Ankuran Pathshala

STD 10 English (Language & Literature) Total Marks : 300

complete first flight

SECTION C - LITERATURE () Answer the following in about 40-50 words each. ( [300]
Write Any 100 )
1. Lencho has a great faith in God. Does he have the same kind of faith in man? Taking
examples from the story describe his attitude towards God and man.

Ans. : Lencho's crop was totally destroyed. He had great faith in God. He wrote a letter to

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God asking for a hundred pesos as help. The postmaster and the employees collected

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seventy pesos and sent the money to him. Lencho thought that the employees had stolen
30 pesos. He wrote another letter to God asking for 30 pesos more but not through the

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post office. He called the employees 'a bunch of crooks'. This highlights Lencho's attitude
to God and man. He had full faith in God but doesn't have any faith in man.

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2. Why did Lencho think of writing a letter to God? What did he write in the letter?

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Ans. : The hailstones completely destroyed Lencho's cornfields. They would have no corn
that year. Having lost all hopes, Lencho thought of writing a letter to God. He requested
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God to send him a hundred pesos to sow his fields again. He wrote that he needed money
to live until the new crops came. If God didn't help, his family would face starvation.
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3. Using Negatives for Emphasis

We know that sentences with words such as no, not or nothing show the absence of
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something, or contradict something. For example:

a. This year we will have no corn. (Corn will be absent)
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b. The hail has left nothing. (Absence of a crop)

c. These aren’t raindrops falling from the sky, they are new coins. (Contradicts
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the common idea of what the drops of water falling from the sky are)
But sometims negative words are used just to emphasise an idea. Look at these
sentences from the story:
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d. Lencho…had done nothing else but see the sky towards the northeast. (He had
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done only this)

e. The man went out for no other reason than to have the pleasure of feeling the
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rain on his body. (He had only this reason)

f. Lencho showed not the slightest surprise on seeing the money. (He showed no
surprise at all)
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Now look back at example (c). Notice that the contradiction in fact serves to emphasise
the value or usefulness of the rain to the farmer.
Find sentences in the story with negative words, which express the following ideas
emphatically.
1. The trees lost all their leaves.
2. The letter was addressed to God himself.
3. The postman saw this address for the first time in his career.

Ans. :
1. Not a leaf remained on the trees.
2. It was nothing less than a letter to God.
3. Never in his career as a postman had he known that address.

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 4. What is the message of the story?

Ans. : A story's message, or theme, is what the author wants to teach you through his or
her writing. Some stories have a specific kind of message called a moral, or a life lesson.
You can find the message of a story by looking at the characters' actions and focusing on
what is repeated throughout the story.

5. Describe Lencho as a farmer.

Ans. : Lencho was a simple, poor and yet a hardworking farmer. He used to cultivate corn
and some other flowers for a living. He had a lot of faith in God and therefore, after sowing
his crops he wished if it could rain. Rain would mean a very healthy produce which would
sell a good price in the market.

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6. Why did Lencho's happiness change into deep concern?

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Ans. : As Lencho had predicted the rain did came. At the meal time, it came in the form of

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big drops. Naturally, the rain gladdened his heart. He could see better prospects of a good
crop. However, his happiness was short-lived. Suddenly, a strong wind began to blow. The

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rain turned into big hailstones. The falling of heavy ball of big hailstones for an hour
completely destroyed everything-leaves, trees and the standing crops. Naturally, such a

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heavy loss put Lencho into a deep concern. A7
7. Why were the rain drops like new coins for Lencho?

Ans. : Lencho had been impatiently waiting for the rain. The earth needed a downpour
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immediately. At least, a shower was necessary to save the crops. Fortunately for Lencho, in
the north-east huge mountains of clouds could be seen approaching. Big drops of rain
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began to fall. Every drop was precious for the fields and the crops. The bigger drops were
worth ten cent pieces and the little ones were fives.
TH

8. What was Lencho's only hope when he saw his ruined crops after the hailstorm? What
did he do then?
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Ans. : Lencho's only hope was to get rain as to fulfill his needs. but in order to rain he get a
hailstorm which destroyed his crops of ripening? corn. now his last hope was to get help
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from the god to give him? pesos for the satisfaction of his family and himself until the new
crops should be grown.
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9. Why and how did Lencho's happiness turn into a deep worry?
KU

Ans. : Lencho had been happy on the arrival of rain, as it would help his crops to grow and
eventually he would get money from them. However, suddenly strong wind began to blow
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and brought hailstones with them. This hailstorm destroyed his crops. Thus, his happy
mood changed to concern about losing his crops.

10. Describe the character of Lencho in the light of his faith and attitude towards God and
man.

Ans. : Lencho was a hardworking farmer who had immense faith in God. He had such an
immense faith in the existence and helpfulness of God that he started communicating with
him. He wrote a letter to God requesting him to send him one hundred pesos. When he
received seventy pesos, he was not surprised at all. He even doubted the integrity of the
post office employees who, he thought, had stolen his thirty pesos. He was a poor judge of

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 human nature. His attitude towards man was negative. He could not think of a help from
man.

11. How did the postmaster answer Lencho's letter by sending him the money?

Ans. : The postmaster didn't want to shake the writer's faith in God and so decided to help
him. It needed something more than the goodwill. So he collected money from his
employees and himself contributed a part of the salary. He could collect only seventy
pesos. He put the money into the envelope and put a single word 'God' as signature and
posted it to Lencho.

12. Why was Lencho angry after he counted the money?

Ans. : Lencho had demanded a sum of a hundred pesos as an immediate help from God.

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He did hope in God's mercy and help. However, his happiness was short lived when he

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counted the money. The sum was short by 30 pesos. Lencho believed that God did send
him a hundred pesos but the dishonest post office employees embezzled the money.

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13. How much money did Lencho need? How much did he get?

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Ans. : Lencho asked God to send him hundred pesos to sow the crops and support his
family till the next harvest but when he received the letter from God which was sent by the

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post office employees, he saw only seventy pesos in it, less than he had demanded from
God.
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14. What did the postmaster do then?
AL

Ans. : In order to keep the writer’s faith in God alive, the postmaster decided to answer the
letter. When he read that Lencho needed hundred pesos, he asked for money from his
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employees. He himself gave a part of his salary. He could not gather the entire amount,
but managed to send Lencho a little more than half the amount. He put the money in an
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envelope addressed to Lencho and signed it ‘God’.

15. What did Lencho do after the destruction of the crop?

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Ans. : All the crop in the field was destroyed. Lencho had faith in God. He believed that God
could see everything and would help him out. Lencho wrote a letter to the God, explained
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his situation and asked for some money from God.

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16. What did Lencho and the earth need immediately?

Ans. : The only thing the earth needed was rain. Lencho, being a farmer wished for a heavy
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rain. At least, a shower was necessary. His fields needed water immediately otherwise the
crop would be completely ruined. So, he would constantly look at the sky towards the
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north-east.

17. i. How did Lencho feel when it started raining?

ii. What was the effect of the rain on the crops?

Ans. :
i. Lencho was excited when he came out of his house to have the pleasure of feeling
the rain on his body. He compared the raindrops with coins, as he knew that a
good rain would mean a good crop and a good crop would mean a lot of money.
ii. The rain brought with it destruction. There was hailstorm for about an hour and it
covered the field. The corn was totally destroyed.
18. What was the address written and how was the letter sent to God?

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 Ans. : Lencho had an unshaken faith in God and His mercy. Therefore, he decided to write
a letter to God for help. He wrote 'To God' on the envelope and put the letter inside. He
went to the post office and placed a stamp on the letter. Finally, he dropped it into the
mailbox.

19. Why did Lencho show no surprise on seeing the money?

Ans. : Lencho had a firm faith in God. He did expect help from Him. He didn't show any
surprise when he received the sum of seventy pesos. He believed in the mercy of God and
expected a definite help from Him. So, he showed no surprise when he received the
money.

20. Why did the postmaster decide to answer Lencho's letter?

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Ans. : After laughing at the very idea of a letter to God, the postmaster became serious

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soon. He was impressed with the unshaken faith of the sender in God. He wished he had
the faith of the man who wrote that letter to God. So, in order not to shake the writer's faith

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in God, the postmaster decided to answer the letter.

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21. Do you think that Lencho was right to call the post office employees a bunch of crooks?
Why or why not?

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Ans. : Lencho was a simple and poor farmer who had a firm faith in God. When he asked
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God to send him hundred pesos, he received only seventy pesos in reply. Due to his faith in
God, he blamed the post office employees for stealing his money as he could not believe
that God could send him any less money. He doubted these employees. But he was not
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right to call them a bunch of crooks as they helped him in his problem.
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22. Who or what did Lencho have faith in? What did he do?

Ans. : Lencho had faith in God. He had been instructed that God’s eyes see everything,
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even what is deep in one’s conscience. Therefore, he wrote a letter to God expressing his
need for a hundred pesos so that he could sow his field again and live until the crop grew
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again.

23. What made Lencho angry?

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Ans. : Lencho was single-minded and his immense faith in God made him think that God
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would give him the hundred pesos he had asked from him. On seeing that he had only
received seventy pesos, he thought that the employees of the post office had stolen the
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rest of the money. This made Lencho angry.

24. How did Lencho react after the hailstorm stopped?

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Ans. : After the hailstones stopped, Lencho's soul was filled with grief and dismay. He
realised that everything was ruined by the hailstorm and nothing was left to feed his family
for the entire year.

25. Why and how did the postmaster help Lencho?

Ans. : The postmaster was mesmerised to see Lencho's faith in God and he didn't want his
faith to be shaken. He asked his employees and friends to help Lencho. He was so
determined to help Lencho that he himself contributed a part of his salary for this act of
charity. He collected seventy pesos and put them in an envelope containing only a single
word as a signature: God.

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26. Poets have great power of imagination. Robert Frost also explains his imagination very
well and proves that sometimes the bad symbols change into boon. Discuss.

Ans. : It is well known that poets have great imaginative power. On the basis of this power,
the poet gives this world a new idea and pleasure. They do dip down into the ocean of
imagination and carry the valuable things. Then they present before the world an exotic
moment. Robert Frost, in this poem, represents the crow and hemlock tree as inauspicious.
But when the crow shakes off the dust of snow from the hemlock tree, it falls on the poet. It
changes his dejected mood and saves the day from being spoilt.

27. Did the snow change the speaker's mood for better or for worse? Support your answer
with examples from the poem.

Ans. : The snow changed the speakers mood for better. The snow changed the depressive

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and sad mood of the speaker into a more optimistic one. The snow became the symbol for

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happiness.

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28. What happened when the dust of snow fell on Robert Frost?

Ans. : Robert Frost was unhappy. He was deep down in his heart due to some personal

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reasons. When the dust of snow fell on him, his mental state changed. Now he looked at

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the surroundings.

29. "The crow' and the 'hemlock tree' are generally considered to be inauspicious and
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ominous symbols. Does the poet use them so?

Ans. : 'The crow' and 'the hemlock tree', no doubt, don't represent cheerfulness or
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brightness. Both of them are generally considered to be inauspicious. But the crow' in the
poem causes the dust of snow fall on the poet. This leads to the sudden change of mood in
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the poet. The feeling of cheerfulness replaces the feeling of regret. Similarly, the hemlock
tree is the tree under which the poet is standing and experiencing the change of his mood.
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30. Why does the poet feel that he has at least saved 'some part of the day?
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Ans. : The poet means when he says that he has saved his some part of the day is that the
little incident brings about a sudden change in the state of the his mind. His mood has
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changed . He thinks that it has saved the rest of his day. He gets busy with his work like
crow.
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31. How many stanzas does the poem comprise? How do you find that the pattern of
description isgood in the poem?
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Ans. : the pattern of description is good in the poem because, as per the description given
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by the poet, we can almost make a similar picture of the place in our(reader) minds... we
can easily understand what the poet is trying to say...

32. Do you think that the poet presents a very bright or cheerful side of nature in the poem?
Give a reasoned answer.

Ans. : No, Robert Frost has presented nature in its elemental and raw from. It is quite a dull
and depressive wintry day. The fall of fine dust of snow does bring a sudden change in the
mood of the poet. It refreshes his spirits and brings cheerfulness to his depressed spirits
and mood.

33. Describe the scene of falling of the dust snow. What impact does it have on the poet?

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 Ans. : It is a dull and depressive day of the winter. Snow is falling. Fine dust of snow has
accumulated on the top of the trees. Nature seems to be in its elemental and raw state.
However, the full of fine dust of snow brings a sudden change in the mood of the poet. His
depressive spirits are uplifted and his mood becomes cheerful.

34. What is the contrasting idea in the poem which is shown by a symbol of sadness? Do
you thinkthat the rhyming scheme is appropriate to bring out this contrasting idea?

Ans. : Expert-verified answer

He is very upset, and then a crow sitting on the tree shakes the tree and snows starts
falling on the poet. The touch of snow makes the poet happy.
Explanation: The irony of the poem is that the hemlock tree symbolizes poison while crow

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is usually associated with fear and bad luck.

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35. What does 'Dust of Snow' signify? What do you think about the fall of 'Dust of Snow'?

Ans. : The dust of snow means the fine particles of snow. The falling of snow on the poet

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changes his mood. ... Actually the poet has done so to present his mood and feelings. The

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crow and hemlock tree represent sorrow and depression felt by him in this materialistic
world.

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36. How does the change come in the poet in the end?
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Ans. : while he was standing under a hemlock tree a crow shook the tree and the dust of
snow fall on the poet, as a result the poet sad mood changes into happy and he thought he
save his whole day.
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37. Why doesn't the poet write about a more beautiful tree such as a maple, an oak, or a
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pine?

Ans. : He has not written about a more beautiful tree such as a maple, or oak, or
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pine because these trees symbolise beauty and happiness. Frost wanted to symbolise the
feelings of sadness and regret, which is why he has used a hemlock tree. The crow and the
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hemlock tree represent sorrow.

38. What happened to the rest of the day of the poet?

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Ans. : The rest of the day of poet was saved from ruing as he had started feeling happy and
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refresh. The poet's mood gets changed the falling of dust of snow on him.

39. Do hemlocks and crows are auspicious symbols? How aren't they?
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Ans. : The poem Dust of Snow is written by Robert Frost. In this poem, the hemlock tree is
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considered inauspicious as it is poisonous and toxic.

40. It is a Hobson's Choice that the poet faces in the poem 'Fire and Ice'. Illustrate this
thought, with the help of examples from the poem.

Ans. : The poem talks about the end of the world by fire, which symbolizes greed in
humanity. Others feel that the end will come about by ice, which symbolizes hate. Thus
humanity faces a choice which is really no choice, because the end result is destruction in
both cases. The choices are illustrated on a personal level, as both of them affect
individual destruction equally. The poet uses a tight and clipped method of presenting the
choices to emphasize the importance of his message of there being no alternatives. The

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 theme of the poem, based on destruction through greed and hatred, illustrates the
proverb Hobson's Choice, gives the poem a profound and meaningful undercurrent.

41. What is the rhyme scheme of the poem? How does it help in bringing out the
contrasting ideas in the poem?

Ans. : The rhyming scheme of the poem is as follows:

1st stanza: a, b, a, a

2nd stanza: b, c, b, c, b
The rhyme scheme helps in bringing out the contrasting qualities of fire and ice in the
poem. They are the probable ways in which the poet feels the world would end in general
or for an individual.

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A person could be consumed by a 'fiery desire' for wealth or be isolated by 'icy

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hatred'. Both the emotions are significant; one capable of rapid destruction whiles the
other capable of silent damage.

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Fire represents desire, which can cause malice and end the world. Ice represents hate and

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indifference, which would also suffice to cause the destruction of the earth.

42. Why does the poet favour those people who think that the world will end in fire?

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Ans. : The poet sides with those who believe that the world will be destroyed by fire. 'Fire' is
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a symbol of desire. The poet has already experienced desire. On the basis of his
experience, he knows that excessive desire will destroy the world.
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43. What do people think about the end of the world? Who does the poet side with and why?

Ans. : People are divided over the cause of the end of this world. Some people think that
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'fire' symbolised by unbridled passions, desires and fury will destroy this world. Others
believe that 'ice' symbolised by cold reasoning, indifference and hatred will be the cause
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of destruction. The poet sides with those who believe that 'fire' or unbridled passions and
desires will result in the destruction of the world.
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44. Do you think the extremes of fire and ice could exist in a person at the same time?

Ans. : Yes, there is possibility of the extremes of fire and ice to exist in a person at the same
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time. Fire in the poem is symbolic of man's intense desire for something; and ice
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symbolizes hate and indifference.

Why does the poet say, I've tasted of desire/I hold with those who favour fire?
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45.
Ans. : The poet is familiar with the fire of passions and desires in love. He knows it quite
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well that are uncontrolled desires, passions and fury lead to our destruction. Similarly, he
sides with those people who believe that "fire' symbolised by unbridled passions and
desires with be the real cause of the end of the world.

46. To say that for destruction ice

Is also great
In the poem what does 'ice stand for? How is it sufficient to bring destruction?

Ans. : 'Ice' stands for 'hatred'. Hatred may be religious, communal or of any other type.
According to the poet, there is enough hatred in the world which will destroy the external,
physical world one day.

47. For Frost, what do 'fire' and 'ice' stand for?

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 Ans. : The word 'fire stands for desire. In the poem, it indicates all types of greed and lust.
In today's world, mankind's greed is endangering the very existence of the planet Earth.
The word 'ice' in the poem indicates hatred and indifference which is as cold as 'ice'. Cold
indifference and hate can be equally destructive.

48. How does the poet 'know enough of hate'? Where will this 'hate' lead to?

Ans. : There is no need of 'fire' to destroy the world. Even 'ice' is sufficient and strong
enough to cause the destruction of this world. If this world has to 'perish twice', then there
is no need of fire to destroy it twice. 'Ice' is as 'strong and “great' a cause that can cause
the end of this world.

49. What are the ideas about how the world will end, according to the poet?

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Ans. : According to the poet, the world will end due to the 'fire', which symbolises desire.

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But if the world had to end twice then it will be due to the hatred symbolised by 'ice'.

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50. How has Frost brought out the contrasting ideas in the poem?

Ans. : 'Desire' propels (moves) us in hot pursuit of something, hence, it is compared with

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fire. 'Hatred' makes us cold towards other's feelings. The coldness of ice can numb our

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senses. Similarly, the coldness of our hearts can numb our kindness. That is why ‘hatred'
has been compared with ice.
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51. Will this world come to an end? What does the poet say in this regard?

Ans. : Everything that has a beginning or origin, does have an end. It is the eternal law of
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nature. The existing world will come to an end, some day. The poet believes as many
people believe that either 'fire' or ‘ice' will be the cause of the end of the world.
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52. Fire and ice are very powerful things to destroy the world. Prove that ice is more
powerful in thelight of the poem 'Fire and Ice'.
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Ans. : ice is more powerful because in would all people have hate rate every second about
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other personhence ice is more destructive than fice.

53. In what sense 'Fire and Ice' is a complete poem?

N

Ans. : Fire and Ice is a complete poem because it indicates that if we don't have control
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over our emotions then we ourselves are the cause of any kind of unwanted consequences
in life.
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54. Why did Nelson Mandela feel that both the oppressor and the oppressed are robbed of
their humanity and hence, both of them must be liberated?
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Ans. : Nelson Mandela rightly believes that both the oppressor and the oppressed are
robbed of their humanity. A man who takes away another's freedom is a prisoner of
hatred. He is locked behind the bars of prejudice and hate. A person can never be free if
his freedom is taken away. Hence, the oppressed and the oppressor alike are robbed of
their humanity.

55. How did Nelson Mandela pay a tribute to the black people who sacrificed their lives for
attaining freedom for their country? How can we do it for our country?

Ans. : Nelson Mandela had to fight against the inhumane government in South Africa. He
fought against the policy of aparthied. He was not the first leader to initiate this
movement. He joined them and succeeded. But he did not take entire credit for his

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 success. He recognised their contribution and paid them a befitting tribute. He called
himself simply the sum of all those Africans patriots who had laid the path towards the
achievement of success. He continued the movement started by them. On the day of
installation of the government, he missed all of them and expressed his gratitude towards
them.

56. Why was 10th of May, 1994 a red letter day in the history of South Africa?

Ans. : 10th of May, 1994 was a red-letter day in the history of South Africa. It was the day
when the hated regime of apartheid came to an end. A new democratically elected non-
racial government under Nelson Mandela was to be sworn in. Many international leaders
and dignities came to pay their respect to the new government.

57. What did being free mean to Mandela as a boy, and as a student? How does he contrast

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these “transitory freedoms” with “the basic and honourable freedoms”?

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Ans. : As a boy, Mandela did not have a hunger to be free as he thought that he was born

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free. As long as he obeyed his father and abided by the customs of his tribe, he was free in
every way he knew. As a student, he wanted certain “transitory freedoms” only for himself,

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such as being able to stay out at night, read what he pleased and go where he chose. He
then talks about certain “basic honorable freedoms” such as achieving his potential of

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earning his living and of marrying and having a family. He builds the contrast between
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these two freedoms by stating that the transitory freedoms he wanted were limited to him,
whereas the honorable freedoms had to do more with his and his people’s position in the
society.
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58. Read the paragraph below. Fill in the blanks with the noun forms of the verbs in
brackets. Martin Luther King’s_________ (contribute) to our history as an outstanding
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leader began when he came to the _________ (assist) of Rosa Parks, a seamstress who
refused to give up her seat on a bus to a white passenger. In those days American
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Blacks were confined to positions of second class citizenship by restrictive laws and
customs. To break these laws would mean ________ (subjugate) and ________ (humiliate)
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by the police and the legal system. Beatings, _________ (imprison) and sometimes death
awaited those who defied the System. Martin Luther King’s tactics of protest involved
non-violent ________ (resist) to racial injustice.
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Ans. : Martin Luther King’s contribution (contribute) to our history as an outstanding

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leader began when he came to the assistance (assist) of Rosa Parks, a seamstress who
refused to give up her seat on a bus to a white passenger. In those days American Blacks
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were confined to positions of second class citizenship by restrictive laws and customs. To
break these laws would mean subjugation (subjugate) and humiliation (humiliate) by
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the police and the legal system. Beatings, imprisonment (imprison) and sometimes
death awaited those who defied the system. Martin Luther King’s tactics of protest
involved non-violent resistance (resist) to racial injustice.

