GLIMPSES OF

RAIN
Based on “The Voice of the Rain”
 Glimpses of Rain

By: Raaga Dharshana. K

Grade 11-A

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CONTENT
1. Acknowledgement
2. Certificate of Completion
3. Objectives
4. Action Plan
5. Introduction and Thesis Statement
6. Use of Rain in Poems
7. Survey on ‘Different Views on Rain by People’
8. Report - “People’s View of Rain: A Multi-faceted
Perspective”
9. Student’s Reflection
10. Bibliography

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the following
individuals for their invaluable support and contributions to the
successful completion of this project:
o My teacher Ms. Sumathi for her guidance, expertise, and
unwavering support throughout this project.
o My classmates and friends, who provided motivation, insights,
and a collaborative spirit that made this project possible.
o My family for their unconditional love, understanding, support
and encouragement throughout this project.
I am sincerely thankful to each and every one of you for your
contributions, without which this project would not have been
possible.

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CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION

This is to certify that, Raaga Dharshana. K of Grade 11-A has

successfully completed her English project on the topic “Glimpses of
Rain” inspired from the poem “The Voice of the Rain” by Walt
Whitman during the academic year 2023-24 as per the guidelines
given by the English teacher Ms. Sumathi.

Teacher’s Signature Principal’s Signature

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OBJECTIVES

o To illustrate the different perspectives of people on rain.

o To analyse poetries regarding rain.
o To understand the poet’s view of rain
o To observe the use of rain in literature particularly in poems.
o To highlight the concepts expressed using rain.

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ACTION PLAN

o Collect poems about rain,

o Understand the poet’s intention and use of rain as an allegory.
o Research further to realise the different views of rain by people
and the ideas and emotions behind them.
o Conduct a survey to collect people’s perspective of rain.
o Write a report based on information collected and analysed.

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INTRODUCTION
Rain, a natural phenomenon that touches every corner of the Earth, has
been a subject of fascination, contemplation, and artistic expression for
centuries. People from diverse cultures and backgrounds have held various
views and perspectives on rain, influenced by factors such as geography,
climate, personal experiences, and emotional associations. From being seen as a
life-giving force to a symbol of renewal, from inspiring poetry and art to
shaping moods and emotions, the human relationship with rain is complex and
multifaceted. In this project, we delve into the diverse and intricate ways in
which people perceive and interpret rain, shedding light on its significance in
human culture and the natural world.

THESIS STATEMENT
From William Shakespeare to Emily Dickinson, the usage of rain as an
allegory can be widely observed through the decades with the assistance of
poems and insight from people.

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USE OF RAIN IN POEMS

FESTE’S SONG FROM TWELFTH NIGHT
By: William Shakespeare
When that I was and a little tiny boy,
With hey, ho, the wind and the rain,
A foolish thing was but a toy,
For the rain it raineth every day.

But when I came to man’s estate,

With hey, ho, the wind and the rain,
’Gainst knaves and thieves men shut their gate,
For the rain it raineth every day.

But when I came, alas! to wive,

With hey, ho, the wind and the rain,
By swaggering could I never thrive,
For the rain it raineth every day.

But when I came unto my beds,

With hey, ho, the wind and the rain,
With toss-pots still had drunken heads,
For the rain it raineth every day.

A great while ago the world begun,

With hey, ho, the wind and the rain,
But that’s all one, our play is done,
And we’ll strive to please you every day.

Feste's song in William Shakespeare's "Twelfth Night" is a melancholic

and reflective piece. In the song, Feste, a fool, sings about the passage of time
and the transient nature of life and love. He mentions how "the rain it raineth
every day," which symbolizes the constant changes and challenges in life. The
song conveys the idea that life is full of peaks and valleys, and it's important to
enjoy the moments of joy and love while they last because they can be
ephemeral. Feste's song adds depth to the themes of the play about the
complexities of love, and it underscores the idea that life is ever-changing.

