General English Notes by Sahil Sharifdin Bhat JKBOSE. Class 12th. Flamingo & Vistas

General English Notes by Sahil Sharifdin Bhat 

JKBOSE. Class 12th. Flamingo & Vistas. 

Lesson 1 

THE LAST LESSON 

[Alphonse Daudet] 

Textual Questions

Think as You Read

Q1. What was Franz expected to be prepared with for school that day?

Ans: Franz was supposed to prepare the lesson on participles because M. Hamel, his French teacher, had announced that he would question the students on it. However, Franz had not prepared his lesson and knew nothing about participles. He was afraid of being scolded by his teacher. He even thought of staying away from school and spending the day outside. The warm weather, birds chirping and Prussian soldiers drilling in the open field seemed more attractive to him than going to school.

Q2. What did Franz notice that was unusual about the school that day?

Ans: Franz noticed that everything was unusually quiet at school that day. Normally, there was a lot of noise caused by students opening and closing their desks, repeating their lessons loudly and the teacher rapping his ruler on the table. But that day, the school was as quiet as a Sunday morning. All the students were already sitting in their places. Even M. Hamel was dressed in his special clothes, which he usually wore on inspection and prize days. This unusual atmosphere surprised Franz.

Q3. What had been put up on the bulletin-board?

Ans: A notice from Berlin had been put up on the bulletin-board. It announced that only German would be taught in the schools of Alsace and Lorraine from the next day. All French teachers were ordered to leave their schools and German teachers would take their place. This news was a great shock to the people because they were going to lose the right to learn their own language. The bulletin-board had always brought bad news for them, such as orders from the authorities and news of lost battles.

Think as You Read

Q1. What changes did the order from Berlin cause in school that day?

Ans: The order from Berlin brought a strange and serious atmosphere to the school that day. M. Hamel wore his best clothes, including his beautiful green coat, frilled shirt and embroidered black silk cap. The students were sitting quietly and listening carefully to their teacher. Even the elderly villagers occupied the back benches, which were usually empty. They had come to show respect to M. Hamel and express their regret for not learning French properly. Everyone seemed sad because it was their last French lesson.

Q2. How did Franz’s feelings about M. Hamel and school change?

Ans: Franz's feelings about M. Hamel and school changed completely when he came to know that it was their last French lesson. He felt sorry for not learning his language properly. His books, which had once seemed like a burden, now appeared to be his old friends. He also forgot about M. Hamel's strict behaviour and began to respect him. Franz realised how much his teacher loved his language and his country. He wished that he had attended school more regularly and learned his lessons properly.

Understanding the Text

Q1. What shows that people suddenly realised how precious their language was? Why does this happen?

Ans: M. Hamel's last lesson made everyone realise how precious their mother tongue was. He praised French as the most beautiful, clearest and most logical language in the world. He also called it the key to their freedom. The elderly villagers attended the last lesson to show their respect for their language and teacher. Franz too regretted not learning French properly. People often realise the true value of something when they are about to lose it. The order from Berlin made them understand the importance of their language and cultural identity.

Q2. What does Franz mean by “Will they make them sing in German, even the pigeons?”

Ans: Franz makes this remark when M. Hamel talks about the order from Berlin to teach only German in the schools of Alsace and Lorraine. He sarcastically wonders whether the Germans will also force the pigeons to sing in German. He knows that nobody can change the natural language of birds. His remark shows his anger, sadness and helplessness over the loss of his mother tongue. It also highlights how unreasonable the order was. Through this statement, Franz expresses his feelings against the forced imposition of another language on his people.

Character Sketch of Franz 

Franz is an interesting student. He has an unusual ability to understand his lessons but does not use it until the teaching of the French language is banned in the schools of Alsace and Lorraine. Coming from a poor family, Franz is often asked to work in a mill to earn money. His family does not pay much attention to his education, so he prefers spending time outdoors and enjoying himself. Even at school, he often enjoys working in the garden. 

 

Franz develops a habit of shirking work and postponing his studies and homework. Despite this, he is very scared of his teacher, M. Hamel. In addition, Franz has a keen sense of observation, understanding, and respect. He notices everything happening around him meticulously. Upon entering the school, he senses something unusual and calm in the atmosphere. He is surprised and troubled to learn that his teacher is leaving because an order from Berlin has banned the teaching of French in schools. 

 

During the writing period, Franz notices the sadness on M. Hamel’s face. When the teacher teaches a lesson in grammar, it leaves a lasting impression on him. Franz feels that the teacher is trying to pour everything into their minds that day and believes he might learn the French language completely that very day. However, this is just his childlike feeling, which is impossible. 

 

When the teacher finally writes “Long Live France” on the blackboard, Franz is deeply moved and recognizes the true worth of his teacher. In conclusion, Franz has both intellect and emotions. He regrets not attending school regularly and taking his studies seriously. 

 

 

*** # *** 

Do it now . Sometimes '’ later '’ becomes '’ never''. 

[ Anonymous] 

 

Lesson 2 

LOST SPRING 

[Anees Jung] 

Textual Questions

THINK AS YOU READ

Q1. What is Saheb looking for in the garbage dumps? Where is he and where has he come from?

Ans: Saheb looks for valuable things, especially gold, in the garbage dumps. For him, garbage is like a treasure because he may find something useful or valuable in it. He lives in Seemapuri, on the outskirts of Delhi, where many poor people live. He originally came from Bangladesh in 1971 with his family. Their fields and homes were destroyed by storms. They left their homeland in search of food, shelter and a better life. However, poverty still follows them.

Q2. What explanations does the author offer for the children not wearing footwear?

Ans: The author offers different explanations for children not wearing footwear. Some people say that going barefoot is a tradition in their community. However, the author feels that this may only be an excuse to hide their poverty. Poor families cannot afford even basic things like shoes for their children. She also remembers a poor boy who once prayed for a pair of shoes at a wedding. This shows how difficult life is for these children. They have to accept their poverty as a normal part of life.

Q3. Is Saheb happy working at the tea-stall? Explain.

Ans: No, Saheb is not really happy working at the tea-stall. Earlier, he was free to move around and search for useful things in the garbage dumps. He enjoyed his freedom even though he had no regular income. But now he works at a tea-stall for 800 rupees a month and gets meals as well. He carries a heavy steel canister instead of his old plastic bag. The canister seems heavier than the bag because it represents his lost freedom. He now works under someone else.

THINK AS YOU READ

Q1. What makes the city of Firozabad famous?

Ans: Firozabad is famous for its glass bangles. Almost every family in the city is involved in the bangle-making industry. People have been making bangles for generations and consider it their traditional occupation. The narrow lanes are filled with small workshops and furnaces where men, women and children work together. Their bangles are supplied to different parts of the country. However, behind this famous industry lies a sad reality. Most workers live in poverty and spend their entire lives making bangles without getting a fair share of the money.

Q2. Mention the hazards of working in the glass bangles industry.

Ans: Working in the glass bangles industry is very dangerous, especially for children. They work in dark and poorly ventilated rooms near hot furnaces. They have to join pieces of glass while sitting close to open flames. The heat and continuous exposure to glass dust damage their eyesight and health. Many workers lose their eyesight before reaching adulthood. They also suffer from breathing problems and other illnesses. Instead of going to school and enjoying their childhood, these children spend long hours doing dangerous work to support their families.

Q3. How is Mukesh’s attitude to his situation different from that of his family?

Ans: Mukesh has a different attitude towards life compared to the other members of his family. His family has accepted bangle-making as their traditional occupation. They believe that their poverty and suffering are part of their fate. But Mukesh does not want to spend his whole life making bangles. He dreams of becoming a motor mechanic and wants to learn how to repair cars. He is determined to follow his dream despite the difficulties around him. Unlike his family, he has the courage to think beyond his traditional occupation.

UNDERSTANDING THE TEXT

Q1. What could be some of the reasons for the migration of people from villages to cities?

Ans: There can be several reasons why people migrate from villages to cities. Many families leave their villages because they do not have enough land or regular sources of income. Natural disasters like floods and storms can destroy their homes and crops. Some people also face unemployment, poverty and a lack of basic facilities in rural areas. They move to cities in search of jobs, better education, food and shelter. Like Saheb's family, many poor people leave their homeland because they have no other choice. They hope to build a better future.

Q2. Would you agree that promises made to the poor children are rarely kept? Why do you think this happens in the incidents narrated in the text?

Ans: Yes, I agree that promises made to poor children are rarely kept. In the chapter, the author jokingly promises Saheb that she will open a school for him. Later, when Saheb asks her about the school, she feels embarrassed because she has made a promise without thinking seriously about it. This incident shows how easily people make promises to poor children without understanding their needs. Such promises are often made to satisfy them for a moment. However, nobody takes real steps to improve their lives.

Q3. What forces conspire to keep the workers in bangle industry of Firozabad in poverty?

Ans: Several powerful forces work together to keep the bangle workers of Firozabad trapped in poverty. These include moneylenders, middlemen, police officers, bureaucrats and politicians. They exploit the poor workers and take advantage of their helplessness. The bangle makers often borrow money and remain trapped in debt for generations. They cannot start their own businesses because they lack money and proper support. They are also afraid of breaking away from their traditional occupation. As a result, they continue to work in poor conditions and struggle to earn enough for their families.

