In the poem, Dust of Snow, the crow symbolically transforms the narrator’s mood, while in the story, His First Flight, the baby seagull undergoes a literal transformation as it learns to fly. Analyse how these avian characters play similar or different thematic roles in their respective poem and story.

In “Dust of Snow” by Robert Frost, the crow symbolizes an unexpected catalyst for positive change in the narrator’s mood. The crow, traditionally associated with ominous symbolism, shakes snow off a hemlock tree, leading to a “dust of snow” falling on the narrator. This small event symbolically transforms the narrator’s perspective, offering a moment of clarity and renewal.

Contrastingly, in Liam O’Flaherty’s “His First Flight,” the baby seagull undergoes a literal transformation as it learns to fly. The story revolves around the seagull’s initiation into flight, marking a significant developmental milestone. The physical transformation represents a universal theme of growth and the challenges inherent in the natural course of life.

While the avian characters in both works play distinct thematic roles—one symbolizing emotional change and the other physical transformation—they share a common thread in exploring the transformative nature of experiences. Whether through a symbolic or literal lens, these stories emphasize the potential for positive change, growth, and the significance of pivotal moments in shaping one’s journey.