UP Board Class 10 English Fire and Ice Question Answer | Summary, Central Idea, PDF (2026)

Fire and Ice – Class 10 UP Board

Summary • Central Idea • Question Answer • PDF

UP Board Class 10 English Fire and Ice Question Answer (2026)

Complete guide to Fire and Ice poem class 10 UP Board including summary, stanza wise explanation, central idea, important question answers and PDF download.

This chapter is part of our complete UP Board Class 10 English Poetry Collection where all poems are explained with summary, central idea and question answers.

📌 Fire and Ice Central Idea (Class 10 UP Board)

📌 Fire and Ice Central Idea (Class 10 UP Board)

The central idea of the poem “Fire and Ice” by Robert Frost is that powerful human emotions can lead to destruction. In this short but meaningful poem, the poet presents two possible ways in which the world might end — either in fire or in ice. Fire stands for uncontrolled desire, greed, anger and intense passion, while ice represents hatred, coldness, indifference and rigidity.

According to the Fire and Ice central idea class 10 UP Board, the poet believes that both desire and hatred are equally dangerous. From his personal experience of desire, he feels that fire has enough strength to destroy the world. However, he also admits that hatred symbolized by ice is just as powerful and would be sufficient to bring destruction.

Thus, the Fire and Ice central idea up board summary highlights that extreme human emotions can harm not only individuals but the entire world. The poem warns us to control our emotions and maintain balance in life.

📖 Fire and Ice Summary

📖 Fire and Ice Summary (Class 10 UP Board)

The poem “Fire and Ice” by Robert Frost discusses two possible ideas about how the world might come to an end. Some people believe that the world will end in fire, while others think that it will end in ice. The poet connects fire with strong human desires such as greed, anger and uncontrolled passion. On the other hand, ice represents hatred, coldness and emotional indifference.

From his own experience, the poet admits that he has “tasted” desire and understands its destructive power. Therefore, he agrees with those who believe that the world may end in fire. However, he also says that if the world were to perish twice, hatred symbolized by ice would be equally powerful and sufficient to destroy it.

This class 10 poem Fire and Ice summary explains that both desire and hatred are dangerous emotions. The poem teaches that extreme human feelings can cause destruction. The Fire and Ice summary stanza wise helps students understand how the poet contrasts these two forces in a simple yet meaningful way for the UP Board exam.

📘 Fire and Ice Summary Stanza Wise

📘 Fire and Ice Summary Stanza Wise (Class 10 UP Board)

Stanza 1

“Some say the world will end in fire, Some say in ice.”

In the opening lines, the poet introduces two opposite ideas about how the world might end. Some people believe that the world will be destroyed by fire, while others think that it will end because of ice. These two elements represent two different destructive forces.

Stanza 2

“From what I’ve tasted of desire, I hold with those who favour fire.”

In this stanza, the poet says that from his personal experience of desire, he believes that fire has enough power to destroy the world. Here, fire symbolizes strong human emotions such as greed, passion, anger and uncontrolled desire. According to the Fire and Ice central idea class 10 UP Board, desire can lead to destruction if it goes beyond limits.

Stanza 3

“But if it had to perish twice, I think I know enough of hate To say that for destruction ice Is also great And would suffice.”

In the final stanza, the poet explains that if the world were to end twice, ice would also be capable of destroying it. Ice represents hatred, coldness, indifference and emotional rigidity. The poet concludes that both fire and ice — desire and hatred — are powerful enough to cause destruction. This stanza clearly supports the Fire and Ice summary for UP Board students preparing for the exam.

📚 Word Meanings

📚 Fire and Ice – Word Meanings (Class 10 UP Board)