59. What are twin obligations every man has in life?

Ans. : Mandela thinks that every man has twin obligations in life. The first is his obligation
to his family, to his parents, to his wife and children. The second duty is his duty to his
people, his community and his country. Each man has to fulfil these two obligations
according to his position and abilities.

60. What promise does Mandela make in the beginning of opening of his oath-taking
speech?

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 Ans. : Mandela thanks all the international leaders and guests as he calls it an occasion of
joy and victory for justice. He promises that the country shall not again experience the
oppression of one by another. He also promises to make the nation free from poverty,
deprivation and discrimination.

61. Why was the apartheid regime in South Africa was one of the harshest and most
inhuman systems in the world?

Ans. : The apartheid regime was based on the racial discrimination and exploitation of the
blacks in South Africa. The basic or fundamental rights were only for the whites and the
blacks were deprived of these freedoms. Oppression, torture and exploitation of the blacks
were common features of the apartheid regime.

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62. What does Mandela mean when he says he is 'simply the sum of all those African

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patriots' who had gone before him?

Ans. : When Mandela says that he is "simply the sum of all those African patriots", he

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is showing his respect and paying tribute to the people who fought bravely for the sake of
freedom and even sacrificed their lives. He says that he's grateful to all the brave men and

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women who struggled for freedom before him.

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63. Where did the ceremonies take place? Can you name any public buildings in India that
are made of sandstone?
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Ans. : The ceremonies took place in the sandstone amphitheatre formed by the Union
Buildings in Pretoria.
AL

The Parliament House in New Delhi, the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi, the Supreme
Court of India in New Delhi and Madras High Court in Chennai are some examples of
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Indian public buildings that are made of sandstone.

64. How can people be taught to love? Which comes naturally to human heart - love or
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hate?
PA

Ans. : No one is born hating another person because of his colour or race. People are
taught to hate. And if they learn to hate, they can be taught to love. Love comes more
naturally to human heart than hatred.
N

65. What were the thoughts of Nelson Mandela on the auspicious day in the history of South
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Africa?

Ans. : On this auspicious day Nelson Mandela had many thoughts getting weaved in his
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mind. He pledged his loyalty towards his nation and promised to make south africa free
from deprivation poverty or any other sufferings.
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66. How did the military generals conduct on that day?

Ans. : The military generals of the South African defense force and police admired and
pledged the loyalty of Nelson Mandela and their attitudes changed, because of which they
salute all the blacks instead of arresting of beating them.

67. Was Mandela born with a hunger to be free? How was his boyhood freedom and
illusion?

Ans. : Nelson Mandela was not born with a hunger to be free. In this hold, it felt that free
until he obyed his father and tribe. The concept of the tribe was limited only to run in

[10]
 fields, swim in the local stream and ride on the slow moving bulls. When, he was a youth,
he reliased that his boyhood freedom was an illusion.

68. What did the playing of two national anthems symbolise?

Ans. : On the historic day of the inauguration ceremony of the Republic of South Africa, two
national anthems were played. The whites song 'Nkosi Sikelel-i-Africa' and the black sang
‘Die Stem'. Neither group knew the lyrics of the anthem they once despised. They would
soon know the words by heart.

69. What did Mandela think about the oppressors and the oppressed?

Ans. : Mandela always thought that both oppressors and oppressed are deprived of their
humanity. The oppressor is a prisoner of anger, while the oppressed have no confidence in

5
humanity. Therefore, both of them need to be liberated. He always wanted people to live

34
with dignity and respect.

70. How did the policy of apartheid create a deep and lasting wound in South African

63
blacks?

88
Ans. : No doubt, the policy of apartheid created a deep and lasting wound in South Africa
and the blacks. It would take many years to recover from that profound hurt. The racial

67
discrimination unleashed a reign of terror, oppression and brutality on the blacks of South
Africa.
A7
71. Why was Mandela overwhelmed with a sense of history and what bad thing happened in
the first decade of the 10th century?
AL

Ans. : Mandela is overwhelmed with a sense of history and remembers when the hated
SH

apartheid policy was introduced in South Africa. After the Boer war, the white people of
South Africa patched up their differences. They set up a system of racial domination
TH

against the black people of their own race.

72. Why did the same generals saluted Mandela who would have arrested him not so many
PA

years ago?

Ans. : In the apartheid regime, Nelson Mandela was a rebel and was in prison for many
N

years. After the end of the apartheid, he was the head of the non-racial democratically
RA

elected government of South Africa. The same generals who would have put him in prison
not so long ago, were obliged to salute the president of the new Republic of South Africa.
KU

73. What do you understand by 'apartheid'? Describe the effect of the policy of apartheid
on the people of South Africa.
AN

Ans. : 'Apartheid' is a political system that divides people according to their race.
The policy of apartheid could not be considered fortunate for the people of South Africa. It
created distance and a deep wound in the country and the people. Many great men like
Oliver Tambo, Walter Sisulu, Yusuf Dadoo, Bram Fischer etc fought against apartheid
system.

74. How did Mandela’s ‘hunger for freedom’ change his life?

Ans. : Mandela realized in his youth that it was not just his freedom that was being
curtailed, but the freedom of all blacks. The hunger for his own freedom became the
hunger for the freedom of his people. This desire of a non-racial society transformed him

[11]
 into a virtuous and self-sacrificing man. Thus, he joined the African National Congress and
this changed him from a frightened young man into a bold man.

75. At the beginning of his speech, Mandela mentions “an extraordinary human disaster”.
What does he mean by this? What is the “glorious … human achievement” he speaks of
at the end?

Ans. : The extraordinary human disaster that Mandela mentioned at the beginning of his
speech refers to the inhuman practice of apartheid i.e., the racial discrimination suffered
by the blacks at the hands of whites in South Africa. At the end, the glorious human
achievement that he spoke of refers to the establishment of South Africa first democratic,
non-racial government.

76. Would you agree that the “depths of oppression” create “heights of character”? How

5
does Mandela illustrate this? Can you add your own examples to this argument?

34
Ans. : Yes, I agree that the “depths of oppression” create “heights of character”. Mandela

63
thought that the decades of brutality and oppression had an unintended effect of creating
many African patriots with unimaginable heights of character. Thus, he felt that the

88
greatest wealth of South Africa is its people. In similar manner, Bhagat Singh remained
courageous while facing utmost cruelty at the hands of British.

67
77. How did the military show its loyalty to the democratically elected government of
A7
Nelson Mandela?

Ans. : The military showed its loyalty to the democratically elected government of Nelson
AL

Mandela with the demostration of the spectacular array of South African jets, helicopters
and troop carriers which roared in perfect formation over the Union Buildings.
SH

78. Why did inauguration ceremony take place in the amphitheatre formed by the Union
Building in Pretoria?
TH

Ans. : It was the first democratic, non-racial government taking oath in South Africa. The
ceremony was attended by dignitaries from more than 140 countries around the world and
PA

thousands of the people of South Africa of all the races to make the day memorable. So, it
took place in the amphitheatre formed by the Union Building in Pretoria.
N

79. How does Mandela define courage and from where did he learn the meaning of
RA

courage?

Ans. : Nelson Mandela learnt the meaning of courage from great patriots and comrades in
KU

the struggle. They risked their lives and stood up to attacks and tortures of the apartheid
regime. He learned that courage was not the absence of fear but the triumph over it. The
AN

brave man is not he who doesn't feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.

80. Why did so many international leaders and dignitaries gather in South Africa during the
inaugural ceremony?

Ans. : A large number of international leaders attended the inauguration to support and
praise the people of South Africa in their victory for justice, for peace and human dignity.
The presence of International community symbolized the collective global effort to end the
system of apartheid.

81. How does Mandela describe the systems of government in his country (i) in the first
decade, and (ii) in the final decade, of the twentieth century?

[12]
 Ans. :
i. In the first decade of the twentieth century, the white-skinned people of South
Africa patched up their differences and erected a system of racial domination
against the dark-skinned people of their own land, thus creating the basis of one
of the harshest and most inhumane societies the world had ever kno
ii. In the last decade of the twentieth century, the previous system had been
overturned forever and replaced by one that recognized the rights and freedoms
of all peoples, regardless of the colour of their skin.
82. Who were the persons sworn in on 10th of May? What did Mandela pledge to obey?

Ans. : Mr. de Klerk was first sworn in as second Deputy President. Then Thabo Mbeki was
sworn in as first Deputy President. Then in the end, Mr. Nelson Mandela was sworn in as the

5
President of the Republic of South Africa. He pledged to obey and uphold the constitution

34
and devote himself the well being of the Republic and its people.

83. What does Mandela mean when he says he is “simply the sum of all those African

63
patriots” who had gone before him?

88
Ans. : When Mandela says that he was ‘simply the sum of all African patriots,’ he means
that he could identify with the unimaginable sacrifices of all those noble and courageous

67
men who fought for the collective freedom of the African people. He was pained that he
could not thank them and that they could not see what their sacrifices had wrought.
A7
84. Why did Mandela say that freedom is "indivisible"?

Ans. : Mandela says that the freedom is indivisible because freedom is always turned as a
AL

collective goal of the people of that nation or state. It is something which no one can steal
SH

it from you or anybody.

85. Freedom is “indivisible", said Mandela. How were the chains on any one were the chains
TH

on all of his people?

Ans. : Mandela thought that he is not more virtuous than the others. He thought that
PA

"freedom is indivisible". The chains on any one of his people were chains on all of them.
The chains on all of his people were the chains on him.
N

86. What ideals does he set out for the future of South Africa?
RA

Ans. : Mandela had high hopes for the future of South Africa. He pledged to liberate all
South Africans from the continuing bondage of poverty, deprivation, suffering, gender and
KU

other discrimination. He also stressed that the beautiful land of South Africa would never
ever experience racial discrimination again.
AN

87. Could everyone fulfil the obligations personal or social in South Africa?

Ans. : No, everyone in South Africa was not free to fulfil his/ her obligations because of the
colour of the skin. Only white people were allowed to do so but the black people were not
free. If a black person ever tried to fulfil his/ her obligations, he was punished and isolated
for being a rebellion. Even they were punished who attempted to live as a human being.

88. What do the military generals do? How has their attitude changed, and why?

Ans. : The highest military generals of the South African defense force and police saluted
Mandela and pledged their loyalty. When the military generals saluted Mandela, he was
not unmindful of the fact that not too many years ago, they would not have saluted him,

[13]
 but arrested him. This change in attitude was due to the fact that a new, non-racial
government was elected and Mandela was then the President of South Africa.

89. What does Mandela thank the international leaders for?

Ans. : Mandela felt privileged to be the host to the nations of the world because not too
long ago, the South Africans were considered outlaws. He thus thanked all the
international leaders for having come to witness his investiture as President since this
event could be considered as a common victory for justice, peace and human dignity.

90. Where did the ceremonies take place? What had it been for decades?

Ans. : The ceremonies of the inauguration of the new government took place at the lovely
sandstone amphitheatre in the Union Buildings in Pretoria. The same place had remained

5
the seat of white supremacy for decades.

34
91. 'Freedom is the birthright.' In the light of this statement, show how the poet contrasts a
tiger inthe zoo and a tiger in his natural habitat.

63
Ans. : Tiger in the zoo not have freedom not comfortable in the zoo people give them

88
trouble and tease them they lose their ability to survive in forest. Tiger in his natural
habitat have freedom play with their friends hunt their own prey they are happy in their

67
natural habitat. A7
92. What does the tiger do at night? What does he feel when he stares at the brilliant stars
in the sky?

Ans. : The patrolling cars move around and the tiger hears their sound late at night. He is
AL

locked in a cage but stares at the brilliant stars shining in the vast and open sky. The vast
SH

open sky and the brilliant stars only intensify the feeling of helplessness that he feels
inside the cage.
TH

93. Freedom can't be bargained at any cost. What message does Leslie Norris give to the
readers in 'A Tiger in the Zoo'?
PA

Ans. : Not only humans but animals too cherish freedom. Freedom can't be bargained. In
this cage, a tiger may be well-fed and protected. However, the curtailment of his freedom
N

keeps him in 'quiet rage'. He resents being behind the bars. He is a different animal when
RA

he is in his natural habitat, the jungle. He roams around the water hole and ambush his
favourite plump deer.
KU

94. What message does the poem provide you? Give reasons for your answer.

Ans. : The message conveyed by the poem is that just like humans, animals too long for
AN

freedom and do not like being caged. For instance, the tiger in the poem longs to be in the
jungle and he looks longingly at the shining stars in the sky. By looking at the stars, the
tiger hope to be with nature some day.

95. There are two poems-one about a tiger and the other about a panther. What is your
point ofview regarding their conservation in the present scenario?

Ans. : Through these two poems, it is clear to all us that freedom is very important for
everyone.not only human beings but also animals like it deeply, without freedom no one
can feel happy.

96. How does the tiger terrorise the villagers? Does he have any intention of killing them?

[14]
 Ans. : Sometimes, the tiger roams around freely and comes near the edge of the jungle.
He comes very near to the houses of the villagers which are situated on the outskirts of the
jungle. Roaming there, he opens out his white sharp teeth and paws to terrorise the
villagers. He has no intention of killing them as he never attacks till he is provoked to do
so.

97. What should the tiger be doing if he were at the jungle's edge?

Ans. : At the jungle's edge”- What should the tiger be doing if he were at the edge of the
jungle ? Answer: The tiger would be moving around the houses in a nearby village. He
would be growling while moving around the sight of his white fangs and his terrible claws
would fill the villagers with terror.

5
98. Read the poem again, and work in pairs or groups to do the following tasks.

34
Find the words that describe the two places, and arrange them in two columns.
Now try to share ideas about how the poet uses words and images to contrast the two

63
situations.

Ans. :

88
Cage Wild

67
Few steps of his cage Shadow
Concrete cell Long grass
A7
Locked Water hole
Behind bars Plump deer
AL

Visitors Houses at the jungle's edgs

Patrolling cars Village
SH

99. What is the tiger doing? Why is he ignoring the visitors?

TH

Ans. : The tiger is slowly and quietly moving along the length of the cage in a threatening
manner. He is ignoring the visitors because he considers them devoid of any feelings.
PA

None of them thinks of releasing him from his prison. Thus, he stops taking any notice of
them.
N

100. Why does the tiger express his rage quietly?

RA

Ans. : The tiger expresses his rage quietly because there is nothing he can do from behind
the bars of his cage. His strength is inside his cage now. He is no longer free as he was in
KU

the jungle.

101. How does the tiger stalk in the cage?

AN

Ans. : The tiger is not in his natural habitat the jungle. He is locked in a cage made up of
cement and concrete. He keeps on stalking inside his cage from one side to the other. He
is walking in quiet rage with his heels which are padded like velvet.

102. What does the tiger do in his cage?

Ans. : The tiger is locked in a concrete cell where he can hardly take a few steps along the
length of the cage. He doesn't take any notice of the visitors who come there. With his
shining eyes, he keeps staring at the bright stars in the sky.

103. How does the poet use images to two contrasting situations in the poem? Illustrate the
point withgraphic description.

[15]
 Ans. : COMNG SOON
104. Describe the tiger in the wild.

Ans. : The tiger in the wild is majestic. He is free and lies under the shades and hunts for
prey. He moves near the water because food is in plenty there. Sometimes he growls and
terrorises (scares) the villagers.

105. Leslie Norris has described some of the activities of a tiger behind the bars of its cage.
Write them.

Ans. : Some of the activities of the tiger behind the bars of its cage include stalking along
the length of the cage, ignoring visitors, hearing patrolling cars and staring at the brilliant
stars shining in the sky.

5
106. What is the message that Liam O' Flaherty wants to give to the readers through the

34
lesson 'His first Flight'?

63
Ans. : Success can't be taken for granted. One has to struggle and finally to win it. The
story of the young seagull is the story of overcoming hesitations, doubts and fears that

88
stand between us and our success. Hunger makes him take the final plunge. This leads
him to make his first flight and soar into the space.

67
107. Why didn't the young seagull take the plunge? What stopped him from doing so?
A7
Ans. : The young seagull was the only one in the family who couldn't fly in the air. His
brothers and sister had far shorter wings than his wings but they had already learnt the art
AL

of flying. He felt certain that his wings would never support him. So he was hesitant and
afraid of flapping his wings and go deep in the air.
SH

108. How were his two brothers and sister different from the young seagull?

Ans. : His two brothers and his sister had far shorter wings than he had. But still they had
TH

flown away only the day before. He would watch his parents perfecting them in the art of
flying. They were taught how to skim the waves and dive for the fish. The young seagull
PA

had seen his older brother catch his first herring and devour it.

109. What was the mother doing standing on a little high hump on the plateau?
N

Ans. : All others ignored the hungry young seagull. Only his mother was looking at him. She
RA

was standing on a little high hump. Now and again, she tore a piece of fish. The fish lay at
her feet. Then she scrapped each side of her beak on the rock. The sight of the food
KU

maddened the young seagull. He loved to tear the food that way.
AN

110. When did the seagull get over his fear of the water?

Ans. : The seagull thought the sea was like a land. When he landed on the sea, his feet
sank into it. He was seized with fear. He was too tired to rise again. His belly touched the
water and he sank no further. Now, he was floating on the sea. He had got over his fear of
the water.

111. How did the young seagull feel sitting alone on his ledge?

Ans. : The young seagull felt very miserable on the ledge as he was alone and his family
had already flown away. He was feeling very hungry and had nothing to eat. His condition
was worsening because he could not even dive for fish.

112. Why did the young seagull feel very miserable on the ledge?

[16]
 Ans. : The young seagull felt very miserable on the ledge as he was alone and his family
had already flown away. He was feeling very hungry and had nothing to eat. His condition
was worsening because he could not even dive for fish.

113. How did the terror seize the young seagull?

Ans. : His mother kept fish out of his reach. Out of hunger, he jumped on fish and started
falling. Terror seized him but ultimately he noticed that he started flying.

114. How did his family celebrate his success?

Ans. : When the young seagull finally he took his first flight, all the family members
celebrate his victory by cheering and dancing around him.

115. Why did the young seagull remain all alone on the ledge?

5
34
Ans. : The young seagull was alone on his ledge because he was the only one who was not
gathering the courage to attempt to fly.

63
116. In the case of a bird flying, it seems a natural act, and a foregone conclusion that it

88
should succeed. In the examples you have given in answer to the previous question,
was your success guaranteed, or was it important for you to try, regardless of a

67
possibility of failure?

Ans. : This question requires you to use your own perspective as well as your analytical
A7
skills. The answer to the question would vary from one person to another. It is suggested
that you read the text carefully and try attempting it on your own.
AL

117. Why was the young seagull afraid to fly? Do you think all young birds are afraid to make
their first flight, or are some birds more timid than others? Do you think a human baby
SH

also finds it a challenge to take its first steps?

Ans. : The young seagull was afraid to fly because it was its first flight. It is a well known
TH

fact that doing something for the first time is challenging. Therefore, all young birds must
be afraid to make their first flights. Similarly, a human baby would also find it a challenge
PA

to take its first step.

118. Do you sympathise with the seagull? Give reasons.

N

Ans. : Flying is a natural instinct of birds. But the young seagull develops a fright of flight.
RA

We sympathise with him because he has to suffer a lot before he gets over his fear of
flying. He has to bear the taunts of his family. He has to go without food for twenty-four
KU

hours.

119. i.
AN

When did the seagull's flight begin?

ii. Where did it end?

Ans. :
i. His flight began when he was falling outwards and downwards into space. His
wings spread outwards. Now, he was not falling headlong. He was moving
gradually downwards and outwards.
ii. His flight ended floating on the sea.
120. “The sight of the food maddened him.” What does this suggest? What compelled the
young seagull to finally fly?

Ans. : The young seagull was very hungry. It was this hunger that ultimately compelled it to
fly. Its hunger only intensified when it saw its mother tearing at a piece of fish that lay at

[17]
 her feet. It cried to her, begging her to get some food. When its mother came towards it
with food in her beak, it screamed with joy and anticipation. However, she stopped midway.
It wondered why she did not come nearer. Not being able to resist or control its hunger any
longer, it dived at the food in its mother’s beak. At that moment, his hunger overpowered
his fear of the great expanse of sea beneath the cliff. Finally, this plunge was followed by
the natural reaction of its body, i.e., to fly.

121. What did the seagull's parents do to make him fly?

Ans. : The young seagull was afraid of flying over the sea because he thought he would
drown. So the family decided to teach him a lesson. Seagull's mother tore a piece of fish
that lay at her feet. She threw it in front of his brothers and sisters and they made their
flights and caught it.

5
122. What happened afterwards when maddened by hunger he dived at the fish that his

34
mother was carrying in her beak?

63
Ans. : The young seagull saw his mother flying around him with a piece of fish in her beak.
Maddened by hunger, he dived at the fish. With a loud scream he fell outwards and

88
downwards into space. Then he was seized with fear and his heart stood still.

67
123. Do you think the story 'The Black Aeroplane' is a mystery? Do you see some elements
of supernatural power in the story? Do you believe in supernatural powers?
A7
Ans. : 'The Black Aeroplane' by Frederick Forsyth is undoubtedly a mystery.
The pilot of the old Dakota plane is trapped in black stormy clouds. Nothing is visible. All
AL

the instruments of his plane also stop functioning. Suddenly from nowhere a black
aeroplane appears in the cloud. The pilot of the black aeroplane guides him. The plane
SH

has no lights on its wings but its pilot is still flying at ease. The first pilot arrives safely at the
airport but when he goes to thank the pilot of the black plane, the woman in the control
TH

room even denies having seen any other aeroplane on the radarThis statement leaves the
mystery of the pilot of the black aeroplane unfolded. However, there is no element of
PA

supernatural power in the story. There is no ghost or spirit in the plot. I don't believe in
supernatural elements like ghosts or spirits.
N

124. In your view who was the man who helped the narrator to land safely?
RA

Ans. : It was no one but the narrator himself who helped him to reach safely. He must be
just hallucinating that there was someone to help him. The woman at the control center
KU

could see his plane only on the radar, and no other plane was flying in the sky at that time.

