Q1: Which words or phrases indicate their lack of physical beauty?

Ans: The poet employs expressions such as “neither white nor small,” “fair at all,” and “these ages and wrinkled hands” to convey that the hands lack physical beauty. These words imply that the hands are aged, with wrinkles, roughness, and a larger size, devoid of fairness and delicacy.

Q2: What leads the poetess to admire the hands in the second stanza? OR Why does the poetess hold the mother’s hands in high regard?

Ans: The poetess admires the mother’s hands because they were ceaselessly diligent and worked tirelessly to bring joy to her children. These hands, though weary or sad, were a source of comfort and solace. Reflecting on the effort and sacrifice her mother made during her own childhood, the poetess recognizes her mother’s dedication even when she was unable to assist her.

Q3: What does the line “These hands must folded be” signify in the third stanza?

Ans: The line “These hands must folded be” signifies that the time of the poetess’s mother’s passing is approaching. The poetess mourns this inevitability, as her mother will soon be laid to rest beneath wildflowers in a folded position, symbolizing her departure.

Q4: Whom does the poetess express admiration for in this poem? OR Why does the poetess hold her mother’s hands in high esteem in this poem?

Ans: In this poem, the poetess offers profound praise to her mother’s hands and, by extension, all mothers. She commends the selfless services that mothers provide in raising their children. Despite enduring numerous hardships, mothers persevere to ensure their families lead content lives. The poetess considers them deserving of admiration, love, and respect.

Q5: Can you provide some information about the poet / poetess of this poem?

Ans: This poem was penned by Ellen M. H. Gates (1835-1920), a writer born in Torrington, Connecticut (USA). She gained recognition for her religious songs (hymns) such as “The Home of the Soul” and “Eternity,” which were published in prominent magazines. Her collections of poems were released in 1897 and 1910.

Q6: What idea does the poem “Beautiful Hands” convey?

Ans: In “Beautiful Hands,” the poetess celebrates the spiritual beauty of a mother’s hands. She offers a distinctive and heartfelt tribute to her own mother, portraying these hands as symbols of love, sacrifice, affection, and the diligent effort that goes into nurturing children.

OR

The poem “Beautiful Hands” conveys the notion that mothers undertake extensive responsibilities for their children. Without taking breaks, they tirelessly care for their children. The poem encourages children to acknowledge and value their mother’s dedicated service.

Q7: What kind of rewards does the poetess envision for her mother?

Ans: The poetess holds a firm belief that her mother will attain paradise after passing away, where she will regain her youthful vigor. The poet expresses her anticipation of reuniting with her mother, symbolically holding her hand in paradise. The sacrifices made by mothers in giving birth to and raising their children will earn them rewards in the form of a heavenly outcome.