TALKING ABOUT THE TEXT

Q1. How, in your opinion, can Mukesh realise his dream?

Ans: Mukesh can realise his dream of becoming a motor mechanic through hard work, patience and determination. He should find a nearby garage where he can learn how to repair cars. Although his family is poor, he must not give up because of financial difficulties. He may have to walk a long distance to reach the garage and work for little or no money during his training. With regular practice and dedication, he can develop the necessary skills. His strong desire to become a mechanic can help him break away from his family's traditional occupation.

Q2. Mention the hazards of working in the glass bangles industry.

Ans: The glass bangles industry exposes workers, especially children, to several health hazards. They work in small, dark and poorly ventilated rooms near extremely hot furnaces. They spend long hours joining pieces of glass and working close to open flames. The heat and glass dust can seriously damage their eyesight and breathing. Many children become blind before they reach adulthood. They also suffer from other health problems because of the unhealthy working conditions. Such work not only damages their health but also takes away their childhood and prevents them from getting an education.

Q3. Why should child labour be eliminated and how?

Ans: Child labour should be eliminated because it destroys children's childhood and affects their physical and mental development. Instead of going to school, playing and enjoying their lives, children are forced to work in factories, workshops and other dangerous places. They often suffer from poor health and remain uneducated. This keeps them trapped in poverty even when they grow up. Child labour can be eliminated through strict enforcement of laws and proper government support. Poor families should receive financial help and children must be provided with free education, food and a safe environment.

Character Sketch of Saheb   

Saheb is a young boy from Dhaka, Bangladesh, who moved to India after storms destroyed his home. He searches for “gold” in garbage dumps, symbolising his hopes for a better life amidst poverty. Saheb is curious, hopeful, and carefree, finding joy even in his difficult circumstances. However, poverty and a lack of opportunities limit his dreams.   

He eventually starts working at a tea stall, but the job takes away his freedom. The steel canister he carries feels heavier than the plastic bag he once owned because it symbolises his lost independence. Saheb’s story highlights the harsh realities faced by children living in poverty, forced to abandon their dreams for survival. Despite his struggles, Saheb embodies resilience and the human desire for a better future.  

 

Character Sketch of Mukesh 

Mukesh is a young boy from Firozabad, a town famous for its glass bangles. Unlike his family, who have resigned themselves to their fate as bangle makers, Mukesh dreams of breaking free from this tradition. He aspires to become a motor mechanic and is determined to achieve his goal by learning the trade at a garage.   

Mukesh is hardworking, ambitious, and optimistic. His courage to dream big and take steps toward change sets him apart from the others trapped in generational poverty. Despite the hazardous conditions of bangle-making and the challenges of escaping his socio-economic circumstances, Mukesh remains focused on his aspirations. His story symbolises hope, determination, and the power of dreams in overcoming adversity. 

 

 

*** # *** 

‘’ Better alone than in a bad company .’’ [ Proverb] 

Lesson 3 

DEEP WATER 

[William Douglas] 

THINK AS YOU READ

Q1. What is the “misadventure” that William Douglas speaks about?

Ans: William Douglas calls his near-drowning experience a “misadventure”. One day, he went to the YMCA swimming pool to learn swimming. He was standing alone near the pool when an older and stronger boy came there. The boy picked him up and threw him into the deep end of the pool. Douglas did not know how to swim properly. He sank to the bottom and swallowed water. He tried to jump up to the surface but failed. He nearly drowned and was left badly frightened.

Q2. What were the series of emotions and fears that Douglas experienced when he was thrown into the pool? What plans did he make to come to the surface?

Ans: When Douglas was thrown into the pool, he was frightened but tried to remain calm. As he sank towards the bottom, he planned to jump upwards with all his strength. He thought he would come to the surface, lie flat on the water and paddle towards the edge of the pool. However, his plan failed. He could not reach the surface and swallowed water several times. He became helpless and panicked. Finally, he lost his strength and consciousness as darkness surrounded him.

Q3. How did this experience affect him?

Ans: The experience left a deep fear of water in Douglas's mind. He became so frightened that he could not eat properly after the incident. He felt weak and remained disturbed for several days. The fear stayed with him for many years and affected his daily life. He avoided swimming pools, lakes and other water-related activities. He could no longer enjoy fishing, boating or swimming. Even when he grew up, the old terror continued to trouble him. It became a major obstacle to his happiness and freedom.

THINK AS YOU READ

Q1. Why was Douglas determined to get over his fear of water?

Ans: Douglas was determined to overcome his fear of water because it had started affecting his life. He wanted to enjoy fishing, boating and swimming like other people. However, his childhood experience at the YMCA pool had made him afraid of entering water. Even as an adult, he could not enjoy water-related activities without feeling frightened. He did not want to remain a prisoner of his fear throughout his life. Therefore, he decided to hire a swimming instructor and face his fear through proper training.

Q2. How did the instructor “build a swimmer” out of Douglas?

Ans: The instructor trained Douglas carefully and gradually helped him become a swimmer. First, he attached a belt around Douglas and connected it to a rope that moved along an overhead pulley. This helped him practise swimming without the fear of drowning. Then he taught him how to breathe properly and move his legs. He also trained him to put his face under water and exhale. The training continued for several months, from October to April. Finally, Douglas learned to swim the length of the pool confidently.

Q3. How did Douglas make sure that he conquered the old terror?

Ans: Even after learning to swim, Douglas wanted to make sure that his old fear had completely disappeared. He practised swimming alone and tested himself in different water bodies. He first swam across Lake Wentworth and reached an island called Stamp Act Island. However, he still felt a little fear in deep water. Later, he went to Warm Lake and swam across it too. He faced the fear whenever it returned. These experiences finally gave him confidence that he had conquered his childhood terror of water.

UNDERSTANDING THE TEXT

Q1. How does Douglas make clear to the reader the sense of panic that gripped him as he almost drowned? Describe the details that have made the description vivid.

Ans: Douglas describes his near-drowning experience in a very powerful and realistic way. He explains how he sank towards the bottom of the pool and struggled desperately to reach the surface. He compares the depth of nine feet to ninety feet because of his extreme fear. He also describes swallowing water, feeling suffocated and losing control of his body. His repeated attempts to jump upwards failed. Finally, he felt helpless and lost consciousness. These physical details and his fearful thoughts make the incident vivid for the reader.

Q2. How did Douglas overcome his fear of water?

Ans: Douglas overcame his fear of water through patience, determination and proper training. He hired a swimming instructor who trained him step by step. The instructor first taught him to float with the help of a rope. Then he taught him breathing techniques, leg movements and different swimming strokes. The training continued from October to April. Even after learning to swim, Douglas practised regularly to remove the remaining fear. He also tested himself in Lake Wentworth and Warm Lake. Finally, he became confident and completely conquered his fear of water.

Q3. Why does Douglas as an adult recount a childhood experience of terror and his conquering of it? What larger meaning does he draw from this experience?

Ans: Douglas recounts his childhood experience to show how fear can affect a person's life and how it can be overcome through courage and determination. His near-drowning experience created a deep fear of water that troubled him for many years. However, he refused to let that fear control his life. He faced it through proper training and repeated practice. From this experience, he learned that there is no greater joy than feeling free from fear. He also realised that courage and determination help people overcome even the most difficult challenges in life. 

*** # *** 

The foundation of a happy life is '’ discipline'’ . [ Sahil Sharifdin Bhat] 

 

Lesson 4 

 

THE RATTRAP 

[Selma Lagerlöf 1858–1940)] 

 

THINK AS YOU READ

Q1. Where did the peddler get the idea of the world being a rattrap?

Ans: The peddler got the idea of the world being a rattrap while thinking about the small rattraps that he sold. He imagined that the whole world was like a big rattrap. It offered people different things like wealth, food, shelter and comfort. These things attracted people just as cheese attracts rats. Once a person got tempted by these things, he fell into the trap and faced difficulties. The peddler believed that nobody could escape the traps of the world once they got caught.

Q2. Why was he amused by this idea?

Ans: The peddler was amused by the idea because he had always lived a poor and difficult life. He had no home or family and earned his living by selling rattraps. He often faced rejection and unkind behaviour from people. The thought that even rich and powerful people could fall into the traps of the world gave him some pleasure. He enjoyed imagining how people got tempted by money, food and other comforts. He felt that everyone was equally helpless when caught in the world's rattrap.

Q3. Did the peddler expect the kind of hospitality he received from the crofter?

Ans: No, the peddler did not expect such warm hospitality from the crofter. He was used to being treated badly by people because of his poor appearance and profession. Whenever he asked for shelter, people usually refused to help him. However, the crofter welcomed him warmly and offered him food and shelter for the night. He also gave him tobacco and played cards with him. The crofter treated him like an old friend. This kind behaviour was quite surprising for the lonely peddler.

Q4. Why was the crofter so talkative and friendly with the peddler?

