Paragraph: Unlike religion and science, poetry does not posit or expect any belief in absolute truths.
Those forces or individuals who claim to have absolute truths in their grasp tend to turn dictatorial and tyrannical. Truth usually does not admit any contradictions or imperfections. It is unitarian. It is, therefore, not of much use for poetry. Poetry abides by the plurality of life and existence. Perhaps poetry follows reality which is plural, anachronistic, full of contradictions. Against the tyranny of truth, poetry remains a partisan of democratic reality. Against the arrogance of power, wealth and hierarchy, poetry proposes both humility and defiance.
Q. Which one of the following statements best reflects the most logical and rational message conveyed by the above passage?
a) It is the poetry, not science or religion, which recognizes and accepts imperfections in humans.
b) Truth is revealed through science or religion and poetry is anathema to truth.
c) Poetry is romantic, imaginary and is about feeling whereas science and religion are about truth.
d) In a world of violence, tyranny and bigotry, poetry is a form of dynamic resistance.
Correct answer: d) In a world of violence, tyranny and bigotry, poetry is a form of dynamic resistance.
Question from UPSC Prelims 2024 CSAT
Explanation :
The passage emphasizes that poetry does not claim absolute truths, unlike religion and science. It argues that absolute truths can lead to tyranny and dictatorship, as truth is unitarian and intolerant of contradictions. Poetry, on the other hand, embraces plurality, contradictions, and imperfections. It is described as a partisan of democratic reality, standing against the tyranny of truth and the arrogance of power, wealth, and hierarchy. Thus, poetry is presented as a form of resistance against oppressive forces, making option (d) the most logical and rational message conveyed by the passage.
Option (a) is incorrect because the passage does not explicitly state that poetry alone recognizes human imperfections. Option (b) is incorrect because the passage does not suggest poetry is anathema (completely opposed) to truth; rather, it suggests poetry does not posit absolute truths. Option (c) is incorrect because the passage does not characterize poetry as merely romantic or imaginary; rather, it emphasizes poetry’s role in embracing plurality and resisting tyranny.
