No Men Are Foreign: Class 9 NCERT Poem 6 - Analysis & MCQs with Answers
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Type of homework: Analysis
Added: 20.01.2026 at 16:21
Summary:
Explore the meaning and themes of No Men Are Foreign, with detailed analysis and MCQs to help Class 9 students grasp this NCERT poem effectively. 📚
Understanding and Appreciating the Poem *No Men Are Foreign* – A Detailed Analysis with Key Insights for Class 9 Students
Poetry, especially within the Indian educational context, has long been a gentle yet powerful vehicle for instilling timeless values and nurturing empathy among young minds. Our textbooks do not merely aim to strengthen language ability; they remain an essential means to understand the complexities of life and our responsibilities as members of a diverse society. Among the collection of thoughtful poems in the NCERT Class 9 English Beehive is *No Men Are Foreign* by James Kirkup—Poem 6—standing apart for its wholehearted celebration of universal brotherhood.
This essay seeks to explore the message of *No Men Are Foreign*, its relevance in India’s diverse cultural landscape, and the effectiveness of its literary techniques. By considering the poem through literary, ethical, and practical lenses, we can better appreciate its lessons and see how students can apply them in daily life, especially through practice with multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
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Understanding the Title: What Does *No Men Are Foreign* Mean?
Literal Meaning
The very title, *No Men Are Foreign*, is a statement worth pausing over. Literally, the phrase means that there are no human beings in this world who are truly "foreign" or "alien" to us. "Men" here stands for all people, irrespective of gender. "Foreign" refers to something or someone from outside, unknown or unrelated. The poet’s choice of words makes us confront our everyday assumptions about who belongs and who does not.Symbolic Interpretation
Going deeper, Kirkup is not only speaking about individuals but challenging bigger concepts. He is saying that the lines and borders which define nations and create ideas of "us" and "them" are only human constructs—artificial barriers drawn by history, politics or geography. Real divisions, the poem suggests, exist only in our minds. By urging us to look beyond these divides, the poet argues for a vision of humanity grounded in equality and oneness.Relevance to Indian Students
In a country as varied as India—with its countless languages, religions, states, and ethnicities—the poem's reminder is particularly important. We are familiar, sadly, with divisions along caste, language, religion, or region. The poem, therefore, teaches us not to see others—whether within India or beyond—as strangers or outsiders. Instead, it calls for respect, compassion, and the willingness to see ourselves in everyone we meet.---
Central Themes Explored in the Poem
Universal Brotherhood and Equality
Kirkup’s central theme is the common thread that unites all people. The poem points out that everywhere, people need the sun’s warmth, air to breathe, water to drink, and the earth to grow food. This is powerfully relevant in the Indian context; for instance, consider how, from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, people worship the sun, celebrate the rains, and live off the generosity of the soil. These gifts—of nature and existence—are not the property of any one nation or group. The poem teaches that under our clothes, we all have the same kind of body, blood and dreams.Critique of Hatred, War, and Discrimination
In several lines, Kirkup warns against hatred and conflict. He suggests that hating others or treating them as enemies is ultimately harmful to ourselves as well. We witness tragic results of communal riots or wars, which leave long-lasting wounds and only bring destruction. The poem reminds us, similar to the message of Kabir’s dohas or Gandhiji’s teachings of non-violence, that hatred is a poison that damages both the person who harbours it and the victim of that hatred.The Artificiality of Borders and Divisions
One of the poem’s strongest appeals is against the artificial creation of boundaries. Borders between countries or prejudices between communities—these exist largely because of narrow self-interests. The poem critiques how these divisions, often made for convenience or control, are falsely made to seem natural or permanent. This idea actually resonates with the concept of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam", a Sanskrit phrase meaning 'the world is one family', often cited in Indian tradition.Call for Empathy and Understanding
Above all, the poem urges its readers to look beyond outer differences and realize the unity in our feelings, struggles, and joys. It pleads for empathy, for the courage to see “the other” as no different from ourselves. In the classrooms or playgrounds of India, this might mean standing up against bullying, making friends with someone from another community, or simply being kind to those who seem different.---
Literary Devices and Poetic Techniques Used
Use of Simple and Clear Language
Kirkup deliberately uses straightforward language throughout the poem. This ensures that students, regardless of their proficiency in English, can grasp the message. There are no complicated metaphors or archaic phrases—just the familiar words of daily life. This accessibility is why this poem works so well in school syllabi and is easily remembered and quoted by students.Imagery and Symbolism
The poem is rich in imagery that links all humans to the elements of nature: sun, air, water, earth. It subtly suggests that these natural elements do not recognize man-made walls or divisions. The reference to the pollution of the earth, caused not only by physical toxins but by “hate in our hearts”, symbolically connects environmental destruction to moral decay.Structure, Tone, and Rhythm