• Fire: Intense heat and flame; symbol of desire and passion (आग)
• Ice: Frozen water; symbol of hatred and coldness (बर्फ)
• End: Final stage or destruction (अंत)
• Desire: Strong wish or craving (इच्छा)
• Tasted: Experienced something personally (अनुभव किया)
• Favour: To support or agree with (पक्ष लेना)
• Perish: To die or be destroyed (नष्ट होना)
• Hate: Strong feeling of dislike (घृणा)
• Destruction: Great damage or ruin (विनाश)
• Suffice: To be enough or sufficient (पर्याप्त होना)
• World: The earth or human society (संसार)
• Support: To agree with or back someone (समर्थन करना)
• Emotion: Strong feeling (भावना)
• Passion: Intense feeling or enthusiasm (जुनून)
• Greed: Excessive desire for wealth or power (लालच)
• Anger: Strong feeling of displeasure (क्रोध)
• Coldness: Lack of warmth or emotion (ठंडापन)
• Indifference: Lack of interest or concern (उदासीनता)
• Rigidity: Strictness or inflexibility (कठोरता)
• Conflict: Serious disagreement (संघर्ष)
• Fury: Extreme anger (क्रोध की तीव्रता)
• Avarice: Extreme greed for wealth (लोभ)
• Lust: Strong uncontrolled desire (वासना)
• Intolerance: Unwillingness to accept differences (असहिष्णुता)
• Hatred: Deep dislike (घृणा)
• Symbol: Something that represents another idea (प्रतीक)
• Contrast: Difference between two things (विरोधाभास)
• Destroy: To damage completely (नष्ट करना)
• Human Nature: Basic qualities of people (मानव स्वभाव)
• Emotionally Cold: Without sympathy or warmth (भावनात्मक रूप से ठंडा)

📝 Fire and Ice ke Question Answer (Short Type)

📝 Fire and Ice – Short Question Answers (Class 10 UP Board)

1. Who is the poet of “Fire and Ice”?
   Ans. The poem “Fire and Ice” is written by Robert Frost.
2. What are the two ideas about the end of the world in the poem?
   Ans. The poet presents two ideas — the world may end in fire or in ice.
3. What does ‘fire’ symbolize in the poem?
   Ans. Fire symbolizes desire, greed, anger and uncontrolled passion.
4. What does ‘ice’ represent?
   Ans. Ice represents hatred, coldness, indifference and emotional rigidity.
5. Why does the poet support fire?
   Ans. The poet has experienced desire and believes it has enough power to destroy the world.
6. What does the word ‘perish’ mean?
   Ans. ‘Perish’ means to die or to be destroyed.
7. What does ‘suffice’ mean in the poem?
   Ans. ‘Suffice’ means to be enough or sufficient.
8. What is the rhyme scheme of “Fire and Ice”?
   Ans. The rhyme scheme of the poem is ABA ABC BCB.
9. How does the poet describe desire?
   Ans. The poet describes desire as a powerful force capable of destruction.
10. What lesson does the poem teach?
    Ans. The poem teaches that extreme human emotions like desire and hatred can lead to destruction.
11. What is the tone of the poem?
    Ans. The tone of the poem is serious and thoughtful.
12. Why is the poem considered meaningful?
    Ans. Though short, the poem conveys a deep message about human emotions.
13. Which emotion is more dangerous according to the poet?
    Ans. The poet suggests that both desire and hatred are equally dangerous.
14. What is the central idea of Fire and Ice class 10 UP Board?
    Ans. The central idea is that uncontrolled emotions like desire and hatred can destroy the world.
15. How does the poem show contrast?
    Ans. The poem contrasts fire (desire) and ice (hatred) as two destructive forces.
16. What kind of poem is Fire and Ice?
    Ans. It is a short lyrical poem with a philosophical message.
17. Why does the poet mention ‘tasted of desire’?
    Ans. It shows that he has personally experienced strong desire.
18. What does ice symbolize in Fire and Ice poem class 10 UP Board?
    Ans. Ice symbolizes hatred, emotional coldness and indifference.
19. How many stanzas are there in the poem?
    Ans. The poem has one stanza consisting of nine lines.
20. Why is this poem important for UP Board Class 10 English?
    Ans. It is an important chapter in class 10 English poetry Fire and Ice and frequently asked in board exams.

For full syllabus coverage, visit our UP Board Class 10 English Question Bank where all prose and poetry chapters are arranged chapter-wise.

