Question

What removes the ‘pall from our dark spirits’ ?

Answer 1

Hint: The above phrase is a part of the poem ‘A Thing of Beauty’ by John Keats. The word ‘pall’ usually refers to covering, that can be metaphorical (cloud of gloom) or literal (piece of cloth).

Complete answer:
 ‘A Thing of Beauty’, written by John Keats is an excerpt from ‘Endymion: A Poetic Romance’ and is based on the life of a greek legend, Endymion. Keats believes that the world has a lot of impurities like greed, negativity, hatred, malice and this negative energy has played a big role in bringing gloom and fading away of positive things and energy. He says that all problems caused by this negative energy is responsible for bringing the pall(covering) of low spirits and despondent feelings over our spirits.

Throughout his poem, he lists a number of beautiful things that can give endless joy and satisfaction to us and further says that any such beautiful thing that provides relaxation and happiness will remove the pall from our dark spirits.

According to Keats, every element of nature is a source of pleasure and joy to us. For example, the sun’s energy, the moon, the trees, the daffodil flowers, streams and roses, all bring comfort and calm to man and radiate positive vibes.

Note: The poet uses a number of literary devices such as alliteration, metaphors and imagery to put his point across the readers. He paints a beautiful picture of our planet earth, that not only has elements of joy for us but also never fails to continuously inspire us.