LAST MINUTE REVISION

SYLLABUS CLASS – XII (2023-24) BLUEPRINT

SECTION- A (READING SKILLS: 22 MARKS)

1. One unseen passage to assess comprehension, interpretation and inference. Vocabulary and inference
of meaning will also be assessed. The passage may be factual, descriptive or literary. (12 Marks)
2. One unseen case-based passage with verbal/visual inputs like statistical data, charts etc. (10 Marks)

Note: The combined word limit for both the passages will be 600-750. Multiple Choice Questions / Objective
Type Questions will be asked.

SECTION- B (GRAMMAR & WRITING SKILLS: 18 MARKS)

3. Notice up to 50 words. One out of the two given questions to be answered. 4 Marks
(Format: 1, Content: 2, Accuracy of Spelling and Grammar: 1)

4. Formal/Informal Invitation and Reply up to 50 words. One out of the two given questions to be
answered. 4 Marks
(Format: 1, Content: 2, Accuracy of Spelling and Grammar: 1)

5. Letters based on verbal/visual input, to be answered in approximately 120-150 words. Letter types
include application for a job with bio data or resume. Letters to the editor (giving suggestions or
opinion on issues of public interest). One out of the two given questions to be answered. 5 Marks
(Format: 1, Organisation of Ideas: 1, Content: 2, Accuracy of Spelling and Grammar: 1)

6. Article/ Report Writing, descriptive and analytical in nature, based on verbal inputs, to be answered in
120-150 words. One out of the two given questions to be. 5 Marks
(Format: 1, Organisation of Ideas: 1, Content: 2, Accuracy of Spelling and Grammar: 1)

SECTION- D (LITERATURE: 40 MARKS)

7. One Poetry extract out of two from the book FLAMINGO to assess comprehension,
interpretation, analysis and appreciation. (6x1=6 Marks)
8. One Prose extract out of two from the book VISTAS to assess comprehension, interpretation, analysis
and appreciation. (4x1=4 Marks)
9. One prose extract out of two from the book FLAMINGO to assess comprehension, interpretation and
analysis. (6x1=6Marks)
10. Short answer type question (from Prose and Poetry from the book FLAMINGO), to be answered in 40-
50 words. Questions should elicit inferential responses through critical thinking. Five questions out
of the six given are to be answered. (5x2=10 Marks)
11. Any two out of three short answer type question, from Prose VISTAS, to be answered in 40- 50 words.
Questions should elicit inferential responses through critical thinking. (2x2=4 Marks)
12. Any one out of two long answer type question, from Prose/Poetry (FLAMINGO), to be answered in
120-150 words. Questions can be based on incident / theme / passage / extract / event as reference
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 points to assess extrapolation beyond and across the text. The question will elicit analytical and
evaluative response from student. (1x5=5 Marks)
13. Any one out of two long answer type question, based on the chapters from the book VISTAS, to be
answered in 120-150 words to assess global comprehension and extrapolation beyond the text.
Questions to provide evaluative and analytical responses using incidents, events, themes as reference
points. (1x5=5 Marks)

TIPS FOR PREPARING FOR EXAMS

TIME MANAGEMENT
SECTION A: READING (50 Minutes)
1 Comprehension 12 Marks 25 Minutes
2 Comprehension 10 Marks 25 Minutes
SECTION B: WRITING SECTIONS (45 Minutes)
3 Very short Answer questions (Notice) 4 Marks 5 Minutes
4 Very short Answer questions (Invitation) 4 Marks 5 Minutes
5 Letter Writing (Job Application / Editor) 5 Marks 15 Minutes
6 Article / Report 5 Marks 20 Minutes
SECTION C: TEXT BOOKS (75 Minutes)
7 Very Short Answer Questions (MCQ) (Poetry) 6 Marks 5 Minutes
8 Very Short Answer Questions (MCQ) (Prose) 4 Marks 5 Minutes
9 Very Short Answer Questions (MCQ) (Prose) 6 Marks 5 Minutes
10 Short Answer Questions 10Marks 30 Minutes
11 Short Answer Questions 4 Marks 10 Minutes
12 Long Answer Questions from text book. (Two) 5 Marks 10 Minutes
13 Long Answer Questions from text book (Two) 5 Marks 10 Minutes

Revision of answers. (10 Minutes)

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SECTION B- WRITING SKILLS

Here are a few valuable tips

Ø Make sure you use language which is suitable for the audience you are addressing to.
Ø Usage of complex vocabulary for addressing children is not advisable.
Ø Make sure you write in paragraphs.
Ø Practice previous year question papers.
Ø Read as many samples as you can. It will give you an idea as to how they are actually written.
Ø Read the question at least twice and highlight the important information.