🔥 Fire and Ice Question Answer UP Board (Long Type)

🔥 Fire and Ice – Long Answer Questions (Class 10 UP Board)

1. Explain the central idea of the poem “Fire and Ice”.
   Ans. The central idea of the poem “Fire and Ice” is that powerful human emotions can lead to destruction. The poet presents two possible ways in which the world might end — either in fire or in ice. Fire represents uncontrolled desire, greed, anger and passion, while ice symbolizes hatred, coldness and indifference. From his own experience, the poet believes that desire has enough power to destroy the world. However, he also admits that hatred is equally destructive and would be sufficient to cause ruin. Through this short poem, Robert Frost warns readers about the dangers of extreme emotions. The Fire and Ice central idea class 10 UP Board teaches students that balance and self-control are necessary to avoid destruction.
2. What do ‘fire’ and ‘ice’ symbolize in the poem?
   Ans. In the poem, fire symbolizes strong human desires such as greed, passion, anger and uncontrolled ambition. These emotions, if left unchecked, can create conflict and destruction in society. Ice, on the other hand, represents hatred, coldness, indifference and rigidity. It shows emotional coldness and lack of sympathy. According to the Fire and Ice summary, both fire and ice are dangerous forces. The poet suggests that whether it is burning desire or freezing hatred, both can harm humanity. Thus, the poem highlights that extreme human emotions are the real causes of destruction.
3. Why does the poet favour fire as the cause of destruction?
   Ans. The poet says that from what he has “tasted of desire,” he agrees with those who believe the world will end in fire. This means he has personally experienced desire and understands its power. Desire can lead to greed, jealousy and conflict, which may destroy peace and harmony. In the Fire and Ice poem class 10 UP Board, fire stands for passionate emotions that burn intensely. The poet believes that such uncontrolled desire is strong enough to destroy the world. However, he does not ignore the destructive power of hatred.
4. How does the poet present contrast in the poem?
   Ans. The poet presents contrast by comparing fire and ice as two opposite elements. Fire is associated with heat, passion and desire, while ice is connected with coldness, hatred and indifference. This contrast highlights two different but equally destructive forces. In the Fire and Ice summary stanza wise explanation, the poet first supports fire but later admits that ice is also powerful. The contrasting ideas make the poem meaningful and philosophical. Through this comparison, the poet shows that both extremes are harmful.
5. Discuss the tone and message of the poem.
   Ans. The tone of the poem is serious and thoughtful. Although the poem is short, it carries a deep philosophical message. The poet reflects on human emotions and their impact on the world. According to the Fire and Ice central idea up board summary, the poem teaches that both desire and hatred can lead to destruction. It warns readers to control their emotions and maintain balance in life. The message of the poem is that extreme emotions, whether hot like fire or cold like ice, can destroy peace and harmony.
6. Why is the poem considered meaningful despite being short?
   Ans. The poem is considered meaningful because it conveys a powerful message in very few lines. It talks about the end of the world but actually focuses on human emotions. The poet uses simple language but presents deep ideas. In class 10 English poetry Fire and Ice, students learn that extreme feelings can cause destruction. The brevity of the poem makes its message more impactful. Each word is carefully chosen to express a strong idea.
7. Explain the relevance of the poem in modern times.
   Ans. The poem remains relevant today because human emotions still influence society. Desire leads to greed and competition, while hatred causes conflict and violence. In the Fire and Ice class 10 questions and answers UP Board, students understand that both these emotions can create serious problems. The poem reminds us to control our desires and avoid hatred. In modern times, where conflicts are common, the message of the poem is highly important.
8. What is the rhyme scheme of the poem and how does it enhance its meaning?
   Ans. The rhyme scheme of the poem is ABA ABC BCB. The structured rhyme scheme gives the poem a rhythmic flow and connects the contrasting ideas smoothly. The repetition of sounds creates balance between fire and ice. In the Fire and Ice summary for UP Board, this rhyme pattern helps emphasize the contrast between desire and hatred. The musical quality makes the serious message easier to understand.
9. How does Robert Frost use symbolism in the poem?
   Ans. Robert Frost uses symbolism to convey deeper meanings. Fire symbolizes desire, greed and passion, while ice represents hatred, coldness and indifference. These symbols make the poem philosophical rather than literal. The Fire and Ice central idea class 10 UP Board focuses on how these emotions can destroy humanity. The use of simple symbols makes the message clear and impactful.
10. Do you think fire or ice is more destructive? Justify your answer.
    Ans. Both fire and ice are equally destructive in different ways. Fire represents intense emotions that burn quickly and cause immediate damage. Ice represents cold hatred that slowly destroys relationships and harmony. According to the Fire and Ice summary stanza wise explanation, the poet believes that both are powerful enough to end the world. Therefore, it is difficult to say which is more destructive. The poem suggests that any extreme emotion can cause harm if not controlled.

📘 Extract Based Questions – Fire and Ice UP Board

📘 Fire and Ice – Extract Based Questions (Class 10 UP Board)

1. Read the extract and answer the questions:
   
   Some say the world will end in fire,
   Some say in ice.
   
