according to the poem?
    Because each one holds a new world. Every book is different.
48. What power does a child have in the poem?
    The power to unlock stories with a touch. It makes reading feel magical and personal.
49. What is the tone of the poem?
    Wonder-filled and joyful. It celebrates the magic of reading.
50. What is the poet’s final message?
    Books are magical treasures for those who love them. They offer everything the heart and mind could seek.
51. What does the poem compare books to?
    Books are compared to “worlds of wonder” and “magic boxes.” These metaphors highlight their ability to unlock imagination and transport readers.
52. How do books affect the reader’s surroundings?
    The room “melts away” as the reader becomes immersed in the book. This symbolizes the power of reading to transcend physical spaces.
53. What happens when a child opens a book?
    New ideas, people, and worlds rise in their imagination. The child’s mind engages with the story, leaving reality behind.
54. Why are books called “magic boxes”?
    They contain endless possibilities that a simple touch (opening) can unlock. The phrase emphasizes their transformative potential.
55. What contrast does the poem draw between body and mind?
    The body stays in the chair, but the mind travels to the book’s world. This highlights reading’s power to separate mental and physical realms.
56. How does reading create friendships in the poem?
    Characters in books may become the reader’s “chosen friend.” This reflects the emotional connection readers form with fictional figures.
57. What journey does the reader take while reading?
    They sail “to some other land or age,” exploring diverse settings. Books act as vessels for time travel and global exploration.
58. Why does the room “melt away” during reading?
    It signifies total immersion in the story. External distractions fade as the reader’s focus shifts to the book’s universe.
59. How does the poem describe the bond between readers and books?
    Books “hold all things for their lovers,” offering endless treasures. This portrays reading as a deeply personal, fulfilling relationship.
60. What role does imagination play in the poem?
    Imagination allows readers to visualize ideas and characters. It transforms static pages into dynamic, immersive experiences.
61. What rhyme scheme does the poem use?
    The AABB rhyme scheme creates a rhythmic, song-like flow. This mirrors the playful and enchanting nature of reading.
62. How does repetition enhance the poem’s message?
    Phrases like “worlds of wonder” and “magic box” reinforce books’ mystical qualities. Repetition makes the poem memorable and emphatic.
63. Why is personification used for books?
    Books “hold all things for their lovers,” giving them lifelike qualities. This deepens their role as companions and gatekeepers of knowledge.
64. What effect do exclamation marks have?
    They convey excitement and awe (e.g., “What worlds of wonder!”). The tone becomes celebratory, reflecting the joy of reading.
65. How does the poem’s brevity impact its message?
    Short lines and stanzas mirror the simplicity and accessibility of books. It captures the essence of reading in a concise, vivid manner.
66. What does “sailing along the page” symbolize?
    It represents the reader’s journey through the narrative. The metaphor evokes adventure and discovery.
67. Why are books called “worlds of wonder”?
    They contain limitless stories, ideas, and cultures. The phrase celebrates their capacity to expand horizons.
68. How does the poem use the “magic box” metaphor?
    Books are likened to enchanted containers that reveal treasures when opened. This underscores their mystery and value.
69. What does “fancies and our eyes” suggest about reading?
    Reading engages both imagination (“fancies”) and perception (“eyes”). It bridges inner and outer worlds.
70. How is time transcended in the poem?
    Readers visit “some other age,” breaking free of temporal limits. Books allow exploration of history and futurity.
71. Why does the poem emphasize playfulness?
    Reading is portrayed as joyful and liberating (“find ourselves at play”). It frames books as sources of delight, not just knowledge.
72. How does the poem address escapism?
    It validates escaping reality through books as enriching. Mental journeys offer solace and growth, not avoidance.
73. What does the poem suggest about loneliness?
    Books provide companionship through characters and ideas. They alleviate isolation by connecting readers to broader worlds.
74. How does the poem inspire curiosity?
    By highlighting books’ endless “worlds,” it encourages exploration. Curiosity becomes a pathway to learning and connection.
75. Why is the reader’s “mind over there” significant?
    It celebrates the mind’s ability to travel beyond physical limits. Reading fosters mental freedom and creativity.
76. How does the poem reflect childhood literacy?
    It portrays books as magical tools for children. The poem encourages young readers to embrace storytelling and curiosity.
77. What values does the poem promote for educators?
    It underscores the importance of nurturing imagination and access to books. Educators are urged to unlock “magic” for students.
78. How does the poem align with Farjeon’s style?
    Her whimsical, child-centric tone shines through. The poem’s simplicity and wonder mirror her focus on youthful perspectives.
79. Why might this poem appeal to reluctant readers?
    It frames reading as an adventure, not a chore. The playful language demystifies books and invites exploration.
80. What lesson does the poem teach about storytelling?
    Stories are portals to empathy and knowledge. They transform passive readers into active participants.
81. How do books create “chosen friends”?
    Characters resonate emotionally, becoming lifelong companions. These friendships shape readers’ values and identities.
82. What does “unlocking” a book imply about effort?
    It requires minimal effort (a “touch”) but yields profound rewards. The poem democratizes access to literary riches.
83. How does the poem address sensory engagement?
    Words like “looks,” “melts,” and “sail” evoke sight, touch, and motion. Reading becomes a multisensory experience.
84. Why is the reader’s body “in the chair” emphasized?
    It contrasts stillness with mental activity. The body’s inertia highlights the mind’s boundless energy.
85. How does the poem balance simplicity and depth?
    Simple language conveys profound ideas about imagination. Its accessibility invites readers of all ages to reflect.
86. How does this poem differ from modern views on digital reading?
    It romanticizes physical books as magical objects. Modern digital formats might lack the tactile “magic box” metaphor.
87. What would Farjeon say about audiobooks or e-readers?
    She might celebrate any format that unlocks imagination. The core message—books as portals—transcends medium.
88. How does the poem’s optimism contrast with dystopian views of books?
    It rejects fears of books becoming obsolete. Instead, it champions their timeless, transformative role.
89. What classic tales align with the poem’s themes?
    Stories like Alice in Wonderlandor The Chronicles of Narnia mirror the idea of books as gateways.
90. How might the poem inspire library design?
    Libraries could emphasize cozy, immersive spaces where rooms “melt away.” Design would prioritize wonder and exploration.
91. How could teachers use this poem in a reading workshop?
    Ask students to visualize their “magic box” book. Encourage them to draw or write about their imaginative journeys.
92. What art project could complement the poem?
    Create “magic box” dioramas representing favorite books. Students design boxes with symbols from their chosen stories.
93. How might the poem inspire a theater performance?
    Actors could mime “melting” rooms and “sailing” through pages. The performance would dramatize reading’s transformative power.
94. What music could accompany a recitation of this poem?
    A light, whimsical melody with chimes or piano. The music would mirror the poem’s playful and magical tone.
95. How does the poem encourage creative writing?
    It models how to turn abstract ideas (imagination) into vivid metaphors. Students can write their own poems about books.
96. How does the poem promote inclusivity?
    Books “hold all things for their lovers,” regardless of background. Reading becomes a universal, egalitarian joy.
97. What does the poem suggest about access to books?
    Implies books should be readily available (“a touch unlocks”). Advocates for removing barriers to literacy.
98. How does the poem address cultural diversity?
    Sailing to “other lands” introduces readers to diverse cultures. Books foster empathy and global awareness.
99. Why is the poem relevant in promoting literacy campaigns?
    It captures books’ transformative potential, making a compelling case for literacy as a gateway to empowerment.
100. How does the poem redefine “lovers” of books?

“Lovers” are passionate readers who find fulfillment in stories. The term elevates reading to an act of devotion and joy.