Ans: The crofter was so talkative and friendly because he lived alone and had nobody to share his thoughts with. He had no wife or children and his only companion was a cow. Therefore, he felt happy when the peddler arrived at his cottage. He welcomed him warmly, offered him food and gave him a place to sleep. He also talked freely about his daily life and earnings. The crofter enjoyed having someone to listen to him. His loneliness made him eager to have a friendly conversation.

Q5. Why did he show the thirty kronor to the peddler?

Ans: The crofter showed the thirty kronor to the peddler because he wanted to prove that he had earned the money honestly. He told him that he sold the milk of his cow to the creamery and received payment for it. He had already informed the peddler that he had earned thirty kronor in a month. However, the peddler seemed doubtful about his claim. To remove his doubts, the crofter took out the money and showed it to him. Unfortunately, this act of trust later gave the peddler an opportunity to steal it.

Q6. Did the peddler respect the crofter's trust?

Ans: No, the peddler did not respect the crofter's trust. The crofter had treated him kindly and welcomed him into his home without any suspicion. He had offered him food, shelter and company. He had also shown him his thirty kronor because he trusted him completely. However, the peddler betrayed this trust. After leaving the cottage, he returned and broke the window to steal the money. He took the thirty kronor and quickly ran away. His dishonest behaviour showed that he had no respect for the crofter's kindness.

THINK AS YOU READ

Q1. What made the peddler think he had fallen into a rattrap?

Ans: After stealing the thirty kronor from the crofter, the peddler avoided the public highway because he was afraid of being caught. He entered the forest and continued walking through it. However, he soon lost his way and kept moving around in circles. The forest seemed endless and he could not find a way out. He became tired and frightened. At that moment, he remembered his own idea of the world being a rattrap. He felt that he had been caught in the same trap because of his greed.

Q2. Why did the ironmaster speak kindly to the peddler and invite him home?

Ans: The ironmaster spoke kindly to the peddler because he mistook him for an old military friend, Captain von Stahle. The peddler was standing near the furnace in the dim light when the ironmaster saw him. His poor clothes and unwashed face made it difficult to recognise him properly. The ironmaster thought that his old friend had fallen on difficult days. He felt sorry for him and invited him to his home for Christmas. He wanted to offer him food, comfort and a chance to enjoy the festival.

Q3. Why did the peddler decline the invitation?

Ans: The peddler declined the ironmaster's invitation because he was afraid of being caught for stealing the crofter's thirty kronor. He knew that the ironmaster had mistaken him for an old military friend. He did not want to go to his house and face trouble if his real identity was discovered. He also feared that the ironmaster might hand him over to the police. Therefore, he refused the invitation and tried to explain that he was only a poor rattrap seller. He wanted to remain safe and avoid any unnecessary trouble.

THINK AS YOU READ

Q1. What made the peddler accept Edla Willmansson's invitation?

Ans: Edla Willmansson's kind and gentle behaviour made the peddler accept her invitation. Unlike her father, she did not force him to come to their house. She spoke to him politely and tried to make him feel comfortable. She also understood that he was afraid and assured him that he could leave whenever he wished. She invited him to spend Christmas with them and promised that he would be free to go after the festival. Her kindness and understanding touched the peddler. Finally, he agreed to accompany her.

Q2. What doubts did Edla have about the peddler?

Ans: Edla had some doubts about the peddler because of his strange behaviour and frightened appearance. When she first saw him, she noticed that he looked afraid and uncomfortable. His clothes were dirty and his face showed signs of worry. She also observed that he moved nervously and seemed unwilling to answer certain questions. This made her suspect that he might have stolen something or escaped from prison. However, she did not treat him badly because of her doubts. She continued to speak to him politely and offered him help.

Q3. When did the ironmaster realise his mistake?

Ans: The ironmaster realised his mistake the next morning when he saw the peddler in the broad daylight. The peddler had taken a bath, shaved his beard and worn clean clothes. His appearance was now much clearer than it had been near the furnace. The ironmaster looked at him carefully and immediately understood that he was not his old military friend, Captain von Stahle. He became angry because he felt that the peddler had cheated him. He then asked him why he had not revealed his real identity earlier.

Q4. How did the peddler defend himself for not revealing his true identity?

Ans: The peddler defended himself by saying that he had never claimed to be Captain von Stahle. He explained that it was the ironmaster who had mistaken him for his old military friend. The peddler had only told him that he was a poor rattrap seller. He also reminded the ironmaster that he had refused the invitation because he did not want to create any trouble. He said that he could leave the house immediately if they wished. He also compared himself to a helpless rat caught in a trap.

Q5. Why did Edla still entertain the peddler after knowing the truth?

Ans: Edla still wanted the peddler to stay because she believed that it would be wrong to send him away after inviting him for Christmas. She felt that they had already promised him a peaceful and happy day. She also understood that the poor man had probably never enjoyed such kindness and comfort. Although she knew that he was not Captain von Stahle, she did not change her behaviour towards him. She wanted him to enjoy Christmas without fear or humiliation. Her kindness showed her good nature and respect for others.

THINK AS YOU READ

Q1. Why was Edla happy to see the gift left by the peddler?

Ans: Edla was happy to see the gift because it showed that the peddler had changed his behaviour and wanted to become an honest person. He had left a small rattrap as a Christmas present for her. Inside it, she found three ten-kronor notes and a letter. The money was the same amount that he had stolen from the crofter. In his letter, he thanked Edla for treating him kindly and giving him respect. He also requested her to return the money to the crofter. This gift made Edla realise that her kindness had brought a positive change in him.

Q2. Why did the peddler sign himself as Captain von Stahle?

Ans: The peddler signed himself as Captain von Stahle because Edla's kindness had given him a chance to change his life. The ironmaster had mistaken him for a military captain, but the peddler had never claimed to be one. By signing the letter with this name, he showed that he wanted to live up to the respect and dignity that Edla had given him. He returned the stolen money and left a gift for her. In this way, he proved that he could become an honest and respectable person.

UNDERSTANDING THE TEXT

Q1. How does the peddler interpret the acts of kindness and hospitality?

Ans: The peddler reacts differently to the kindness shown by different people. The crofter welcomes him warmly and offers him food and shelter, but the peddler betrays his trust by stealing his thirty kronor. When the ironmaster mistakes him for an old friend, the peddler refuses his invitation because he fears being caught. However, Edla treats him with genuine kindness even after discovering his true identity. Her behaviour touches his heart and makes him realise the value of honesty and respect. He finally returns the stolen money and changes his ways.

Q2. How are the ironmaster and his daughter different?

Ans: The ironmaster and his daughter Edla have very different personalities. The ironmaster is quick to judge people and becomes angry when he discovers that the peddler is not his old military friend. He wants to send him away because he feels cheated. On the other hand, Edla is kind, patient and understanding. She treats the peddler with respect even after learning the truth about him. She believes that he deserves to enjoy Christmas because they have already invited him. Her kindness finally inspires the peddler to become an honest person.

Q3. What are some surprising reactions in the story?

Ans: The story contains several surprising reactions. The crofter welcomes the peddler warmly even though he is a complete stranger. However, the peddler betrays his trust by stealing his money. The ironmaster mistakes the peddler for his old military friend and invites him home. Later, he becomes angry when he discovers the truth. Edla's reaction is even more surprising because she allows the peddler to stay despite knowing that he is not a captain. Finally, the peddler surprises everyone by returning the stolen money and leaving a Christmas gift for Edla.

Q4. What made the peddler change his ways?

Ans: Edla's kindness, patience and respectful behaviour brought a positive change in the peddler. Before meeting her, he was dishonest and believed that the world was a rattrap. He stole the crofter's money and lived with fear and suspicion. However, Edla treated him like a respectable human being even after discovering his real identity. She allowed him to enjoy Christmas without insulting or judging him. Her trust made him realise that he could also live an honest life. As a result, he returned the stolen money and left a gift for her.

Q5. How does the rattrap metaphor highlight the human predicament?

Ans: The rattrap metaphor explains how human beings often get trapped by their own desires and weaknesses. The peddler believes that the world offers different temptations like money, food, wealth and comfort. People get attracted to these things just as rats get attracted to cheese. Once they fall into the trap, they face difficulties and suffer. The peddler himself becomes a victim of this trap when he steals the crofter's money. However, Edla's kindness helps him escape from it. The story shows that goodness and honesty can free people from their mistakes.

Q6. How does the peddler's humour lighten the story?

Ans: The peddler's sense of humour adds an interesting touch to the story. His idea of the world being a rattrap is itself humorous because he compares human life to a trap used for catching rats. He also uses this idea to explain why people fall into trouble because of their greed. In his letter to Edla, he refers to himself as a rat that has been saved from the world's rattrap. His humorous way of looking at life makes his character interesting and adds some light moments to an otherwise serious story.