   (a) Name the poem and the poet.
   (b) What are the two possible causes of the world’s end mentioned here?
   (c) What do fire and ice symbolize?
   
   Answers:
   (a) The poem is “Fire and Ice” written by Robert Frost.
   (b) Fire and ice.
   (c) Fire symbolizes desire and passion, while ice symbolizes hatred and coldness.


2. Read the extract:
   
   From what I’ve tasted of desire,
   I hold with those who favour fire.
   
   (a) What does “tasted of desire” mean?
   (b) Why does the poet support fire?
   (c) Identify the poetic device used in “favour fire.”
   
   Answers:
   (a) It means the poet has experienced desire personally.
   (b) Because he believes desire is powerful enough to destroy the world.
   (c) Alliteration.


3. Read the extract:
   
   But if it had to perish twice,
   I think I know enough of hate
   
   (a) What does “perish” mean?
   (b) What emotion does ice represent?
   (c) What is the tone of these lines?
   
   Answers:
   (a) Perish means to die or be destroyed.
   (b) Ice represents hatred and indifference.
   (c) The tone is serious and reflective.


4. Read the extract:
   
   To say that for destruction ice
   Is also great
   And would suffice.
   
   (a) What does “suffice” mean?
   (b) According to the poet, is ice powerful?
   (c) What message does this extract convey?
   
   Answers:
   (a) Suffice means to be enough.
   (b) Yes, ice is powerful enough to destroy the world.
   (c) Hatred can be as destructive as desire.


5. Read the extract:
   
   Some say the world will end in fire,
   Some say in ice.
   
   (a) What contrast is presented here?
   (b) What literary device is used in this comparison?
   (c) What is the rhyme scheme of the poem?
   
   Answers:
   (a) The contrast between fire and ice.
   (b) Symbolism.
   (c) ABA ABC BCB.


6. Read the extract:
   
   From what I’ve tasted of desire,
   I hold with those who favour fire.
   
   (a) What does fire symbolize in Fire and Ice class 10 UP Board?
   (b) Why is desire considered dangerous?
   (c) What is the central idea of these lines?
   
   Answers:
   (a) Fire symbolizes desire and passion.
   (b) Because uncontrolled desire can lead to destruction.
   (c) Desire has destructive power.


7. Read the extract:
   
   I think I know enough of hate
   
   (a) What does hate symbolize in the poem?
   (b) How is hate destructive?
   (c) Which emotion is colder – fire or ice?
   
   Answers:
   (a) Hate symbolizes ice.
   (b) It creates emotional coldness and conflict.
   (c) Ice.


8. Read the extract:
   
   Is also great
   And would suffice.
   
   (a) What does “great” mean here?
   (b) What is being described as sufficient?
   (c) What is the theme of the poem?
   
   Answers:
   (a) Powerful or strong.
   (b) Ice is sufficient for destruction.
   (c) The destructive power of human emotions.


9. Read the extract:
   
   Some say the world will end in fire…
   
   (a) What philosophical idea does the poet discuss?
   (b) What human emotions are highlighted?
   (c) Why is the poem relevant for UP Board Class 10 English?
   
   Answers:
   (a) The possible end of the world.
   (b) Desire and hatred.
   (c) It teaches moral and emotional balance.


10. Read the extract:
    
    But if it had to perish twice…
    
    (a) What is the significance of “twice”?
    (b) Which force does the poet consider equally destructive?
    (c) What lesson does the poem give to students?
    
    Answers:
    (a) It suggests a second possible destruction.
    (b) Ice or hatred.
    (c) Control extreme emotions.

📊 Assertion–Reason Questions (New Pattern 2026)

📊 Fire and Ice – Assertion–Reason Questions (Class 10 UP Board)

Directions: For each question, choose the correct option:

(a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is true but R is false.
(d) A is false but R is true.