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A SUMMER SHOWER
By: Emily Dickinson

A drop fell on the apple tree,

Another on the roof;
A half a dozen kissed the eaves,
And made the gables laugh.

A few went out to help the brook,

That went to help the sea.
Myself conjectured, Were they pearls,
What necklaces could be!

The dust replaced in hoisted roads,

The birds jocoser sung;
The sunshine threw his hat away,
The orchards spangles hung.

The breezes brought dejected lutes,

And bathed them in the glee;
The East put out a single flag,
And signed the fete away.

“A Summer Shower" by Emily Dickinson is a short poem that vividly

describes the experience of a rain shower during the summer. The poem
describes a sudden summer rain shower and captures the transient, ephemeral
moments in nature and life. It portrays the essence of a summer shower with
brevity, using vivid imagery to convey the subtlety and impermanence of the
natural world. Dickinson's concise and vivid language captures the transient yet
powerful impact of this brief moment of rain in the midst of summer. She
encourages readers to appreciate and find wonder in the small, trivial things that
surround us, just as she does with the summer shower in her poem.

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THE RAINY DAY

By: Henry Wadsworth Longsfellow

The day is cold, and dark, and dreary;

It rains, and the wind is never weary;
The vine still clings to the mouldering wall,
But at every gust the dead leaves fall,
And the day is dark and dreary.

My life is cold, and dark, and dreary;

It rains, and the wind is never weary;
My thoughts still cling to the mouldering Past,
But the hopes of youth fall thick in the blast,
And the days are dark and dreary.

Be still, sad heart! and cease repining;

Behind the clouds is the sun still shining;
Thy fate is the common fate of all,
Into each life some rain must fall,
Some days must be dark and dreary.

“The Rainy Day" by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is a reflective poem

that explores themes of melancholy and finding hope during difficult times. The
poem begins by describing a rainy day as dark and gloomy, reflecting the poet's
own inner sorrow and despair. However, as the poem progresses, the poet finds
solace in the idea that even in dark and difficult moments, there is a source of
light within. The central message is, like the rainy day, life may bring
challenges and sorrows, but one can still find a glimmer of hope and resilience
to persevere through those hardships. It ultimately conveys a message of hope
and inner strength amidst adversity.

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RAIN IN SUMMER
By: Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

How beautiful is the rain!

After the dust and heat,
In the broad and fiery street,
In the narrow lane,
How beautiful is the rain!

How it clatters along the roofs,

Like the tramp of hoofs
How it gushes and struggles out
From the throat of the overflowing spout!

Across the window-pane

It pours and pours;
And swift and wide,
With a muddy tide,
Like a river down the gutter roars
The rain, the welcome rain!

The sick man from his chamber looks

At the twisted brooks;
He can feel the cool
Breath of each little pool;
His fevered brain
Grows calm again,
And he breathes a blessing on the rain.

From the neighboring school

Come the boys,
With more than their wonted noise
And commotion;
And down the wet streets
Sail their mimic fleets,
Till the treacherous pool
Ingulfs them in its whirling
And turbulent ocean.

In the country, on every side,

Where far and wide,
Like a leopard's tawny and spotted hide,
Stretches the plain,
To the dry grass and the drier grain

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How welcome is the rain!

In the furrowed land

The toilsome and patient oxen stand;
Lifting the yoke encumbered head,
With their dilated nostrils spread,
They silently inhale
The clover-scented gale,
And the vapours that arise
From the well-watered and smoking soil.

For this rest in the furrow after toil

Their large and lustrous eyes
Seem to thank the Lord,
More than man's spoken word.

Near at hand,
From under the sheltering trees,
The farmer sees
His pastures, and his fields of grain,
As they bend their tops
To the numberless beating drops
Of the incessant rain.

He counts it as no sin
That he sees therein
Only his own thrift and gain.
These, and far more than these,
The Poet sees!