Character sketch of the peddler 

The protagonist and central character of the story is an unnamed man who lives as a tramp, wandering the countryside and selling rattraps, which he makes out of wire in his spare time. Because he does not make enough money from this to survive, the rattrap peddler also engages in petty thievery and begging—though even with this, he still wears only rags and is constantly on the verge of starvation. At the start of the story, the peddler is cynical and opportunistic. He has a difficult life and takes whatever he can get, trusting no one. He even steals money from the crofter after the old man offers him his hospitality. Indeed, it seems that the peddler’s only pleasure in life comes from thinking of the world as one large, cruel rattrap and ruminating on other people 

he knows who have been ensnared. After experiencing true kindness from Edla Willmansson, however, the peddler seems to change his mindset. He returns the stolen money and declares that he wants to “be nice,” having been freed from the “rattrap” of life by Edla’s compassion and generosity. The peddler’s transformation shows Lagerlöf’s idea of the latent potential for goodness in all human beings. 

 

 

*** # *** 

“Travel and tell no one, live a true love story and tell no one, live happily and tell no one, people ruin beautiful things” 

[Kahlil Gibran.] 

 

 Lesson 5 

INDIGO 

[Louis Fischer] 

THINK AS YOU READ 

Q1. Strike out what is not true in the following: (a)Rajkumar Shukla was: 

(i) a sharecropper [✔] 

(ii) a politician [X] (iii)delegate [X] 

(iv)a landlord. [X] 

(b) Rajkumar Shukla was: 

(i) poor [✔] 

(ii)physically strong [X] 

(iii) illiterate. [✔] 

Q2. Why is Rajkumar Shukla described as being ‘resolute’? 

Ans: He had come all the way from Champaran district in the foothills of Himalayas to Lucknow to speak to Gandhi. Shukla accompanied Gandhi everywhere. Shukla followed him to the ashram near Ahmedabad. For weeks he never left Gandhi’s side till Gandhi asked him to meet at Calcutta. 

Q3. Why do you think the servants thought Gandhi to be another peasant? 

Ans: Shukla led Gandhi to Rajendra Prasad’s house. The servants knew Shukla as a poor yeoman. Gandhi was also clad in a simple dhoti. He was the companion of a peasant. Hence, the servants thought Gandhi to be another peasant. 

THINK AS YOU READ

Q1. List the places that Gandhi visited between his first meeting with Shukla and his arrival at Champaran.

Ans: Gandhi first met Rajkumar Shukla at the Indian National Congress session in Lucknow in December 1916. Shukla requested him to visit Champaran and help the poor peasants. Gandhi later went to Cawnpore (Kanpur) and visited other parts of India. After that, he returned to his ashram near Ahmedabad. From there, he went to Calcutta, where he was supposed to meet Shukla. Later, both travelled to Patna and then to Muzaffarpur. Finally, Gandhi arrived at Champaran to investigate the problems of the peasants.

Q2. What did the peasants pay the British landlords as rent? What did the British now want instead and why? What would be the impact of synthetic indigo on the prices of natural indigo?

Ans: The peasants of Champaran were forced to grow indigo on 15 per cent of their land and hand over the entire indigo crop as rent to the British landlords. Later, Germany developed synthetic indigo, which could be used instead of natural indigo. The British landlords no longer needed the peasants to grow indigo. So, they demanded money as compensation for releasing them from the 15 per cent arrangement. The growing use of synthetic indigo was likely to reduce the demand and market price of natural indigo.

THINK AS YOU READ

Q1. The events in this part of the text illustrate Gandhi’s method of working. Can you identify some instances of this method and link them to his ideas of Satyagraha and non-violence?

Ans: Gandhi believed in fighting injustice through truth, courage and non-violence. In Champaran, he collected information about the problems of the peasants and refused to leave the place when the British authorities ordered him to do so. He was ready to face arrest rather than obey an unjust order. He also encouraged the local lawyers to stand with the poor farmers. His method was peaceful but firm. He believed that people should not be afraid of the authorities. These actions clearly reflected his ideas of Satyagraha and non-violence.

THINK AS YOU READ

Q1. Why did Gandhi agree to a settlement of 25 per cent refund to the farmers?

Ans: Gandhi agreed to a settlement of 25 per cent refund because he believed that the amount of money was not the most important issue. What mattered was that the British landlords had been forced to return some of the money they had taken from the poor peasants. This decision also damaged the landlords' prestige and showed that they could not always exploit the farmers. The peasants gained confidence and realised that they could fight injustice. For Gandhi, this moral victory was much more important than getting a larger amount of money.

Q2. How did the episode change the plight of the peasants?

Ans: The Champaran episode brought a major change in the lives of the poor peasants. They were freed from the unfair indigo arrangement and received a part of their money back. They also gained courage and confidence to stand against injustice. The British landlords gradually lost their control over the estates and eventually left the area. Their lands were returned to the peasants and the system of indigo sharecropping slowly disappeared. This movement not only improved the economic condition of the farmers but also taught them to stand up for their rights.

UNDERSTANDING THE TEXT

Q1. Why do you think Gandhi considered the Champaran episode to be a turning point in his life?

Ans: Gandhi considered the Champaran episode a turning point because it was his first major success in fighting injustice in India through peaceful means. He went there to help poor peasants who were being exploited by British landlords. With the support of local people, lawyers and thousands of farmers, he challenged the authority of the British government. He refused to obey an unjust order and was ready to go to jail. His success gave confidence to ordinary Indians and showed that the British could be challenged through truth, courage and non-violence.

Q2. How was Gandhi able to influence lawyers? Give instances.

Ans: Gandhi influenced the lawyers through his simple questions and strong sense of responsibility. When the British authorities ordered him to leave Champaran, he was ready to face arrest. The local lawyers told him that they would return home if he was sent to jail. Gandhi asked them what would happen to the poor peasants if they also left. He made them realise that they had a duty to help the helpless farmers. His words touched their hearts. Finally, the lawyers decided to stay with him and even agreed to go to jail if necessary.

Q3. What was the attitude of the average Indian in smaller localities towards advocates of ‘home rule’?

Ans: The average Indian in smaller towns and localities was generally afraid of supporting people who spoke against British rule. Most people feared the government and did not want to get involved in political activities. They were worried about losing their jobs or facing punishment. Gandhi's stay at Professor Malkani's house in Muzaffarpur was an unusual example of courage. Malkani was a government school teacher, yet he gave shelter to Gandhi, who was openly opposing British policies. This shows how difficult it was for ordinary Indians to support the freedom movement at that time.

Q4. How do we know that ordinary people too contributed to the freedom movement?

Ans: Ordinary people played an important role in the freedom movement. In Champaran, thousands of peasants gathered to meet Gandhi and share their problems. They also showed their support when he appeared before the court. Local lawyers helped him in his struggle and agreed to face arrest if needed. Students and other people welcomed Gandhi at railway stations and joined the demonstrations. Their participation showed that the freedom movement was not limited to famous leaders. Common people also came forward, supported one another and played an important role in the struggle against British rule.

Caracter Sketch of Gandhi Ji

In the chapter “Indigo”, Mahatma Gandhi is presented as a remarkable leader who fought for justice with wisdom, courage and compassion. His leadership is shown through his ability to achieve justice for the oppressed by relying on persuasive argument and negotiation rather than violence. Gandhiji is depicted as a man of strong moral convictions who championed non-violent protests and peaceful demonstrations. He is portrayed as someone willing to go to great lengths to achieve his goals and as a leader who fearlessly stood up for his beliefs.

Gandhiji possessed a magnetic presence and remarkable persuasive power. He had the ability to inspire people from all walks of life and turn them into allies in the freedom movement. The chapter also emphasises his deep understanding of legal procedures and his respect for the law. It further reveals his humble lifestyle, marked by a rejection of materialism and luxury.

Overall, Gandhiji emerges as a knowledgeable, kind and determined leader who was ready to make great sacrifices for the welfare of his nation and its people.

*** # *** 

The people will fight for religion. They will write and lecture in favour of religion. They will even die for religion. But , they will never lead their lives according to religion. [ Kahlil Gibran] 

 

Lesson 6  

POETS AND PANCAKES 

[Asokamitran ] 

Think As You Read [I]

Q1. What does the writer mean by ‘the fiery misery’ of those subjected to make-up?

Answer: The make-up room at Gemini Studios had very bright lights. These lights produced a lot of heat and made the room extremely uncomfortable. The actors had to sit under these lights while the make-up artists worked on their faces. They often felt hot and uncomfortable during the process. The writer calls this painful experience ‘the fiery misery’. He uses this expression to describe the suffering of people who had to sit for long periods under the hot lights while getting their make-up done.

Q2. What is the example of national integration that the author refers to?

Answer: The author refers to the make-up department of Gemini Studios as an example of national integration. People from different regions, religions and backgrounds worked together in this department. The head of the department was a Bengali, while his assistants came from different parts of India. There were also people from different communities working under them. Despite their different languages and backgrounds, they worked together as one team. The author uses this example to show how people from different parts of the country lived and worked together peacefully.

Q3. What work did the ‘office boy’ do in the Gemini Studios? Why did he join the studios? Why was he disappointed?

Answer: The office boy worked in the make-up department of Gemini Studios. His main duty was to apply make-up to the crowd actors who appeared in small scenes. He had joined the studios with great hopes. He wanted to become an actor, a writer or a director. However, his dreams did not come true. He remained an office boy and had to do ordinary work. He felt that his education and talent were being wasted. This made him disappointed and frustrated with his position at the studios.

