Amidst killer speeds I stand
Facing the traffic, stretching my hand.
I am seen on kids’ books and as cartoons everywhere
Educating people and asking them to beware
Of the erratic traffic and the signboards
Seen on almost all the roads.
So that you’re safe I see each one of you
But my sweat, my plight on the road sees who?
Be it sunny or rainy,
For your safety
I must be Vigil and agile, on the middle
Standing erect, as fit as a fiddle.
Oh! My ear hurts!
Oh! My head aches!
Oh! Look at the weather…such unpredictable days!
But I cannot swerve; I must be on duty.
I care for your safety.
Be it noisy or dusty;
Be it sunny or rainy;
I must be on duty.
I care for your safety
Theme: The theme of the poem centers on the dedication and responsibility of a traffic signal or officer in ensuring road safety. It highlights the challenges they face, such as harsh weather and fatigue, while emphasizing their unwavering commitment to protecting pedestrians and drivers. Ultimately, the poem underscores the importance of their role in managing traffic and raising awareness about road safety.
Summary: The poem depicts the perspective of a traffic signal or officer who stands in the midst of chaotic traffic, dedicated to ensuring the safety of pedestrians and drivers. The speaker describes their role as a guiding figure, educating people about traffic rules and warning them of dangers on the road. Despite facing challenges like harsh weather, noise, and physical discomfort, the speaker remains vigilant and committed to their duty, emphasizing their responsibility to protect others. The poem ultimately highlights the often-overlooked importance of such figures in maintaining road safety and their selfless dedication to the well-being of the community.
Paraphrasing
"Amidst killer speeds I stand"
In the midst of fast-moving traffic, I remain in my position, facing the dangerous speeds of vehicles on the road.
"Facing the traffic, stretching my hand."
I am positioned facing the oncoming traffic, extending my hand to direct or control the flow of vehicles.
"I am seen on kids’ books and as cartoons everywhere"
I am a familiar figure, often depicted in children's books and cartoons as a symbol of road safety or traffic control.
"Educating people and asking them to beware"
My purpose is to teach people about the importance of road safety and caution, urging them to be aware of the dangers around them.
"Of the erratic traffic and the signboards"
I warn about the unpredictable and chaotic nature of the traffic and the importance of paying attention to the various road signs.
"Seen on almost all the roads."
My presence is widespread, as traffic signals, road signs, or police officers like me are found on almost every road to guide and protect people.
"So that you’re safe I see each one of you"
My goal is to keep everyone safe, and I am constantly alert, keeping an eye on each person and vehicle to ensure their safety.
"But my sweat, my plight on the road sees who?"
Despite my hard work and the physical strain I endure while standing in harsh conditions, no one seems to notice or appreciate my efforts.
"Be it sunny or rainy,"
Whether the weather is bright and sunny or rainy and unpleasant, I continue to perform my duty without fail.
"For your safety"
Everything I do is for your safety, ensuring that the road remains secure for everyone who uses it.
"I must be vigilant and agile, on the middle"
I have to stay alert and quick, especially in the center of the road where traffic is most intense.
"Standing erect, as fit as a fiddle."
I maintain a strong and upright posture, remaining in good health and physical condition despite the challenging circumstances.
"Oh! My ear hurts!"
The noise of the traffic and the constant sound of engines causes discomfort in my ears, but I endure it for the sake of my duty.
"Oh! My head aches!"
The stress of standing in harsh conditions, with the noise and pressure, gives me a headache, yet I continue my work.
"Oh! Look at the weather…such unpredictable days!"
The weather can be unpredictable and extreme, adding to the challenges of my job, but I must stay focused regardless.
"But I cannot swerve; I must be on duty."
Even though I feel discomfort and face difficult circumstances, I cannot abandon my post; my duty requires me to remain focused.
"I care for your safety."
My concern for your well-being is the reason I continue standing in tough conditions—your safety is my priority.
"Be it noisy or dusty;"
Whether the environment is filled with loud sounds from the traffic or the air is dusty, I remain steadfast in my role.
"Be it sunny or rainy;"
No matter what the weather is like—whether it’s bright and clear or stormy and rainy—I stay vigilant.
"I must be on duty."
Regardless of any inconvenience or hardship, I am bound to my responsibility and must continue performing my duties.
"I care for your safety."
Once again, I emphasize that all my efforts, despite the discomforts, are to ensure that you are safe on the road.
Short Answer Questions
What is the main role of the speaker in the poem?
The speaker in the poem represents a figure responsible for road safety, possibly a traffic signal or a traffic policeman. The main role of the speaker is to ensure the safety of pedestrians and drivers by staying vigilant and controlling traffic, regardless of the weather conditions or discomfort.
How does the speaker feel about their work?
The speaker expresses physical discomfort, such as earaches and headaches due to the noise and weather, yet they remain committed to their duty. Despite the challenging circumstances, the speaker continues their work, as they prioritize the safety of others over their own comfort.
What challenges does the speaker face in their job?
