Chapter: 02. Tiptoe Night
I. Comprehension
A. State whether the following sentences are True (T) or False (F).
The poet watches Tiptoe Night appear clearly with his eyes. Tiptoe Night makes loud sounds as it travels down the lane. The poem describes a gradual and peaceful change from day to night. The night brings a sense of quiet and stillness to the surroundings. The flowers and birds welcome the night by singing loudly. B. Answer these questions briefly.
What does the night take control of as it arrives? As it arrives, the night takes control of “every little flower and bird,” meaning the natural world settles down under its quiet influence. Why is the night described as “all alone”? The night is described as “all alone” to emphasize its solitary and independent movement, without any companions or accompanying sounds. What specific details tell us the night is very quiet? Details like “without a word,” “Not a footfall, not a sigh,” and “Not a ripple of the air” tell us the night is very quiet. What is the final destination mentioned in the poem for Tiptoe Night’s journey? The final destination mentioned in the poem for Tiptoe Night’s journey is the windowsill. C. Answer these questions with reference to the context.
“And I count them as I wait,
Step by tiptoe step until-
Hush! He’s at the garden-gate,
Hush! He’s at the windowsill.”
Who is “he” in these lines? “He” in these lines refers to Tiptoe Night, which is personified as a male figure. What does “Step by tiptoe step until-” suggest about the poet’s feeling? This phrase suggests that the poet is actively observing and waiting for the night, feeling a sense of anticipation and perhaps a quiet excitement for its arrival. What effect does the repetition of “Hush!” create in the poem? The repetition of “Hush!” creates an onomatopoeic effect, mimicking the sound of quietness. It also emphasizes the sudden, immediate realization of the night’s close presence and reinforces the peaceful, silent atmosphere. D. Answer these questions in detail.
How does the poet make the arrival of night feel like a gentle transition rather than a sudden change? Explain using specific phrases or ideas from the poem. The poet makes the arrival of night feel like a gentle transition through several subtle cues. The phrase “Tiptoe Night comes down the lane” suggests a slow, careful movement rather than an abrupt appearance. The description “Step by tiptoe step until-” emphasizes a gradual progression. Additionally, the complete absence of sounds—“Not a footfall, not a sigh, / Not a ripple of the air”—highlights that the change isn’t disruptive but seamless and quiet, allowing the world to ease into darkness. What is the main message or feeling the poet wants to convey about night in this poem? How is it different from common fears associated with darkness? The main message the poet wants to convey is that nightfall is a peaceful, gentle, and quiet event that brings a sense of stillness and calm. This is very different from common fears associated with darkness, where night might be seen as scary, lonely, or full of unknown dangers. In this poem, Tiptoe Night is portrayed as a welcome, solitary visitor who quietly takes over, fostering a feeling of security and tranquility rather than fear. 
Answer key