Q4. Why did the author appear to be doing nothing at the studios?

Answer: The author worked in a small room where he cut newspaper articles and filed them according to their subjects. He collected information from different newspapers and magazines. However, his work was not very visible to other employees. They often saw him sitting alone and reading newspapers or cutting articles. As a result, they thought he was doing nothing useful. In reality, he was carrying out his assigned work. The author explains that his job looked like an idle activity to others because they did not understand its purpose.

THINK AS YOU READ [II]

Q1. Why was the office boy frustrated? Who did he show his anger on?

Answer: The office boy was frustrated because he had joined Gemini Studios with big dreams but had failed to achieve anything important. He believed that he was talented and well-educated. He also wrote poetry and felt that he deserved a better position. However, he continued to work as an ordinary helper in the make-up department. He thought that his talent was being wasted. He often blamed Kothamangalam Subbu for his failure. Subbu was the No. 2 at Gemini Studios and was close to the Boss. The office boy showed his anger and frustration on him.

Q2. Who was Subbu’s principal?

Answer: Subbu’s principal was Mr. S.S. Vasan, the founder and Boss of Gemini Studios. Subbu worked very closely with him and enjoyed his complete trust. He was always ready to help the Boss whenever a problem came up during film-making. He understood the Boss's needs and often found quick solutions. Because of his loyalty and helpful nature, he became one of the most important people at the studios. The author presents him as a person who was always cheerful and willing to serve his principal.

Q3. Subbu is described as a many-sided genius. List four of his special abilities.

Answer: Kothamangalam Subbu had several qualities which made him a special person at Gemini Studios. Four of his important abilities were:

(i) He was always cheerful and could remain happy even in difficult situations.

(ii) He was loyal to the Boss and often found creative solutions to problems during film-making.

(iii) He was a talented writer who composed poetry and also wrote novels. He had a good understanding of literature.

(iv) He was a capable actor who could perform different roles. He was also kind and generous towards others. These qualities made him a many-sided genius.

Q4. Why was the legal adviser referred to as the opposite by others?

Answer: The legal adviser was called ‘the opposite’ because his actions often produced results opposite to what people expected from him. He was supposed to solve problems and protect the interests of the studio. However, one of his actions destroyed the career of a talented actress. During a disagreement, he recorded her angry words and played the recording before others. This incident caused her great embarrassment and damaged her position at the studios. The author uses gentle humour to show how a person appointed to help others sometimes became the cause of their problems.

Q5. What made the lawyer stand out from the others at Gemini Studios?

Answer: The lawyer looked different from most of the other employees at Gemini Studios because of his style of dressing. Most people at the studios wore khadi dhotis and loose khadi shirts. However, the lawyer wore pants and a tie. Sometimes, he also wore a coat. His appearance was quite different from the simple clothes worn by others. This made him easily noticeable in the studio. The author also describes him as a person whose behaviour and actions were different from what people expected from a legal adviser.

THINK AS YOU READ [III]

Q1. Did the people at Gemini Studios have any particular political affiliations?

Answer: Most of the people at Gemini Studios did not have any strong political affiliations. They admired Mahatma Gandhi and many of them wore khadi clothes. However, they were not actively involved in any particular political movement. The studio workers were mainly interested in their daily work and the film industry. One thing that united many of them was their dislike of communism. They considered communism a dangerous political idea. The author uses this example to show the general political thinking of people working at Gemini Studios during that period.

Q2. Why was the Moral Rearmament Army welcomed at the Studios?

Answer: The Moral Rearmament Army, also known as MRA, was welcomed at Gemini Studios because its ideas were acceptable to the studio authorities. The group strongly opposed communism. This was also the general attitude of the Boss and many people working at the studios. The MRA staged several plays which attracted the attention of the studio workers. Its members were given a warm welcome and their performances were appreciated. The visit also had an influence on the Tamil theatre scene. Some local plays later adopted similar stage arrangements and presentation techniques.

Q3. Name one example to show that Gemini Studios was influenced by the plays staged by MRA.

Answer: The influence of MRA plays could be seen in some Tamil plays staged after their visit to Gemini Studios. One example was the use of a simple stage with a white curtain. The actors used flute music and other effects to show the changing scenes of nature. For example, the rising and setting of the sun were shown through these simple arrangements. The Tamil play Jotham Valley followed a similar style. This shows that the MRA performances had influenced the way some local theatre groups presented their plays.

Q4. Who was the Boss of Gemini Studios?

Answer: Mr. S.S. Vasan was the Boss of Gemini Studios. He was the founder of the studio and played an important role in its success. He was a powerful and respected person in the film industry. Many employees worked under his direction and looked up to him. Kothamangalam Subbu was especially close to him and enjoyed his trust. The Boss was also known for his strong dislike of communism. His decisions influenced the working environment and the activities of Gemini Studios.

Q5. What caused the lack of communication between the Englishman and the people at Gemini Studios?

Answer: There was a lack of communication because the Englishman and the people at Gemini Studios could not understand each other properly. Most of the studio workers spoke Tamil, while the visitor spoke English. Moreover, he had a strong English accent which made his speech difficult for the audience to follow. The people were not familiar with his way of speaking. As a result, they could not understand what he wanted to say. The language difference and the unfamiliar accent created confusion and made the meeting rather uncomfortable.

Q6. Why is the Englishman’s visit referred to as an unexplained mystery?

Answer: The Englishman's visit was considered an unexplained mystery because nobody at Gemini Studios knew who he was or why he had come there. He spoke in English with a strong accent which most people could not understand. The audience sat quietly and listened without knowing what he was trying to explain. Nobody seemed to understand the purpose of his speech. Even after he left, the people remained confused about his identity and visit. The author himself could not solve this mystery at that time. He discovered the visitor's identity only much later.

THINK AS YOU READ [IV]

Q1. Who was the English visitor to the studios?

Answer: The English visitor to Gemini Studios was Stephen Spender. He was a famous English poet, essayist and novelist. He was also the editor of a literary magazine called The Encounter. He had come to the studios to address the people there. However, his visit did not create much interest among the audience because most of them could not understand his English accent. At that time, the people at Gemini Studios did not know much about him. The author discovered his identity and literary importance only several years later.

Q2. How did the author discover who the English visitor to the studios was?

Answer: The author discovered the identity of the English visitor several years after his visit to Gemini Studios. One day, he came across a book titled The God That Failed. He became interested in it and wanted to know more about its writers. Later, he visited the British Council Library and searched for information about the book. There he found a copy of The Encounter, a British literary magazine. He noticed that Stephen Spender was its editor. In this way, he finally understood who the mysterious English visitor had been.

Q3. What does ‘The God that Failed’ refer to?

Answer: The God That Failed is a book containing six essays written by different writers. These writers had once believed strongly in communism. They had considered it a great political idea which could bring equality and justice to society. However, after experiencing its reality, they became disappointed and lost their faith in it. The book describes their personal experiences and their reasons for rejecting communism. Stephen Spender was one of the contributors to this book. The title refers to communism, which had once been like a god to these writers but had failed them.

Understanding the Text

1\. The author has used gentle humour to point out human foibles. Pick out instances of this to show how this serves to make the piece interesting.

Answer: Asokamitran uses gentle humour throughout the chapter to show the weaknesses and strange habits of people at Gemini Studios. He humorously describes the hot make-up room and the large amount of pancake make-up used on actors. He also makes fun of the office boy's frustration and his complaints about Subbu. Subbu's loyalty to the Boss is described in an amusing way. The legal adviser's actions also create humour because he harms the very people he is supposed to help. The mystery surrounding Stephen Spender's visit is another funny example. This humour makes the chapter interesting and enjoyable.

2\. Why was Kothamangalam Subbu considered No. 2 in Gemini Studios?

Answer: Kothamangalam Subbu was considered No. 2 in Gemini Studios because he was very close to the Boss, Mr. S.S. Vasan. He enjoyed the Boss's complete trust and was always ready to help him. Whenever a problem arose during film-making, Subbu quickly suggested a solution. He was cheerful, creative and loyal. He also had several talents. He could act, write poetry and compose stories. Although many people were jealous of him, his helpful nature made him important to the studio. His close relationship with the Boss gave him a powerful position.

3\. How does the author describe the incongruity of an English poet addressing the audience at Gemini Studios?

Answer: The author describes the situation as strange because an English poet was speaking to an audience that mainly consisted of Tamil-speaking people. The visitor was Stephen Spender, a famous English poet. He spoke in English with a strong accent and talked about the difficulties faced by poets. However, most people in the audience could not understand his speech. They sat silently and looked confused. The speaker and the audience seemed to belong to two completely different worlds. This strange situation made the whole meeting appear meaningless and amusing.

4\. What do you understand about the author’s literary inclinations from the account?

Answer: The account shows that the author had a strong interest in literature and writing. Although his main job at Gemini Studios was to collect and arrange newspaper clippings, he was also interested in reading books and literary magazines. He wanted to become a writer and hoped to publish his work in a good magazine. His interest in The Encounter shows that he followed English literature. He also visited the British Council Library to learn more about the magazine and its editor. This tells us that he was curious, well-read and deeply interested in literary activities.