The speaker faces several challenges, such as unpredictable weather, extreme temperatures, noise from traffic, and physical strain. These challenges make the job difficult, but the speaker is determined to stay on duty for the sake of others’ safety.
Why does the speaker mention "sunny or rainy" and "noisy or dusty"?
The speaker mentions these conditions to highlight the difficult and varied circumstances they must endure while performing their duty. Regardless of whether the weather is favorable or not, or whether the environment is noisy or dusty, the speaker remains on duty.
What does the phrase "I must be vigilant and agile" suggest about the speaker’s work ethic?
This phrase indicates that the speaker is always alert and quick to respond. The work requires constant attention and agility, particularly in the center of traffic, where the speaker must guide and control the situation efficiently to ensure safety.
What does the speaker mean by "I care for your safety"?
The speaker is emphasizing that their primary concern is the safety of others. Despite the discomforts and challenges they face, the speaker remains dedicated to their duty because they understand that their actions directly contribute to the well-being of those on the road.
How does the poem highlight the speaker’s dedication to their duty?
The poem highlights the speaker’s dedication through their constant commitment to stand firm in all conditions, despite physical discomfort and external challenges. The repetition of phrases like "I must be on duty" and "I care for your safety" reinforces the speaker’s sense of responsibility.
Why does the speaker use the imagery of "standing erect, as fit as a fiddle"?
This imagery suggests that despite the difficult conditions and strain, the speaker maintains a strong and upright posture, symbolizing their resilience and determination to stay in top condition to perform their role effectively.
What does the speaker mean when they say, "I am seen on kids’ books and as cartoons everywhere"?
The speaker is referring to how their role is often portrayed in educational materials, such as children's books and cartoons, to teach people about road safety. This shows that their role is significant and widely recognized in society.
How does the poem reflect the theme of selflessness?
The poem reflects selflessness through the speaker’s unwavering commitment to road safety, even at the cost of their own comfort and well-being. The speaker chooses to remain on duty despite physical pain and challenging weather conditions, prioritizing the safety of others above their own needs.
Multiple-choice questions based on the text:
What is the speaker's role in the poem?
A) A teacher
B) A traffic signal
C) A traffic police officer
D) A pedestrian
Answer: B) A traffic signal
What does the speaker endure while on duty?
A) Comfort and ease
B) Headaches, earaches, and difficult weather
C) Laughter and joy
D) Rest and relaxation
Answer: B) Headaches, earaches, and difficult weather
Why does the speaker mention "sunny or rainy" and "noisy or dusty"?
A) To describe the beauty of nature
B) To highlight the challenges faced while on duty
C) To show how easy the job is
D) To show how much the speaker enjoys the weather
Answer: B) To highlight the challenges faced while on duty
What is the speaker's main concern?
A) Their own comfort
B) The safety of others
C) The state of the weather
D) The time of day
Answer: B) The safety of others
What does the phrase "I must be vigilant and agile" mean?
A) The speaker needs to relax and take breaks
B) The speaker must stay alert and be quick to act
C) The speaker needs to focus on their health
D) The speaker is bored and uninterested in their job
Answer: B) The speaker must stay alert and be quick to act
Why does the speaker say "I care for your safety"?
A) Because the speaker enjoys their job
B) Because the speaker feels responsible for others' well-being
C) Because the speaker wants recognition
D) Because the speaker is paid to care
Answer: B) Because the speaker feels responsible for others' well-being
How does the speaker describe their condition while on duty?
A) Calm and rested
B) Fatigued and uncomfortable
C) Happy and energetic
D) Lazy and relaxed
Answer: B) Fatigued and uncomfortable
What does the speaker mean by "I must be on duty"?
A) The speaker has to sleep
B) The speaker is responsible for guiding traffic and ensuring safety
C) The speaker has to go home
D) The speaker wants to stop working
Answer: B) The speaker is responsible for guiding traffic and ensuring safety
What does the phrase "as fit as a fiddle" suggest about the speaker?
A) The speaker is in poor health
B) The speaker is mentally tired
C) The speaker is physically strong and well-prepared for the task
D) The speaker wants to play music
Answer: C) The speaker is physically strong and well-prepared for the task
What does the speaker mean by "I am seen on kids’ books and as cartoons everywhere"?
A) The speaker enjoys being famous
B) The speaker’s role is commonly used as an educational tool
C) The speaker is a character in a cartoon series
D) The speaker is ignored by children
Answer: B) The speaker’s role is commonly used as an educational tool
Summary:
This poem reflects the experience of a traffic police officer in Bangladesh, highlighting their challenging and selfless role in maintaining road safety. The speaker describes how, despite facing harsh weather conditions—be it sunny or rainy—and enduring physical discomfort, they stand at the crossroads, managing the flow of traffic to ensure the safety of others. The traffic police officer is seen as a figure of authority, much like the characters in children’s books or cartoons that educate the public about road safety. They constantly observe the erratic flow of traffic and the confusing signboards that litter the streets. Despite the challenges they face—like earaches from the noise or headaches from the stress—they remain dedicated to their duty. The poem emphasizes how these officers are committed to their job, standing tall in the middle of the road, tirelessly keeping the city’s traffic in check for the benefit of others, even when their own needs and well-being are disregarded.
