Question

How does the poet use the phrase ‘polished traffic’ to highlight the contrast between urban and rural life in the poem ‘A Roadside Stand’ ?

(Answer in 40-50 words)

Hint:

Explain that polished traffic means the wealthy city drivers who ignore the poor villagers waiting at the stand.

Answer 1

Step 1: Explain the phrase:
'Polished traffic' means the shiny cars of well-off city people speeding past the poor roadside stand without stopping.

Step 2: State the contrast:
It sets urban wealth and indifference against rural poverty and the hope of the villagers for a better life.

Final Answer:
'Polished traffic' refers to the shiny cars of rich city people speeding past the poor roadside stand. The phrase shows urban prosperity and indifference, set against the poverty and unmet hopes of the villagers, who wait in vain for a few customers to stop and buy.