*** # *** 

God doesn’t care how rich you are. He doesn’t care how successful a doctor, lawyer, engineer, professor, actor, singer or politician you are. All He cares about is how good a human being you are.

[ Sahil Sharifdin Bhat] 

 

Lesson 7 

 

THE INTERVIEW 

[Christopher Silvester] 

 

Think As You Read [I]

1\. What are some of the positive views on interviews?

Answer: Interviews have been an important part of journalism for more than 130 years. Many people consider them a powerful way of communicating with others. They help us learn about famous personalities and understand their thoughts, experiences and achievements. Interviews can also reveal important truths about people's lives. Denis Brian believes that interviews help us understand other people better. They allow readers to see different sides of a person's personality. In this way, interviews provide useful information and bring people closer to the lives of others.

2\. Why do most celebrity writers dislike being interviewed?

Answer: Most celebrity writers dislike interviews because they feel that their privacy is being disturbed. They believe that interviews expose their personal lives and make them feel uncomfortable. Some writers even consider them an attack on their personality. V.S. Naipaul feels that people are hurt by interviews and lose something of themselves through them. Rudyard Kipling also disliked interviews and called them immoral. He believed that an interview was an improper way of dealing with a person. Such writers feel that their private thoughts and feelings should not be exposed to everyone.

3\. What do some primitive cultures believe about being photographed?

Answer: Some primitive cultures believe that taking a photograph can steal a person's soul. According to this belief, a photograph captures something more than a person's physical appearance. It takes away a part of their inner self. As a result, the person may feel incomplete or harmed. These cultures consider photography a kind of interference with a person's life. The writer mentions this belief to explain why some famous writers dislike being interviewed. They feel that interviews take away a part of their privacy and personal identity.

4\. What does the expression “thumbprints on his windpipe” mean?

Answer: The expression “thumbprints on his windpipe” describes the feeling of being choked or strangled. It is used figuratively to show the pressure and discomfort a person may experience during an interview. Some writers feel that an interviewer invades their privacy and forces them to reveal things they do not want to share. This makes them feel trapped and helpless. The expression suggests that an interview can become a painful experience for the person being questioned. It shows the negative feelings some writers have towards interviews.

5\. Who is the main source of information about personalities today?

Answer: Today, the interviewer is considered one of the main sources of information about famous personalities. Through interviews, people can learn about the lives, ideas, opinions and experiences of well-known individuals. The interviewer asks questions and tries to bring out information that may not be available elsewhere. These answers help readers understand the personality and thinking of the person being interviewed. Interviews have therefore become an important part of modern journalism. They allow the public to know more about writers, artists, politicians and other famous people.

Understanding the Text

1\. Do you think Umberto Eco likes being interviewed? Give reasons for your opinion.

Answer: Yes, Umberto Eco seems to enjoy being interviewed. Unlike many famous writers, he does not appear uncomfortable or annoyed by questions. He answers patiently and shares his ideas openly. He talks about his academic work, novels and personal writing habits in a friendly manner. He also explains how he manages his time and completes so much work. He does not show any sign of arrogance or irritation. His calm and thoughtful responses suggest that he respects the interviewer and enjoys discussing his work and ideas.

2\. How does Eco find the time to write so much?

Answer: Umberto Eco finds time to write by making proper use of small gaps in his daily routine. He calls these gaps between different activities 'empty spaces'. Instead of wasting them, he uses them for reading, thinking and writing. He believes that even a few minutes can be useful if a person knows how to use them. Eco also works on different subjects and projects at the same time. This method helps him remain productive. His example teaches us that we do not always need long hours to complete meaningful work.

3\. What was distinctive about Eco’s academic writing style?

Answer: Umberto Eco's academic writing style was different from the usual style of academic scholars. Most academic writing is considered serious, formal and sometimes difficult to read. However, Eco made his writing playful, personal and interesting. He often included his own experiences and thoughts in his work. He also used humour and simple examples to explain difficult ideas. This made his writing enjoyable for readers. His style showed that academic work did not always have to be dry and boring. It could also be lively and engaging.

4\. Did Umberto Eco consider himself a novelist first or an academic scholar?

Answer: Umberto Eco considered himself an academic scholar first and a novelist second. He was a professor who spent most of his time teaching and doing research. Writing novels was something he did in his free time. He did not consider novel writing his main profession. He explained that he was always engaged in academic work and used small gaps in his routine to write fiction. His first novel, The Name of the Rose, became a huge success. However, he still saw himself mainly as a scholar rather than a novelist.

5\. What is the reason for the huge success of the novel, The Name of the Rose?

Answer: The huge success of Umberto Eco's novel The Name of the Rose is difficult to explain. The novel is a mixture of a detective story and serious subjects such as metaphysics, theology and history. It offers an interesting mystery along with deep ideas about human life and knowledge. This combination attracted different kinds of readers. Some enjoyed its mystery while others were interested in its intellectual themes. Even Eco was surprised by its worldwide success. He believed that the reasons behind the novel's popularity remained something of a mystery.

*** # *** 

‘’Friendship in childhood is a religion and friendship in adulthood is a formality . ‘’ 

[Sahil Sharifdin Bhat] 

Lesson 8 

 

GOING PLACES 

[A.R. Barton] 

 

THINK AS YOU READ [I]

Q1. Where were Sophie and Jansie likely to work after school?

Ans: Sophie and Jansie were about to finish school and were likely to work at the biscuit factory. Jansie was practical and understood their family circumstances. She knew that girls like them could not easily get better jobs. Sophie, however, did not want to work in a factory. She dreamed of having a different and more exciting life. She wanted to open a boutique or become a famous person. Jansie reminded her that such dreams needed money and that their families could not afford them.

Q2. What were the dreams Sophie had? Why did Jansie try to stop her from having those dreams?

Ans: Sophie had many dreams about her future. She wanted to open a boutique and become a successful businesswoman. She also thought of becoming an actress or a fashion designer. She wanted a life full of comfort and success. Jansie tried to stop her because she knew their financial position. They belonged to a poor family and could not afford such expensive plans. Jansie was practical and understood that Sophie would probably have to work at the biscuit factory after school.

THINK AS YOU READ [II]

Q1. Why did Sophie wriggle when Geoff told her father she met Danny Casey?

Ans: Sophie wriggled because she knew that her father would not believe her story about meeting Danny Casey. She had shared this secret with Geoff and did not expect him to tell their father. When Geoff mentioned it, her father became angry and looked at her with contempt. Sophie felt uncomfortable because she knew that her story sounded unbelievable. Her father was not ready to accept it as true. She also feared that he would scold her for making up such stories.

Q2. Does Geoff believe Sophie’s story about meeting Danny Casey?

Ans: No, Geoff does not fully believe Sophie's story about meeting Danny Casey. When Sophie tells him about the meeting, he reacts with surprise and says that it cannot be true. He later says that he does not believe her. However, he still listens to her and asks questions about Danny Casey's appearance. Sophie gives him details about the footballer's looks and behaviour. Geoff seems doubtful but does not completely dismiss her story. Sophie wants him to believe her because she trusts him more than anyone else.

Q3. Does her father believe her story?

Ans: No, Sophie's father does not believe her story about meeting Danny Casey. He thinks that she is making up another unrealistic story. When Geoff tells him about the meeting, he looks at Sophie with contempt. He does not take her seriously and becomes angry. Her father knows that Sophie often dreams about a better and more exciting life. He considers her story another example of her imagination. Instead of believing her, he starts talking about football and mentions another player, Tom Finney.

Q4. How does Sophie include her brother Geoff in her fantasy of the future?

Ans: Sophie considers Geoff an important part of her dreams and fantasies. She shares her secret about meeting Danny Casey with him because she trusts him. She also tells him that she hopes to meet Danny again. Sophie is curious about Geoff's life because he works outside their home and meets different people. She imagines that he knows many interesting places and people. She dreams of going with him on his motorcycle one day. To her, Geoff represents a world of adventure and freedom.

Q5. Which country did Danny Casey play for?

Ans: Danny Casey played football for Ireland. He was a young and talented Irish footballer who played for the United team. Sophie admired him greatly and considered him a hero. She had watched him play in a football match with her family. His excellent performance made her even more interested in him. He became the centre of her imagination and dreams. Sophie started believing that she had a special connection with him. Her admiration for Danny Casey played an important role in her fantasies.

THINK AS YOU READ [III]

Q1. Why didn’t Sophie want Jansie to know about her story with Danny?

Ans: Sophie did not want Jansie to know about her story because she knew that Jansie was very curious and liked spreading news. Sophie feared that Jansie would tell everyone in the neighbourhood. She wanted to keep her meeting with Danny Casey a secret. She also felt that Jansie might not believe her and would question her story. Sophie was surprised and upset when Geoff told Jansie about it. She wanted to protect her fantasy from other people's comments and did not want anyone to spoil it.

Q2. Did Sophie really meet Danny Casey?

