1 The setting of the poem is a taxi rank in the morning.

1.2 A line that shows sound in the taxi rank is: "And taxis groan as engines wake and cough." (Line 4)

1.3 The phrase "engines wake and cough" means that the taxi engines are starting up, making rough, sputtering sounds as they come to life, possibly due to the cold morning or their age. It uses personification to describe the mechanical sounds.

1.4 The mood created in the taxi rank is bustling and somewhat weary, yet with an underlying sense of purpose and hope.
Reason: The poem describes vendors shouting, taxis starting, workers with tense faces checking time, and coins clinking, all indicating a busy and rushed environment. The "cold" and "heavy bags" suggest a struggle, but "The day begins with hope" shows a forward-looking attitude despite the challenges.

1.5 The theme of the poem is the daily routine and the blend of hope and hardship experienced by ordinary people as they begin their workday in a busy urban setting. It highlights the contrast between personal dreams and daily duties.