There will come soft Rains

Q1: How does the writer’s use of figurative language- personification, simile, metaphor- help
him to make his point?
Answer: The writer's use of figurative language helps him to make his point by creating vivid
imagery and evoking emotions in the reader. In "There Will Come Soft Rains," Ray Bradbury
uses personification to give human characteristics to inanimate objects, making the setting
feel alive and adding to the eerie, haunting atmosphere of the story. For example, the house is
personified as "breathing" and "listening." This gives the house a life of its own and makes it
seem as though it is aware of what is happening around it.

Bradbury also uses similes to compare the house's activities to human actions, such as "the
house began to make its preparations for the evening like an old woman". This comparison
emphasizes the loneliness and emptiness of the house, as it is the only survivor in a world that
once was full of life.

Metaphors are also used throughout the story to add depth and meaning to the narrative. The
most notable example is the metaphor of the rain being compared to "tears". This metaphor
adds a mournful tone to the story, as the rain represents the loss of life and the sadness of the
future world.

Overall, Bradbury's use of figurative language helps to make his point by creating a vivid,
emotional, and thought-provoking world that serves as a warning about the dangers of
technology and the importance of preserving life and the natural world.

Q2: What is the significance of the repeated reference to the rain in the story?
Answer: The repeated reference to the rain in "There Will Come Soft Rains" by Ray Bradbury
symbolizes the cleansing and renewal of nature. The rain represents a natural cycle of growth
and destruction. It is a reminder that nature is indifferent to the destruction of human
civilization and will continue on, even in the absence of human life. The rain also highlights the
contrast between the natural world and the artificial world created by humans, as the rain
provides nourishment for the plants and animals, but it cannot revive the ruined houses and
destroyed technology of the human world. Additionally, the rain symbolizes the passing of
time, as it continues to fall even after the humans have been destroyed. The rain serves as a
reminder that life goes on, even in the face of destruction and loss.

[ABUBAKAR ABBAS] Page 1

Q3: What impact has the story made on you?
Answer: "There will come soft rains" by Ray Bradbury has a lasting impact on readers by
exploring the theme of the dangers of technological advancement and the consequences of
relying too heavily on machines. The story highlights the idea that while technology may be
efficient, it is not enough to replace the emotional and personal connections that humans
have with each other and the world around them. The story leaves a lasting impression on the
reader by reminding them of the importance of valuing nature, human relationships, and the
power of the natural world.

The Lady or the Tiger

Q1: Explain the meaning of ‘semi-barbaric’ and why it is a perfect adjective to describe both
the King and the Princess? How can someone be half cruel, brutal and uncivilized and half
not?
Answer: The adjective "semi-barbaric" means partially or half-way barbarian or uncivilized. It
is used to describe the King and the Princess in The Lady or the Tiger because they both exhibit
qualities that are both civilized and uncivilized.

The King, for example, has a semi-barbaric justice system where people are subjected to cruel
and unusual punishment, such as the choice between the lady or the tiger. However, he is also
described as being very handsome and charming, suggesting that he has some qualities of a
civilized ruler.

The Princess is described as being beautiful, but also jealous and vengeful, which are
uncivilized traits. She is torn between her love for the young man and her desire for revenge
against him for choosing another woman.

Thus, "semi-barbaric" is a fitting adjective to describe both the King and the Princess because
it captures the tension between their civilized and uncivilized traits. It is difficult to describe
someone as half cruel, brutal and uncivilized and half not, but "semi-barbaric" encapsulates
the idea of a person who is not fully civilized or uncivilized.

[ABUBAKAR ABBAS] Page 2

Q2: Relate the concept of ‘fate’ to a situation in your own life where a ‘choice’ was not really
up to you. Have you ever had to make a “lady or the tiger?” decision?
Answer: Imagine if you had to choose between two options and both of them had significant
consequences. One choice could lead to a successful career, but it would require you to move
away from your family and loved ones. The other option would keep you close to your family
but would not allow you to pursue your career aspirations.

In this situation, one could argue that fate is playing a role, as the choice is not entirely in your
hands. You are being forced to make a decision between two outcomes that are both
predetermined, as though you are following a prewritten script. The decision feels like a "lady
or the tiger" moment, as you cannot control the outcome, but must still make a choice.

Ultimately, the concept of fate suggests that our choices are not entirely our own, and that
there is a larger, unseen force guiding our actions and outcomes.

Q2: Is this an appealing technique where the writer withholds the ending, leaving the reader
or the audience to determine the ending, or guessing what happens next?
Answer: Yes, this is an appealing technique as it creates suspense and intrigue for the reader
or audience, allowing them to use their imagination and engage with the story on a deeper
level. The technique of withholding the ending in "The Lady or the Tiger" by Frank Stockton
has been a classic example of a story that leaves the conclusion up to the reader's
interpretation, making it a timeless and captivating tale.

[ABUBAKAR ABBAS] Page 3