Ans: No, Sophie did not really meet Danny Casey. She only imagined that she had met him and created a story around this fantasy. She was deeply attracted to the young footballer and wanted to meet him in person. She went to the park and waited for him, hoping that he would come as promised in her imagination. However, Danny Casey never arrived. Sophie waited for a long time and finally returned home disappointed. Her sadness shows how deeply she had become involved in her own fantasy.

Q3. When did Sophie see Danny Casey in person?

Ans: Sophie saw Danny Casey in person during a football match. She went to watch the match with her father and her younger brother, Derek. Geoff sat with his friends. Danny Casey was playing for the United team and gave an impressive performance. He scored the second goal of the match. Sophie felt very excited and proud while watching him play. Seeing him on the football ground made her admire him even more. Later, she began imagining a personal meeting with him.

UNDERSTANDING THE TEXT

Q1. What are the differences between Sophie and Jansie?

Ans: Sophie and Jansie have very different personalities. Sophie is dreamy, imaginative and full of ambitions. She wants to become rich and famous. She dreams of opening a boutique or becoming an actress or fashion designer. Jansie, on the other hand, is practical and realistic. She understands their financial condition and knows that they will probably work at the biscuit factory. Jansie often advises Sophie to think sensibly. Sophie does not like Jansie's curious nature and prefers to keep her dreams and secrets to herself.

Q2. How would you describe the character of Sophie’s father?

Ans: Sophie's father is a rough, practical and straightforward man. He belongs to a lower middle-class family and is not very interested in his daughter's dreams. He does not believe Sophie's stories about meeting Danny Casey and considers them childish fantasies. He is fond of football and admires talented players. He enjoys watching matches and becomes very excited when his team wins. He celebrates the victory loudly and later goes to the pub. His behaviour shows that he is simple-minded, short-tempered and more interested in practical matters.

Q3. Why did Sophie like Geoff more than anyone else? What did he symbolize to her?

Ans: Sophie liked Geoff because he was quiet, understanding and willing to listen to her. Unlike her father and Jansie, he did not immediately reject her dreams. She felt comfortable sharing her secrets with him. Geoff worked as an apprentice mechanic and travelled to different places. Sophie imagined that he knew many interesting people and had experienced a world beyond their neighbourhood. To her, Geoff symbolised freedom, adventure and a better life. He was also her trusted brother and the person with whom she could share her fantasies.

Q4. What was Sophie’s socio-economic background? What shows her family’s financial status?

Ans: Sophie belonged to a lower middle-class family. Her family had limited money and could not afford a luxurious lifestyle. This is clear from their modest home and the ordinary jobs available to them. Her brother Geoff worked as an apprentice mechanic, while Sophie and Jansie were expected to work at the biscuit factory after school. Her father was also a practical man who understood their financial difficulties. Sophie's dreams of opening a boutique or becoming an actress were far beyond the family's means. These details show their poor economic condition.

TALKING ABOUT THE TEXT

Discuss in pairs

Q1. Sophie’s dreams and disappointments are all in her mind.

Ans: Sophie is a young girl from a lower middle-class family who dreams of living a rich and exciting life. She wants to open a boutique and become an actress or fashion designer. However, she has neither the money nor the experience to achieve these dreams. She also imagines meeting Danny Casey, a famous footballer whom she admires. She creates a story about meeting him and later waits for him in the park. When he does not arrive, she feels disappointed. Her dreams and disappointments are mainly the result of her imagination.

Q2. Is it natural for teenagers to have unrealistic dreams? What are the benefits and disadvantages of fantasizing?

Ans: Yes, it is natural for teenagers to have big and sometimes unrealistic dreams. At this age, they often imagine a bright future and want to become successful. Fantasizing can be useful because it gives them hope and motivates them to work towards their goals. It also allows them to think creatively and explore different possibilities. However, too much fantasizing can become harmful. It may take them away from reality and lead to disappointment when their dreams do not come true. Teenagers should dream big but also work hard and remain practical.

Character Sketch of Sophie  

Sophie, the protagonist of the story, is a dreamy and imaginative teenager from a lower middleclass family. She often indulges in unrealistic fantasies, such as owning a boutique or becoming an actress, which reflect her desire to escape her mundane life. Sophie idolises the Irish footballer Danny Casey, creating a fictional meeting with him and longing for further encounters. Her fantasies highlight her youthful innocence but also lead to disappointment when reality does not align with her dreams.   

Sophie’s relationship with her family underscores her character. She admires her brother Geoff, seeing him as a symbol of adventure and experience. However, her father is dismissive of her stories, revealing a clash between her dreams and the harsh realities of her socio-economic status. 

Sophie’s naivety contrasts with her practical friend Jansie, who represents the voice of reason. Sophie’s character embodies the hopes, struggles, and disappointments of adolescence.   

 

*** # *** 

The bright side of failures is that they make us wiser and kick away our fake friends . 

[ Sahil Sharifdin Bhat] 

 

POETRY SECTION 

 

 

Poem 1 

MY MOTHER AT SIXTY-SIX 

[Kamala Das] 

 

QUESTIONS FROM TEXTBOOK 

Q1. What kind of pain does the poet feel? 

Ans: The poet feels the old pain of losing her mother, a fear she has had since childhood. Ageing is natural, and time has taken its toll on her mother, reminding the poet that it will happen to her too. 

Q2. Why are the young trees described as ‘sprinting’? 

Ans: The poet sees the young trees seeming to run past her car, matching its speed. The poet uses this to contrast her old mother with the fast-moving trees, showing how quickly life passes. 

Q3. Why has the poet mentioned the merry children ‘spilling out of their homes’? 

Ans: The children represent the joy of youth, which fades as people grow older. The poet uses them to show the happiness of childhood and how it disappears with age. 

Q4. Why has the mother been compared to the ‘late winter’s moon’? 

Ans: The mother’s face, pale and shrunken, is compared to the late winter’s moon, which is dull and lacks strength, just like her mother, who has lost the vibrancy of youth. 

Q5. What do the poet's parting words and smile signify? 

Ans: The poet's smile and words are meant to reassure her mother, but they mask her true feelings. She knows her mother doesn’t have much time left. 

Poem 2 

KEEPING QUIET 

[Pablo Neruda]  

TEXTUAL QUESTIONS 

Q1. What will counting up to twelve and keeping still help us achieve? 

Ans: Counting to twelve and keeping still for a short time gives us a pause to reflect on our actions. It helps us avoid rushing, which often causes problems like violence. This brief stillness brings peace. 

Q2. Do you think the poet advocates total inactivity and death? 

Ans: No, the poet doesn’t support total inactivity or death. He makes it clear that stillness is not the same as inactivity. Inactivity leads to death, but the poet's stillness means stopping harmful actions. 

Q3. What is the ‘sadness’ that the poet refers to in the poem? 

Ans: The poet’s sadness comes from man’s own actions and thoughts. It is ironic that despite knowing so much, man fails to understand himself. Rash actions lead to harm and death, and man creates his own disasters. 

Q4. What symbol from Nature does the poet invoke to say that there can be life under apparent stillness? 

Ans: The poet uses the earth as a symbol to show that life exists even in stillness. The earth is never completely inactive, and nature works constantly, even when things seem dead. 

Q5. Choose a quiet corner and keep still physically and mentally for about five minutes. Do you feel any change in your state of mind? Ans: Extension Activity: For self-study. 

Poem 3 

A THING OF BEAUTY 

[John Keats] 

TEXTUAL QUESTIONS 

Q1. List the things of beauty mentioned in the poem. 

Ans: Things of beauty in nature include the sun, the moon, old and young trees, daffodils, small streams, ferns, and blooming musk-roses. They all bring joy and pleasure. 

Q2. List the things that cause suffering and pain. 

Ans: Suffering and pain come from malice, disappointment, lack of noble qualities, and unhealthy or evil ways. These dampen our spirits and create sadness. 

Q3. What does the line, ‘Therefore are we wreathing a flowery band to bind us to earth’ suggest to you? 

Ans: The line suggests that beauty connects us to nature, like a flowery band. It keeps us attached to the earth and its beauty, which we continually appreciate. 

Q4. What makes human beings love life in spite of troubles and sufferings? 

Ans: Despite troubles and suffering, beauty brings happiness and love for life. It lifts our spirits and removes sadness, making us appreciate life. 

Q5. Why is ‘grandeur’ associated with the ‘mighty dead’? 

Ans: The mighty dead were powerful and accomplished during their lifetimes. Their achievements give them grandeur, and we associate them with greatness even after death. 

Q6. Do we experience things of beauty only for short moments or do they make a lasting impression on us? 

Ans: Things of beauty leave a lasting impression. They are constant sources of joy and their beauty increases over time. They never fade and keep lifting our spirits. 

Q7. What image does the poet use to describe the beautiful bounty of the earth? 

Ans: The poet describes the earth's bounty as an endless fountain of immortal drink, constantly pouring beauty into our hearts from heaven. 

Poem 4 

A ROADSIDE STAND 

[Robert Frost ] 

 

TEXTUAL QUESTIONS 

1. The city folk who drove through the countryside hardly paid any heed to the roadside stand or to the people who ran it. If at all they did, it was to complain. Which lines bring this out? What was their complaint about? 

