2.3.2 - Gift by Alice Walker
Book Back Questions
1. Justify the title “Gift”.
The title “Gift” is justified because the poem is based on the idea of a lover offering his soul as a gift to the lady. The lady is surprised by this unusual gift, as she never actually asked for his soul. Still, she accepts it politely, as she feels it is not right to refuse a gift. She takes care of it lovingly and is even ready to return it safely when he asks for it. Later, the lover angrily demands the soul back and accuses her of being possessive. The misunderstanding about the gift leads to the end of love. Thus, the poem revolves around the giving, receiving, and misunderstanding of the “gift”, making the title very appropriate.
2. How does the poet bring out the pathos of lost love being not so painful as the accusation charged against love?
The poet shows that the pain caused by false accusation is deeper than the pain of lost love. The lady lovingly accepts and cares for the soul given to her. She does not misuse it or claim ownership. However, the lover wrongly accuses her of being greedy and possessive. He believes that she has taken control of his soul. This accusation hurts her more than the loss of love itself. She explains that the soul never left him and that he only passed his heavy childhood thoughts. But he refuses to understand her. Thus, the poet brings out the deep sorrow caused by misunderstanding and blame, which is more painful than separation or lost love.
3. Bring out the feelings of the man who gifted his soul and the woman who received it.
The man and the woman show very different feelings in the poem. The man gives his soul as a gift, but later becomes angry and suspicious. He accuses the woman of being possessive and greedy. He feels that she has controlled his soul and reveals a side of anger and stubbornness. In contrast, the woman accepts the gift politely and cares for it with love and responsibility. She is not serious about owning it and is ready to return it safely. She feels hurt and disappointed when the man misunderstands her intentions. Thus, the poem contrasts the man’s suspicion and possessiveness with the woman’s patience, care, and honesty.
4. Write a critical appreciation of the poem “Gift”.
The poem “Gift” by Alice Walker presents the emotional conflict between a man and a woman through a symbolic gift. The poem highlights misunderstanding, accusation, and the breakdown of love. The poet uses simple language and symbolism to show how love turns bitter due to mistrust. The woman represents patience and care, while the man represents possessiveness and narrow-mindedness. The poem also reflects the patriarchal attitude of society, where women are often blamed without reason. The emotional tone of the poem creates sympathy for the woman. Overall, “Gift” is a powerful poem that brings out human emotions, broken relationships, and social attitudes in a subtle and effective manner.
5. Why was the lady, who got her lover’s soul as a gift, disappointed?
The lady was disappointed because her lover did not understand her true feelings. She accepted his soul politely and cared for it with love and responsibility. She never tried to possess it or keep it away from him. When the lover angrily demanded his soul back, he accused her of being greedy and possessive. This false accusation deeply hurt her. She tried to explain that the soul had never left him and that he had only passed his heavy childhood thoughts. But he refused to accept her explanation. His stubbornness and lack of trust killed the love between them. Thus, the lady was disappointed due to his misunderstanding and unjust accusation.