HAUNTED HOUSES – H.W.

LONGFELLOW
Page 15 to 22 (Workbook Exercise)
Short Summary
The poem explores the idea that all houses where people have lived and died are haunted by
the memories and spirits of the past. Longfellow describes how these "harmless phantoms"
move through the house unnoticed, creating an atmosphere of quiet and gentle haunting. The
poet reflects on the presence of these spirits, suggesting that while they may not be visible to
everyone, they are nonetheless real to those who are attuned to them. He contrasts the
perceptions of outsiders with those who are more sensitive to the spiritual world, implying that
some are able to see and hear beyond the physical realm.

Longfellow also muses on the idea of ownership and inheritance, suggesting that the spirits of
previous owners still linger in the places they once inhabited, holding onto their past
possessions and influence even after death. The poem further delves into the concept of
spiritual interconnectedness, suggesting that our earthly lives are influenced by unseen forces
and desires, likening them to the pull of celestial bodies. The imagery of a bridge between the
world of spirits and the earthly realm reinforces this idea of connection and suggests that our
thoughts and perceptions can transcend the boundaries between the seen and unseen.

Overall, "Haunted Houses" explores themes of memory, legacy, and the mysterious
interconnectedness of the spiritual and material worlds.

I. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:
All houses wherein men have lived and died
Are haunted houses. Through the open doors
The harmless phantoms on their errands glide,
With feet that make no sound upon the floors.
i. According to the narrator of the poem, why are all the houses haunted? What kind of
houses are these?
Ans. According to the narrator of the poem, all houses where people have lived and died are
haunted. These houses are haunted not by malevolent spirits, but by the memories and
remnants of the lives that were once lived within them. They are described as "haunted
houses" because the presence of those who have passed away lingers within them,
manifesting as "harmless phantoms" that move through the rooms and hallways. These
houses retain the impressions and echoes of past occupants, creating an atmosphere imbued
with the essence of those who once called them home.

ii. Who are the ‘harmless phantoms’? How are these phantoms different from the usual
image of the phantoms?
Ans. The "harmless phantoms" referred to in the poem are the spirits or memories of past
occupants who have lived and died within the houses. These phantoms are different from the
usual image of ghosts or spirits in that they are portrayed as gentle and benign entities. Rather
than being depicted as frightening or malevolent, these phantoms are described as "harmless"
and move about the house silently, leaving no trace except for the faint impressions they
create.

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 iii. What ‘errands’ are done by these phantoms? Are their errands different from the known
errands of phantoms? How?
Ans. In the poem, the "harmless phantoms" are described as performing "errands" as they
move through the haunted houses. These errands are not specified in detail within the text,
but the implication is that they are mundane or routine tasks associated with daily life. The
phantoms may be retracing actions or movements that they performed while they were alive,
such as walking down hallways, ascending stairs, or moving through rooms. However, in
Longfellow's poem, the errands of the harmless phantoms seem to be more subtle and
tranquil. They glide through the house quietly, leaving behind only faint impressions and a
sense of movement. Unlike the restless spirits of traditional ghost stories, these phantoms do
not seem to be driven by any particular motive or emotion. Instead, they appear to be simply
going about their business in a peaceful and unobtrusive manner, adding to the atmosphere of
quiet haunting within the house.

iv. At what places in the house are these phantoms found as described later in the poem?
How do they enter the house?
Ans. In the later part of the poem, the phantoms are described as being present throughout the
house, moving in various locations:
At the door-way: The phantoms are encountered as one enters or exits the house, suggesting
that they may linger near the entrances, welcoming or bidding farewell to visitors.
On the stair: They are also encountered on the staircase, implying that they move up and
down the stairs as they go about their errands.
Along the passages: The phantoms move through the passages or corridors of the house,
traversing from one room to another.
These phantoms seem to enter the house through "open doors," as mentioned in the first
stanza of the poem. Longfellow suggests that they glide through the open doors silently, with
"feet that make no sound upon the floors." This implies that the phantoms enter the house in a
subtle and unobtrusive manner, perhaps through an ethereal or spiritual means rather than
physical doors. Their presence is characterized by its quietness and gentleness, adding to the
overall atmosphere of haunting described in the poem.

v. Explain briefly how this extract suggests the title of the poem.
Ans. This extract from the poem suggests the title "Haunted Houses" by describing how all
houses where people have lived and died are haunted in some way. The phrase "haunted
houses" is used metaphorically to convey the idea that the memories and spirits of past
occupants linger within these homes, creating an atmosphere of haunting. The imagery of
"harmless phantoms" gliding through the open doors reinforces the notion of haunting, as
these spirits move silently through the house on their unseen errands. Overall, the extract
implies that the presence of past inhabitants imbues the houses with a sense of haunting,
hence suggesting the title of the poem.

II. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:
There are more guests at table than the hosts
Invited; the illuminated hall
Is thronged with quiet, inoffensive ghosts,
As silent as the pictures on the wall.

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 i. Why are there more guests at the table? How do these uninvited guests behave at the table?
Ans. The line "There are more guests at table than the hosts invited" suggests that the number
of spirits or memories of past inhabitants within the house surpasses the number of current
living occupants. This metaphorical statement implies that the presence of the deceased is felt
strongly within the household, as if they are still participating in the daily life of the home.
These "uninvited guests" behave at the table in a manner that reflects their ethereal and
immaterial nature. They are described as "quiet, inoffensive ghosts" who are "as silent as the
pictures on the wall." This suggests that they do not actively disrupt or disturb the living
occupants; instead, they coexist peacefully and unobtrusively

ii. Why are they described as ‘quiet’ and ‘inoffensive’? State two other traits of the ghosts
described in the poem.
Ans. The ghosts are described as "quiet" and "inoffensive" because they do not disturb or
disrupt the living occupants of the house. Their presence is subtle and gentle, lacking any
malevolent intent or action. They glide through the house silently, leaving no disturbance in
their wake.
Two other traits of the ghosts described in the poem are:
Subtle: The ghosts are depicted as subtle entities, barely perceptible and easily overlooked by
those who are not attuned to their presence. They move through the house with "feet that
make no sound upon the floors," suggesting a delicate and understated presence.

Persistent: The ghosts are portrayed as persistent beings whose presence endures beyond the
passage of time. They linger in the house, retaining their connection to the earthly realm even
after their physical bodies have perished. This persistence contributes to the haunting
atmosphere of the house, as their presence continues to be felt by those who inhabit it.

iii. Why are they ‘as silent as the pictures on the wall’? Whose ‘picture’ are they?
Ans. The ghosts are described as "as silent as the pictures on the wall" to emphasize their
quiet and unobtrusive nature. Just as pictures on the wall do not make any noise or
disturbance, the ghosts move through the house without causing any audible commotion. This
comparison underscores the subtle and peaceful presence of the ghosts within the household.

iv. Which figure of speech is used in this extract? Explain this figure of speech.
Ans. The figure of speech used in this extract is a simile. A simile is a literary device that
compares two different things using the words "like" or "as" to create a vivid and imaginative
image. In this case, the poet compares the quietness and inoffensiveness of the ghosts to the
silence of the pictures on the wall by stating that the ghosts are "as silent as the pictures on
the wall." By using a simile, the poet enhances the reader's understanding of the ghosts'
demeaner and behaviour, emphasizing their unobtrusive and peaceful nature by likening it to
the stillness of the pictures on the wall.

v. In this extract, there is a reference to ‘more guests’. What is said in the extract that shows
that they are uninvited?
Ans. In the extract, the reference to "more guests at table than the hosts / Invited" suggests
that the additional guests are uninvited. This indicates that there are more spirits or memories
of past inhabitants within the house than there are current living occupants who have been

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formally invited or welcomed. The implication is that these additional "guests" are not
physically present in the conventional sense but are instead the unseen presence of the
deceased who have inhabited the house in the past. Therefore, they are described as uninvited
because their presence is not actively sought or acknowledged by the living occupants of the
house.

III. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:
We have no title-deeds to house or lands;
Owners and occupants of earlier dates
From graves forgotten stretch their dusty hands,
And hold in mortmain still their old estates.

i. Who are ‘We’ referred to in this extract? Why they do not have ‘title-deeds to house or
lands’
Ans. In this extract, the speaker uses the pronoun "We" to refer to the current living
occupants of the house or inhabitants of the world. The speaker is suggesting that neither the
current occupants of the house nor people in general have "title-deeds to house or lands."
The reason they do not have "title-deeds to house or lands" is because the ownership of the
property or land has passed from the living to the deceased. The line "Owners and occupants
of earlier dates / From graves forgotten stretch their dusty hands" implies that the ownership
and control of these properties have transferred to those who have died and been buried.
These past owners and occupants still exert influence over their old estates, even though they
have long since passed away.
ii. Who are the ‘Owners and Occupants of earlier dates’?
Ans. The "Owners and Occupants of earlier dates" refer to the individuals who lived in or
owned the house or lands before the current occupants. These individuals are now deceased
and buried, as indicated by the phrase "From graves forgotten stretch their dusty hands." The
poem suggests that despite their physical absence, these past owners and occupants still exert
influence over their former estates, holding onto them even from beyond the grave. They
represent the lingering presence of the past within the house and the ongoing connection
between the living and the dead.