Answer: The lines that show this are: 

“The polished traffic passed with a mind ahead, 

Or if ever aside a moment, then out of sorts 

At having the landscape marred with the artless paint 

Of signs that with N turned wrong and S turned wrong.” 

The city folk complained that the roadside stands with poorly painted signs spoiled the beauty of the landscape. 

2. What was the plea of the folk who had put up the roadside stand? 

Answer: The rural folk begged for customers to stop and buy their goods. They set up the roadside stand to attract attention and earn a living. 

3. The government and other social service agencies appear to help the poor rural people, but actually do them no good. Pick out the words and phrases that the poet uses to show their double standards. 

Answer: The poet criticizes the government and social service agencies for promising to improve the lives of the poor but benefiting themselves instead. He calls them “greedy good-doers” and “beneficent beasts of prey,” who make deceptive promises. The poet says they “enforce benefits” that confuse the farmers and rob them of their peace. 

4. What is the ‘childish longing’ that the poet refers to? Why is it ‘vain’? 

Answer: The poet describes the roadside stand owners’ childish longing for customers. They wait eagerly for cars to stop, but their hope is in vain as no one comes. 

5. Which lines tell us about the insufferable pain that the poet feels at the thought of the plight of the rural poor? 

Answer: The poet expresses his pain with the lines: 

“Sometimes I feel myself I can hardly bear 

The thought of so much childish longing in vain, 

The sadness that lurks near the open window there, 

That waits all day in almost open prayer.” 

Poem 5 

 

AUNT JENNIFER’S TIGERS 

[Adrienne Rich] 

 

TEXTUAL QUESTIONS 

Q1. How do ‘denizens’ and ‘chivalric’ add to our understanding of the tiger’s attitudes? Ans: The tigers, as ‘denizens’ of the forest, live away from humans. The word ‘chivalric’ suggests they hold a noble and honourable position in the animal world. These terms show the tigers’ majestic and fearless nature. 

Q2. Why do you think Aunt Jennifer’s hands are ‘fluttering through her wool’ in the second stanza? Why is she finding the needle so hard to pull? 

Ans: Aunt Jennifer's hands flutter because of the weight of her unhappy married life. This emotional burden makes it hard for her to pull the needle. 

Q3. What is suggested by the image ‘massive weight of uncle’s wedding band’? 

Ans: The ‘massive weight’ refers to the burden of Aunt Jennifer’s harsh married life. Symbolically, it represents the unbreakable, oppressive nature of her marriage. 

Q4. Of what or whom is Aunt Jennifer terrified in the third stanza? 

Ans: Aunt Jennifer is terrified by the lasting impact of her harsh marriage. The memories of her suffering still haunt her, leaving her oppressed and fearful. 

Q5. What are the ‘ordeals’ Aunt Jennifer is surrounded by? Why is it significant that the poet uses the word ‘ringed’? What are the different meanings of ‘ringed’ in the poem? 

Ans: The ‘ordeals’ refer to the struggles of Aunt Jennifer’s marriage. The word ‘ringed’ is significant because it suggests that her life is trapped by the bond of marriage, both literally (through the wedding ring) and figuratively (being surrounded by her hardships). 

Q6. Why do you think Aunt Jennifer created animals that are so different from her own character? 

What might the poet be suggesting, through this difference? 

Ans: Aunt Jennifer creates fearless tigers to express how she wishes she could live, in contrast to her actual suppressed life. The poet suggests that women should not be dominated but live freely like the tigers. 

Q7. Interpret the symbols found in this poem. 

Ans: The wedding ring symbolizes the hardships of married life. The ‘terrified hands’ and being ‘ringed with ordeals’ reflect how Aunt Jennifer is physically and emotionally burdened by her struggles. 

Q8. Do you sympathise with Aunt Jennifer? What is the attitude of the speaker towards Aunt Jennifer? 

Ans: Yes, we sympathise with Aunt Jennifer because of her painful and difficult married life. The speaker shows sympathy and portrays her struggles with understanding and empathy. 

VISTAS 

Long Answer Type Questions

Q. No. 1 The story is a satire on the conceit of those in power. How does the author employ the literary device of dramatic irony in the story?

Answer: In the chapter titled ‘’The Tiger King’’ written by Kalki, the author uses ‘’dramatic irony’’ to make fun of proud and powerful rulers. Dramatic irony happens when the readers know something that the character does not know.

In the story, the astrologer predicts that the Tiger King will die because of a tiger. The king becomes very confident and decides to kill all the tigers in his state. After killing ninety-nine tigers, he believes he has defeated fate. The readers, however, understand that fate cannot be avoided so easily.

The greatest irony comes at the end. The king is not killed by a real tiger but by a small wooden toy tiger. A tiny sliver from the toy causes an infection and he dies. This is ironic because such a brave king, who killed many tigers, is finally defeated by a harmless toy. Through this irony, the author shows that pride and power cannot control destiny.

Q. No. 2 Mr. Lamb and Derry are two highly contrasting cracters. Highlight the contrasting traits in their characters?

Answer: In the play named ‘’On the Face of It’’ by Susan Hill, Mr. Lamb and Derry are very different in their thoughts and attitudes.

Mr. Lamb is old, calm and positive. He has lost one leg, yet he does not complain about his life. He believes that physical disability is not important. He loves nature and keeps his garden open for everyone. He advises Derry to think positively and to enjoy life. He is friendly, wise and hopeful.

On the other hand, Derry is young but full of fear and anger. His face is burnt on one side and he feels ashamed of it. He thinks that people hate him and make fun of him. He avoids meeting others and feels lonely. Unlike Mr. Lamb, he has a negative attitude towards life.

Thus, Mr. Lamb represents hope and courage, while Derry represents fear and insecurity.

Q. No. 3 The modern world is full of insecurity, fear, war, worry and stress. What are the ways in which we attempt to overcome them?

Answer: In the chapter titled ‘’The Third Level’’ written by Jack Finney, the modern world is shown as full of fear, insecurity and stress. People worry about war, money and their future. Because of this tension, they try to escape from reality in different ways.

In the story, Charley feels unhappy and stressed in his daily life. To escape from the worries of the modern world, he imagines a “third level” at Grand Central Station. This third level takes him back to the peaceful world of 1894. He believes that life in the past was simple, calm and free from fear. His imagination becomes a way to find peace.

Similarly, people today try to overcome fear and stress by reading books, watching films, travelling, daydreaming or thinking about the past. Some people take the help of hobbies and friends. Thus, the story shows that escape from reality is a common way to deal with the problems of the modern world.

Q. No. 4 Dr Sadao was compelled by his duty as a doctor to help the enemy soldier. What made Hana, his wife, sympathetic to him in the face of open defiance from the domestic staff? 

Answer: In the chapter titled ‘’The Enemy’’ penned down by Pearl S. Buck, Dr. Sadao saves an injured American soldier during the war. As a doctor, he feels it is his duty to save a life, even if the man is his enemy.

At first, Hana is afraid and worried. She knows that helping an enemy soldier can bring danger to her family. The servants openly oppose keeping the soldier in the house and finally leave their jobs. However, Hana understands her husband’s moral struggle. She knows that he is not only a Japanese citizen but also a doctor whose first duty is to save life.

Hana supports Dr. Sadao because she respects his profession and his humanity. She helps him in the operation and takes care of the wounded soldier. Even when the servants protest, she stands by her husband. Her sympathy comes from her love, loyalty and understanding of what is right and humane.

 Q. No. 5 Do you think the third level was a medium of escape for Charley ? Why? 

Answer: Yes, I think the third level was a medium of escape for Charley in the chapter titled ‘’The Third Level’’ written by Jack Finney.

Charley lived in a modern world full of fear, tension and insecurity. There were worries about war, money and the future. He felt stressed and unhappy with his daily routine. Because of this pressure, he wanted to escape from reality. The third level at Grand Central Station gave him that escape.

On the third level, Charley found himself in the year 1894. That time seemed peaceful and simple. People wore old-fashioned clothes and life appeared calm and safe. He believed that the past was better than the present. This shows that the third level was not a real place but a product of his imagination.

Thus, the third level symbolises Charley’s desire to run away from the problems of the modern world and find peace in a simpler past.

Caracter Sketch of Gandhi Ji

In the chapter “Indigo”, Mahatma Gandhi is presented as a remarkable leader who fought for justice with wisdom, courage and compassion. His leadership is shown through his ability to achieve justice for the oppressed by relying on persuasive argument and negotiation rather than violence. Gandhiji is depicted as a man of strong moral convictions who championed non-violent protests and peaceful demonstrations. He is portrayed as someone willing to go to great lengths to achieve his goals and as a leader who fearlessly stood up for his beliefs.

Gandhiji possessed a magnetic presence and remarkable persuasive power. He had the ability to inspire people from all walks of life and turn them into allies in the freedom movement. The chapter also emphasises his deep understanding of legal procedures and his respect for the law. It further reveals his humble lifestyle, marked by a rejection of materialism and luxury.

Overall, Gandhiji emerges as a knowledgeable, kind and determined leader who was ready to make great sacrifices for the welfare of his nation and its people.

== The End ==