Ø Plan before you pen. Just make a list of all your important points on the rough sheet (last sheet of your
answer booklet) so that you do not forget relevant points while writing. This also helps you in
maintaining a sequence, which is very important.
Ø Presentation is very important.
Ø Make sure you double check for grammatical accuracy and spellings. They carry marks. Ø Leave
adequate number of lines between paragraphs to make it looks clean.
Ø Underlining the main points is very important. But it is advised to do it after finishing your exam. Use
a scale for underlining.
Ø Make small sentences. It restricts the scope of grammatical inaccuracies.

NOTICE

POINTS TO BE FOLLOWED WHILE WRITING NOTICES:

Ø Adhere to the specified word limit of 50 words.
Ø Name and place of the school, organization or office issuing the notice should be mentioned at the
top.
Ø Write the word NOTICE.
Ø Write the date of issuing the notice.
Ø Give an appropriate heading. REMEMBER
Ø Clearly mention the target group (for whom the notice is to be displayed). To use
Ø Purpose of the notice.
Ø Mention all the relevant details (date, venue, time). EDTV
Ø Mention whom to contact for extra information. (Event, Date, Venue ,
Ø Name and designation of the person issuing the notice. time)
Ø Put the notice in a box. In Notice & invitations

INVITATIONS AND REPLIES

INVITATIONS
1. FORMAL -CARD FORM. 2. FORMAL LETTER FORM. 3. INFORMAL. LETTER FORM
REPLIES
1. FORMAL
CARD FORM
2. FORMAL LETTER FORM
3. INFORMAL LETTER FORM
Note: A reply can either be accepted or declined. When declining an invitation, always give a reason for
declining.
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FORMAT OF FORMAL INVITATION (CARD TYPE)

POINTS TO REMEMBER
1. To be written in third person
2. No abbreviation to be used
3. Simple present tense is used
4. Each entry to be mentioned in a separate line e.g.,
(a) The name of the person(s) who is/are inviting
(b) Formal expressions like 'request the pleasure of your company'
(c) Time and date of event
(d) Purpose and occasion of invitation.
5. For RSVP, address and telephone no. is given at which the invitee may contact for any queries.
6. Name of the Chief Guest, programme may be given ( in official events only )
7. In case of VIP- name of chief guest /VIP
8. RSVP (Respondez S’il Vous Plait –i.e. respond if it pleases you)
9. Telephone or mobile number of the host
10. Special note if any. (e.g. Keep phone on silent mode / Please be seated by …)
EXAMPLES OF STANDARD EXPRESSIONS (for cards)
12. cordially request the pleasure of your company
13. solicit your gracious presence
14. request your benign presence
15. invite you to join
16. cordially invite you to
17. request the pleasure of your company
18. seek the pleasure of your company/ presence
19. cordially request the honour of your presence

FORMAL INVITATION-LETTER FORMAT

An invitation written formally in the letter format has the following characteristics:
Ø Meant for an individual, VIP/ Judge/ Chief Guest/Resource Person etc. (a formal letter of invitation)
Ø Include the name of the invitee
Ø Formal letter format to be followed
Ø Content must include mention of the event, date, venue, timings, requesting the guest to join you
seek confirmation of his availability
Ø Complimentary close- With regards/ thanking you – Yours sincerely

INFORMAL INVITATIONS (Informal letter type)

Main Characteristics:
Informal invitations follow the pattern of ordinary personal letters. These letters are written to relatives,
friends and acquaintances.
Ø These letters are first/second person presentations.
Ø Personal feelings and emotions find an expression.
Ø The writer’s address is given in the usual place.
Ø The salutation is usually “Dear’ plus “Name’. (Dear Naman/ Dear Mr. Khanna)
Ø The date of writing is given, but the year is generally omitted.
Ø The style and tone are relaxed and informal.
Ø Different tenses are used as the sense demands. Ø The complimentary close is: ‘Yours sincerely’.
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WRITING REPLIES (FORMAL AND INFORMAL)
Main characteristics:
Formal Replies (card type)
Ø Acknowledge the invitation.
Ø Express thanks in third person.
Ø When accepting, confirm date and time
Ø If declining, give reason, convey your best wishes
Ø Not to be signed at the end
Ø Give date and address at top left hand
Ø Do not exceed the word limit (usually 50 words).
Ø No salutation (Dear Sir/ Mr.-------)

Formal Replies (Formal letter type- given by VIP/ CHIEF GUEST ETC.)
Ø Written by an individual, VIP/ Judge/ Chief Guest/Resource Person etc. (a formal letter of reply)
Ø Formal letter format to be followed
Ø Content must include thanks for the invite, mention of the event, date, venue, timings, acceptancto
be confirmed or can be declined mentioning the reason
Ø Complimentary close- With regards/ thanking you – Yours sincerely

Informal Replies (Personal letter type)

Ø Acknowledge the invitation in first person.
Ø Use second person for the sender of invitation.
Ø Mention acceptance/regret.
Ø Specify the reason in case of refusal.
Ø Use warm and simple language.
Ø Do not exceed the word limit (usually 50 words).