He can behold
Aquarius old
Walking the fenceless fields of air;
And from each ample fold
Of the clouds about him rolled
Scattering everywhere
The showery rain,
As the farmer scatters his grain.

He can behold
Things manifold
That have not yet been wholly told,--
Have not been wholly sung nor said.
For his thought, that never stops,
Follows the water-drops

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Down to the graves of the dead,

Down through chasms and gulfs profound,
To the dreary fountain-head
Of lakes and rivers under ground;
And sees them, when the rain is done,
On the bridge of colours seven
Climbing up once more to heaven,
Opposite the setting sun.

Thus the Seer,

With vision clear,
Sees forms appear and disappear,
In the perpetual round of strange,
Mysterious change
From birth to death, from death to birth,
From earth to heaven, from heaven to earth;
Till glimpses more sublime
Of things, unseen before,
Unto his wondering eyes reveal
The Universe, as an immeasurable wheel
Turning forevermore
In the rapid and rushing river of Time

"Rain in Summer" by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is a reflective and

appreciative ode to rain, celebrating its vital role in the cycle of life and its
capacity to bring beauty and renewal to the world. The poem celebrates the
beauty and significance of rain in nature. The poet expresses his admiration for
rain's ability to rejuvenate the earth and bring life to the withered flowers and
trees. The poem highlights how rain can transform a dry and parched landscape
into a vibrant and refreshed one, emphasizing its role in nourishing and
renewing the natural world. The poem goes beyond the physical attributes of
rain and explores its symbolic and emotional aspects. It suggests that rain can
serve as a metaphor for life's trials and tribulations, noting that even in difficult
times, there is a beauty and cleansing effect that can be found in adversity.

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A LINE-STORM SONG
By: Robert Frost

The line-storm clouds fly tattered and swift,

The road is forlorn all day,
Where a myriad snowy quartz stones lift,
And the hoof-prints vanish away.
The roadside flowers, too wet for the bee,
Expend their bloom in vain.
Come over the hills and far with me,
And be my love in the rain.

The birds have less to say for themselves

In the wood-world’s torn despair
Than now these numberless years the elves,
Although they are no less there:
All song of the woods is crushed like some
Wild, easily shattered rose.
Come, be my love in the wet woods; come,
Where the boughs rain when it blows.

There is the gale to urge behind

And bruit our singing down,
And the shallow waters aflutter with wind
From which to gather your gown.
What matter if we go clear to the west,
And come not through dry-shod?
For wilding brooch shall wet your breast
The rain-fresh goldenrod.

Oh, never this whelming east wind swells

But it seems like the sea’s return
To the ancient lands where it left the shells
Before the age of the fern;
And it seems like the time when after doubt
Our love came back amain.
Oh, come forth into the storm and rout
And be my love in the rain.

"A Line-Storm Song" by Robert Frost is a poem that describes the intense
power and destructive force of a line storm, which is a violent weather
phenomenon characterized by strong winds and heavy rain. The poem presents
a vivid portrayal of the storm's arrival, its impact on nature, and its significance
for the people who experience it. The poet conveys the sense of awe and respect
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for the overwhelming force of the storm, which has the ability to uproot trees,
bend them to the ground, and bring down fences. The poem also touches on the
idea that, despite the destruction the storm brings, there is an underlying natural
order and beauty in the cycle of life. The storm, in its ferocity, is both a
destructive and renewing force, as it can clear away the old and make way for
new growth.