iii. Explain the line – ‘From graves forgotten stretch their dusty hands’ with reference to the
poem.
Ans. The line "From graves forgotten stretch their dusty hands" from the poem suggests that
the ownership and influence of the deceased individuals extend from their graves to the
properties they once owned or occupied. This imagery evokes the idea that even in death,
these past owners and occupants retain a hold over their old estates.
The phrase "graves forgotten" implies that these individuals have been laid to rest and
perhaps their physical graves have been neglected or overlooked over time. Despite being
forgotten or overlooked by the living, their influence persists, symbolized by their "dusty
hands" reaching out from their graves.

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 iv. Who ‘hold in mortmain still their old estates’? Why?
Ans. In the poem, these deceased individuals are described as "Owners and occupants of
earlier dates" who have passed away and been buried. Despite their physical absence, they
still maintain a figurative hold over their old estates. This suggests that their influence
transcends death and persists in the form of memories, legacies, or perhaps even spiritual
presence.
The reason why they continue to hold onto their old estates even after death is not explicitly
stated in the poem. However, it may be interpreted as a reflection of the enduring impact that
individuals have on the places they once inhabited, as well as the idea that ownership and
attachment to property extend beyond the physical realm into the realm of memory and
legacy.
v. Explain briefly two poetic devices used in this extract with examples.
Ans. Metaphor: The first poetic device employed in this extract is metaphor. Specifically, the
phrase "Owners and occupants of earlier dates / From graves forgotten stretch their dusty
hands" utilizes metaphor to liken the deceased individuals to owners and occupants who
continue to exert influence over their old estates from beyond the grave. This metaphorical
language creates a vivid image of the deceased individuals reaching out from their graves to
maintain control over the properties they once owned or inhabited.

Personification: Another poetic device utilized in this extract is personification.

Personification is the attribution of human qualities to non-human entities. In this case, the
line "From graves forgotten stretch their dusty hands" personifies the graves by suggesting
that they have the ability to "stretch" their "dusty hands." This personification imbues the
graves with a sense of agency, as if they possess the ability to reach out and exert influence
over the properties associated with the deceased individuals buried within them.

IV. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:
Our little lives are kept in equipoise
By opposite attractions and desires;
The struggle of the instinct that enjoys,
And the more noble instinct that aspires.

i. Whose ‘little lives’ are referred to in the first line of the extract? In comparison to whom
are they ‘little’ and why?
Ans. In the line "Our little lives are kept in equipoise," the speaker is referring to the lives of
human beings in general, including both themselves and their audience or readers. The term
"little" in this context is used to convey a sense of humility or insignificance in comparison to
larger or grander forces at play in the world. The "little lives" are contrasted with the broader
scope of existence, suggesting that in the grand scheme of things, individual human lives may
seem small or insignificant. By describing lives as "little," the speaker emphasizes the
fragility and impermanence of human existence in contrast to the greater forces that shape the
world.

ii. How is balance maintained in their short lives?

Ans. The struggle between these opposing instincts creates a sense of tension and
perturbation in human existence, as described in the lines "The struggle of the instinct that

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 enjoys, / And the more noble instinct that aspires." Despite the perpetual jar of earthly wants
and aspirations, the balance is maintained by the interplay between these contrasting forces.
Essentially, the speaker suggests that human lives are kept in balance by the constant tension
between the desire for pleasure and fulfillment in the present moment and the aspiration for
higher ideals and goals that transcend immediate gratification. This delicate balance between
enjoyment and aspiration shapes human experience and contributes to the complexity of
individual lives.

iii. What are the two types of instincts referred to in this extract? Give examples of each type.
Ans. The instinct that enjoys: This instinct represents the human desire for immediate
pleasure and gratification. It is the inclination towards indulging in sensory pleasures and
fulfilling one's desires for comfort, happiness, and satisfaction in the present moment.