125. How did the pilot of the black plane guide the narrator out of the storm clouds?
AN

Ans. : he pilot waved his hand to the narrator and asked him to follow him. ... With the help
of another pilot, he landed safely and when he went to receptionist to thank the pilot he
was informed by the lady that there was no any other plane flying in the sky that night.

126. What did he do when he was inside the clouds?

Ans. : The narrator took the risk of entering the black storm clouds. Inside them everything
was suddenly black. Nothing could be seen outside. The old plane jumped and twisted in
the air. He couldn't believe his eyes when his compass was dead. His other instruments
didn't work and were dead too. He tried to contact Paris control on the raids but received
no answer.

[18]
127. Have you ever been alone, or away from home during a thunderstorm or something
like that? Narrate your experience in the form of a paragraph. What helped you in that
situation?

Ans. : Yes, once I was alone and away from home during a thunderstorm.
In fact, I was on an educational excursion in Himachal Pradesh. We were a group of ten
students. On that particular day, I was having fever and stayed locked in my tent in the
base camp. All of my friends had gone to the city for shopping. Suddenly, I noticed a huge
black cloud in one corner of the valley. It grew dark and started raining. It was followed by
thunderstorm. I was all alone. It was really scary. I got into my tent but soon it was blown
over by the wind. I was in the open. I ran towards a guest house. One of the persons in the
guest house had already seen me. He ran towards me and rescued me.

5
128. How and when did the narrator feel that he was safe now?

34
Ans. : When the pilot of another plane came to the narrator's help, he was extremely

63
happy. When he said "Follow me," the narrator obeyed him like an obedient child. The
strange black aeroplane was still guiding him. The narrator got worried as the old Dakota

88
had petrol enough to fly for five or ten minutes. Suddenly when he was going down, he
found himself out of clouds. He saw two long strait lines of lights of the runway. There was

67
an airport where he could land safely. A7
129. The pilot wanted to thank another pilot after his safe landing. Why? What characteristics
are reflected from his action?

Ans. : The pilot of the old Dakota was caught in the storm. He lost his contact with the
AL

control room. His fuel tank was also empty. The instrument also stopped working. He had
SH

lost all hopes when a black strange plane appeared from nowhere. The pilot of the black
plane asked him to follow him. He landed safely. After his landing safely, he wanted to
thank the pilot. When asked the lady in the control room about the pilot, he came to know
TH

that there was no pilot or plane with him. It was only his imagination.
PA

He wanted to thank the pilot to show his gratitude. He was thankful to him for saving his
life.
N

130. What were the two options before the narrator?

RA

Ans. : Definitely, the narrator had two options before him if he didn't want to take the risk
of entering the storm cloud. He could turn back and go to Paris which was about 150
KU

kilometres behind him. Another option was to fly up and over the dark clouds.

131. What did he find when he checked the map and the compass?
AN

Ans. : The narrator checked the map and the compass. He switched over to his second and
last fuel tank. He turned the Dakota twelve degrees west towards England. He thought that
he would be in time for breakfast. Everything was going well and it was an easy flight.

132. How did the pilot of the black aeroplane help the narrator in the clouds?

Ans. : The pilot waved his hand to the narrator and asked him to follow him. ... With the
help of another pilot, he landed safely and when he went to receptionist to thank the pilot
he was informed by the lady that there was no any other plane flying in the sky that night.

133. How did the strange black aeroplane guide the old Dakota aeroplane to save the
narrator's life?

[19]
 Ans. : The plane had crossed Paris when he started seeing clouds in the sky. The presence
of clouds made it unsafe to travel by air because there were chances of a storm. They
were so huge and dark that the pilot compared them with “black mountains”

134. Why and when did he call Paris control room?

Ans. : It was one thirty in the morning. He wanted to call Paris control. He switched on the
radio and told that Dakota DS 088 was on his way to England. The narrator got the
necessary instruction that he needed. He was asked to turn twelve degrees west towards
England.

135. Why did the narrator follow the black aeroplane like an obedient child?

Ans. : Why did the pilot follow the black aeroplane 'like an obedient child? The pilot, who

5
had lost his way in the storm, followed the black aeroplane like an obedient child because

34
this was his only chance for survival. He was happy to go behind this strange aeroplane
since it was guiding him out of the storm to safety.

63
136. Did the narrator meet the pilot of the black aeroplane? How did he and his aeroplane

88
disappear in the sky?

Ans. : No, the narrator didn't meet his rescuer. When he was out of the storm clouds, he

67
looked back. He found no trace of the aeroplane. Nor did he see the face of the pilot. Only
A7
God knows where they disappeared. Even the control room couldn't record their presence.

137. Why was the narrator happy and what was he dreaming of?
AL

Ans. : It was a clear and cloudless night. The moon had come up in the east. Stars were
shining above. The narrator was happy. He was flying high up above the sleeping
SH

countryside. He was dreaming of his holiday and being with his family.

138. What is the message that Frederick wants to give to the readers through the, lesson
TH

'The Black Aeroplane'?

Ans. : Never say 'die' till the end. Never lose hope in the most hopeless situation. No one
PA

knows who may come to save you. The narrator was really in such a hopeless control and
all his instruments and the compass were dead. Then came the mysterious pilot of the
N

black aeroplane to guide the narrator to safety.

RA

139. How did the black aeroplane rescue the first pilot?

Ans. : The pilot of the black aeroplane guided the first pilot and helped him arrive safely at
KU

the airport.
AN

140. Who rescued the narrator when he was hopelessly lost in the storm clouds?

Ans. : There seemed no hope for the narrator. He was hopelessly lost in the storm clouds.
His compass and other instruments were dead. Even Paris control didn't respond.
In such a hopeless situation, the narrator saw another aeroplane flying next to him. It had
no light on its winds but he could see the pilot's face. The pilot came to his help. When he
said "Follow me," the narrator followed him like an obedient child.

141. Who according to you helped the pilot of the Dakota land safely state with reasons?

Ans. : Pilot of the black aeroplane guided him and helped him to land safely. After landing,
he went to the control tower.

[20]
142. Was the pilot of the Dakota able to meet the pilot of the black aeroplane?

Ans. : No, the pilot of the Dakota could not meet the pilot of the black aeroplane. The first
pilot even went to the Control Room to find who the other pilot was, but he could not find
him. The black aeroplane disappeared without being seen by anyone even on the radar'.

143. Describe the black clouds from the point of view of the pilot.

Ans. : When Paris was about 150 kilometres behind me, I saw the black clouds in front of
me. They were huge clouds looked like black mountains standing in front of me across the
sky. They were stormy and I could not fly up and over them.

144. What were the feelings of the narrator while he was flying his Dakota aeroplane in the
sky?

5
Ans. : the narrator found himself out of the clouds and saw the runway in front of him. he

34
was very happy. this was the feelings of the narrator.

63
145. Can you find other examples of poets taking liberties with language, either in English or
in your own language(s)? Can you find examples of humorous poems in your own

88
language(s)?

Ans. : Here is an example in English of a poet taking liberties with language.

The Most magnificent Zoo
67
A7
Bumbleraffes and small Squiroose, The Hipponoceros is loose! The Babooeetah's running
wild, The Pandelot is looking riled! Salaphants and sleepy Froat, the Doladillo's in a boat!
AL

The Carigators stalk around, The Kangarat is much renowned!

Otterunks and Jagupus, The Scorpiark I cannot suss! My wonder zoo has no known match,
SH

But it's not real, now that's the catch!

In this poem the poet has created portmanteaus of animal names (blending two words to
TH

create a third one). By doing so, the poet has used his creative liberty to invent new words.

146. Describe the various ways to recognise Asian Lions, Bengal Tigers, Leopards, Bears,
PA

Hyenas, Crocodiles and Chameleons.

Ans. : Bengal Tigers are biggest of all tigers.

N

Leopards can run fast and they had many black spots on there red or yellow colour skin.
RA

Bears can walk with four or two legs. Their skin colour is white or black.
Hyenas are looking like jackal. Their skin colour is grey or black.
KU

crocodile is a reptile. It has four legs. It lays eggs.

147. How would you recognise the Asian Lion?

AN

Ans. : He is found in the jungles of the eastern regions. He is a large and powerful animal.
He is yellow-brownish in colour. He roars so loudly that the very roar is enough to terrorise
a person to death. If any animal has all these traits, he must be the Asian Lion.

148. How does the poet suggest that you identify the lion and the tiger? When can you do so,
according to him?

Ans. : The poet suggests that if a large and tawny beast in the jungle in the east advances
towards us, then it is an Asian lion. We can identify it when it roars at us while we are dying
with fear. When while roaming we come across a wild beast that is yellow in colour with
black stripes, it is a Bengal tiger. We can identify it when it eats us.

[21]
149. 'Appearances are deceptive. Cite examples from the poem, "How to Tell Wild Animals',
to corroborate this statement.

Ans. : Encountering the Asian Lion will be by hearing its roar while dying. Meeting an
animal with black stripes on a yellow ground he should ensure that he is not eaten, as he
has encountered a Bengal Tiger. When a beast with skin peppered with spots leaps on the
person that would be an encounter with a leopard. Roaring in pain is futile, because the
animal will 'lep and lep'. Similarly, a hug in the dark, would be a bear. When confused
between a crocodile and a hyena, the former would emit a merry smile, while the latter
would weep tears. Chameleons appear not like lizard-like creatures with no ears, but as
nothing on a tree.

150. What does the bear do?

5
Ans. : According to the poet, the bear embraces the human being tightly. The description

34
of bear has been presented in a humorous style. The bear comes near a human being and

63
embraces very hard. He hugs very tightly.

151. Do you think the words ‘lept‘ and ‘lep’ in the third stanza are spelt correctly? Why does

88
the poet spell them like this?

67
Ans. : No, the words ‘lept’ and ‘lep’ are spelt incorrectly. Their correct spellings are ‘leapt’
and ‘leap’ respectively. The poet has spelled them like this in order to maintain the rhythm
A7
of the poem. When spelled this way, they rhyme with the first part of ‘leopard’, thus giving
emphasis to ‘leopard’ in each line.
AL

152. Write the sum and substance of the poem, 'How to Tell Wild Animals'.

Ans. : The poet, Carolyn Wells, in the poem suggests some of the dangerous ways to
SH

identify the wild animals. The poem is full of humorous examples when the poet tries to
distinguish one animal from the other. Moreover, the poem educates us by describing the
TH

various features of wild animals.

PA

153. How can you distinguish between a hyena and a crocodile?

Ans. : A hyena and a crocodile both behave differently. Their distinct behaviour helps us to
N

distinguish between them. A hyena comes to its victims with a merry smile while a
crocodile sheds tears.
RA

154. What humorous descriptions do you find in the poem?

KU

Ans. : We find some humorous descriptions about the animals in the poem. The poet has
created it by the selection of words and his pattern of explaining. As the Bengal tiger is
AN

described noble, the bear hugs and the hyena smiles.

155. Describe a few characteristics of a chameleon.

Ans. : A chameleon is a garden lizard and is an expert at camouflage. It changes its colour
as per its surroundings. This ability of camouflage helps it in saving it from the hunters. A
chameleon does not have any ears or wings.

156. 'Each of us has some special qualities in our character, which make us quite different
from others. Those qualities are our identification.' Do you agree with this statement?
Explain with reference to the poem.

Ans. :
ya it is absolutely well said that every person has a different quality and ability for an exam

[22]
 ple some of us are interested in studies and are performing well in it while few are better i
n coschoolastics and are very good in it ,so every person has a different mindset according
to which he/she strengthen themselves.

157. How will you recognise the leopard?

Ans. : The leopard is very agile and is always ready to pounce upon its prey. His hide is
spotted all over with dark spots. If he sees you, he will pounce upon you. There will be no
use of crying with pain. He will show no mercy and jump at you once again.

158. What does “in the world of possessions” mean?

Ans. : Here, “in the world of possessions” means the world where everything and every
action is made to possess something, whether it is the possession of land, property,

5
money, or any other thing. The poet suggests that losing a ball, which is a very small thing,

34
would make the boy understand what it is like to lose something that one possessed. This
would make the boy realise that this is a world of possessions and where one can possess

63
more things by buying them, one cannot buy what has been lost.

88
159. The loss of ball is a metaphor of the boy's lost childhood. Justify this statement.

Ans. : The metaphor of the lost ball is beautifully linked to the loss of sweet childhood. No

67
amount of money can buy the ball back that has been lost forever. Similarly, no worldly
wealth can buy back the lost childhood. The poet doesn't want to sermonise on this issue.
A7
160. What does John Berryman want to convey through this poem?
AL

Ans. : Poet, John Berryman wants to convey the importance of loss and responsibility in life.
We all should learn our responsibility and how to cope up with the loss.
SH

161. Why doesn't the poet want to intrude on 'him'? What does he consider the safest
course?
TH

Ans. : The poet doesn't want to intrude on the inconsolable boy. There is no gain in telling
him that the ball he has lost costs almost nothing. He can buy a new ball easily in a dime.
PA

Instead of sermonizing, the poet leaves it on the boy to develop a new sense of
responsibility. It will help him in bearing the loss.
N

162. How is the boy learning the 'epistemology of loss' from the loss of his ball? What he has
RA

to learn?

Ans. : The boy has to understand the nature of loss. He has to understand what it means to
KU

lose something. Gain and loss are the two sides of the same coin. The boy has to learn how
to move forward forgetting everything about the losses he has suffered in the past.
AN

163. What is the message that John Berryman gives to the readers in 'The Ball poem'?

Ans. : In 'The Ball Poem' John Berryman gives a very positive message. Gain and loss,
getting and losing are the essentials in the cycle of life. One should learn the epistemology
or the knowledge and nature of loss. Our childhood with all its attachments and sweet
memories has gone forever never to come back again. We should not weep over the
losses that we have suffered. Let us learn living and moving ahead in life forgetting all
inconsolable losses.

164. What does 'in the world of possessions' mean? Why is money 'external'?

[23]
 Ans. : In the world of possessions' means people like to possess all sorts of things in the
world. Money is an external thing because it can buy only material objects; it cannot buy
everything that one loses or cannot bring back your long lost memories.

165. What does the expression no use to say o There are other balls mean?

Ans. : According to the poet, it is useless to console the boy by saying that he can get
another ball in place of the lost one. The boy had a long association with the ball.

166. In 'The Ball Poem', the poet teaches the readers a philosophy of life. What is this
philosophy oflife? Explain with reference to the poem.

Ans. : In the ball poem the poet teaches the readers a philosophy of life. The philosophy is
that humans should learn how to deal with the loses of life.In this poem also the small boy

5
loses his ball and then understand the truth of the human life that human life would going

34
to be end one day.

63
167. “… staring down/All his young days into the harbour where/His ball went …” Do you
think the boy has had the ball for a long time? Is it linked to the memories of days when

88
he played with it?

Ans. : Yes, it seems like the boy has had the ball for a long time. When it bounced into the

67
water, all his memories of the days of childhood flashed in front of him. This led to a
realisation that those moments would not come back, just like the ball. He can buy new
A7
balls and can similarly create new moments, but those that are gone would not return.

168. Describe your views about Mr Keesing as a teacher.

AL

Ans. : Mr Keesing seems to be a strict teacher but he actually believes in taking actions
SH

with good intention and for the development of children. He tries to control Anne's bad
habit of talking too much but as soon as he is convinced that her habit does not affect her
TH

studies, he overlooks Anne's shortcoming. For that he asks her to write an essay on the
topic 'A Chatterbox' as her homework. She convinces him and humiliates him in a funny
PA

manner. She was not given extra work after that.

169. Give a brief life-sketch of Anne Frank.

N

Ans. : Anne was born on 12 June, 1929. She lived in Frankfurt until she was four. Her father
RA

emigrated to Holland in 1933. Her mother went with him to Holland in September. Anne
and her elder sister, Margot, were sent to Aachen to stay with their grandmother. Margot,
KU

went to Holland in December and Anne followed in February. She started right away at the
Montessory nursery school. She stayed there until she was six, where she started in the
first form. His grandmother died in January 1942, when she was thirteen.
AN

170. Why doesn't Anne want to jot down facts as most people do in a diary? Why does she
call it her friend "Kitty'?

Ans. : For Anne Frank, a diary writing is a highly personal and intimate experience. He is
not like other diary writers who load it with facts and non-personal matters. She wants to
compensate her loss of having no 'true friends' with opening out of her heart in the pages
of her diary. She wants the diary to be her true friend and calls it ‘Kitty’.

171. Who was Mr Keesing? Why did he stoop to punish Anne?

Ans. : Mr Keesing was her Maths teacher. He was annoyed with Anne as she talked much in
the class. He gave her several warnings but it had no effect. One day, he punished her by

[24]
 giving her extra homework.

172. Why did she believe that no would be interested in the musings of a thirteen-year-old
girl?

Ans. : Anne Frank feel that no one would be interested in the musings of a 13
year old girl because she thought that no one will listen to a teen age girl's diary
that she is a loving and caring girl who is alone. But she may also not know that
her Diary would be published after her death.
173. How did Anne remain when she was sitting at home?

Ans. : During world war II, her family was hiding in a house as they were Jewish.
Anne Frank, along with her family spent time in fear.

5
She spent most of the time hiding in the house and writing everything in her diary.

34
The diary was discovered later on when she was killed.

63
174. Why did Mr. Keesing assign Anne to write an essay entitled 'A Chatterbox'?

Ans. : There was only one teacher with whom Anne was not getting along well. He was Mr.

88
Keesing. The maths teacher was annoyed with her because she talked too much in the

67
class. After several warnings he gave her an extra homework as a sort of punishment. She
was assigned to write an essay on the topic, 'A Chatterbox'.
A7
175. Do you keep a diary? Given below under ‘A’ are some terms we use to describe a
written record of personal experience. Can you match them with their descriptions
AL

under ‘B’? (You may look up the terms in a dictionary if you wish.)
A B
SH

1 Journ - A book with a separate space or page for each day, in which you write down
al your thoughts and feelings or what has happened on that day
TH

2 Diary - A full record of a journey, a period of time, or an event, written every day
3 Log - A record of a person’s own life and experiences (usually, a famous person)
PA

4 Mem - A written record of events with times and dates, usually official
oir(s)
N
RA

Ans. :
A B
KU

1 Journ 2 A full record of a journey, a period of time, or an event, written every day
al
AN

2 Diary 1 A book with a separate space or page for each day, in which you write down your
thoughts and feelings or what has happened on that day
3 Log 4 A written record of events with times and dates, usually official
4 Mem 3 A record of a person’s own life and experiences (usually, a famous person)
oir(s)

176. There are some examples of diary or journal entries in the ‘Before You Read’ section.
Compare these with what Anne writes in her diary. What language was the diary
originally written in? In what way is Anne’s diary different?

Ans. : Anne’s diary was originally written in Dutch. Her diary is different from the others in
many aspects. She had named her diary ‘Kitty’. She thought of it as her only true friend

[25]
 whom she could confide in. She treated it as another person who was listening to her daily
accounts. She wrote all her stories in it. She started by writing ‘Dearest kitty’ and ended the
account by writing, ‘Yours, Anne’. Her diary was a lot more personal than other diaries.

177. What does Anne Frank say about her class atmosphere?

Ans. : The diary of Anne Frank ”clearly describes the teacher-student relationship, class
atmosphere and discipline.

178. What does the author say about her early education?

Ans. : Anne think her early education like whatever she wanted or she wanted to share her
feelings with friends it she couldn't, around her there were so many people's but then also
she didn't find a true friend to whom she could share all her secrets .

5
179. Why does Anne think it prudent and wise to provide a brief sketch of her life?

34
Ans. : Anne Frank calls her diary 'Friend Kitty'. She addresses all her writings to Kitty. For

63
readers it would be rather difficult to understand 'a word' of her stories to Kitty. So, instead
of plunging 'right in', she thinks it wise to provide a brief sketch of her life. Though she

88
dislikes doing so.

67
180. Describe the grandmother of Anne Frank.

Ans. : Anne's maternal grandmother died of an illness shortly before she went into hiding,
A7
and her memory both haunts and comforts Anne.

181. What does the girl yearn for? What does this poem tell you about Amanda?
AL

Ans. : The girl yearns for solitude and peace. In all the things she dreams of, she wants to
SH

stay alone. If she were a mermaid, then she wanted to drift slowly on a calm sea where she
would be the only inhabitant. She even goes on to imagine if she were an orphan. In that
TH

case, she would roam about the street in silence and freedom. She also wishes to be
Rapunzel though she would not let her hair down for anybody to climb up. This shows that
PA

she is fed up of the continuous scolding she receives from her mother. She wants to go
away from her home to some place where she would not be constantly nagged and would
be able to live peacefully.
N

182. Describe Amanda's mother's constant efforts of instructing and guiding her to do or not
RA

to do things. Do children like such a nagging mother? Does Amanda like her?

Ans. : Her mother constantly nagging her to do or not to do things like hunch the
KU

shoulders, eating chocolates, biting nails, cleaning the room, cleaning the shoes etc. which
children often do or don't do Children don't like so much nagging by the edults which bring
AN

a sense of irritation in them.

183. Is Amanda at fault at all?

Ans. : Amanda is not at fault at all. It is too harsh for a small child to understand the
concept of acne and not eating a chocolate. Love of parents is missing from Amanda's life.
It is with pity that we look towards Amanda. There is nothing worst for a child who wishes to
be an orphan. Amanda just seeks freedom from the overpowering environment around
her.

184. What does Amanda yearn for?

[26]
 Ans. : Amanda is a little girl. She is asked to do or not to do this and that. She is nagged at
by her parents. So Amanda yearns for freedom. She wants to lead a life without any
restrictions.

185. ‘Anyone would think that I nagged at you'. Explain.

Ans. : She also confirms to herself that she will never let her hair down to anyone so that
nobody could come to her in the tower. Anyone would think that I nagged at you, Amanda!
She also scolds her by saying that her behavior will one day make people think that
Amanda was constantly being harassed by her mother.

186. What idea does the poet form of Amanda?

Ans. : The central idea of the poem revolves around how a child is constantly nagged by

5
her mother. The poetess sheds light on how a child is always monitored and questioned

34
about her actions by her mother. Therefore, Amanda dreams to get away from her
troubles. The poem Amanda is written by the poet Robin Klein.

