meaning of plodded in poem “old man at the bridge “
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer:
In the poem “Old Man at the Bridge” by Ernest Hemingway, “plodded” means to walk slowly and heavily, typically because of exhaustion or difficulty.
Explanation (300 words):
The word “plodded” in Hemingway’s “Old Man at the Bridge” carries both a literal and symbolic meaning. Literally, it refers to the physical movement of people and soldiers who are walking with effort and fatigue. In the story, the narrator uses this word to describe how people are moving across the bridge during the Spanish Civil War. They are not walking quickly or freely. Instead, their steps are slow, labored, and heavy. This conveys a sense of tiredness, urgency, and the burden of escape.
Symbolically, “plodded” reflects the emotional and psychological weight of war. It paints a picture of how war drains energy, hope, and life from those it touches. The choice of the word suggests that the people crossing the bridge are not only physically burdened but also mentally and emotionally exhausted. They are forced to leave behind their homes, possessions, and way of life.
For the old man in the story, who cannot plod forward due to his age and weakness, the word highlights his helpless situation. He is stuck at the bridge, unlike the others who can move on. This contrast emphasizes his vulnerability and the tragedy of being left behind in times of crisis.
Hemingway’s use of simple but powerful words like “plodded” is effective in creating a realistic and emotional atmosphere. It adds to the sense of despair and inevitability that surrounds the scene. The word not only describes movement but also captures the human cost of war. Therefore, “plodded” helps the reader to feel the weight of the characters’ experiences and to understand the emotional depth of a seemingly simple story.