LETTER WRITING (Formal)

Points to Remember:
Ø Grab the reader’s attention.
Ø Explain the matter in the first paragraph.
Ø Explain why the issue is important.
Ø Give evidence of your praise or criticism.
Ø State the writer’s opinion about what should be done. Purpose of the letter:
Ø To express one’s opinion on a wide range of issues.
Ø To express and share one’s observations and views in a public forum.

Language of the letter:

Ø Formal language must be used.
Ø Repetition of ideas must be avoided.
Ø Sub paragraphs should be used in an organized way.
Ø Personal outlook must be included and biased language should be avoided.
Format of the letter:
1. Sender’s Address
Ø Sender’s address is preferred on the top left hand corner.
2. Date
3. Receiver’s Address

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 Ø Receiver’s rank, Name of the firm/ department/ etc. is written on the left margin below the date.
4. Salutation
Ø We must write ‘Sir/ Madam’ as greeting
5. Subject
Ø The subject should be as per the question. The first letter of each word should be capital.
6. The Body / content
Ø First Para ............. Introduction
Ø Second Para ........... Causes/ Effects/ Problems…
Ø Suggestions/ Solution
Ø Third Para ............ Concluding Para
Ø Complimentary Close… .... Subscription
Ø Name

JOB APPLICATION ( In two parts : cover letter & resume)

Follow the format of a formal letter.

Your letter should be brief and to the point.
Ø Introduction - Mention the source/advertisement from where you got the information about the
vacancy you are applying for and your wish to apply for the post.
Ø Body - Give a brief summary of your qualifications – academic and professional,
Ø Conclusion - Make a reference to CV and other details enclosed, and express your wish to work
in their organization
Finish the covering letter on a promising and positive note.

The CV should have the following details.

The Curriculum Vitae should present all your personal and professional details in a specific format.
Ø The CV has five parts:

1. Personal information
2. Educational Qualification - academic
3. Professional. Experience
4. Hobbies, languages known & salary expectation
5. References
Qualification should be written in a table with four columns:
• Name of the exam, Name of the University, Year of passing and Percentage of marks, Qualification
should be written from the current qualification to the first.
• Experience should be written from the current to the first.
• Referee’s full name, designation, postal address and telephone number should be written.

REPORT WRITING
Points to remember

It is very important to follow a proper format. Not to forget that format carries marks.

FORMAT OF A MAGAZINE REPORT

1. Heading: A descriptive title which is expressive of the contents of the report.

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2. By line: Name of the person writing the report. It is generally given in the question. Remember, you
are not supposed to mention your personal details in your answer.
3. Opening paragraph (introduction): It may include the ‘5 Ws’ namely, WHAT, WHY, WHEN and WHERE
along with WHO was invited as the chief guest.
4. Account of the event in detail: The proper sequence of events that occurred along with their
description. It is the main paragraph and can be split into two short paragraphs if required.
5. Conclusion: This will include the description of how the event ended. It may include quote excerpts
from the Chief Guest’s speech or how did the event wind up.

FORMAT OF A NEWSPAPER REPORT

1. Headline: A descriptive title which is expressive of the contents of the report.
2. By line: Name of the person writing the report along with the designation. It is generally given in the
question. Remember, you are not supposed to mention your personal details in your answer.
3. Place and date of reporting: It is generally not mentioned in a magazine report separately, but here,
it is.
4. Opening paragraph: It includes expansion of the headline. It needs to be short as it is a general
overview of the report.
5. Account of the event in detail: It is generally written in two parts: First, complete account of what
happened in its chronological sequence (preferably) and second, the witness remarks.
6. Concluding paragraph: This will include the action that has been taken so far or that will be taken. It
is the last paragraph.

Talking about marks, it comes as a 5 marks question. The breakup for which (as per CBSE Marking scheme)
is as follows: - Format (Heading and Reporter’s name): 1 mark, Organization of ideas: 2 marks, Content: 1
mark, Spelling and grammar:1 mark

ARTICLE WRITING

An article consists of:

1. Title: An eye-catching title which attracts the readers’ attention and suggests the theme of the
article.
2. Introduction: An introduction which clearly defines the topic to be covered and keeps the reader’s
attention.
3. Main Body: The main body of three to four paragraphs in which the topic is further developed in
detail.
4. Conclusion: summarizing the topic or a final opinion, recommendation or comment.

