THE THIEF’S STORY

BY – RUSKIN BOND
THEME
The story deals with basic human values and relationships. Through this story the writer has tried to
convey that trust and compassion can reform a person. Kindness touches hearts and brings about a
change in even the worst person. This is seen in the fact that Hari Singh, the thief , despite stealing and
running away from Anil decides to come back because he cannot bear the thought that Anil will feel bad
that he was cheated by a person in whom he had reposed infinite trust. Goodness and kindness has the
power to radiate and change the world.
VALUES
 Reformative power of trust
 Trust, forgiveness and large heartedness can reform even a criminal
 Education is a powerful tool for bringing about a positive change in society
CHARACTER SKETCH
HARI SINGH
 Experienced and successful thief at the age of 15
 Clever , knew the tricks of his trade (changed names frequently, got employed as a house help
and robbed them, didn’t make friends)
 Possessed an innocent and appealing smile
 Succumbed to the temptation of stealing Anil’s wad of notes
 Couldn’t board the train as his conscience pricked him
 Wise enough to understand that education is more important than a handful of money
 His goodness was awakened by Anil’s goodness and trust , decides to return the money and
mend his ways
ANIL
 Simple, noble, kind and easy going
 Freelance writer
 No source of regular income, borrows money one week and lends the next
 A carefree personality who indulges in spending extravagantly with his friends
 Did not give importance to materialism
 Trusted a stranger and gave him the keys
 Became a saint by giving Hari Singh a chance to improve