1. A: Fire represents uncontrolled desire in the poem.
   R: Desire can destroy the world according to the poet.
   Answer: (a)
2. A: Ice symbolizes hatred and coldness.
   R: Hatred can also lead to destruction.
   Answer: (a)
3. A: The poet fully rejects the idea of ice causing destruction.
   R: He believes hatred is powerful enough to destroy the world.
   Answer: (d)
4. A: The rhyme scheme of the poem is ABA ABC BCB.
   R: The structured rhyme enhances the contrast between fire and ice.
   Answer: (b)
5. A: The poet has personally experienced desire.
   R: He says he has “tasted of desire.”
   Answer: (a)
6. A: Fire and ice are used as literal natural disasters in the poem.
   R: They are symbolic representations of human emotions.
   Answer: (d)
7. A: The poem conveys a philosophical message.
   R: It discusses the destructive nature of extreme emotions.
   Answer: (a)
8. A: Ice is considered less destructive than fire.
   R: The poet says ice would suffice for destruction.
   Answer: (d)
9. A: The tone of the poem is humorous.
   R: The poem seriously discusses the end of the world.
   Answer: (d)
10. A: The poem suggests emotional balance is important.
    R: Extreme desire and hatred can lead to ruin.
    Answer: (a)

You may also read the explanation of Dust of Snow – Question Answer & Summary to strengthen your preparation of Class 10 English Poetry.

📖 Case Study Based Questions – Fire and Ice

📖 Fire and Ice – Case Study Based Questions (Class 10 UP Board 2026)

1. Case Study 1:
   
   A society where people are driven by greed, ambition and uncontrolled desires often faces conflict and instability. Excessive desire can disturb peace and harmony.
   
   (a) Which element in the poem represents uncontrolled desire?
   (b) What does it symbolize?
   (c) Why does the poet support this idea?
   (d) What lesson does the poem give about desire?
   
   Answers:
   (a) Fire.
   (b) Desire, greed and passion.
   (c) Because he has personally experienced desire and believes it is powerful.
   (d) Desire must be controlled to avoid destruction.


2. Case Study 2:
   
   Sometimes hatred and emotional coldness slowly destroy relationships and communities. Unlike anger, which is intense and immediate, cold indifference can silently cause long-term harm.
   
   (a) Which element in the poem reflects hatred?
   (b) What does ice symbolize in Fire and Ice class 10 UP Board?
   (c) According to the poet, is hatred powerful?
   (d) What message is conveyed through this comparison?
   
   Answers:
   (a) Ice.
   (b) Hatred, coldness and indifference.
   (c) Yes, it is powerful enough to destroy the world.
   (d) Even silent hatred can cause great destruction.


3. Case Study 3:
   
   A person who lets extreme emotions control their actions may damage relationships and create conflict. Balance and self-control are important for harmony.
   
   (a) What two emotions are highlighted in the poem?
   (b) How are these emotions symbolized?
   (c) What is the central idea of Fire and Ice class 10 UP Board?
   (d) Why is the poem relevant today?
   
   Answers:
   (a) Desire and hatred.
   (b) Fire symbolizes desire; ice symbolizes hatred.
   (c) Extreme human emotions can destroy the world.
   (d) Because uncontrolled emotions still cause conflicts in society.


4. Case Study 4:
   
   Some scientists believe that global warming (heat) or extreme cold conditions could destroy life on Earth. However, writers often use such ideas symbolically.
   
   (a) Are fire and ice used literally in the poem?
   (b) What literary device is used here?
   (c) What does fire stand for in the poem?
   (d) What does ice stand for?
   
   Answers:
   (a) No, they are used symbolically.
   (b) Symbolism.
   (c) Desire and passion.
   (d) Hatred and emotional coldness.


5. Case Study 5:
   
   In history, wars have started because of greed and hatred. Both intense desire for power and deep-rooted hatred have caused destruction.
   
   (a) Which two forces in the poem relate to this situation?
   (b) What is the rhyme scheme of the poem?
   (c) According to the poet, are both forces equally dangerous?
   (d) What lesson should students learn from Fire and Ice poem class 10 UP Board?
   
   Answers:
   (a) Fire and ice.
   (b) ABA ABC BCB.
   (c) Yes, both are capable of destruction.
   (d) Students should learn to control extreme emotions and maintain balance.

📥 UP Board Fire and Ice PDF Download

Download Fire and Ice PDF

Students preparing for the UP Board scheme class 10th poetry Fire and Ice should revise Fire and Ice central idea class 10 UP Board, Fire and Ice summary stanza wise, and Fire and Ice ke question answer regularly. This chapter is an important part of class 10 English poetry Fire and Ice under the UP Board syllabus.

Explore all chapters of UP Board Class 10 English to complete your preparation for the 2026-2027 examination.