63
187. Write a short note on the title of the poem?

88
Ans. : The title of the poem is Amanda as it revolves around the upbringing of a little girl

67
named Amanda. Her life is full of struggles where she is denied freedom and expression.
Amanda is so much irate (angry) that she escapes reality by living in her imaginative
A7
world. Through this gateway she experiences calmness, away from her nagging parents.

188. Why is Amanda getting scolded for having chocolate?

AL

Ans. : Amanda is getting scolded for having chocolates as previously it had caused her
acne. Amanda's mother is very particular about such things. Amanda is made conscious
SH

about her physical appearance. It is very sad that at such a young age Amanda is made to
worry about natural experiences.
TH

189. What are the instructions that Amanda gets? Do you think that these instructions will
curtail herfreedom?
PA

Ans. :
i. Don't eat chocolate, Amanda.
N

ii. Remember your acne, Amanda.

RA

iii. Did you finish your homework.

iv. Did you tidy your room.
v. Don't bite your nails.
KU

vi. Don't hunch your shoulder.

190. Don't eat that chocolate, Amanda!
AN

Remember your acne, Amanda!

Why is Amanda asked not to eat chocolate?

Ans. : Amanda already suffers from acne, a skin disease. If she eats chocolate it will
aggravate her problem further. That is why she is asked not to eat chocolate.

191. Stanzas 2, 4 and 6 are given in parenthesis. Give reasons for this peculiar setting.

Ans. : Stanzas 2 4 and 6 are given in parenthesis because they are the thoughts of the
child in between the instructions that she is being given by her mother which are given in
stanzas 1 3 and 5. The scolding by the mother and the child's thoughts are placed in
alternate stanzas by the poet.

[27]
192. Why does Amanda want to be Rapunzel?

Ans. : Amanda is an escapist. She imagines herself as a fairy like Rapunzel. She wants to
live happily in her lonely tower far from the maddening crowd of the world. Like Rapunzel,
she wants to take care of her beautiful golden hair.

193. Do you think that Amanda doesn't like to be controlled and instructed not to do one
thing or the other? Give a reasoned answer.

Ans. : Amanda loves her freedom. She doesn't want it to be curtailed. She wants to lead
her own kind of life. If she is asked what to do and what not, she feels that her freedom is
curtailed. She doesn't bother to answer her mother when she goes on instructing her what
to do and what not.

5
194. Read the last stanza. Do you think Amanda is sulking and is moody?

34
Ans. : It does not seem that she is sulking, though she could be moody. She is completely

63
lost in her thoughts and is not even listening to her mother. Her mother perceives her to be
sulking as she does not react to her instructions at all. As Amanda does not listen to her,

88
she concludes that she is very moody and continues to nag her.

195. Why does Amanda's mother ask her to stop sulking?

67
Ans. : Amanda's mother thinks that she is moody as her mood is always shifting. If she puts
A7
on an unhappy appearance, others will blame her mother. They will think that she is being
constantly nagged by her mother.
AL

196. 'Stop that sulking at once, Amanda!' Do you think that Amanda is 'sulking' and 'moody'
in theconcluding stanza? Throw light on her character on the basis of this line.
SH

Ans. : No Amanda is not sulking or moody. She does not like to listen to her
parent's constant scolding and nagging so she chooses to escape into an imaginary world.
TH

She imagines herself to be a mermaid, an orphan and Rapunzel where she can experience
freedom and peace. This gives her parents the impression that she is sulking but in reality,
PA

she just chooses to distract herself by using her imagination.

197. It is not money that makes a person great. It is the talent that matters more. How did
N

Wanda prove it? What impresses you the most in her character?
RA

Ans. : It is true that it is not money that makes a person great. It is the talent that matters
more. Wanda was a poor Polish girl who was ridiculed by rich girls in her school. She was
KU

not taken seriously by them. Nobody recognised her talent in her class. But she proved
them wrong. She made amazing drawings. There were hundred such drawings which
AN

mesmerised all in the school. She won the first prize and proved that it is not money but
the talent that makes a person great. She proves Maddie and Peggy wrong by winning the
prize. Her patience, tolerance, creativity and fighting spirit impress the readers the most.

198. Why didn’t Maddie ask Peggie to stop teasing Wanda? What was she afraid of?

Ans. : Maddie tried to tell Peggy to stop teasing Wanda by writing a note to her. She knew
she would never have the courage to speak to Peggy about this matter. As she was writing
the note, she pictured herself in the school yard as a new target for Peggy and the girls.
She thought Peggy might ask her where she got the dress she had on and she would have
to say that it was one of Peggy’s old ones. This was what she was afraid of. Consequently,
she ended up tearing the note.

[28]
199. Why did Peggy and Maddie stop short and gasp when they entered the classroom?

Ans. : The moment they entered the classroom, Peggy and Maddie stopped short and
gasped as there were drawings all over the room. Even every ledge and windowsill had
them. There were designs with dazzling colours. They were drawn on wrapping paper.
More than a hundred of them were there all lined up all over the room.

200. Why did Maddie feel that she could be the next target of Peggy and all other girls? What
did she wish?

Ans. : No doubt, Peggy was her closest friend and benefactor. However, Maddie knew that
she herself was a poor girl. She wore old clothes given up by Peggy. Peggy and all others
could ask her where she had got the dress from which she was wearing. She would have to
answer that it was Peggy's old ones. She could be the next target of Peggy and the other

5
34
girls. She wished Peggy would stop teasing Wanda Petronski.

201. Give a brief character sketch of Wanda.

63
Ans. : Wanda is a simple and poor girl. She is a goodhearted girl. She is a quiet and

88
introvert girl who always sits in the corner of the classroom as she has to hide her legs and
shoes which are caked with dust and mud on her way to school. She is a timid girl who

67
cannot counter the taunting of Peggy and Maddie. She is a lonely child as she does not
have any friends and is always alone while going to school and back from there. On the
A7
other side, she is a creative and artistic girl. She is able to transform her dreams of having
a variety of dresses in the form of designs rather than feeling depressed for not possessing
AL

the beautiful dresses. Though Peggy and Maddie make fun of her with other students, she
never retaliates. Her winning the prize for her hundred dresses wins her applause from all
SH

the students. She has some positive values in her character. She is a creative, patient and
determined girl. She has a dream too. She is an ambitious girl who wants to do something
TH

good in her life.

202. Give a brief character sketch of Maddie. Did she has sympathy and compassion for
PA

Wanda?

Ans. : Maddie is a simple girl who belongs to a poor family but somehow manages to look
N

neat and clean. Though she is always with Peggy who makes fun of her, she does not like
RA

it. She is sympathetic towards Wanda but is unable to express before Peggy who is the
most popular girl. She is a very emotional girl who is touched by the taunting comments of
Peggy. She is a timid girl and does not have the courage to oppose Peggy for making fun of
KU

Wanda. She is also practical and would not make Peggy stop making fun of Wanda. She
knows that she too, is poor and Peggy would be making fun of her as well. She dares not
AN

ask Peggy to stop making fun of Wanda. Basically, Maddie is a good hearted girl who is
unable to oppose Peggy. Yes, Maddie has sympathy and compassion for Wanda. She does
not like Peggie's making fun of Wanda but lacked the courage to oppose her.

203. How should we judge people around us - by their money and wealth? Or is there
something more than that? How did Peggy and Maddie judge Wanda? Were they right in
their judgement?

Ans. : We judge the people around us by their status and wealth. We ignore the talent and
values they possess. It is not the money that makes man a good human being, it is the
value, the skill, the talent that make someone excellent. Peggy and Maddie judged Wanda
on the basis of her poverty. She always wore a faded blue dress that did not fit her well.

[29]
 She was not well dressed as Peggie or Maddie. Her talent was never recognised. She
proved her talent by the end of the story. Peggy and Maddie were not right in their
judgement about Wanda. They thought that Wanda was a poor girl with no talent. They
always made fun of Wanda.

204. What did her classmates and Maddie think about Peggy?

Ans. : Peggy was decided by the most popular girl in the class. She was pretty. She had
many pretty clothes. Her hair was curly they thought that she could draw better than other
girls. She handed down her old clothes to her closest friend Maddie. Maddie wished that
Peggy would not embarrass Wanda by asking uncomfortable questions about her dresses
and shoes.

205. Did Wanda have a hundred dresses? Why do you think she said she did?

5
34
Ans. : No, she did not have a hundred dresses because she was poor and wore the same
faded dress to school every day. Probably, it was a child’s fantasy to possess a hundred

63
dresses—a child who had only one dress to wear for school. The other children used to
make fun of her poverty, and would have laughed at her whatever she might have said.

88
This could have been the reason for her exaggerating everything.

67
206. Who won the drawing contest? What had the winner drawn?

Ans. : Wanda won the drawing contest. She had drawn a hundred dresses, which were
A7
dazzling with colours, and had brilliant and lavish designs. They were all drawn on great
sheets of wrapping paper. They were all different from each other and all beautiful. The
AL

judges said that any one of the drawings was worthy of winning the prize.

207. What do Maddie and Peggy feel when Wanda wins the contest?
SH

Ans. : When Wanda won the contest Maddie and Peggy felt guilty and
TH

embarrassed because they used to make fun of her by asking her how many dresses she
had. They never thought that Wanda could win in the contest.
PA

208. What was the reaction of Peggy and Maddie when they saw the drawings of Wanda
Petronski?
N

Ans. : drawing too had the head and the face exactly like her. Peggy exclaimed "What did I
RA

say! She must have really liked us". And certainly, Wanda Petronski did like even a girl like
Peggy who always pestered her with her teasing and embarrassing questions.
KU

209. Why did Peggy and Maddie not wait for Wanda?

Ans. : Peggy and Maddie didn't wait for Wanda because it was raining and they did not
AN

want to be in trouble waiting for Wanda. Secondly, they were eager to know the results of
the competition.

210. Did Wanda Petronski have hundred dresses? Why do you think she said she had
hundred dresses?

Ans. : Wanda Petronski was a poor girl. She did not have a hundred dresses. She knew that
other girls were making fun of her asking questions about her dresses. In order to counter
their taunts and insulting remarks she often told them that she had a hundred dresses in
her closet.

211. What was the drawing contest about? Explain.

[30]
 Ans. : The drawing contest was about art and paintings. The contest had different slots for
boys and girls. It was about the drawings and talent of kids in the school.

212. How were the chances of Peggy's winning the contest better than that of others?

Ans. : Peggy's chances of winning the contest were more than others' because she could
copy a picture in a magazine or some film star's head which was very good.

213. Who won for the boys in the painting competition? Why?

Ans. : Jack Beggles' painting was adjudged the best for the boys because he had painted
the design for an outboard motor which was very exquisite.

214. What is hopscotch? How is it played?

5
Ans. : Hopscotch is a game in which children hop into and over the squares marked on the

34
ground.

63
215. What does Miss Mason think of Wanda's drawings? How do the children think of them?

Ans. : Miss Mason is very impressed with Wanda's drawings. She considers them really

88
beautiful and worthy of winning individually. The children are also impressed by the
drawing skills of Wanda that they all applaud and whistle when she wins among the girls.

216.
67
"Wanda sat in the seat next to the last seat in the last row in Room Thirteen". Why did
A7
Wandaseat in the last row in Room Thirteen? Explain.

Ans. : (a)Wanda's absence was not noticed by anyone, not even by Peggy and Maddie who
AL

used to tease her everyday after school.

(b) Wanda Petronski sat in the last row of the class because she was very quiet and wanted
SH

to avoid the taunts and trouble by girls in the class.

217. What lessons does this chapter teach children about how to treat others?
TH

Ans. : This chapter teaches children and adults alike to stand up for what is right and not to
PA

be swayed by others. It teaches that although standing up for the right thing might be
difficult, standing by and watching whilst others are bullied or treated badly is definitely
the wrong thing to do. It also will be something that plays on your mind for a lot longer
N

than doing the right thing would have done. The main lesson in the book is "be nice to
RA

others".

218. Why were Peggy and Maddie surprised when they entered the classroom?
KU

Ans. : they were surprised to see about 100 pictures hung all around the class room and all
were chic,elegant and beautiful.
AN

219. Where did Peggy and Maddie usually meet Wanda and why?

Ans. : They both met at outside the school ground to her because to have fun by making
her joke.

220. Describe the reaction of Wanda Petronski to Peggy and Maddie.

Ans. : Wanda was a poor Polish girl who had no American friend. In her school, her
classmates Peggy and Maddie made fun of her funny name and her blue dress that she
wore every day. But, she did not respond to them and remained silent and serious. She
walked alone with dull eyes and hitched her shoulders in a funny way.

[31]
221. Why did Peggy and Maddie not notice Wanda's absence?

Ans. : Peggy and Maddie did not notice Wanda's absence because Wanda was a quiet girl
and did not communicate with the other children of the class. She sat in the corner of the
class. Her presence did not matter much to Peggy and Maddie.

222. Do you think Wanda Petronski enjoyed playing the 'Game of Hundred Dresses'? Explain.

Ans. : No, Wanda Petronski did not enjoyed the game of hundred dresses. Peggy plays this
type of Game to make the fun of Wanda. She felt depply hurt but did not say anything.

223. Why was Peggy the favourite of winning the drawing and colouring contest?

Ans. : Everyone thought that Peggie would win the prize among girls. She drew better than
anyone else in the class. She could copy a picture in a magazine. She could draw the head

5
of some film star and anyone could tell who it was.

34
224. Why does the poet want to give up the world of men and live with animals? Give valid

63
reasons for his choice.

Ans. : The poet desires to live among animal because they are calm and self-confident.

88
They are well contented. They do not sweat and complain about their condition like human

67
beings. They do not possess the mania of possessing things.

225. Why does the poet become sick when one discusses one's duty to God?
A7
Ans. : The fact, that humans commit all kinds of sins and still discuss their duty to God,
makes the poet sick. This shows the hypocrisy of humans, who on one hand do wrong and
AL

on the other pray to God.

SH

226. Why does the poet like animals?

Ans. : The poet likes animals for their self-contained and quiet nature. The fact that
TH

animals are not like human beings as they are satisfied with their lives, appeals to the poet
a lot. The fact that animals have been able to retain the basic good values is appreciated
PA

by the poet.

227. How have humans dropped those 'tokens' which are plainly in the 'possession' of
N

animals?
RA

Ans. : Those tokens of love, sympathy and contentment which humans shared with animals
at one time, have been 'negligently' dropped by humans. Greed, over ambition,
KU

arrogance, confusion and vulgarity took the place of those 'tokens' which humans once
shared with animals.
AN

228. Why does the poet wish to live with animals?

Ans. : The animals are placid and self contained. They are satisfied with their lot and never
complain about it. The poet is disgusted with living among human beings. So he wishes to
live with animals because he likes them.

229. What is the central idea of the poem?

Ans. : The token that the poet says he might have dropped long ago, and which the
animals have kept for him, is his true nature as a human. While humans came close to
civilisation, they gradually moved away from their true nature.

230. Why does the poet say “Did I pass that way huge times ago and negligently drop them"?

[32]
 Ans. : The poet believes that like animals who have preserved their tokens of love, he too
had those virtues long long ago. It is possible that with the passage of time he dropped
them negligently.

231. Why do animals don't kneel down to their fellow beings or ancestors? How do humans
react to them?

Ans. : Animals don't show unnecessary respect to their fellow beings and to their
ancestors. They don't indulge in such unnecessary civilities and formalities. On the other
hand, humans express their respect not only to their ancestors but also to their fellow
beings. They have a tendency to indulge in unnecessary civilities and decencies.

232. According to the poet how are the animals superior to humans?

5
Ans. : According to the poet, animals are better than humans because they are satisfied

34
with their lives. They do not care about anything and instead enjoy their lives. They do not
have greed for materialistic things. They never commit sins.

63
233. What makes the poet sick?

88
Ans. : The fact, that humans commit all kinds of sins and still discuss their duty to God,
makes the poet sick. This shows the hypocrisy of humans, who on one hand do wrong and

67
on the other pray to God. A7
234. Why do humans keep awake in the dark and weep for their sins while animals never do
such things?
AL

Ans. : Animals have a clear conscience. They are not confused or muddle-headed.
Humans are ambitious, greedy and suffer from the mania of possessing and owning
SH

things. Their sins and misdeeds don't allow them to enjoy a sound sleep at night. They
weep over their sins.
TH

235. Did they get a reply? Who was more anxious for a reply, Peggy or Maddie? How do you
know?
PA

Ans. : No, they did not get a reply. Maddie was more anxious for a reply as she thought a lot
about it. She would put herself to sleep making speeches about Wanda and defending her
N

from great crowds of girls who were trying to tease her. Before Wanda could press her lips
RA

together in a tight line, which she did before answering, Maddie would cry out and ask
everybody to stop and then, everybody would feel ashamed the way she felt. Peggy, on the
KU

other hand, had begun to forget about the whole affair. This shows that Maddie was more
anxious for a reply than Peggy.
AN

236. How did Peggy and Maddie know that the Petronskis were gone?

Ans. : Peggy and Maddie reached Wanda's house at Boggins Heights. There was no sign of
life about the house. Peggy knocked firmly on the door, but there was no answer. She and
Maddie went round to the backyard and knocked there. Still there was no answer. There
was no doubt about it that Petronskis were gone.

237. Maddie was full of sympathy and compassion for Wanda but she never stopped Peggy
from making fun of Wanda. Why? What does it show about Maddie? Do you think it was
her self-interest and lack of courage which stopped her from helping Wanda?

Ans. : Maddie and Peggy were good friends. Peggy was a pretty and rich girl. Maddie was
not so rich. She knew that Peggy was making fun of Wanda but she never stopped her. She

[33]
 did not want to lose Peggy as a friend. She had compassion and sympathy for Wanda. She
did not appreciate Peggy's act of making fun of Wanda but never opposed her. It shows
Maddie was not a bold girl. She did not have courage to say right things right. She was
selfish to some extent. Yes, in my opinion it was her self-interest and lack of courage that
stopped her from helping Wanda.

238. Why tears blurred Maddie's eyes when she studied intently the drawing of the green
dress drawn by Wanda?

Ans. : Maddie studied the drawing of the green dress intently. She thought of Wanda
Petronski. Tears blurred her eyes. She noticed that the face and the head of the drawing
looked like her. Maddie could hardly stop her tears when she imagined Wanda among the
laughing girls telling about her hundred dresses.

5
239. Who is a better human being-Maddie or Peggy? What attributes in the personality of

34
Maddie make her different from Peggy?

63
Ans. : Peggy and Maddie both were good friends. They studied in the same school and the
same class. They were American girls. Peggy was a rich, pretty girl with blonde hair.

88
Maddie was also a pretty girl but she was not as rich as Peggy. Both, Maddie and Peggy
used to make fun of Wanda. Peggy never missed any opportunity of teasing Wanda.

67
Maddie belonged to a poor family. She was always with Peggy but she had sympathy for
Wanda too. She did not like Peggy making fun of Wanda. She wanted to stop Peggy but
A7
could never muster the courage for the same. Maddie had a different temperament than
Peggy. In the end when they came to know that Wanda was leaving the school, Maddie was
AL

affected the most. She came out as a better human being by the end of the story.

240. How did Wanda win the hearts of her classmates towards the end of the story? What is
SH

more important, money or talent? How did Wanda prove that beauty and wealth do not
pay in the long run, it is the talent that helps?
TH

Ans. : Wanda was a poor Polish girl who studied in an American school with the American
PA

students. They used to make fun of her name. Maddie and Peggy, two American girls, used
to tease her by asking her about the dresses she had. Wanda decided to leave the school
forever. But before leaving the school she wanted to prove herself and show her talent.
N

She participated in a drawing competition in the school. She made hundred paintings
RA

showing hundred different dresses. Wanda wrote a letter to Ms Mason telling her that the
girls could keep those hundred dresses as a Christmas gift from her. She gifted two special
KU

paintings to Maddie and Peggy. She won the hearts of everyone by her gesture. It shows
that to win other's money is not everything. Talent, plays a very important role in one's life.
AN

In long run money and beauty do not pay, it is the skill and talent which help us.

241. What did Wanda write in her letter?

Ans. : Wanda Petronski wrote a letter to her previous teacher Miss Mason. She requested
her to tell the girls of Room Thirteen that they could keep those hundred dresses. She
wished that Peggy would have the drawing of the green dress and Maddie of the blue one.
She wrote that she missed her old school. Her new teacher couldn't equalise Miss Mason.

242. How did Peggy and Maddie interpret and react to Wanda's letter?

Ans. : Peggy was excited. The letter showed that Wanda really liked them. Everything was
all right. But Maddie was sad. She felt sad because she knew that she would never see that

[34]
 little Polish girl again. She knew that they would never really make things right between
them.

243. Peggy realised her fault in making fun of Wanda. What excuses did she think up for her
behavior with Wanda? What does it show about her character?

Ans. : Peggy said that she had never called Wanda a foreigner and made fun of her name.
She thought Wanda did not have sense to know that she was making fun of her, she
thought her to be too dumb. Maddie was sorry for her behaviour and how wonderful the
whole school thought she was. Both wanted to request her not to move from there. Peggy
and Maddie would fight anyone who wouldn't be nice to her. Peggy realised her fault. It
shows that she was not a bad human being. She never realised that her innocent fun would
hurt Wanda to such an extent. She had a soft corner for her by the end of the story.

5
244. How did the town look on the Christmas eve?

34
Ans. : On the Christmas eve, the town looked very beautiful. There were celebrations all

63
around. All the houses were being decorated. The Christmas trees were decorated at
many public places. The colour papers were hanging everywhere. Each place was full of

88
happiness.

67
245. Why was Maddie sad about Wanda?

Ans. : Maddie was sad about Wanda because she had realised her mistake that she should
A7
not have made fun of her.

246. Why did Wanda's father Mr Petronski write a letter to the principal and Miss Mason?
AL

Ans. : Mr Petronski, Wanda's father, wrote a letter to the principal and Miss Mason to tell
SH

them the truth behind Wanda's absence from the school. He wrote that he was upset to
know that his daughter was bullied in the school by some of her classmates because of her
TH

strange name and poverty.

