English Notes Chapter 2.3 – The Little River Class 8 Maharashtra Board

1. Summary of the Poem

The poem The Little River describes a beautiful and lively river that changes with the seasons. In summer, the river is calm, shallow, and easy to cross. People, animals, and carts pass through it without difficulty. The banks are lined with trees like mango and palm, and the surroundings are full of natural beauty. Birds like mynahs chirp, and jackals howl at night.

During the monsoon (Ashadh), the river transforms completely. The water level rises, the current becomes strong, and the river floods. The once peaceful surroundings come alive with new energy, and the village rejoices in the arrival of the rains. The poem highlights the contrast between the calm and violent phases of the river, showing how nature changes with time.

2. Word Meanings

3. Poetic Devices Used in the Poem

Alliteration – The repetition of the same initial sound in nearby words.

• “Chirping mynahs through that site.”
• “Jackal’s howl is heard there at night.”
• “The woods onshore stir to life again.”

Onomatopoeia – Words that imitate natural sounds.

• “Chirping mynahs through that site.” (Chirping sound)
• “The jackal’s howl is heard there at night.” (Howl sound)
• “The air is rife with babbling sounds.” (Babbling water sound)
• “The muddy torrent swirls along.” (Swirling water sound)

4. Themes of the Poem

1. The Beauty of Nature – The poem describes the river’s surroundings, including trees, birds, and the peaceful environment in summer.
2. The Changing Seasons – It shows how the river changes from calm in summer to strong and fierce in monsoon.
3. Human and Nature Connection – Villagers depend on the river for bathing, washing utensils, and fishing. It is an important part of their daily lives.
4. Contrast Between Calmness and Force – The river is gentle in summer but powerful during the rainy season.

5. Contrast Between Summer and Monsoon