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THE RAIN
By: Don Paterson

I love all films that start with rain:

rain, braiding a windowpane
or darkening a hung-out dress
or streaming down her upturned face;

one long thundering downpour

right through the empty script and score
before the act, before the blame,
before the lens pulls through the frame

to where the woman sits alone

beside a silent telephone
or the dress lies ruined on the grass
or the girl walks off the overpass,

and all things flow out from that source

along their fatal watercourse.
However bad or overlong
such a film can do no wrong,

so when his native twang shows through

or when the boom dips into view
or when her speech starts to betray
its adaptation from the play,

I think to when we opened cold

on a rain-dark gutter, running gold
with the neon of a drugstore sign,
and I’d read into its blazing line:

forget the ink, the milk, the blood—

all was washed clean with the flood
we rose up from the falling waters
the fallen rain’s own sons and daughters

and none of this, none of this matters.

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Don Paterson's poem "The Rain," provides a contemporary view of rain

as a universal and ever-present element in life. The poet describes a rain shower
as a metaphor for the passage of time and the inevitability of change. The rain is
depicted as gentle and cleansing, yet it also carries a sense of melancholy and
sorrow. The poem explores the idea that rain serves as a reminder of the
transient nature of life and the emotions associated with loss and the passage of
time. It also explores rain's ubiquity and its ability to shape both the natural and
emotional landscapes. Paterson's use of vivid imagery and symbolism evokes a
contemplative and reflective mood, prompting the readers to consider the
profound connections between nature, human emotions, and the inexorable
march of time.

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RAIN
By: Edward Thomas

Rain, midnight rain, nothing but the wild rain

On this bleak hut, and solitude, and me
Remembering again that I shall die
And neither hear the rain nor give it thanks
For washing me cleaner than I have been
Since I was born into this solitude.
Blessed are the dead that the rain rains upon:
But here I pray that none whom once I loved
Is dying to-night or lying still awake
Solitary, listening to the rain,
Either in pain or thus in sympathy
Helpless among the living and the dead,
Like a cold water among broken reeds,
Myriads of broken reeds all still and stiff,
Like me who have no love which this wild rain
Has not dissolved except the love of death,
If love it be towards what is perfect and
Cannot, the tempest tells me, disappoint.

Edward Thomas's "Rain" contemplates the solitude of life, the

inevitability of death and the melancholic beauty of the rain. The poet describes
the way rain’s persistent and delicate touch transforms the world around us,
softening the edges of objects and muffling sounds. Despite its sombre mood,
the rain is also a life-giving force, nourishing the earth and bringing new
growth. It is a poem that celebrates the positive qualities of rain, emphasizing its
soothing, cleansing, and renewing effects on both nature and the human soul. It
challenges the conventional view of rain as a symbol of sadness and
melancholy, portraying it as a source of life, purification, and spiritual renewal.
Through vivid imagery and contemplative tone, the poem invites readers to
appreciate the deep connection between nature and the human spirit.

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SURVEY ON DIFFERENT VIEWS

ON RAIN BY PEOPLE

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People's Views of Rain: A Multi-faceted

Perspective
Rain is a natural phenomenon that has enthralled human beings throughout
history. It plays a pivotal role in our lives, impacting everything from agriculture to
our daily moods. The perception of rain is incredibly diverse, with individuals holding
a wide range of views on this natural phenomenon.
Rain is also a fundamental meteorological occurrence that has captivated the
human imagination for centuries. People around the world have developed diverse
perspectives and interpretations of rain, influenced by culture, geography, personal
experiences, and emotions. Different perspectives on rain exist across cultures,
regions, and individual beliefs, shaping how it is perceived and valued. This report
aims to explore the multifaceted perspectives people have towards rain, shedding light
on how it affects various aspects of life and highlight its significance, symbolism, and
emotional impact.