247. What happens when Maddie pinned the drawing in the room?
PA

Ans. : She went home and she pinned her drawing over a torn place in the pink-flowered
wallpaper in the bedroom. The shabby room came alive from the brilliancy of the colours.
N

248. What are Maddie’s thoughts as they go to Boggins Heights?

RA

Ans. : Maddie hoped that they would find Wanda. She wanted to tell her that they were
sorry that they had picked on her; and that how wonderful the whole school thought she
KU

was. She also thought of requesting her not to leave the school. She even thought that she
and Peggy would fight anybody who was not nice to her.
AN

249. Why did Maddie think that her silence was as bad as Peggy's act?

Ans. : Yes, Maddie thought that her silence was as bad as Peggy's teasing because it is
often said that turning a blind eye to a crime is worse than committing a crime. So by
being silent she indirectly encouraged Peggy to tease Wanda.

250. What is the comparison between Wanda's house and her dress?

Ans. : The comparison between Wanda's house and her dress is that both of them look
shabby but are clean.

251. How did the children decorate Room Thirteen?

[35]
 Ans. : The children decorated the room with great love and care. They decorated it with
Christmas bells and a small tree.

252. What was Miss Mason's reaction after getting Mr. Petronski's letter?

Ans. : After getting Mr. Petronski's letter, Miss Mason was very unhappy and upset. She
looked at the class and spoke in a low voice. She said that none of the students in that
class would knowingly hurt anyone's feelings because their name seemed funny. It was
really very unfortunate.

253. What excuses did Peggy make to defend herself regarding her teasing of Wanda?

Ans. : The excuse that Peggy thought up for her behaviour was that she never called
Wanda a foreigner or made fun of her name. She also said that she never thought Wanda

5
had even the sense to know that they were making fun of her. She thought Wanda was too

34
dumb. However, she appreciated the fact that Wanda could draw so well.

63
254. Why did Maddie write a letter to Wanda?

Ans. : Maddie wrote a letter to Wanda to congratulate her on her success telling her that

88
she had won the contest. She also wanted to appreciate the designs of hundred dresses. In

67
fact, Maddie and Peggy, in their letter wanted to convey that they were sorry for insulting
her by making fun of her hundred dresses.
A7
255. How did the town look on the Christmas Eve?

Ans. : On Christmas Eve, the town looked very beautiful. There were celebrations all
AL

around.

256. Describe the condition of Wanda's house on Boggins Heights.

SH

Ans. : wanda 's house which is in boggins heights will looks poor and the furniture was all
TH

were not good.

257. Why did Mr Petronski write a letter to the school teacher?

PA

Ans. : Petronski wrote a letter to Miss Mason just to inform that Wanda had now changed
the school and that they would no more be teased by their surname again. After listening
N

to the letter, Maddie felt remorseful and decided to not be an onlooker again.
RA

258. Why is the presence of baker's furnace in the village absolutely necessary? What does
this tell you about the social and family life of the Portuguese explaining the in content
KU

with the value system of the society.

Ans. : The presence of a baker's furnace in the village is absolutely necessary.

AN

The baker with his fragrant and sweet loaves holds a special place in the lives of the
Goans. Though the old bakers have died but their offsprings still continue the family
profession. The sweet loaves of bread are very popular. Even in the marriage gift, it is of
utmost importance to include the sweet bread, sandwiches, bolinhas and other bakery
items. These items are prepared in furnaces that still exist. It throws light on the family and
social life of the people. The society has a rich value system. We must also live together
with love and follow the rituals passed on to us through generations. Modernity must not
be at the cost of forgetting our own traditions. The elders have a wisdom to enrich the
younger generations' radical views. There must be a balance between the traditional and
social ethos and modern views.

[36]
259. "During our childhood in Goa, the baker used to be our friend, companion and guide'.
What does this statement tell you about the character of the narrator? Are there some
traits of the character of the narrator which need to be developed in you?

Ans. : The narrator Lucio Rodrigues becomes nostalgic as he talked about a traditional
Goan village baker who occupied a special place in the society. He referred to the baker as
his friend, companion and guide. It shows that the people of Goa are rich in human values.
The narrator himself has respect for all the professions. He never looks down upon
anybody. The baker with his disciplined routine and the most sought after loaves of bread
teaches the children the value of being punctual. Certain social values like love,
compassion, empathy and a sense of cooperation are there that need to be developed.
These qualities make a person a useful member of the society. Moreover, no profession

5
should be looked down upon.

34
260. How would you prove that baking was a profitable profession in the old days in Goa?

63
Ans. : Baking was quite a profitable profession in Goa in the old days. The baker and his
family never starved. Even his servants his family always looked happy and prosperous.

88
Their plump physique was an open testimony of their happiness and Prosperity.

261. What did the appearance of a baker show about his traditional profession?

67
Ans. : What did the appearance of baker show about his profession? Baker's were a
A7
specific dress duri their work and this dress shows their professionalism. This specific dress
of baker is known as 'kabai' which was a solitary piece long gown connecting with the
AL

knees. It is mostly white in color.

262. How did the bakers maintain their accounts?

SH

Ans. : The bakers used to collect their bills at the end of the month. Monthly accounts were
recorded on some wall in pencil.
TH

263. Comment on 'he is dressed like a pader'.

PA

Ans. : If a person wears a half pant which reaches just below the knees; he invites this
comment, "he is dressed like a pader". This is because the baker is known as a pader and
N

wears half pants.

RA

264. Is bread-making still popular in Goa? How do you know?

Ans. : Yes, bread-making is still popular in Goa. The author says that the mixers, moulders,
KU

and those who bake the loaves are still present in Goa. The age-old, time-tested furnaces
still exist. The ‘thud’ and ‘jingle’ of the traditional baker’s bamboo, marking his arrival in
AN

the morning, could still be heard in some places. It is a family profession, which is carried
out generations after generations.

265. What is the role of a baker in a Goan village?

Ans. : A baker played a very important role in the lives of people of Goa. They are essential
for a village. No function, no festival, no party was possible in the absence of a baker. The
baker supplied loaves and cakes on these occasions. Some special breads and cakes are
also prepared by them for some special occasion.

266. How was the arrival of the baker special?

[37]
 Ans. : The arrival of the baker was very special. He made his musical entry with the 'Jhang
jhang' sound of his specially made bamboo stick. One hand supported the basket on his
head and the other banged the bamboo on the ground. He wore a peculiar dress called
'Kabai'. They also wore a shirt and trousers which were shorter than full length and longer
than half pants.

267. 'The style of the baker's arrival was unique.' Discuss.

Ans. : The arrival of the baker was very special. He made his musical entry with the ‘Jhang
jhang’ sound of his specially made bamboo stick. One hand supported the basket on his
head and the other banged the bamboo on the ground. He wore a peculiar dress called
‘Kabai’. They also wore a shirt and trousers which were shorter than full length and longer
than half pants.

5
34
268. What are the elders reminiscing about the Portuguese days? What was special at that
time?

63
Ans. : The elders in Goa are nostalgic about the great old Portuguese days and their love
for bread and loaves. The writer says that the eaters of loaves have left but the

88
manufacturers still exist.

67
269. What role did the baker play in the childhood of the narrator?

Ans. : The baker played a very important role in the childhood of the narrator. He used to
A7
be a companion, friend and a guide for the narrator. Every day the narrator was woken up
by him. He used to get sweet bread and delicious loaves from the baker.
AL

270. When did the baker collect his bills and how did he record his monthly accounts?
SH

Ans. : The pader usually collected his bills from his customers at the end of the month. He
didn't have a notebook to record his monthly accounts. Monthly accounts used to be
TH

recorded on some wall in pencil.

271. Why did the children become excited to see the baker? What did they do then?
PA

Ans. : The children used to treat the baker as their friend, companion and guide. They
were attracted to the typically sweet fragrance of the bread loaves. They were only
N

interested in the bread-bangles or the special sweet breads meant for them. So they would
RA

run to meet him.

272. What was the attitude of the baker towards:

KU

i. The lady of the house

ii. The children
AN

iii. The maid servant?

Ans. :
i. First of all, the baker would greet the lady of the house with “Good morning" and
then place his basket on the vertical bamboo before her.
ii. He would push aside the children with a mild rebuke.
iii. The loaves were delivered to the maid-servant.
273. Explain the statement: 'The tiger never brushed his teeth.'

Ans. : 'The tiger never brushed his teeth. The children are as free as the tiger in the
jungle. They do not care about brushing their teeth or washing their mouths. They start
eating as soon as they wake up.

[38]
274. What did the bakers wear: (i) in the Portuguese days? (ii) when the author was young?

Ans. :
i. In the Portuguese days, the bakers had a peculiar dress known as the kabai. It was
a single-piece long frock reaching down to the knees.
ii. When the author was young, he saw the bakers wearing a shirt and trousers,
which were shorter than full-length ones and longer than half pants.
275. How did the baker attract the children?

Ans. : The jingling thud of bakers' bamboo used to attract the children. They were fond of
sweet bread bangles which were specially made for them. The typical fragrance of the
sweet bread and cakes attracted the children and they never missed them.

276. What is the story about the Kodavu people’s descent?

5
34
Ans. : According to the author, the fiercely independent people of Coorg are possibly of
Greek or Arabic descent. A part of Alexander’s army moved south along the coast. They

63
settled there when return became impractical. These people married amongst the locals
and their culture is evident in the martial traditions, marriage and religious rites, which are

88
distinct from the Hindu mainstream.

67
The Kodavus wear a long, black coat, with an embroidered waist-belt, known as kuppia. It
resembles the kuffia worn by the Arabs and the Kurds, hence supporting the theory of their
A7
Arab origin.

277. Describe the origin of Kaveri and the area around it.
AL

Ans. : The river, Kaveri, originates from the hills and forests of Coorg. Mahaseer a large
freshwater fish abound in these waters. Kingfishers dive for their catch. The squirrels and
SH

langurs drop half-eaten fruit for the mischief of enjoying the splash and ripples in the clear
water. A walk across island of Nisargadhana.
TH

278. Describe the wildlife of Coorg.

PA

Ans. : The wildlife of Coorg consists of animals like macaques, langurs, squirrels, loris and
elephants. The birds spotted in Coorg are kingfishers.
N

279. What is Kuppia? How does it make the Kodavus close to the Arabs?
RA

Ans. : ‘Kuppia’ is a long, black coat with embroidered waist belt worn by the people of
Coorg. It is very similar to Kuffia worn by the Arabs.
KU

280. Describe the animal wealth of Coorg.

Ans. : Coorg is the heaven for various species of birds and animals. It includes Mahaseer -
AN

a large freshwater - abound in these waters. Kingfisher dive for their catch, squirrel and
langurs drop partially eaten fruit to enjoy the ripple effect in the clear water.

281. What is the importance of the river Kaveri in the district of Coorg?

Ans. : The Kaveri creates and sustains vast stretches of green fields, thick plantain groves,
coconut, coffee and areca. Folks of Coorg share a deep and abiding relationship with this
wonderful and endearing river. It touches the lives of all the people in this little district
each day.

282. What is the story regarding the Greek origin of the people of Coorg?

[39]
 Ans. : According to one story, a part of Alexander's army moved south along the coast and
settled here when return became impractical. These people married amongst the locals
and expanded their family. Hence, it is believed that the people of Coorg are possibly of
Greek descent.

283. Why is Coorg called 'a piece of heaven that must have drifted from the kingdom of
God'?

Ans. : Coorg is often referred to as a small piece of heaven because of its natural beauty—
of its evergreen forest, rolling hills, coffee plantations and spice trees. The freshness of the
natural surroundings is further enhanced by the aroma of coffee.

284. '...many surprises that wait to be discovered by visitors searching for the heart and soul
of India.' Give evidence from the story to support the statement.

5
34
Ans. : The sixty four acre island of Nisargadhama, the India's largest Tibetan settlement at
Bylakuppe and the monks, in red, ochre and yellow robes are some of the many surprises

63
that wait to be discovered at Coorg.

88
285. What are high-energy adventures available in Coorg?

Ans. : The high energy adventures that are available in Coorg are river rafting, canoeing,

67
rappelling, rock climbing and mountain biking.
A7
286. Describe the geographical location of Coorg.

Ans. : Coorg or Kadagu, is the smallest district in Karnatka. It lies between Mysore and the
AL

coastal town of Mangalore. This piece of heaven may also be called the land of rolling hills.
It is the home of evergreen rainforests, spices and coffee plantations, During the
SH

monsoons, Coorg has a lot of rains.

287. The people of Coorg have a tradition of courage and bravery. How has it been
TH

recognized inmodern India?

Ans. : Coorgi's are awarded the Coorg Regiment with the most number of gallantry
PA

awards in the recognition of their bravery and courage in modern India.

288. What is Kodagu? Why is it famous?

N

Ans. : Kodagu is another name of Coorg, the smallest district of Karnataka. It is famous for
RA

its coffee gardens, spices and rainforests. It is also famous for its brave people and culture.
KU

289. Why are the Brahmagiri hills and the island of Nisargadhama famous in Coorg?

Ans. : The climb to the Brahmagiri hills not only offers the panoramic view of the entire
AN

misty landscape of Coorg, but also it is a gateway to many hidden surprises. Besides, a
walk across the rope bridge leads to the sixty-four-acre island of Nisargadhama. Then,
there is the India's largest Tibbetan settlement, Bylakuppe.

290. Which sports attract the tourists most at Coorg?

Ans. : The sports that coorg offers to tourists are river rafting, canoeing, rappelling, rock
climbing and mountain biking.

291. How has the Coorgi tradition of courage and bravery been recognised in modern India?

Ans. : The Coorgi tradition of courage and bravery has been recognised by awarding the
Coorg Regiment with the most number of gallantry awards. Besides, the Coorgis are the

[40]
 only Indians allowed to carry firearms without a licence. The first chief of the Indian Army,
General Cariappa, was also a Coorgi.

292. Give examples to show the traditional valour and courage of the people of Coorg.

Ans. : The corgi tradition of courage and bravery has been recognized by giving awards.
Most of the Kodava people are Indians allowed to carry firearms without a license. Indian
Army gave them bravery awards.

293. From whom have the inhabitants of Coorg descended, as per the legend?

Ans. : As per the legend, a part of Alexander's army, when retreating from India, went
South and settled in Coorg when they found that they could not return home. Then they
married among the locals and their descendants are the Kodavus (the people of Coorg).

5
294. Describe the weather of Coorg and its best tourist season.

34
Ans. : With the temperature ranging between 15 degree Celcius and 20 degree Celcius

63
throughout the year, Coorg is a year-round destination. That said, October to March is the
best time for adventure activities especially trekking. March and April are the favoured

88
months to experience the valley shrouded in white flowers.

67
295. 'Different traditions of hospitality make the Coorg unique.' Explain this statement in the
light oftradition and culture of the Coorgis.
A7
Ans. : Coorgi has seen various traditions throughout India. His house also
observes different rituals that make him and his family stand out.
AL

296. Describe the largest Buddhist settlement in Coorg.

Ans. : Below the rolling hills lie the largest Tibetan settlement in India in Coorg. The
SH

Buddhist temple at Bylakuppe is famous for its grandeur and beauty. The monks in their
red, ochre and yellow robes represent Coorg.
TH

297. What are some of the things you now know about:
PA

The people of Coorg?

Ans. : The people of Coorg are fiercely independent. They are of Greek or Arabic descent.
N

They have a tradition of hospitality. They enjoy recounting numerous tales of valour
RA

related to their sons and fathers. Kodavus are the only people in India permitted to carry
firearms without a license. The author has described the people of Coorg as a proud race
of martial men and beautiful women.
KU

298. How can one reach Coorg?

AN

Ans. : The two closest railway stations to Coorg are Mysore Junction and Mangalore Central
Railway Station, which are at a distance of 95 km and 134 Kms from Coorg. When traveling
from Bangalore to Coorg by train, it is best to take a train to Mysore Junction and then take
a bus or cab from Mysore to reach Coorg.

299. Describe the possible descent of the people of Coorg.

Ans. : The people of Coorg, their rituals and traditions are quite different from the Hindu
mainstream. According to one story, a part of the Alexander's army travelling the coast,
settled here as their return to be of Greek origin. The Coorgi dress, a long, black coat with
an embroidered waist-belt resembles the Kuffia worn by the Arabs. So, some think that
they are of Arabic origin.

[41]
300. Describe Coorg's weather, main crops and sports that fascinate the visitors.

Ans. : Coorg is the tourist place that lies in between the Mangalore and Mysore. The best
season for tourists is from September to March.
Coorg is a hill station, it is mainly popular for coffee and spices crops. Agriculture is the
most important factor for the economy of coorg.
Crops cultivated in this region are coffee and rice.
In Coorg Hockey is the most popular sport but Football is also the most favorite sport.
Coorg is the best holiday spot for people, the climate remains beautiful to visit.

301. Does the statement - 'Dwarfing the tiny tea plants were tall sturdy shade-trees...' remind
you of an elder in the family who protects the younger ones with love and care? How
should you behave with the elders of the family who do so much for you?

5
34
Ans. : The view outside the train was magnificent. The sentence 'Dwarfing the tiny
tea plants were tall sturdy shade trees....' indicates to the nature's way of

63
protecting its offsprings. The tall sturdy shady trees provide shade to the tiny tea

88
plants which may otherwise get withered away in the heat of the sun. In the same
manner, elders of a family protect the younger ones and take a great care of them

67
with love and compassion. Particularly in Indian society, family plays a protective
role in nurturing the children and taking care of all their needs. It is the duty of the
A7
children also to listen to the elders and respect them. Nowadays family values are
fast disappearing. Such a trend is very harmful to the society as well as the
AL

individual. Love, empathy, respect for each other, understanding, a sense of

SH

individual duties are the qualities that cement the relationships in a family.
302. Rajvir felt too excited on reaching Assam while Pranjol showed least interest in his
TH

excitement. What could be the reason behind this? Do you think it is appropriate on
Pranjol's part to react like this? Justify your answer with reason.
PA

(A)

Ans. : Pranjol invited his friend Rajvir to spend some days with him in his hometown
N

Assam. On reaching there, Rajvir was stunned to see the beauty of tea plantations.
RA

It was an entirely new experience for him while for Pranjol, these were a common
sight so he showed least interest in Rajvir's excitement. I think it is not appropriate
KU

on Pranjol's part to react thus. No doubt his indifference was natural but it might
dampen Rajvir's spirit. Sometimes we have to act according to the wishes of the
AN

person opposite us, especially when the person is very close to us. A true friend is
one who understands the feelings of his friend and tries to make him happier.
Although Pranjol and Rajvir were very close yet one should always try to
strengthen the bond of friendship.
303. Describe the Chinese legend regarding the discovery of tea leaves.

Ans. : There is a Chinese legend regarding the discovery of tea leaves. One Chinese
emperor always boiled water before drinking it. One day a few leaves of the
burning twigs under the pot fell into the water. The result was wonderful. The

[42]
 water gave a delicious flavour. Those leaves that gave the water a delicious flavour
were tea leaves.
304. Why was Pranjol not excited on seeing the tea garden?

Ans. : Pranjol was born and brought up in Assam. He had been watching the tea
gardens since his childhood. There was nothing new for him. So he was not excited
on seeing the tea gardens.
305. Where were Rajvir and Pranjol going and why?

Ans. : Rajvir and Pranjol were going to Assam as Pranjol had invited Rajvir to spend
summer vacation there. Pranjol's father was the manager of tea – garden in upper
Assam. So, he wanted Rajvir to visit tea – garden there and know about the history

5
34
of tea.
306. Why was Rajvir so much excited?

63
Ans. : Rajvir had never seen so much greenery before. He was looking at the

88
beautiful scenery. The soft green paddy fields gave way to tea bushes. Against the
backdrop of densely wooded hills, a sea of tea bushes stretched as far as the eyes

67
could see. The orderly rows of bushes were pruned to the see the magnificent
A7
view.
307. What did Rajvir see as soon as he entered Dhekiabari Tea Estate?
AL

Ans. : Rajvir saw acre upon acre of tea bushes on both sides of the gravel road.
They were all pruned to the same height. Groups of tea-pluckers, wearing plastic
SH

aprons were plucking the newly sprouted leaves. It was the second sprouting
period.
TH

308. How are tea pluckers different from other farmers or labourers on the farms?
PA

Ans. : The tea pluckers were different from other workers on the farm. They had
bamboo baskets on their back. They were wearing plastic clothes. They looked like
N

moving dolls.
RA

309. How did Mr Barua know that Rajvir had done his school homework before coming to
Assam?
KU

Ans. : On his way back home Rajvir shared his experiences with Mr Barua, Pranjol`s
father. His extensive knowledge about the tea plantation surpassed Mr Barua`s
AN

expectations. Hence he said that Rajvir has done his homework well before his
visit.
310. Which tea is considered the best tea? Why?

Ans. : The tea prepared from the second flush on sprouting period which begins in
the month of May and lasts till the end of July is considered the best tea. It is the
best one because it is prepared from the new leaves.
311. How and where are tea leaves collected in Assam?

Ans. : Assam has the largest number of tea estates in India. Acre upon acre of tea
bushes are stretching as far as the eyes same height. Groups of tea pluckers carry

[43]
 bamboo basket on their back to collect tea-leaves. They wear plastic aprons. They
pluck the newly-sprouted tea leaves from the bushes. Then the leaves are dried
and processed in factories.
312. Why was Pranjol's father impressed with Rajvir's knowledge about tea?

Ans. : Pranjol's father impressed with rajvir knowledge about tea because though
pranjol had grown up in the plantation area, Rajvir knew much better than him
about tea and its various legends.
313. What did Rajvir see while looking outside from the train?

Ans. : Rajvir saw much greenery while looking outside from the train. He was
amazed to see the soft green paddy fields first and then the green tea bushes. It

5
34
was green everywhere and Rajvir had never seen so much greenery before. It was
a magnificent view.

63
314. Describe what Rajvir saw at Dhekiabari Tea Estate.