Theme:
The theme of this poem revolves around the sacrifices and dedication of traffic police officers in Bangladesh. It highlights the physical and emotional challenges they face while working in difficult conditions to ensure the safety of others. Despite the hardships, the officer remains vigilant and committed to their duty, emphasizing the idea of selfless service and responsibility for the well-being of the public.
vocabulary words from the poem along with their meanings in English and Bangla:
Word | Meaning (English) | Meaning (Bangla) |
Vigil | The action of keeping careful watch for possible danger or difficulties. | সতর্কতা, নজরদারি |
Agile | Able to move quickly and easily. | চতুর, সঞ্চালনশীল |
Erratic | Not even or regular in pattern or movement. | অনিয়মিত, অস্থির |
Swerving | Moving or turning aside from a straight course. | পেছনে ফিরে যাওয়া, পাশ ফিরে যাওয়া |
Plight | A dangerous, difficult, or otherwise unfortunate situation. | বিপদ, কষ্টকর অবস্থা |
Swerve | To change direction suddenly. | হঠাৎ দিক পরিবর্তন |
Dutiful | Showing a sense of responsibility or duty. | কর্তব্যপরায়ণ, দায়িত্ববান |
Vigilance | The action or state of keeping careful watch for possible danger or difficulties. | সতর্ক দৃষ্টি |
Discomfort | A lack of comfort or ease, physical or emotional pain. | অস্বস্তি, কষ্ট |
Unpredictable | Not able to be predicted, uncertain. | অনিশ্চিত, পূর্বানুমান করা যায় না |
Fickle | Changing frequently, especially in regards to opinions or feelings. | অবিশ্বাসযোগ্য, অনিশ্চিত |
Resilience | The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties or tough situations. | সহ্যক্ষমতা, প্রতিরোধশক্তি |
Sustain | To keep up or maintain, especially in difficult conditions. | ধরে রাখা, চালিয়ে যাওয়া |
Plight | A difficult, distressing situation. | বিপদ, কষ্টের অবস্থান |
Agility | The ability to move quickly and easily. | দ্রুতগতি, সঞ্চালনশীলতা |
Fatigue | Extreme tiredness or exhaustion. | ক্লান্তি, অবসাদ |
Crisis | A time of intense difficulty or danger. | সঙ্কট, বিপর্যয় |
Prowess | Skill or expertise in a particular activity or field. | দক্ষতা, পারদর্শিতা |
Deteriorate | To become worse or less valuable over time. | খারাপ হওয়া, অবনতি হওয়া |
Unseen | Not seen or visible, not noticed. | অদৃশ্য, অগোচর |
Bangla Translation (Summary)
সারাংশ:
এই কবিতাটি বাংলাদেশের একজন ট্রাফিক পুলিশ অফিসারের অভিজ্ঞতা প্রতিফলিত করে, সড়ক নিরাপত্তা বজায় রাখার ক্ষেত্রে তাদের চ্যালেঞ্জিং এবং নিঃস্বার্থ ভূমিকা তুলে ধরে। বক্তা বর্ণনা করেছেন যে, কীভাবে, রোদ হোক বা বৃষ্টি—কঠিন আবহাওয়ার মুখোমুখি হওয়া এবং শারীরিক অস্বস্তি সহ্য করা সত্ত্বেও, তারা রাস্তার মোড়ে দাঁড়িয়ে অন্যদের নিরাপত্তা নিশ্চিত করার জন্য যানজটের প্রবাহ নিয়ন্ত্রণ করে। ট্রাফিক পুলিশ অফিসারকে কর্তৃত্বের একজন ব্যক্তিত্ব হিসেবে দেখা হয়, অনেকটা শিশুদের বই বা কার্টুনের চরিত্রগুলির মতো যারা জনসাধারণকে সড়ক নিরাপত্তা সম্পর্কে শিক্ষিত করে। তারা ক্রমাগত ট্র্যাফিকের অনিয়মিত প্রবাহ এবং রাস্তায় জঞ্জাল সৃষ্টিকারী বিভ্রান্তিকর সাইনবোর্ডগুলি পর্যবেক্ষণ করে। তারা যে চ্যালেঞ্জগুলির মুখোমুখি হয় - যেমন শব্দের কারণে কান ব্যথা বা চাপের কারণে মাথাব্যথা - তবুও তারা তাদের কর্তব্যের প্রতি নিবেদিতপ্রাণ থাকে। কবিতাটি জোর দেয় যে কীভাবে এই অফিসাররা তাদের কাজের প্রতি প্রতিশ্রুতিবদ্ধ, রাস্তার মাঝখানে দাঁড়িয়ে, অক্লান্তভাবে অন্যদের সুবিধার জন্য শহরের ট্র্যাফিক নিয়ন্ত্রণে রাখে, এমনকি যখন তাদের নিজস্ব চাহিদা এবং মঙ্গলকে উপেক্ষা করা হয়।
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