Cultural Perspectives on Rain:

Rain symbolizes a spiritual connection to the elements and a reminder of the

interconnectedness of all living beings. One of the most significant influences on how
people perceive rain is their cultural background. In many cultures, rain is seen as a
symbol of renewal, purification and fertility. For example, in agricultural societies,
rain is essential for crop growth and is often celebrated as a life-giving force.
Hinduism associates the monsoon rains with cleansing of the soul and providing a
fresh start. In Hinduism as well as and in Newari communities of Nepal, rain is also
associated with Lord Indra, the god of rain and thunderstorms. The Indra Jatra marks a
special place in Nepali Calendar. It is one of the biggest street festivals of Nepal
celebrating with a mystic mask.
On the other hand, there are cultures where rain can be viewed more negatively.
In some Indigenous Australian communities, for instance, the Dreamtime stories
highlight the destructive power of rain, as it can lead to flooding and displace
communities. Rain can also be linked to melancholy in various Western cultural
contexts, often depicted in literature and art as a symbol of sadness or gloominess.

Emotional Reactions to Rain:

Individuals' emotional responses to rain are highly varied. Some people find
solace and tranquillity in the sound of raindrops hitting the ground, leading to feelings
of comfort and relaxation. The phenomenon of "pluviophile" refers to a love for rain,
and many people experience a sense of happiness and contentment when it rains.

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Conversely, rain can evoke feelings of annoyance or frustration in others. It

disrupts plans for outdoor activities, causes traffic congestion, and can lead to
unpleasant situations. The term "Ombrophobic" refers to a fear of rain, and some
individuals experience anxiety or sadness during rainy weather.

Psychological Perspectives on Rain:

Rain can also have significant psychological effects. Research suggests that the
sound of rain can have a calming effect on the human mind. It can promote better
sleep and help reduce stress and anxiety. This is why rain sounds are often used in
relaxation and meditation techniques.
Rain can also impact people's productivity and creativity. Some individuals
find rainy days to be conducive to deep thinking and creativity. The sound of rain can
provide a comforting background for focused work, writing, or artistic endeavours.
In contrast, heavy and persistent rain can lead to feelings of gloom and
lethargy, sometimes causing symptoms akin to depression. The lack of sunlight on
rainy days can disrupt the circadian rhythm and lead to low energy levels and mood
swings.

Environmental and Practical Perspectives on Rain:

From an environmental standpoint, rain is crucial for maintaining the Earth's

ecosystems. It replenishes freshwater sources and nourishes plant life. In regions with
arid climates, rain is seen as a precious gift from nature. It provides essential water for
crops, sustains ecosystems, and ensures the survival of humans and wildlife. Farmers
depend on rain for their livelihoods, celebrating it as a potential source of abundant
harvests.
In practical terms, rain is a necessary component of the planet's water cycle. It
contributes to the water supply for agriculture, industry, and human consumption.
However, excessive rainfall can lead to problems like flooding, landslides, and
erosion, posing challenges to both rural and urban environments.

Rain for Cleansing, Renewal and as a Symbol of Transition:

Rain is often associated with cleansing and renewal. It washes away dust, dirt,
and pollutants from the environment, leading to a refreshed and revitalized landscape.
The smell and sound of rain are found to be soothing and refreshing. Its showers offer
a clean slate, both literally and metaphorically, symbolizing new beginnings.
Rain is also seen as a symbol of transition. It can represent the shift from one
season to another, such as the arrival of spring or the end of summer. This transition
can bring both positive and negative feelings.
The arrival of rain after a long drought can be met with joy and relief, as it
promises relief from water scarcity and the revival of withered landscapes. On the

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other hand, the approach of rain, particularly during autumn, can signal the end of
warm and sunny days, leading to nostalgia for the past season.

Rain in Literature and Art:

Rain has a long history of being associated with romance and poetry. It has
been a recurring theme in literature and art, reflecting various aspects of human
experience and emotion. In literature, rain is often used as a symbol to evoke a range
of emotions, from melancholy to romance. Raindrops are frequently metaphors for
tears or symbols of emotional depth. Poets and writers have used rain as a backdrop
for love stories, underscoring the idea that love can endure and thrive, even in the face
of adversity, much like plants flourishing after a downpour.
In art, painters have frequently depicted rain, exploring the interplay of light
and shadow on wet surfaces. Artists like Vincent van Gogh and Pierre-Auguste Renoir
have created masterpieces that capture the beauty and mood of rainy scenes.