88
Ans. : Rajvir saw acre upon acre of tea bushes on both sides of the gravel road.
They were all pruned to the same height. Groups of tea-pluckers, wearing plastic

67
aprons were plucking the newly sprouted leaves. It was the second sprouting
A7
period.
315. Describe the Indian legend about tea.
AL

Ans. : The Indian legend that prevails about the origin of tea is that an ancient
Buddhist ascetic, named Bodhidharma cut off his eyelids because he felt sleeply
SH

during meditation. then ten tea plants grew out of the eyelids and the leaves of
these plants when put in hot water and drunk banished sleep.
TH

316. Describe the conflict between man and nature through the struggle of the trees to
liberate themselves from the clutches of man.
PA

Ans. : The trees are not in their original habitat. Man has captured them and put them in
artificial glass houses. The reason behind this is that man wants to protect the trees from
N

others people who aim at destroying them. The trees in the poem are similar to man. As
RA

man loves freedom, so leaves, twigs and roots of the tree want to enjoy their freedom.

317. What does the poet compare their branches to?

KU

Ans. : The poet compares the ‘long-cramped’ branches that have been shuffling under the
AN

roof to newly discharged patients who look half-dazed as they move towards the hospital
doors after long illnesses and wait to get out of the hospital. The branches also have
cramped under the roof and want to get out into the open to spread themselves in fresh
air.

318. What is the message that the poetess want to give to the readers through the poem
'The Trees'?

Ans. : Adrienne Rich uses trees as a metaphor for human beings, more particularly
women. In a male dominated society, women are in bondage. They are struggling to free
themselves. Similarly, nature, represented by trees and forests, is struggling to escape
itself from the onslaughts of man to destroy it. The victorious march of the trees gives a

[44]
 message of hope that nature can't be tamed or subdued by the onslaughts and arrogance
of man.

319. How does the poet describe the moon:

(a) at the beginning of the third stanza, and (b) at its end? What causes this change?

Ans. :
a. At the beginning of the third stanza, the poet says that the night is fresh and the
whole moon is shining in the open sky.
b. At the end, the poet compares the moon shining through the crown of the tallest
oak to a mirror that is broken into flashing pieces. This change is caused due to
the trees stumbling out of the poet's house to escape. As they move outside, their
branches block the moonlight making the moon look like it is shattered into many
pieces.

5
34
320. How does the poet describe the moon in the poem?

Ans. : At the beginning of the third stanza, the poet describes a full moon shining in the

63
open sky. The night is fresh. However, at the end of the poem, the same full moon is

88
broken into pieces.

321. Where are the trees kept? Why are they kept there?

67
Ans. : The trees are kept inside for interior decoration and they have been kept there by
A7
human beings who have destroyed their natural home, the forests. Humans as such do not
have any love for the trees.
AL

322. What does happen to the sun when the trees move out?

Ans. : The sunlight could directly reach the ground. After the trees move back into their
SH

natural habitat i.e. the forest, the sunlight will hide under the shadow of the trees again.

323. What message does the poetess Adrienne Rich want to convey in the poem 'The Trees'?
TH

Ans. : The poem 'The Trees' by Adrienne Rich shows the conflict between man and nature.
PA

The poet wants to give the message that the presence if a few trees inside our home does
nig become equal to nature. It is a very false idea of nature. Real nature is outside, in the
forests we have destroyed.
N

324. Describe the pleasant night when the forest' departed from the house.
RA

Ans. : The struggle was going on. The trees were struggling to depart to the forest, their
KU

natural habitat. But outwardly the night was fresh. The full moon was shining in the open
sky. The smell of leaves and lichen was reaching into the room like a voice.
AN

325. 'No sun bury its feet in shadow.' What does the poet mean by the sun's feet? What
picture doesit create in your mind?

Ans. : The sun radiates heat and the given words create a picture of the hot, radiating sun
cooling its feet in the cool shadow of the forest. The sun's 'feet' refers to its rays that reach
the earth.

326. 'Like newly discharged patientsHalf-dazed, moving To the clinic doors.' Why does the
poet compare the branches with the patients?

Ans. : The poet in these lines convey that the branches of the trees try to move out slowly
and look like newly discharged patients from the hospital who are half shocked on coming
to the outside world.

[45]
327. Describe the comparison between boughs and the newly discharged patients in the last
lines of the second stanza.

Ans. : Freedom is the common theme. The cramped branches of the trees put in the
artificial glasshouses, want to be free. They are shuffling hard to come out in the open.
They want to be free. Similarly, the newly discharged patients are impatient to escape to
freedom. They don't want to be confined to the beds of the hospital. They run towards the
doors of the hospital to have a taste of freedom again.

328. What is the condition of the trees inside the house?

Ans. : The poet describes the growing of trees inside the house as - the leaves strain
towards the glass,small twigs stiff with exertion,long cramped boughs shuffling under the
roof.

5
34
329. Why does not the poet mention the departure of the forest from the house in the letter?

Ans. : The poet hardly mentions about the departure of the forest from the house in her

63
letters because it is humans, who did not care for nature in the first place. So, maybe, the

88
poet now thinks that nobody would be interested in knowing about the efforts that the
trees are making in order to set themselves free.

67
330. How does the poet describe the metaphorical cat?
A7
Ans. : The poet describes the fog as a cat. He does so through a metaphor. The fog is the
cat itself. As a cat jumps and lights on its soft silently, the fog also comes down noiselessly.
AL

331. Describe the arrival, stay and departure of the fog. Describe the double imagery used
by Carl Sandburg in the poem.
SH

Ans. : The poet employs a double image. The fog is converted into a cat and the cat
morphs back into the fog. The arrival of the fog is silent and sudden.
TH

332. How does Carl Sandburg describes the arrival, stay and departure of the fog through
the image of a metaphorical cat?
PA

Ans. : The poet employs a double image. The fog is converted into a cat and the cat
morphs back into the fog. The arrival of the fog is silent and sudden. It comes as if from
N

nowhere. Its arrival is like a small cat. It sits and stays for a while. It engulfs everything in its
RA

all embracing fold. It spreads its fold everywhere from the harbour to the city. It sits silently
as a cat sits on its haunches. The fog stays but not for long. A cat never stays at one place
KU

for a long time. So, the fog moves ahead no one knows where. Carl Sandburg describes
the raw aspect of nature, the all embracing and prevailing fog. Its silent power is felt
AN

everywhere from the harbour to the city.

333. Describe the similarities that have been mentioned in the poem between the fog and a
cat.

Ans. : It is a dual image that changes and merges again in the original. The fog changes
into a cat and the cat changes into the fog. Both of them come silently unseen and
suddenly. Both engulf everything underneath them. The fog engulfs everything, the
harbour and the city in its fold. The fog sits silently as a cat sits on its haunches. Then it
disappears and moves ahead.

334. 'Nothing lasts forever'. How far does the poem 'Fog' depict this idiom?

[46]
 Ans. : The fog in the poem makes a silent, but all-pervasive entry on the scene. It gives no
indication of its temporary nature, at this stage. Its silent arrival, as if on cat feet, does not
indicate its onward spread. It seems to be surrounding the entire countryside like a child
sitting on its haunches, indicating a mysterious aura without exposing its next move. The
reader anticipates some dramatic outcome of this all-pervasive presence from the
harbour, right down to the city. In the final outcome, the fog makes a silent exit, as
secretively as its arrival. The entire drama seems to suggest that even in the most
engulfing of circumstances, is but temporary in nature.

335. What does the poem 'Fog' teach us? Explain.

Ans. : The poem teaches that irrespective of ones gender and physically challenged
people have done great things and reached to great heights so thus we should not judge

5
people who are disable but should seek into their within abilities ! hope this helps.

34
336. Does the poet actually say that the fog is like a cat? Give your own view.

63
Ans. : No, the poet does not actually say that the fog is like a cat. However, he uses the cat

88
as a metaphor to describe the fog.

337. How can you show the things that tell us that the fog is like a cat?

67
Ans. : The three things that tell us that the fog is like a cat are:
A7
(i) The fog comes slowly and silently like a cat.
(ii) It spreads over the city and stays for some time like a cat sitting on its haunches.
AL

(iii) The fog disappears after some time just as a cat moves away after some time.

338. What image does the poet give to the fog? What are the similarities between that image
SH

and fog?

Ans. : The poet looks at fog as a living creature and compares it to a cat. The fog moves
TH

like a cat on its feet and sits on haunches like a cat. A cat is generally a very cautious
creature and therefore it cannot sit and relax in one place. The fog is also a temporary
PA

visitor to earth and that shows very clearly in its movements.

339. How does the poet employ the double imagery of the fog and the cat?
N

Ans. : The poetic device of metaphor is very effectively used in the poem. The fog is
RA

converted into a cat and the cat is morphed back into the fog. The silent arrival of the fog
is like a little cat. The fog stays there sitting like the cat on its haunches.
KU

340. How did Maxwell get Mijbil, the otter?

AN

Ans. : Maxwell had changed his idea of keeping a dog as his pet. He decided to have an
otter. He had asked one of his friends to arrange for an otter. He went to his bedroom to
read his mail. Two Arabs were squatting on the floor. Beside them lay a sack. They handed
him a note which said, “Here is your otter ...". The sack was opened. In this way, Maxwell
got his new pet - an otter.

341. How did Mij behave outside the house in London?

Ans. : Mij used to follow Maxwell while walking on the streets. He developed certain habits
during those walks. He went with him like children playing, running and touching things in
the street. He would take Maxwell near the wall of a primary school and then gallop on it.

342. Why did Maxwell get his mail after five days and what he did to get it?

[47]
 Ans. : Maxwell cabled to England. But even after three days, nothing happened. He then
tried to telephone. The call had to be booked twenty-four hours in advance. On the first
day, the line was out of order. On the second day, the Exchange was closed for a religious
holiday. On the third day, there was another breakdown.

343. The narrator is a great lover of animals. He decided to have an otter, a unique animal,
as a pet. Do you also have or want to keep a pet? There are many responsibilities
towards the pet to keep them happy. How do you take a good care of your pet?

Ans. : For some people, life without a pet is lonely. The same happened with the narrator.
When his pet dog died, he became extremely sad. To overcome his grief, he decided to
have an otter as a pet. This shows his great love for all animals. I also have a pet dog,
Bruno. I take great care of him and am aware of my responsibilities towards him. A pet

5
must be treated as a member of the family. It should be regularly vaccinated by a trained

34
vet. A pet, like dog and cat, needs proper toilet training and must be taught to obey your
instructions. A balanced diet is a must for a pet to keep it healthy. A pet should not be

63
chained all the time. It can make it more aggressive. Remember a daily dose of exercise,

88
affection and playful activities work wonders for a pet. And, more importantly, all the
members of a family should be considerate towards it.

67
344. How was Mij to be transported to England? A7
Ans. : The British airline to England would not fly animals. So, Maxwell booked a flight to
Paris on another airline and from there to London. The airline insisted that Mij should be
packed into a box not more than eighteen inches square. Thus, Mij was transported to
AL

England in that box, which was kept on the floor at his feet.
SH

345. Why does he go to Basra? How long does he wait there, and why?

Ans. : He went to Basra, to the Consulate-General, to collect and answer his mail from
TH

Europe. There, he found that his friend’s mail had arrived, but his had not. He sent a
message to England. When nothing happened even after three days, he tried placing a call
PA

to England. On the first day, the line was out of order; on the second day, the exchange
was closed for a religious holiday. On the third day, there was another breakdown. He
N

arranged to meet his friend, who had left, in a week’s time. His mail finally arrived five
days later.
RA

346. The narrator developed a special bond with Mijbil, the otter, and both became good
companions. What qualities of the narrator, do you think, help him in taming an otter?
KU

How did compassion and empathy in him reveal?

Ans. : The narrator Maxwell and Mijbil share a unique relationship. Narrator's considerate
AN

behaviour helped him in winning the trust of the otter, an otherwise wild animal. He
provides freedom to the otter to do what he likes the most-playing and rolling about in
water in the bathtub like a playful and naughty child. Mijbil was allowed to spend most of
his time in play without caring for the room being dirty. It shows the narrator's concern and
empathy for the creature. He has compassion and empathy for him. He takes every care
for his safety. He understands his needs and fulfils them.

347. Why was Mijbil christened Maxwell's otter?

Ans. : The narrator called his pet Mijbil. The otter, in fact, belonged to a race unknown to
science so far. It was christened at length by zoologists Lutrogale perspicillata maxwelli or

[48]
 the Maxwell's otter. It was christened after the name of his master.

348. What did the otter look like?

Ans. : The otter looked like a small dragon belonging to the middle ages. It was covered
with symmetrical pointed scales of mud. One could see between the scales a soft velvet fur
like that of a chocolate-brown mole. There was a lot of dust on his body.

349. What did his friend advise Maxwell?

Ans. : Maxwell had already decided to keep an otter as a pet instead of dog. He casually
mentioned it to a friend. He advised Maxwell that he should try to get an otter in the Tigris
marshes. Otters were as common there as were mosquitoes. They were often tamed by
the Arabs.

5
350. Describe the physical appearance of Mijbil, the otter.

34
Ans. : The creature that emerged from the sack was unique one. He resembled like a very

63
small imaginary dragon of the Middle Ages. Its body was coated with pointed scales.
Between them a soft velvet fur was visible. It was like a chocolate brown mole.

88
351. How did Maxwell get an otter?

67
Ans. : Maxwell expressed his desire to his friend to have an otter as a pet. His friend sent
two Arabs with an otter at Basra. This is how he got an otter in Basra.
A7
352. What is the main characteristic of otters?

Ans. : Otters have long, slim bodies and relatively short limbs. Their most striking
AL

anatomical features are the powerful webbed feet used to swim, and their seal-like
SH

abilities holding breath underwater. Most have sharp claws on their feet and all except the
sea otter have long, muscular tails.
TH

353. Why was Mijbil put in a box by Maxwell? Why was there silence in the box?

Ans. : The author had to come back to London. The British Airways did not allow the author
PA

to fly with an animal. So he had to go by another airline. This airline insisted that Mij should
be packed in a box. When the author came, he found that there was complete silence in
N

the box. He got scared. He saw blood coming out of the box. When he opened the box, he
RA

found Mij badly wounded. Mij had tried to come out of the box.

354. Why did Gavin Maxwell stay in Basra for five days?
KU

Ans. : Gavin Maxwell went to Basra to the Consulate General to collect and answer his mail
from Europe. His mail did not arrive in time. He cabled to England, and when three days
AN

later, no response was received, he tried to telephone. But the exchange was closed for a
religious holiday. His mail arrived five days later. So, he had to wait for a few days.

355. 'I came abreast of him; he spat, glared and then growled out, 'Here, Mister--- what is
that supposedto be? What was the most surprising query to the author? Give reason for
this query.

Ans. : I came abreast of him he spat glared and then growled out Here Mister -
What is that supposed to.
356. How did Mijbil fumble at the tap in the bathroom. Did he succeed?

[49]
 Ans. : Maxwell saw Mijbil standing up on the end of his bathtub. He was fumbling at the taps
with his paws. Very soon he turned the tap to produce a trickle of water. And soon after he
achieved the full flow.

357. How did the otter look for the first time?

Ans. : The author got an otter through two Arabs who were sent by his friend. Initially, it
looked very dirty due to mud. On the first day, the otter did not respond to any action of
the narrator. It remained shy and indifferent. It remained aloof for twenty-four hours. It was
only after twenty-four hours that the otter came closer to the author.

358. Why was the otter christened 'Maxwell's otter'?

Ans. : The otter was named by zoologists as Lutrogale Perspicillata maxwelli. Hence, it was

5
called 'Maxwell's otter' in short.

34
359. Why did Maxwell get his mail after five days?

63
Ans. : Maxwell got his mail after 5 days due to some delay. He cabled and tried to
telephone in order to get his mail.

88
360. Why does Maxwell observe the air hostess as the very Queen of her kind? Why does she

67
say - Itwould be better if you resumed your seat and I will find the animal and bring it to
you?
A7
Ans. : Maxwell said that the airhostess was the very queen of her kind because she was
extremely friendly and helpful. He took her into his confidence about the incident with the
AL

box. She suggested that he might prefer to have his pet on his knee.

361. What happened when Mijbil was put inside the box?
SH

Ans. : Mij was lying exhausted and blood spattered inside the box.
TH

362. When did Maxwell realise that the otter loved water?

Ans. : One day Maxwell took the otter in the bathroom. The otter jumped with joy into the
PA

bathtub. It remained there for a long time. Seeing the otter's movement, Maxwell realised
that the otter loved water.
N

363. What happened when Maxwell took Mijbil to the bathroom? What did it do two days after
RA

that?

Ans. : When Maxwell took Mijbil to the bathroom, it went wild with joy in the water for half
KU

an hour. It was plunging and rolling in it, shooting up and down the length of the bathtub
underwater, and making enough slosh and splash for a hippo.
AN

Two days after that, it escaped from his bedroom to the bathroom. By the time he got
there, Mijbil was up on the end of the bathtub and fumbling at the chromium taps with its
paws. In less than a minute, it had turned the tap far enough to produce some water and
after a moment, achieved the full flow.

364. What games did Mijbil play himself as his favorite pastime?

Ans. : Mijbil spent most of his time in playing. He played with a rubber-ball for hours like a
four-footed soccer player. He loved playing with water. But his favourite pastime
was playing with marbles.

365. How did Mij spend his time?

[50]
 Ans. : Mij spent most of his time in play. He spent hours shuffling the rubber ball round the
room like a four-footed soccer player. His real play was when he used to juggle small
objects between his paws. Marbles were his favourite toy for his pastime.

366. How did the author manage to travel with the otter?

Ans. : The author had to come back to London from Basra. The British Airlines does not
allow to fly animals so he had to book his ticket in another airline. The airline authorities
insisted the author to pack Mijbil in a box. The author had a box and put Mijbil in it an hour
before he started for the airport so that Mijbil .

367. What funny thing happened inside the aircraft when the author was flying with the
otter?

5
Ans. : When Maxwell took Mijbil to the bathroom, it went wild with joy in the water for half

34
an hour. It was plunging and rolling in it, shooting up and down the length of the bathtub
underwater, and making enough slosh and splash for a hippo.

63
368. What did Mijbil do during the second night?

88
Ans. : As Mijbil was aloof and indifferent and slept far from the bed in first night but he
came on to Maxwell's bed soon after midnight. He remained asleep in the crook of his

67
knees until the morning. A7
369. Why does Maxwell say the airhostess was “the very queen of her kind”?

Ans. : Maxwell said that the airhostess was “the very queen of her kind” because she was
AL

extremely friendly and helpful. He took her into his confidence about the incident with the
box. She suggested that he might prefer to have his pet on his knee. Hearing this, he
SH

developed a profound admiration for her, for she understood the pain of both the otter
and its owner.
TH

370. What, according to the writer, is the real play of the otter?
PA

Ans. : The real play of an otter is lying on his back and juggling with small objects between
his paws. Mijbil would roll two or more marbles up and down on his wide.
N

371. What is the importance of Camusfearna?

RA

Ans. : Gavin Maxwell's Camusfearna located just south of Glenelg was the inspiration for
his book about otters Ring of Bright Water.
KU

372. When did Gavin Maxwell decide to have an otter as a pet?

Ans. : When Gavin Maxwell was in southern Iraq, he thought that he should keep an otter
AN

as a pet instead of a dog. The place where he was living was suitable for that experiment.

373. Why did he go to Basra and how long did he have to wait there?

Ans. : He went to Basra, to Consulate-General, to collect and answer his mail from Europe.
He had to wait there for five days because his mail did not reach on time.

374. How did Mijbil spend his time?

Ans. : In London, Mijbil spent his time playing with toys, ping-pong balls, marbles, rubber
fruit, and others. Marbles were his favorite. - Mijbil devised his own game with a broken
suitcase and a ball. He made the ball roll from the high end to the low end and hurried to
the other side to catch it.

[51]
375. Why did Maxwell call the airhostess "the very queen of her kind?”

Ans. : The airhostess was very friendly and cooperative. Maxwell took her into his
confidence and gave her a parcel of fish for Mijbil. He admired her and called her “the
very queen of her kind". The air hostess suggested that he could keep his pet on his knee.

376. What did Mijbil, the otter, do in the bathroom after two days of his arrival?

Ans. : Mijbil, the otter, was a fun-loving intelligent animal. He loved water. On the first day,
he went wild with joy in the water. Next day, Mijbil escaped from the bedroom and entered
the bathroom. He struggled with the tap till it had a full flow of water.

377. How did Valli react on seeing the dead cow on the roadside?

Ans. : When Valli saw the dead cow by the roadside, she was overwhelmed with sadness.

5
The memory of the dead cow haunted her, depressing her enthusiasm. She no longer

34
wanted to look out of the window.

63
378. Valli dared to travel alone in the bus and behaved haughtily with everyone who showed
care and concern for her. Why do you think she was behaving in such a way? Was it

88
proper on her part to go to the city without the knowledge of her mother? What advice
would you give to such children?

67
Ans. : As Valli was travelling alone in a bus for the first time, it was natural on her part to
A7
behave like this. Initially she seemed haughty but later on she joined other people, though
maintaining a distance. In fact, Valli was a very confident and mature girl. She saved her
pocket money and planned carefully for the journey. She knew that the world outside was
AL

strange to her so she was being extra cautious. I appreciate her sense of responsibility but
it was also not proper on her part to go out alone without telling her parents. Children must
SH

confide in their parents in whatever they do. Our elders have experience and knowledge
and under their guidance, we can make our life a success.
TH

379. How did Valli board the bus? Why did she say, 'I can get on by myself'?
PA

Ans. : When Valli sighted the bus she shouted Stop the bus! Stop the bus!' She raised her
tiny hand 'commandingly'. The bus slowed down and finally stopped. She told the
N

conductor that she wanted to go to the town and she tried to handover the money. The
conductor seeing that she was just a child, stretched out his hand to help her up. Valli
RA

replied that she could get on by herself and didn't need any help.

The sight of the dead cow filled Valli with sadness. The harsh reality of life and death
KU

380.
are shown through this episode. What kind of life do you think one must have to live
peacefully until death comes?
AN

Ans. : On her way to the town, Valli saw a young cow running helter-skelter. She got very
amused and laughed a lot. But while on her return journey to the town, she saw the same
cow lying dead in a pool of blood by the side of the road. Valli got very upset and lost her
enthusiasm of looking outside the window. The episode reveals the fact that life is
transitory. Death is uncertain. God has given us a very precious life so we must not waste it
in doing wrong deeds. Our aim in life should be to live happily with our friends, neighbours
and relatives. Leaving all the negative thoughts like anger, jealousy, greed and pride, etc.
a person can feel calm, and peaceful at heart. Death is a harsh reality but life is beautiful.
We must not lose an opportunity to live it to the fullest by getting entangled in the webs of
life.

