CLASS 11  English Summary

A Photograph Summary In English

Let's dive into the heartfelt poem "A Photograph" with a straightforward summary, perfect for Class 11 English students. We've broken down the essence of the poem into easy-to-understand points, so you can connect with its themes without any fuss.

Join us as we explore the memories captured in the photograph, reflecting on the passage of time and the emotions it evokes. This summary will help you grasp the poem's meaning and appreciate its beauty in simple terms.

Whether you're studying for exams or just curious about poetry, our summary keeps things clear and accessible. Let's explore "A Photograph" together and uncover its touching story!


A Photograph Summary In Points Class 11 English

- The photograph pasted on the cardboard depicts two girl cousins, Betty and Dolly, along with the poetess's mother, when they went paddling in the sea.

- The poetess's mother was a young girl of around twelve years old at the time, holding the hands of Betty and Dolly while facing the camera.

- All three of them pushed their hair aside to smile, resulting in a photograph capturing three smiling faces.

- The poetess's mother's face is described as sweet, belonging to a time before the poetess was born.

- The photograph also captures their feet being washed by the sea water for a brief period, alongside the seemingly unchanged sea itself.

- The poetess suggests that her mother's face has changed over the years through this indirect hint.

- After a few decades have passed, the poetess's mother would laugh at the snapshot, remembering how Betty and Dolly dressed for the beach during their sea holiday.

- The scanty dress in the photograph amuses the poetess's mother, and her laughter becomes a precious memory for the poetess.

- The poetess finds both her mother's holiday and her laughter ironic as they are associated with her loss and the need to find temporary freedom from pain.

- The poetess's mother has now been dead for nearly as many years as the girl in the picture lived.

- The poetess struggles to find words to comment on her mother's death, and the solemnity of the moment renders her silent.

- The poetess pays tribute to her mother, and it is the impact of the old photograph that leaves her speechless.