The more noble instinct that aspires: This instinct represents the human drive for growth,
improvement, and transcendence. It is the inclination towards striving for higher ideals,
aspirations, and goals that contribute to personal development and fulfilment in the long term.

iv. What is the reason for the struggle between the two types of instincts? How is this struggle
resolved?
Ans. The struggle between the two types of instincts arises from the inherent tension
between seeking immediate pleasure and gratification versus aspiring towards higher ideals
and goals that transcend immediate desires. This conflict reflects the complexity of human
nature and the competing motivations that drive human behavior. The resolution of this
struggle is not explicitly stated in the poem, but it is suggested that balance is maintained
through the ongoing interplay between these opposing instincts. Despite the perpetual jar of
earthly wants and aspirations, the speaker implies that human lives are kept in equipoise by
the tension and balance between these conflicting forces.
v. Explain briefly the rhyme scheme used in this poem with examples. What role does it play
in the poem?
Ans. The rhyme scheme used in the poem is primarily AABBCC, meaning that the first two
lines rhyme with each other, the next two lines rhyme with each other, and so on. However,
there are variations in the rhyme scheme throughout the poem.

Here are some examples from the poem:

"died" (A)
"doors" (A)
"glide" (B)
"floors" (B)
"stair" (C)
"go" (C)
"air" (D)
"wall" (D)
"see" (E)
"hear" (E)
"dates" (F)
"estates" (F)

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 "sense" (G)
"air" (G)
"aspires" (H)
"higher" (H)
The rhyme scheme plays a significant role in the poem by contributing to its musicality and
rhythm. By employing a consistent rhyme scheme, the poem achieves a sense of cohesion
and structure, guiding the reader through its themes and ideas with a sense of fluidity and
harmony. Additionally, the use of rhyme adds to the overall aesthetic appeal of the poem,
enhancing its lyrical quality and making it more engaging for the reader. Overall, the rhyme
scheme helps to unify the various stanzas of the poem and reinforces its overarching themes
of balance, harmony, and interconnectedness.

V. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:
These perturbations, this perpetual jar
Of earthly wants and aspirations high,
Come from the influence of an unseen star
An undiscovered planet in our sky.

i. What are referred to as ‘these perturbations’? who are affected by ‘these perturbations’?
Ans. In the poem, "these perturbations" refer to the conflicts and tensions that arise from the
struggle between opposing instincts within human beings—the instinct that enjoys immediate
pleasure and the more noble instinct that aspires for greater ideals.

These perturbations affect all individuals, as suggested by the phrase "Our little lives are kept
in equipoise." The speaker reflects on the universal experience of navigating the tension
between seeking immediate enjoyment and aspiring towards higher ideals. Thus, "these
perturbations" are experienced by all human beings as they strive to find balance and
harmony in their lives amidst conflicting desires and aspirations.

ii. Which figure of speech is used in the line – ‘this perpetual jar/Of earthly wants and
aspirations high’? Explain it briefly.
Ans. The figure of speech used in the line "this perpetual jar/Of earthly wants and aspirations
high" is a metaphor. In this metaphor, the poet compares the conflicts and tensions between
earthly desires and lofty aspirations to a "jar." A jar is a container typically used for storing or
holding items, but in this context, it symbolizes the sense of turmoil and disturbance caused
by the perpetual struggle between conflicting desires and goals. The word "perpetual"
suggests that this jar of conflicting emotions and motivations is ongoing and constant,
underscoring the persistent nature of the internal struggle experienced by individuals.

iii. What comes ‘from the influence of an unseen star’? What is this ‘unseen star’ a reference
to?
Ans. In the poem, the line "from the influence of an unseen star" suggests that the
perturbations or conflicts experienced by individuals arise from the influence of some unseen
or unknown force symbolized by a "star." This "unseen star" is likely a metaphorical
reference to external factors or influences that shape human desires, aspirations, and
conflicts. It represents the mysterious and intangible forces that exert influence over human
behavior and motivations, guiding individuals in their pursuit of earthly wants and higher
aspirations.

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iv. Why has the narrator referred to ‘an undiscovered planet in our sky’?
Ans. The narrator refers to "an undiscovered planet in our sky" as a metaphorical
representation of the unseen or unknown influences that shape human behavior and
motivations. This metaphor suggests that just as there may be planets in the sky that have not
yet been discovered or fully understood by humanity, there are also unseen forces at work in
the world that influence human desires, aspirations, and conflicts.