*No Men Are Foreign* is written in free verse, lending it a direct, conversational tone rather than the sing-song effect of rhyme. This style lets the seriousness and urgency of the message shine through—a style reminiscent of speeches by Indian social reformers like Swami Vivekananda or Sarojini Naidu, who used plain language to communicate profound ideas.Rhyme and Repetition
The absence of regular rhyme makes each line stand independently, drawing attention to the meaning rather than mere musicality. Repetitions such as “Remember, no men are strange, no countries foreign” act as a refrain, reinforcing the central message and making it memorable—a technique often seen in motivational speeches.---
Moral and Ethical Lessons for Students
Rejecting Hatred and Discrimination
One cannot read this poem without feeling a call to shun all forms of prejudice—whether based on caste, religion, language, or nationality. Reading about the communal harmony in our freedom movement, or the Constitution’s preamble that promises equality and justice, reinforces the poem’s message.Embracing Diversity While Recognising Commonalities
India’s beauty lies in its diversity—be it food, clothing, festivals, or arts. Yet, as the poem teaches, beneath these differences are basic similarities. The lesson is not to erase differences but to cherish them while remembering our deeper connections.Responsibility in Promoting Peace
Students have a responsibility not just to learn these values but to put them into action. Whether it means resolving quarrels peacefully, refusing to participate in negative gossip, or being inclusive, each of us can be an agent of peace.Reflecting on Self and Society
The poem invites self-reflection: Do we sometimes judge others based on outward signs? Do we allow stereotypes to shape our friendships? Education is not just about exams but about questioning ourselves and trying to become better human beings.---
Practical Applications: How Students Can Implement the Poem’s Teachings
Promoting Inclusivity in Schools
Students can actively participate in inter-cultural events—be it language days, festivals, or literary competitions where everyone feels welcomed. Sharing a meal with someone from another background, or learning a new language, can foster the spirit the poet encourages.Combating Bullying and Prejudice
Standing up against teasing or discrimination, supporting classmates who are being left out, and reporting bullying are practical ways in which the poem’s message can come alive.Environmental Awareness
Kirkup’s linking of earth’s pollution with hatred gives us a dual lesson. Just as we must clean our environment, we must purify our hearts. Campaigning for clean environments in school and neighbourhood, while also being polite and empathetic, are both needed.Global Citizenship
India is becoming ever more connected with the world. Reading about other countries, celebrating international days like United Nations Day, and participating in online exchanges can help students build a sense of oneness with people everywhere.---
Frequently Asked Questions Analysis (Practice through MCQs)
Value of MCQs in Students’ Learning
Multiple-choice questions help students consolidate their understanding and encourage quick recall of facts and main themes. They also train students to read carefully and differentiate between main points and minor details.Sample Questions and Insights
For example: - What is the main message of the poem? - (Answer: All humans are essentially the same and we must reject divisions and hatred.) - Who creates the divisions among people, according to the poem? - (Answer: Divisions are created by people themselves through prejudice, not by nature.) - What are some commonalities highlighted? - (Answer: Need for sun, air, water, and food; similar physical and emotional needs.)How Answering Questions Builds Critical Thinking
By answering such questions, students move beyond rote learning. For instance, if asked to relate the poem’s themes to events in society, students must apply their understanding, analyse current issues, and connect the poem’s ideals with real situations—key skills in the 21st century.---
Conclusion
In summary, *No Men Are Foreign* is a gentle yet forceful reminder that at our core, all human beings are one. The poem’s themes of equality, empathy, and the rejection of hatred have never been more important than in today’s world. It urges students not merely to memorise lines but to live out the principles of acceptance, peace, and harmony.As India and the world face social, cultural, and even environmental challenges, poems like this will guide us towards a better future. Let us, as students and emerging citizens, work towards a society where no one is treated as a stranger, and all people are seen as members of a single, global family—making the poet’s vision a living reality.
Sample questions
The answers have been prepared by our teacher
What is the message of No Men Are Foreign Class 9 NCERT poem?
The poem teaches the idea of universal brotherhood and equality, urging us to see all humans as one and reject the concept of foreigners.
How does No Men Are Foreign Class 9 poem relate to Indian students?
The poem is relevant to Indian students because it addresses divisions like caste, religion, and region, encouraging respect and compassion for all.
What is the meaning of the title No Men Are Foreign in Class 9 NCERT?
The title means that no human beings are truly foreign or strangers; we all share the same basic needs and qualities.
What themes are explored in No Men Are Foreign Class 9 poem?
The poem explores themes of universal brotherhood, equality, rejection of hatred, and the artificiality of borders and divisions.
How does No Men Are Foreign Class 9 poem criticize hatred and war?
The poem warns that hatred and conflict harm everyone, promoting messages of non-violence and the futility of discrimination.
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