[52]
381. Why did Valli refuse to accept the offer of a free cold drink from the bus conductor?

Ans. : Valli did not want to go to the stall and have a drink because she did not have any
money for that. Even when the conductor offered her a cold drink free of charge, she
refused firmly and said that she only wanted her ticket. This shows that Valli had a lot of
self will and pride.

382. Valli posed herself to be very confident when the conductor offered her help to ride the
bus. Later on she felt shy when all laughed at her. What does this tell you about Valli's
character? What do we learn from her character?

Ans. : Valli posed to be very confident in front of the conductor when he offered her help to
ride the bus. This shows her confidence, intelligence and careful nature. But when
everybody laughed at her, she felt shy. She was innocent too. Being aware of that fact that

5
she was travelling for the first time, she was taking every precaution not to be fooled by

34
anybody. Although she should not have travelled alone yet it was wise on her part to

63
behave confidently. Sometimes, situations arise when a child has to travel or live alone. In
such a situation, it is necessary for children to get training in order to be self-confident. She

88
teaches us to be confidant, compassionate and sympathetic towards others.

383. Valli's journey to the town is also her induction into the mystery of life and death. Such

67
real experiences of life make us mature. Do you agree? Elaborate.
A7
Ans. : It is true that Valli's journey to the town is also her induction into the mystery of life
and death. While on her way to the town, Valli saw a cow running very fast in the middle of
the road, right in front of the bus. Valli was very happy. She kept on laughing until her eyes
AL

welled up with tears. She saw life in the image of a cow. This is what life gives us,
happiness and enjoyment. On her way back home, she saw a dead cow lying on the road. It
SH

was killed in a road accident. Valli recognised it. It was the same cow which filled her life
with happiness and joy a short while ago. She was upset and realised how death can
TH

change the things. Something that was lovable and charming a while ago had lost all the
charms. Yes, such real-life experiences make one mature. It's a great lesson of life.
PA

384. Imagine you are Valli. On your return journey the sighting of a dead cow changed your
mood. You were very upset. Write a diary entry expressing your feelings.
N

Ans. : Date: 17 July, Saturday

RA

Dear Diary,
KU

A dream came true today when a long cherished wish of riding the bus was fulfilled. It was
a wonderful and exciting experience. While going to the city watching a small cow filled
me with joy. I laughed wholeheartedly. It was funny to see her, running in front of the bus.
AN

On my journey back, I saw a dead cow lying on the road. I asked the conductor if that was
the same cow. When I came to know that it was the same cow, I was so upset that I lost all
the charm of the beauty outside. A cow that filled me with joy and happiness only a
moment ago was lying dead! I could see the blood coming out of its nose. It was so
haunting that I could not enjoy my journey back.

385. Valli is a very sensitive girl. She is different from ordinary people who are becoming
more and more callous and insensitive to the joys and sufferings of the people around
them. She grieves the accidental death of the young cow. Do you think the values of
being sensitive and sympathetic are missing from our society? What do you learn from
Valli?

[53]
 Ans. : It is true that Valli is a very sensitive girl. She is different from ordinary people who
are becoming more and more callous and insensitive to the joys and sufferings of the
people around them. She grieves the accidental death of the young cow. She was very
happy while going to the city. She was happy seeing the young cow and enjoyed her
activity. When she was back and found the cow dead, she was very upset and grieved by
her death. It shows that she was very sensitive. No doubt the values of being sensitive and
sympathetic are missing from our society. These values must be restored and inculcated in
the new generation. Today we find people very callous and insensitive towards the victim
of road accidents. In some cases, the victim is not given any help and dies on the road
itself. We must be sensitive towards them. Valli gives us a lesson that we should be
sensitive to our surroundings and people.

5
386. Valli sternly refused the conductor's offer of a cold drink though she might be willing to

34
have one. What lesson do you learn from her gesture?

Ans. : By the end of the journey, the conductor had got quite fond of Valli. When the bus

63
reached its destination, the conductor went to the nearby stall to have something to drink.

88
He offered to bring one for Valli as a treat from him but Valli refused sternly. She didn't
have much money and out of the feeling of self-respect she was not ready to take

67
obligation either. Such a conduct from an eight year old girl shows her good upbringing.
We learn not to be greedy and live within our means. We must not get lured by the
A7
attractions, however strong they may be. It is always wise to spend money judiciously.
Children must not waste their pocket money on unwanted items.
AL

387. Why did the conductor called Valli 'madam' again and again?

Ans. : The conductor called Valli 'madam' because of her behaviour when the conductor
SH

tried to help her. The conductor tried to help Valli get on the bus. For doing so he stretched
out his hand. Valli, on the other hand, behaved like a mature woman and said that she can
TH

help herself to get on the bus.

PA

388. Why does the conductor refer to Valli as ‘madam’?

Ans. : When the conductor stretched out his hand to help her get on the bus, Valli said
N

commandingly that she could get on by herself, and that she did not require his help. She
did not act like a child, but as a grown-up girl and therefore, the conductor called her
RA

‘madam’. When the elderly man called her a child and asked her to sit down on her seat,
she replied that nobody was a child on the bus. She kept stressing on the fact that she had
KU

paid her fare like everybody else and therefore, she should not be treated differently.

389. Why didn't Valli like the remark of the elderly man? What did she say to him?
AN

Ans. : An elderly man saw Valli standing in the bus. He asked her to sit down. He had
honestly felt concerned for her. Valli didn't like to be called herself a 'child'. She retorted
that she was not a child. She had paid thirty paise like everyone else.

390. What did Valli say when the conductor tried to help her up?

Ans. : When the conductor stretched out his hand to help her get on the bus, Valli
said commandingly that she could get on by herself, and that she did not require his help.
She did not act like a child, but as a grown-up girl and therefore, the conductor called her
'madam'.

391. Find the lines in the text which tell you that Valli was enjoying her ride on the bus.

[54]
 Ans. : The following lines in the text show that Valli was enjoying her ride on the b
i. “Valli devoured everything with her eyes.”
ii. “On the one side there was the canal and, beyond it, palm trees, grassland, distant
mountains, and the blue, blue sky. On the other side was a deep ditch and then
acres and acres of green fields − green, green, green, as far as the eye could see.
Oh, it was all so wonderful!”
iii. “Everyone laughed, and gradually Valli too joined in the laughter. Suddenly, Valli
clapped her hands with glee.”
iv. “Somehow this was very funny to Valli. She laughed and laughed until there were
tears in her eyes.”
v. “Valli wasn’t bored to the slightest and greeted everything with the same
excitement she’d felt the first time.”

5
392. What was the most fascinating thing for Valli?

34
Ans. : The most fascinating thing that Valli saw while standing at the front door observing

63
the street was the bus that travelled between her village and the nearest town. Seeing new
set of passengers every time was a source of unending joy for her.

88
393. How did Valli gather all the information about the bus?

67
Ans. : Over many days and months Valli listened carefully to conversations between her
neighbours and people who regularly used the bus. She also asked a few discreet
A7
(sensible) questions here and there. This way she gathered all the information about the
bus.
AL

394. What does Valli mean when she says, 'I was just agreeing with what you said about
things happeningwithout our knowledge'?
SH

Ans. : While talking to her aunt, her mother remarks that it would be impossible to know
everything that happened in the world and on hearing this, Valli says “I was just agreeing
TH

with what you said about things happening without our knowledge.” Here Valli is
firstly referring to all the things she saw during the bus ride.
PA

395. How did Valli save up money for her first journey? Was it easy for her?

Ans. : Valli had carefully saved whatever stray coins came her way, resisting every
N

temptation to buy peppermints, toys, balloons, and the like. Finally, she had saved sixty
RA

paise.
No, it was not easy for her, especially at the village fair where she was tempted to ride the
KU

merry-go-round as she had the money. However, she suppressed her strong desire and
saved the money for the bus ride.
AN

396. What information did Valli collect about the bus journey?

Ans. : Valli collected some details of the journey. The city was six miles from her village.
The fare was thirty paise one way. The trip takes forty five minutes one way. Now she could
plan her journey by the bus in an easy way.

397. What was the most fascinating thing for Valli?

Ans. : The most fascinating thing that Valli saw while standing at the front door observing
the street was the bus that travelled between her village and the nearest town. Seeing new
set of passengers every time was a source of unending joy for her.

398. How did Valli react on seeing the cow for the first time?

[55]
 Ans. : On her way to the city, Valli saw a small cow running in front of the bus. She was
filled with joy. She laughed wholeheartedly until her eyes filled with tears. She saw life in
the form of a cow.

399. Why didn't Valli accept a free drink from the bus conductor? What does this act show
about her character?

Ans. : The bus conductor asked Valli to let him bring her a cold drink. She replied that she
didn't have enough money for that. He should just give him her ticket. The conductor
offered to give it totally free. She said firmly, "Please, no.' This shows how proud and self-
respecting Valli was.

400. Why did Valli rebuke the elderly woman on the bus?

5
Ans. : The elderly woman treated Valli as a child. She asked her many questions. She tried

34
to make Valli feel that it was not proper for a child to travel alone. Valli did not like her
appearance and unnecessary interference. She rebuked her saying that she was not a

63
child and she could take care of herself.

88
401. What was Valli’s deepest desire? Find the words and phrases in the story that tell you
this.

67
Ans. : Valli’s strongest desire was to ride on the bus she saw every day. The sentences in
A7
the story which depict this are as follows:
“Day after day she watched the bus, and gradually a tiny wish crept into her head and
grew there: she wanted to ride on that bus, even if just once. This wish became stronger
AL

and stronger, until it was an overwhelming desire.”

SH

402. Why did Valli collect the information about the bus?

Ans. : Valli had a strong desire to ride the bus. She had to plan her journey to the city by
TH

the bus. So she started collecting information about the distance, time and fare of the
journey.
PA

403. Why didn’t Valli want to go to the stall and have a drink? What does this tell you about
her?
N

Ans. : Valli did not want to go to the stall and have a drink because she did not have any
RA

money for that. Even when the conductor offered her a cold drink free of charge, she
refused firmly and said that she only wanted her ticket. This shows that Valli had a lot of
KU

self will and pride. Possibly, she did not want to take anything for free, particularly from a
stranger.
AN

404. What was the next problem after Valli had enough money?

Ans. : After she had saved enough money, Valli had her next problem. It was how to slip out
of the house without her mother's knowledge. She solved this problem easily. Every day
after lunch her mother would nap from about one to four or so. She could easily venture
out on her mission.

405. What was the most fascinating thing that Valli saw in the street?

Ans. : The most fascinating thing that Valli saw on the street was the bus that travelled
between her village and the nearest town. It passed through her street each hour, once
going to the town and once coming back.

[56]
406. Why didn’t Valli want to make friends with the elderly woman?

Ans. : Valli did not want to make friends with the elderly woman because she found her
absolutely repulsive. She saw that the woman had big holes in her ear lobes and very ugly
earrings in them. She could smell the betel nut the woman was chewing, and could see the
betel juice that was almost about to spill over her lips. That is why she did not want to be
sociable with her.

407. What was the tiny wish that crept into Valli's head?

Ans. : The sight of the bus was the most fascinating thing for Valli. Day after day she
watched the bus. A tiny wish crept into her head. She wanted to ride on that bus. At least,
just once. This wish became so strong that it grew into an overwhelming desire.

5
408. Why did Valli feel jealous of her friend?

34
Ans. : Valli had a strong desire to ride the bus. One of her friends had already visited the

63
city. She wanted to describe her experience to Valli. Valli was so jealous that she did not
listen to her and shouted Proud! Proud!

88
409. How did Valli plan her bus ride? What did she find out about the bus, and how did she
save up the fare?

67
Ans. : Valli planned that she would take the one o’clock afternoon bus, reach the town at
A7
one forty-five, and be back home by about two forty-five. She found out that the town was
six miles from her village. The fare was thirty paise one way. The trip to the town took forty-
five minutes. On reaching the town, if she stayed in her seat and paid another thirty paise,
AL

she could return home on the same bus. She had carefully saved whatever stray coins
came her way, resisting every temptation to buy peppermints, toys, balloons, and the like,
SH

and finally she had saved sixty paise.

TH

410. What evidence do you have from the text when the author describes the things that
Valli sees froman eight-year-old's point of view?
PA

Ans. : The author has described the things that Valli saw from an eight-year-old's point of
view. She was fascinated by a bus. Watching the bus filled with a new set of people each
N

time was a source of unending joy for her. Her strongest desire was to ride the bus.
RA

411. Who was Valli? Why did she keep standing in front of the door?

Ans. : Valli was the short name of Valliammai. She was an eight year old girl who was very
KU

curious. Valli kept standing in front of the door as there were no playmates of her age in
her street. So, she used to keep on watching the street outside her house.
AN

412. What did Valli remark when she heard the conversation between her mother and her
aunt?

Ans. : When Valli heard the conversation between her mother and her aunt, she remarked
that she agreed with what they said about things happening outside without their
knowledge.

413. What was the topic of discussion between Valli's mother and her aunt?

Ans. : They were discussing the things happening outside the city and they were unable to
understand them.

414. What time of the day did Valliselect for her journey and why?

[57]
 Ans. : Valli decided to utilize the time of her mother's afternoon nap for the trip. She
decided to take the one-o'clock afternoon bus that reaches the town at one forty-five. So,
she could be back home by about two forty-five as she would travel on the same bus.

415. What was the most fascinating thing for Valli?

Ans. : The most fascinating thing for Valli was the bus that travelled between her village
and the nearest town. The sight of the bus was a source of unending joy for her. Each time
she used to see a new set of passengers, it was a very thrilling experience for her.

416. Explain: 'Valli's bus journey was a joy ride full of pleasant and new experiences.'

Ans. : Vallis bus ride was full of pleasent and new experience because she did not ride any
bus before. she saw many attractive things along the road side. she saw trees.

5
34
417. What was Valli's reaction on seeing the dead cow?

Ans. : When Valli saw the dead cow by the roadside, she was overwhelmed with sadness.

63
The memory of the dead cow haunted her, depressing her enthusiasm. She no longer
wanted to look out of the window.

88
418. Why didn't Valli want to have a look at the sights alone?

67
Ans. : The conductor asked if Valli didn't want to have a look at the sights in the town. She
A7
replied that she would be too afraid to visit them all alone. The conductor reminded that
she was travelling all alone by bus. Valli replied that there was nothing to be afraid of in
the bus.
AL

419. Do you find The Tale of Custard the Dragon to be a serious or a light-hearted poem?
Give reasons to support your answer.
SH

Ans. : On the outset, 'The Tale of Custard the Dragon' may seem like a light- hearted
TH

poem written in a ballad form. On closer reading, we find that it is a profound poem which
gives us an insight into human behavior
PA

The poem gives us an impression that the ones who boast about their bravery may turn
out to be cowards. On the other hand, the ones who are teased for their cowardice might
actually be the bravest among all. Despite showcasing their faintheartedness, the pets
N

continue to brag about their so called bravery. Custard, being humble and kind-hearted,
RA

refrains from teasing them and humours them in a good spirit.

The poem comments on the fact people may be deceptive and there is more to them than
KU

what meets the eye. The poet put across his message in a humorous manner and has used
various poetic devices like similes, repetition, and onomatopoeia to add to the humor in
AN

the poem.

420. Read stanza three again to know how the poet describes the appearance of the dragon.

Ans. : The poet describes the dragon as having big sharp teeth. He has spikes on his back
and scales on his belly. His mouth is compared to a fireplace as being a dragon he may
breathe fire. His nose may serve as a vent for the smoke he exhales since it is compared
to a chimney. The claws on his toes may be sharp; hence the poet compares them to
daggers.

421. Why is the poem 'The Tale of Custard the Dragon' called a ballad?

[58]
 Ans. : 'The Tales Of Custard Dragon' can be considered as a ballad because it is a poem
that narrates a story. The rhyme scheme of AABB gives it the desired musical feel that is a
key characteristic of a ballad.

422. Can you find out the rhyme scheme of two or three stanzas of the poem?

Ans. : The rhyme scheme of both the second and third stanzas of the poem "The tale of
Custard the Dragon" is aabb.

423. How did they react when they heard a nasty sound?

Ans. : Suddenly, Belinda and her pets heard a nasty sound. They were highly surprised.
Mustard growled and Ink mewed. Belinda, herself gave a cry of disbelief. Actually, it was
the sound of a pirate climbing through the window.

5
34
424. Do you find 'The Tale of Custard the Dragon' to be a serious or a light-hearted poem?
Givereasons for your answer.

63
Ans. : The Tale of Custard the Dragon' is a very light and funny poem meant to be enjoyed
by everyone. The way the poem has been written with a fix rhyme scheme, makes it very

88
easy and enjoyable to read. The poet has even used wrong spelling to maintain the rhyme
scheme.

425.
67
Why did Belinda tickle Custard mercilessly? Why was he teased as 'Percival'?
A7
Ans. : Belinda had a very poor opinion of Custard. She considered him a coward and
always taunted and tickled him for being so. All other pets, Ink, Blink and Mustard mocked
AL

at Custard's timidity and lack of courage. Tauntingly, they called him Percival, who was a
brave knight of King Arthur.
SH

426. What were the names of Belinda's pets? Do their names reflect their personalities?
TH

Ans. : Belinda has four pets. They are: a little black kitten, Ink, a little yellow dog, Mustard,
a grey mouse named Blink and a dragon called Custard. Yes, their names reflect their
PA

colours and traits. The black kitten Ink is black like ink. Mustard, the dog is yellow like
mustard flowers. The cowardly Custard has no strength of character like the dish, custard.
N

427. What is the theme of the poem?

RA

Ans. : Theme is the lesson or message of the poem. Does the poem have something to say
about life or human nature? That message would be the theme, and there can be more
KU

than one theme for a single poem, even something as short as 'We Real Cool'!

428. What did everyone do when the pirate came?

AN

Ans. : When the pirate came, Belinda cried for help and became pale with fear. Mustard
ran away with a terrified cry and Ink trickled to the bottom of the house while Blink
disappeared in his mouse hole. Custard jumped in front of the pirate to fight him and
showed how brave it was.

429. How is the bravery of Belinda and her pets described in the poem? Do they really prove
their courage and bravery?

Ans. : Belinda and her pets are projected as very courageous and brave in the poem.
Belinda is braver than a barrel of bears. Ink and Blink could chase even lions down the
stairs. Mustard was as brave as a tiger in a rage. Only Custard, the dragon was considered

[59]
 to be timid and cowardly. Ironically, all proved cowards except Custard who fought against
and swallowed the pirate.

430. Describe the dreadful appearance of the pirate.

Ans. : The pirate looked quite dreadful and dominating. He carried a pistol in his left as
well as in right hand. He held a shining dagger in his mouth. His beard was black and one
of his legs was of wood. It seemed that his intentions were terrible.

431. Describe the bravery of everyone in the house.

Ans. : Belinda was as brave as a barrel full of bears. Ink and Blink were brave enough to
chase lions away. Mustard's bravery was like a tiger's rage. It was only Custard, who was a
coward, everyone else was very brave.

5
432. What kind of poem is 'The Tale of Custard the Dragon'? Is it a ballad or a lyric? Explain

34
withreference to the poem.

63
Ans. : The Tales Of Custard Dragon' can be considered as a ballad because it is a poem
that narrates a story. The rhyme scheme of AABB gives it the desired musical feel that is a

88
key characteristic of a ballad.

67
433. How did Custard face the pirate differently than Belinda and her pets?

Ans. : While Belinda herself was terrified on seeing the pirate, her other pets also behaved
A7
quite cowardly. While they fled away in fear, Custard faced the pirate like a hero. He
attacked the pirate with his tall tail. He pounced upon the pirate as a robin pounces upon
AL

an insect. He swallowed the pirate within no time.

434. Describe the main message that the lesson 'The sermon at Benares' gives to the
SH

readers.

Ans. : The Buddha wants us to understand that this world is full of sufferings, death and
TH

decay. Death spares none. Death is the ultimate truth of life. Everything that is born today
will die sooner or later. No lamentation or grieving will bring the dead to life again.
PA

435. What happened when Kisa Gotami went from house to house to get the mustard seeds
as instructed by Buddha? Does this teach you something about how to overcome grief
N

and hopelessness? Write your answer.

RA

Ans. : Kisa Gotami was suggested by Buddha to go and bring some mustard seeds from a
house where there has been no death. Unable to find such a house, she reflected upon her
KU

action. Truth dawned upon her. She realised that surrendering ourselves is the only way to
get rid of one's pains and sufferings. There is a continuous cycle of life and death,
AN

happiness and sorrows. Wise persons do not grieve. One should remain calm and
dauntless in all the situations. By doing so, peace of mind can be obtained.

436. How can one attain peace? Does the lesson teach you something? Explain in your own
words the theme of the lesson.

Ans. : One can attain peace by renunciation, i.e. by giving up all material gains. Too much
affinity to material gains brings grief, one cannot have sleep even, pondering over how to
attain one's material gains like amassing one's fortune, conquering countries, enriching
one's property. One who can overcome one's greed, grief and lust can obtain peace.
This lesson, in fact, teaches us through the sermon of Lord Buddha. The sermon teaches
us that we all are mortals. So we will die one day. We should not grieve, nor should we

[60]
 crave for material gains, surrender of our selfishness, lust and grief leads us to the path of
immortality. Life is short, men are mortal and everything is transitory. So we should be free
from sorrow. Path to enlightenment is to surrender all material gains and draw out the
arrows of lamentation, complaints and grief.

437. How do you usually understand the idea of ‘selfishness’? Do you agree with Kisa Gotami
that she was being ‘selfish in her grief ’?