Rain as an Inconvenience and Disruptor:

While rain is essential for life, it can also be perceived as an inconvenience.

Heavy rainfalls can lead to flooding, property damage, and transportation disruptions.
People living in regions prone to monsoons or hurricanes understand the dual nature
of rain, as it can bring both blessings and challenges.

People's views of rain are incredibly diverse, shaped by their cultural

backgrounds, emotional responses, and practical considerations. While some celebrate
rain as a life-giving force and a source of comfort, others may view it with annoyance
or fear. Rain's psychological and environmental effects are also multifaceted,
impacting various aspects of human life.
Rain serves as a symbol of transition, marking the changing of seasons and the
complex emotions that accompany such shifts. It has also been a source of inspiration
for literature and art, offering a canvas for exploring human experiences and emotions.
Ultimately, the views of rain are as diverse as the cultures and individuals that
hold them. Rain is more than just a meteorological event; it carries profound meaning
and significance for people worldwide. These perspectives on rain offer insight into
the complex nature of human emotions and experiences, highlighting the multifaceted
relationship between people and the natural world. Understanding these various views
on rain enriches our appreciation of its role in shaping our lives and the diverse ways
it is interpreted across the globe.

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STUDENT’S REFLECTION
This project “Glimpses of Rain” based on “The Voice of the Rain” was an
eye-opening and thought-provoking experience. It made me realize that
something as ordinary and trivial as rain can have a wide range of cultural,
emotional, and environmental significance. It emphasizes the importance of
respecting the diverse perspectives of rain and understanding the
interconnectedness of nature. It also reminded me of the importance of
approaching external factors like rain with an open and adaptable mindset, as
they can be sources of inspiration and reflection in our personal journeys. This
project has expanded my horizons, encouraged me to be more mindful of the
diverse ways people perceive the world around them and to seek a deeper and
broader understanding of the complexities of our world; both the environment
and human experiences.

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BIBLIOGRAPHY
Feste's song from Twelfth Night- William Shakespeare
o https://interestingliterature.com/2018/10/a-short-analysis-of-festes-song-
from-twelfth-night-the-rain-it-raineth-every-day/
Summer Shower- Emily Dickinson
o https://poemanalysis.com/emily-dickinson/a-drop-fell-on-the-apple-tree/
The Rainy Day- Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
o https://poemanalysis.com/henry-wadsworth-longfellow/the-rainy-day/
Rain in Summer- Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
o https://etc.usf.edu/lit2go/71/henry-wadsworth-longfellow-selected-
works/5029/rain-in-summer/
o https://beamingnotes.com/2014/11/11/summary-rain-summer-henry-
longfellow/
A Line-storm Song- Robert Frost
o https://poemanalysis.com/robert-frost/a-line-storm-song/
The Rain- Don Paterson
o https://www.scottishpoetrylibrary.org.uk/poem/rain-2/
o https://poemanalysis.com/don-paterson/rain-analysis/
Rain- Edward Thomas
o https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/52315/rain-56d230ad7f92d
o https://poemanalysis.com/edward-thomas/rain
o https://www.litcharts.com/poetry/edward-thomas/rain#:~:text=Written
%20in%201916%2C%20during%20his,a%20%22wild%20rain
%22%20outside.
Indigenous Australian stories regarding weather
o https://researchonline.jcu.edu.au/19783/1/19783_Goudie_2007.pdf
Indra Jatra
o https://www.redbus.in/festivals/indra-jatra#:~:text=Indra%20Jatra%2C
%20or%20Yenya%2C%20is,September%2C%20and%20lasts%20eight
%20days.
Rain sounds promote relaxation
o https://www.bettersleep.com/blog/how-rain-helps-relaxation-and-sleep/
Rain paintings
o https://www.artst.org/rain-paintings/

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