ENGLISH LITERATURE (CBSE/UGC NET)

Detailed explanation-1: -When the Raven says, “Nevermore” what does the speaker take this response to be? He thinks the Raven is stating his name. It was something the Raven had been taught to say.

Detailed explanation-2: -Alas, Poe’s oft-repeated theme emphasizes the importance of memory, because life consists of continuous loss. Poe uses “evermore” because loss will always be part of life; “nevermore, ” because we can never hold onto what we have or who we love, McGann said.

Detailed explanation-3: -Now, instead of being merely amused by the bird, he takes the raven’s repeated “nevermore” response as a sign that all his dark thoughts are true. He eventually grows angry and shrieks at the raven, calling it a devil and a thing of evil.

Detailed explanation-4: -He jokingly asks the bird’s name. To his utter shock, the raven cries out, “Nevermore.” The speaker is stunned and unsure of the raven’s meaning. He regains his composure and whispers that the bird will fly away soon.

Detailed explanation-5: -Because it is the first and only thing the Raven says when the speaker asks what its name is. He tells himself that it is the only word the Raven knows, and uses it in every situation.