Why did they laugh? Perhaps, because of some amusing occurrences they had seen.
What characteristics of the dandelions suggest these fancies regarding the veterans? The heads of the dandelions are white. As they sway in the breeze on their slender stalks, they incline their heads toward one another in much the same way as people do in conversation.
Why is the "laughter" said to be "noiseless"? Because human beings could not be expected to hear the laughter of the dandelions.
What expression would you be likely to use, instead of "welladay"? Alas!
What is meant by "they blew away"? The seeds of the flowers were scattered far and wide.
What do you like about this poem? (1) Its charming poetic fancies. (2) The fitness of the comparisons.
Point out clearly how the appearance of the dandelions resembled a military attack, and how, in the later stage of their life history, they resembled veteran soldiers.
THE BLIND MEN AND THE ELEPHANT
(Second Reader, page 56)