Ans. : ‘Selfishness’ means being concerned only about one’s own interests and showing
complete disregard for others welfare. Yes, it can be said that Kisa Gotami was being
‘selfish in her grief’. In the light of her tragedy, she was unable to see that death is
something that strikes all things living. In this sense, she was selfish. However, for every
person, his/her tragedy is something personal and it prevents him/her from looking at the

5
tragedy from a universal or general point of view. If we take the usual sense of the word

34
‘selfish’, then calling Kisa Gotami selfish would be inappropriate, because every person
becomes selfish in his/her grief.

63
438. What did the Buddha want Kisa Gotami to understand?

88
Ans. : The Buddha wanted Kisa Gotami to understand that all men and women are mortals.
And all mortals are destined to die. No lamentation and grieving can bring a dead person

67
back to life. Therefore, she should stop lamenting and grieving on the death of her son.
A7
Overcoming the sorrows makes a person free from sorrows.

439. What did Kisa Gotami realise in the end?

AL

Ans. : The Buddha asked her to find a house where no one had lost a loved one, but Kisa
was unable to find any such house. She then saw the flickering lights of city and realised
SH

that people's lives are similar to these lights which rise and then extinguish. In this way,
she realised that life and death is a normal process.
TH

440. How did 'Bodhi Tree' get its name?

Ans. : After seven years of wandering Gautama sat under a peepal tree. He attained
PA

knowledge under that tree and got enlightened. He renamed the tree as 'Bodhi tree' which
means the tree of wisdom. 'Bodhi' means knowledge.
N

441. Describe the early life of Gautama Buddha.

RA

Ans. : Gautama Buddha began life as a prince. He was named Siddhartha Gautama. He
KU

was sent away for schooling in the Hindu sacred scriptures at twelve. When he returned
home, he was married to a princess. He lived in royal luxury, shielded from the sufferings
up to the age of twenty-five.
AN

442. What did Kisa Gotami realise at last?

Ans. : The Buddha asked her to find a house where no one had lost a loved one, but Kisa
was unable to find any such house. She then saw the flickering lights of city and realised
that people's lives are similar to these lights which rise and then extinguish. In this way,
she realised that life and death is a normal process.

443. How did Gautama achieve enlightenment?

Ans. : At Bodh Gaya, in the modern Indian state of Bihar, Siddhartha Gautama sat beneath
a sacred fig (Ficus religiosa) and began to meditate. According to some traditions, he
realized enlightenment in one night.

[61]
444. What do you know about the early life of Buddha?

Ans. : Gautama Buddha was born in a royal family. His childhood name was Siddhartha. At
the age of twelve, he was sent away for schooling in Hindu sacred scriptures and four
years later he got married to a princess.

445. Why was Kisa Gautami in deep grief?

Ans. : Kisa Gotami was sad because her only son had died. In her hour of grief, she carried
her dead child to all her neighbours and asked them for medicine. The people said she
was mad because the child was already dead.

446. What did Buddha say about the mortals of the world?

Ans. : The Buddha said to Kisa Gotami that the life of mortals is troubled and brief in this

5
world. Those who have been born can't avoid dying. As ripe fruits are in danger of falling,

34
so mortals are always in danger of death. All earthen vessels end in being broken.

63
447. Did Kisa Gotami get a handful of mustard seeds as directed by the Buddha?

Ans. : Poor Kisa Gotami went from house to house. The people pitied her and were ready to

88
give a handful of mustard seeds to her. But, she couldn't find a house where no one had

67
lost a child, husband, parent or friend.

448. What sights shocked and moved the royal prince?

A7
Ans. : Prince Gautama had been deliberately shielded from all the sufferings of the world.
One day he chanced upon a sick man, then an aged man, and then a funeral procession.
AL

Finally, he saw a monk begging for alms.

SH

449. What did the man suggest Kisa Gotami to do?

Ans. : He wanted her to the see truth of life and death and accept the destiny of human
TH

being. He asked her to bring a handful of mustard seeds from a house where no one had
ever died to show her that death is common to all.
PA

450. What is the greatest sorrow of people?

Ans. : The death of the loved ones is the greatest sorrow of the people. The grief that
N

follows after death results in restlessness and one constantly strives for peace of mind.
RA

451. Why did Kisa Gautami carry her dead son to her neighbours?
KU

Ans. : She was overwhelmed with grief. She carried the dead child to all her neighbours.
She asked them for medicine to cure her son. The neighbours thought she had lost her
AN

senses.

452. You know that we can combine sentences using words like and, or, but, yet and then.
But sometimes no such word seems appropriate. In such a case we can use a semicolon
(;) or a dash (—) to combine two clauses.
She has no interest in music; I doubt she will become a singer like her mother.
The second clause here gives the speaker’s opinion on the first clause.
Here is a sentence from the text that uses semicolons to combine clauses. Break up the
sentence into three simple sentences. Can you then say which has a better rhythm
when you read it, the single sentence using semicolons, or the three simple sentences?
For there is not any means by which those who have been born can avoid dying; after
reaching old age there is death; of such a nature are living beings.

[62]
 Ans. : The single sentence using semicolons has a better rhythm. This is because the three
parts of the sentence are connected to each other in their meanings. The second clause
gives further information on the first clause. The third clause is directly related to both the
first and the second. Their meanings are better conveyed when they are joined by
semicolons.

453. What did Kisa Gotami's experience teach her?

Ans. : She learnt from her experience that human lives are like the lights, and death is
common to all. The Buddha wanted Kisa Gotami to understand that man cannot get peace
of mind by grieving.

454. What did Kisa Gotami do when her only son died? What did her neighbours think about

5
her?

34
Ans. : Kisa Gautami's only son had died. She was overwhelmed with grief. She carried the
dead child to all her neighbours. She asked them for medicine to cure her son. The

63
neighbours thought she had lost her senses. A dead child could never be cured.

88
455. Why did the Buddha choose Benares to preach his first sermon?

Ans. : Benares is considered to be the most holy place on the banks of the sacred River

67
Ganges. Many people come here to get rid of their sorrows and sufferings and to repent
A7
for their sins. As the Buddha wanted to lessen their sorrows and sufferings, he chose to
preach his first Sermon at Benares.

Why was the peepal tree later named as Bodhi Tree?

AL

456.

Ans. : The Buddha got wisdom under the tree. So it was renamed 'Bodhi tree'.
SH

457. How did the prince get his schooling?

TH

Ans. : At twelve, he was sent away for schooling in the Hindu sacred scriptures and four
years later he returned home to marry a princess.
PA

458. Why did Kisa Gotami say, 'How selfish am I in my grief!' What did she realise about the
fate of mankind?
N

Ans. : Kisa Gotami became weary and hopeless. At last, the darkness of the night reigned
RA

everywhere. She realised that she had been very selfish in her grief. Death spares none.
One who is born is destined to die sooner or later. No grieving or lamenting would bring a
KU

dead man to life.

459. Can grieving and lamentation avoid death and decay in this world? What did the
AN

Buddha say in this regard?

Ans. : This world is afflicted with death and decay. Therefore, the wise don't grieve. No one
will ever get peace of mind by weeping or grieving. Weeping or grieving only makes a
person sick and pale. Only the person who has overcome all sorrow will be free from
sorrow. He will then be blessed.

460. You have perhaps concluded that people are not objects to be valued for their qualities
or riches rather than for themselves. But elsewhere Yeats asks the question: How can
we separate the dancer from the dance? Is it possible to separate ‘the person himself or
herself’ from how the person looks, sounds, walks, and so on? Think of how you or a
friend or member of your family has changed over the years. Has your relationship also
changed? In what way?
 Ans. :
Think about a friend or family member. Is it possible for you to think about them
as individuals or does their external appearance/ behaviour overcome what they
actually are?

Each person's thought process changes with the coming of age. Have you
remained the same or have you changed for better or worse? You may ask your
family about this.

Each person is unique and hence, we must try and accept them as they are. Do
you agree?

Our feelings for our loved ones may undergo change as time passes by. Why do

5
you think this happens?

34
It is said that people should not be judged for what you see of them superficially.

63
How far do you think this is true?
461. What does the lady want to do and why?

88
Ans. : The young lady, Anne Gregory doesn't like that a young man should love her for her

67
external appearance or for her beautiful yellow hair. External appearances can easily be
changed. She can dye her hair black, brown or of carrot's, the way she likes. She wants
A7
that she should be loved not for her yellow hair but for 'herself-alone'.

462. Why are young men not able to look at Anne's internal beauty?
AL

Ans. : Through the poem “For Anne Gregory”, the poet wants to depict how humans are
more attracted towards physical beauty and not the inner beauty of a person. The poet
SH

tells Anne that men are attracted to her appearance and only God could love a person for
their true nature or personality.
TH

463. Why doesn't the young woman like to be loved for her yellow hair? What does she want
to prove?
PA

Ans. : The young lady has a point to prove. She wants to prove that she can change her
external appearance or the colour of her hair easily. She can dye her hair brown, black or
N

of carrot's colour. But she doesn't want to be loved for her beautiful long yellow hair. She
RA

should be loved for 'herself alone' or for what she actually is.

464. What message does the poet want to convey in the poem, 'For Anne Gregory'?
KU

Ans. : The poem conveys the idea that physical beauty may be important for young men or
AN

human beings. But God does not love human beings for their physical beauty.In this poem,
the poet gives an example of a lover who loves the yellow hair of a young lady but doesn't
like her ramparts.

465. 'Physical beauty is not permanent, but the internal beauty is permanent.'
Prove the statement with reference to the poem 'For Anne Gregory'.

Ans. : The poem brings out the truth that external beauty is transitory and unreal, whereas
inner beauty is all pervasi

466. What do you mean by 'great honey-coloured ramparts'? Answer with reference to the
poem.
 Ans. : The “great honey-coloured Ramparts at your ear” refers to the beautiful yellow
coloured hair that falls at the woman's ear and cover it like a wall around a fort. He says
that the young men are “thrown into despair” by them because they look so beautiful on
the woman that her beauty gets thoroughly enhanced.

467. What is the theme or the central idea of the poem?

Ans. : In 'For Anne Gregory' W.B. Yeats gives a definite message. Human beings can't go
beyond the external appearances. Their love is just skin-deep. A young woman like Anne
Gregory may be liked and loved not for what she actually is but for the colour of her hair.
Only godliness in man can penetrate and go beyond these physical appearances and see
the inner beauty and nobility of the soul.

5
468. Why shall a young person never to be thrown into despair?

34
Ans. : Generally, a young man develops some fascination for a beautiful lady. Sometimes
the external appearance of the lady affects him deeply. The honey coloured hair of the

63
lady may lead him to love her without caring for her inherent qualities of her head and

88
heart. It may throw him into despair.

469. What did the old religious man find in the text?

67
Ans. : The old religious man says that he has found a text which proves that only God could
A7
love us for ourselves alone and not for physical beauty. He is the one who truly loves us.

470. 'Never shall a young man Thrown into despair' Why shall a young man be thrown into
despair? Give reasons with reference to Yeats' poem.
AL

Ans. : In this context, the poet says that the young men are “thrown into despair” by the
SH

sight of the “honey coloured ramparts” of the lady because the presence of these strands
of hair enveloping her ears enhance her beauty and the young men fall into despair as
TH

their love for them is heightened by the very charming.

471. What did the old religious man declare? What did he want to prove?
PA

Ans. : The poet heard an old religious man declare one truth the previous night. He quoted
a text to prove his point. He wanted to prove that only God can love a woman for 'herself
N

alone' without caring for her beautiful exterior or yellow hair. Human beings can't resist
RA

external temptations or appearances.

472. What is the theme of argument between a young man and a young woman in the poem,
KU

'For Anne Gregory'?

Ans. : This poem is a conversation between the poet and a girl named Anne Gregory. The
AN

poet says to the girl that a young man can become hopeless, if you will reject him. But this
doesn't mean that he had true love for you in his heart. It is because you have beautiful
hair with which he had fallen in love.

473. Forgiveness is the foundation of cordial relationship. Do you agree? How is this
message conveyed in the play The Proposal? How can forgiveness be inculcated in the
students in the schools?

Ans. : Yes it is true that forgiveness is the foundation of all the cordial relationships in our
society. Most of the time enmity is developed due to communication gap or
misunderstanding. Lack of tolerance and mismanagement of anger lead to enmity.
Whenever there is any disagreement or difference of opinion, one must sit together and
 sort out the issue amicably. One must forgive another. We make fences and spoil
relationships. Anton Chekov has conveyed this message in the play 'The Proposal'. Lomov
and Chubukov are neighbours. They have a controversy on the issue of ownership of the
Oxen Meadows. They also have a difference of opinion on the superiority of the breed of
their dogs. Lomov wants to resolve the issue and visits Chubukov with a purpose to
propose Natalya. On the other hand, when Chukubov sees Lomov, he suspects that he
must have come for borrowing money. It is only the lack of forgiveness that creates
unnecessary misunderstandings and leads to quarrel on petty issues. The matter is not
sorted out until they forgive each other. Forgiveness should be inculcated amongst the
students in our schools through examples from real life and literature.

474. Describe Oxen Meadows. How were they a bone of contention between Lomov's and
Natalya's family?

5
34
Ans. : Lomov and his rich landlord Chubukov are neighbours. A piece of land known as
Oxen Meadows becomes a bone of contention between the two families. Both of them

63
claim their ownerships over the Meadows. Lomov says that Oxen Meadows were given to
Chubukov's peasants for free use. They were to make bricks for the Lomovs. The

88
Chubokovs contest this claim of Lomov.

67
475. Why do both the families of Lomovs and Chubukovs claim the ownership of Oxen
Meadows?
A7
Ans. : Oxen Meadows become a bone of contention between the two families. Lomov
thinks that Oxen Meadows that touch the birch forest of Chubukov, belong to him. His
AL

aunt's grandmother gave the free use of the Meadows to the peasants of Natalya's father's
grandfather. In return, they were to make bricks for them. Natalya opposes it by saying
SH

that their land extends to Burnt Marsh. It means that Oxen Meadows belong to them.

476. Why does Lomov come to Chubukov? How does Chubukov react to his visit?
TH

Ans. : Lomov, a landlord, pays a visit to Chubukov. The purpose of his visit is quite clear. He
PA

has come with a proposal of marriage. He is interested in marrying Natalya who he

considers a good housekeeper and not bad looking. Chubukov misunderstands the
purpose of Lomov's visit. He thinks that he has come to borrow money from him. However,
N

when he comes to know that he has come with a marriage proposal, he is overjoyed and
RA

excited.

477. Why did Chubukov thank Lomov for proposing to his daughter?
KU

Ans. : Chubukov was overjoyed to know that Lomov wanted to propose to his daughter
AN

Natalya. He thanked him for taking this decision. He was happy as Natalya had passed the
marriage age.

478. Why does Natalya think that Lomov's behaviour is strange and he is simply joking and
making fun of her?

Ans. : Natalya thinks that Lomov's behaviour is quite strange. He is only joking and making
fun of her. She claims that they have Oxen Meadows for nearly 300 years. She is suddenly
told that it is not theirs. It is strange that Lomov is making a present of the Meadows to
them which are not owned by him. It is unlike a good neighbour and a friend.

479. How does Chubukoy react when he comes to know that Lomov has come with a
proposal of marrying his daugther Natalya?
 Ans. : Soon the misunderstanding is cleared. Chubukov comes to know that Lomov has not
come to borrow money instead he has come with a proposal of marrying his daughter
Natalya. He is extremely happy to hear it. This is exactly what he wants. He embraces and
kisses Lomov. He calls him "darling" and "angel". He tells Lomov that he has been hoping it
for a long time. He is ready to bless them.

480. How does Lomov react when Chubukov says that he is not used to misbehave by a
young man like Lomov?

Ans. : Lomov reacts by saying that Chubukov thinks that he is a fool. He says that he
cannot talk to him calmly and politely as he is making a false claim to his property. He
further accuses Chubukov of being a grabber. He also threatens Chubukov to take him to
the court.

5
34
481. Why does Chubukov embrace and kisses Lomov?

Ans. : When Chubukov came to know that the reason of Lomov's coming to their house is

63
to marry Natalya, he was overwhelmed with joy. He embraced and kissed Lomov and told
him that he was hoping for it for a long time. He told Lomov that he had always loved him

88
as if he was his own son.

67
482. Why did Lomov want to get married?

Ans. : Lomov wanted to get married as he was already 35 years old. Moreover, he was
A7
suffering due to a weak heart and sleep-sickness and wanted company of someone to look
after him. Moreover he knew Natalya's family for a long time and liked her a lot.
AL

483. Give in brief the character-sketch of Lomov.

SH

Ans. : Lomov is a middle aged man of thirty five. He suffers from palpitations, cramps and
benumbness of limbs. He is nervous and can't speak and act like a calm and composed
TH

man. He comes to Natalya's house with a proposal of marriage but soon forgets the real
purpose of his visit. He picks up unnecessary quarrels over Oxen Meadows and on their
PA

respective dogs.

484. What is the play 'The Proposal' about?

N

Ans. : `The Proposal' is a one-act play. Actually, it is a farce written by Anton Chekhov in
RA

1888-89. The play is about the tendency of wealthy families to seek matrimonial ties. The
real purpose is to increase their estates and landed properties.
KU

485. What opinion of Chubukov do you form after reading 'The Proposal'?

Ans. : Chubukov is a rich landlord and a neighbour of Lomov. He is short tempered and
AN

rash in behaviour. He wants Lomov to be married to Natalya. But he forgets the main issue
and joins the quarels between Lomov and Natalya. He adds only fuel to the fire. He can be
abusive and insulting. However, he grabs the opportunity and blesses Natalya and Lomov
in the end.

486. How do Oxen Meadows become a bone of contention between the two families?

Ans. : Lomov and his rich landlord Chubukov are neighbours. A piece of land known as
Oxen Meadows becomes a bone of contention between the two families. Both of them
claim their ownerships over the Meadows. Lomov says that Oxen Meadows were given to
Chubukov.
487. What is your opinion on the point of controversy about the days?

Ans. : Lomov described the qualities of his dog whereas Natalys said her dogs are of better
quality. They disagreed and fought on this controversy.

488. Justify the title of the play, 'The Proposal'.

OR
What is the theme or the message of 'The Proposal'?

Ans. : Anton Chekov has aptly titled the play, 'The Proposal'. The title justifies the main
theme-the marriage of Natalya and Lomov. No doubt, both Lomov and Natalya want to be
life partners. However, unnecessary quarrels over Oxen Meadows and their dogs Squeezer
and Guess temporarily spoil their game. The message is very clear. The main issue must

5
not be clouded and lost sight of by indulging in unnecessary and avoidable quarrels.

34
489. Why does Chubukov suspect Lomov when he comes to his house?

63
Ans. : At first, Chubukov suspected that Lomov had come to him to borrow money because
he was in his evening dress. He was not sincere when he told Lomov that he had always

88
loved him and he was like his own son as he had decided not to give any money to Lomov.

490. How do Lomov and Natalya begin their married life?

67
Ans. : In the end, Chubukov loses no opportunity and says “Be quick and get married.”
A7
Natalya embraces and blesses Lomov and they are blessed by Chubukov. They start their
married life by picking up a fresh quarrel over Squeezer and Guess.
AL

491. How does Natalya excite Lomov to the point of verbal fighting?

Ans. : Natalya repeatedly insists that Oxen Meadows are theirs and tells Lomov that upto
SH

now she considered Lomov a good neighbour and friend. This excites Lomov to the point
of verbal fighting. Though he has the documents to prove his possession but Natalya
TH

refuses his claim.

PA

492. How does Chubukov react to the controversy of Oxen Meadows?

Ans. : How does Chubukov react to it? In the first instance, Lomov and Natalya fight over an
N

issue of the ownership of the Oxen Meadows that has been a disputed property between
the two families since generations. Chubukov does not try to pacify them.
RA

493. How does Chubukov insult Lomov with his choicest abuses?
KU

Ans. : By making fun of his palpitations and his huntings skillls. They even said that he
should only cook and should not go for hunting.
AN

494. What happens when Lomov is thought to be almost dead?

Ans. : Lomov has come with a proposal of marrying Natalya. When he falls down
unconscious in an armchair, both Natalya and Chubukov are unerved and worried. She
starts crying thinking him dead. Chubukov calls for a doctor. He threatens to shoot himself
or cut his throat. When Lomov comes to senses, Chubukov grabs the opportunity and
blesses them for a happy married life.

495. How do you know that Natalya is in love with Lomov?

Ans. : We can know that Natalya was in love with Lomov because when Natalya came to
know that Lomov came to propose her, she cries for her bad behavior. After the quarrel
 over the matter to whom the meadows belonged, Natalya and her father chided Lomov to
leave.

496. What opinion do you form of Natalya after reading the play, 'The proposal'?

Ans. : Natalya is a woman of twenty five years. Lomov considers her a good housekeeper
and not bad looking. She likes to get married with Lomov. However, she indulges in
unnecessary quarrels over Oxen Meadows and dogs. She even insults Lomov with harsh
words. However, good sense prevails upon her and she doesn't lose the opportunity of
marrying Lomov.

497. How does Chubukov react when Lomov says that he has come to ask for the hand of his
daughter?

5
Ans. : When Lomov says that he has come to ask for the hand of his daughter, Chubukov

34
gets off balanced with joy. He embraces and kisses Lomov, sheds a tear of joy and calls for
God's blessing for Lomov and Natalya. They celebrated that moment with champagne.

63
498. Why does Lomov see in Natalya an ideal wife for him?

88
Ans. : He was very critical age to get married. He said that Natalya was a excellent
housekeeper, not bad looking, and also well educated.

67
499. Besides Oxen Meadows what is the other important cause of quarrel between Lomov
A7
and Natalya?

Ans. : Natalya and Lomoy have already quarrelled over the ownership of Oxen Meadows.
AL

Now crops up a fresh cause of their quarrel. It is over their dogs, Squeezer and Guess.
Natalya thinks that their Squeezer is a thoroughbred animal. He is far better than his dog
SH

Guess. Natalya calls Guess an old and a worthless dog. The quarrel continues even after
they are married.
TH

500. What is the ailment that Lomov is suffering from?

Ans. : Lomov is suffering from weakness or depression. His limbs become numb. Whenever
PA

he is excited his heart starts palpitating. His foot often becomes numb and he is unable to
bear the shock in life.
N

----- Prepared by Sudhanshu Shekhar -----

RA
KU
AN