CBSE · Class 10 · English · Poetry: Dust of SnowWhat do the 'crow' and 'hemlock tree' symbolize in the poem 'Dust of Snow'? How do they change the poet's mood?

In Robert Frost's poem 'Dust of Snow', both the 'crow' and the 'hemlock tree' traditionally symbolize sorrow, gloom, negativity, and bad omens. Usually, poets use beautiful birds like peacocks or nightingales and pleasant trees like oaks or maples to express joy. However, Frost uniquely uses these dark symbols to bring about a positive transformation. When a crow shakes down a dust of snow from a poisonous hemlock tree onto the poet, this simple act of nature instantly uplifts his depressed mood, saving the rest of his day from being wasted in regret.