By invoking the image of an undiscovered planet, the narrator highlights the mysterious and
intangible nature of these influences, emphasizing their hidden or elusive qualities. This
metaphor underscores the complexity of human existence and the idea that individuals are
shaped by forces that may not always be immediately apparent or understood.

v. Explain briefly how this extract suggests the existence of supernatural element.
Ans. The extract suggests the existence of a supernatural element through the metaphorical
language used to describe the source of human perturbations, or disturbances. The lines imply
that these perturbations, which arise from the conflicting desires and aspirations within
individuals, stem from the influence of an "unseen star" and "an undiscovered planet in our
sky."

VI. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:
So from the world of spirits there descends
A bridge of light, connecting it with this,
O'er whose unsteady floor, that sways and bends,
Wander our thoughts above the dark abyss.

i. What connects the ‘bridge of light’? How is this bridge made?

Ans. The "bridge of light" mentioned in the poem serves as a metaphorical connection
between the world of spirits and the earthly realm. It symbolizes the link between the unseen
spiritual forces and the tangible, material world inhabited by human beings.

The bridge of light is described as being made from the influence of the spirit world,
descending from the world of spirits to connect with the earthly realm. The poem suggests
that this bridge is formed from the ethereal and intangible qualities of the spirit world, which
permeate through the earthly mists and vapors to create a vital breath of more ethereal air.

ii. Whose floor is referred to as ‘unsteady’? Why?

Ans. The floor referred to as "unsteady" in the poem is metaphorical and represents the
boundary or interface between the world of spirits and the earthly realm. It symbolizes the
bridge of light that connects these two worlds.

The floor is described as "unsteady" to emphasize its fluid and dynamic nature. This
metaphor suggests that the bridge of light, which serves as the connection between the spirit
world and the earthly realm, is not fixed or stable but rather fluctuates and shifts in response
to the influences from both realms.

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iii. What are the ‘thoughts’ that wander above the dark abyss?
Ans. The "thoughts" referred to in the poem are the mental reflections or perceptions of
individuals as they contemplate the mysteries and uncertainties of existence. These thoughts
symbolize the human capacity for introspection, imagination, and philosophical inquiry.

In the context of the poem, the line "Wander our thoughts above the dark abyss" suggests
that individuals' thoughts are capable of transcending the limitations of the material world
and exploring the realms of mystery and uncertainty represented by the "dark abyss." This
metaphorical language evokes the idea of individuals grappling with profound questions
about life, death, and the nature of existence, as they contemplate the unseen forces and
influences that shape their lives.

iv. What is the significance of this ‘bridge of light’?

Ans. The "bridge of light" holds significant symbolic meaning in the poem, serving as a
metaphorical representation of the connection between the spiritual realm and the material
world. Several aspects contribute to its significance:
Interconnection: The bridge of light symbolizes the interconnectedness of existence,
highlighting the idea that the spiritual and material dimensions are intertwined. It suggests
that there is a link between the unseen forces of the spirit world and the tangible experiences
of human beings, emphasizing the idea of a unified cosmic order.
Transcendence: The bridge of light represents the potential for transcendence beyond the
confines of the material world. It suggests that individuals have the capacity to transcend the
limitations of physical reality and explore the realms of mystery and spirituality, accessing
higher truths and insights that transcend mundane existence.
Symbol of Hope: The bridge of light also serves as a symbol of hope and enlightenment,
offering a pathway for individuals to navigate the complexities of existence and find meaning
in the face of uncertainty. It represents the possibility of bridging the gap between the known
and the unknown, guiding individuals on a journey of spiritual growth and self-discovery.

v. Give four reason to justify the poet’s view that all houses are haunted.
Ans. The poet's view that all houses are haunted can be justified by several reasons:
Residual Energy: Houses absorb the energy and emotions of the people who have lived in
them. Over time, these energies become imprinted on the walls, floors, and objects within the
house, creating a lingering sense of presence even after the individuals have departed.
Memories and Imprints: Houses accumulate memories and imprints of the lives lived
within them. These memories can manifest as echoes of past events, feelings, and
interactions, imbuing the house with a sense of history and nostalgia that can be perceived by
sensitive individuals.
Spiritual Beliefs: In many cultures and belief systems, it is believed that spirits or souls may
linger in places where they have unfinished business or strong emotional attachments. This
belief in spiritual presence contributes to the perception that houses are haunted by the ghosts
or spirits of past occupants.
Psychological Association: Human psychology plays a role in perceiving houses as haunted.
The anticipation of encountering ghosts or paranormal phenomena can heighten one's
sensitivity to subtle cues and stimuli within the house, leading to experiences that are
interpreted as haunting or supernatural.

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