1. Think deeply on the given topic and study carefully the given visual / verbal input. Some other ideas
may come to your mind. Arrange all these ideas / points in the logical order you want to develop
for your article.
2. Now start writing and develop your points one by one into a single whole.
3. Your writing should be lucid (clearly expressed, easy to understand). Every sentence should
naturally rise from the previous one and flow into the next.
4. The first sentence should be the topic sentence. It should at once introduce the main idea of your
paragraph. Similarly, the last sentence should state the conclusion on the topic.
5. Divide your composition into suitable paragraphs. (3-4)
6. The composition should be brief, meaningful and to the point. Don’t exceed the prescribed word
limit.
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 7. Complete sentences should be used and the vocabulary should be rich. Colloquial* expressions and
slangs* should be avoided.

SECTION C- LITERATURE

IMPORTANT REFERENCES FROM FLAMINGO & VISTAS (QUICK RECAPS)

1. THE LAST LESSON- Alphonse Daudet

• Franco Prussian War- 1870-71
• Towns of Alsace & Lorraine captured by the Germans, Berlin order- German to be taught in the
schools of these two towns
• Franz’s temptations
• Unusual scene in the school & the class
• Details of the Last Lesson
• Impact of the teacher’s announcement
• Regret and remorse of the teacher, parents, how they were responsible
• Villagers sitting in the class- Old Hauser, Former Mayor, former postmaster
• Character and the role of the French teacher- M. Hamel
• VIVE LA FRANCE
Theme- linguistic chauvinism, respect to all cultures & languages, patriotism, role of a teacher, imp of
mother tongue

1. LOST SPRING – ANEES JUNG

• Saheb-E-Alam- a rag picker living in Seemapuri, his background, irony about his name
• Seemapuri- a place on the periphery of Delhi yet miles away from it, miserable conditions, its
description
• Udipi story – a glimpse of advancement
• Condition of the slum children- partners in survival, garbage to them is gold
• Saheb works at tea stall but not happy
• Mukesh – different, dares to dream, his dream – to drive a car from Firozabad, family of bangle
makers, strong belief in casteism & destiny, poor living conditions, health hazards, grim and harsh
realities- illiteracy, unawareness, exploitation by the sahukars, middlemen, policemen, lawkeepers,
bureaucrats & politicians
• Two distinct worlds of the poor bangle makers- web of poverty & casteism and vicious circle of
exploiters
Theme – child labour, insensitive authorities, people, law keepers etc. (false promises like that of the
writer) illiteracy and poverty a curse
Title- denial of basic rights, joys – miserable story of the slum children, rag pickers, children in bangle
making. their joys snatched by the cruel society Explain with the examples from the story – Saheb &
Mukesh
2. DEEP WATER – WILLIAM DOUGLAS
• Yakima river – dangerous, treacherous, his mother warned against it,
• California beach mishap – writer a small child, three or four years old, accompanied by his father
• YMCA offered the exact opportunity, safe pool, only two or three feet deep at the shallow end, nine
feet deep at the other, gradual drop, so revived unpleasant memories, stirred childish fears,
• YMCA misadventure, a big struggle –narrator all alone, afraid of going in alone sssso waited for others
to come, sat by its side, a big bruiser, 18 years old, fine physical specimen, bullied the narrator, he

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 picked him up & tossed him into the deep end, sitting position, frightened, but not out of his wits. nine
feet like ninety, planned to make a big jump to come to surface like a cork, legs paralysed and rigid,
getting dizzy, terror seized
• Impact of YMCA misadventure- weak, trembling, strong fear of water, no water activities, handicap
• How a swimmer was born – training given by the instructor, started in October, practiced five days a
week, took three months, till April
• His efforts at various beaches, islands - Lake Wentworth, Trigs island, Tietons to Conrad Meadows,
Meade Glacier
• Roosevelt’s statement “All we have to fear is fear itself.”
THEME – determination, never to give up, self- faith, will to live (narrator’s struggle a great example –
motivation) fear a big handicap and how to overcome it

3. THE RATTRAP by Selma Lagerlof

Theme- basic goodness in everyone, compassion & kindness can stir the basic goodness in us, Christmas
festival preaches forgiveness, love, harmony, pain of isolation and our avarice can allure us to get caught
into temptations and bait
Ø The Rattrap seller /peddler made his living by selling rattraps.
Ø His business not profitable.
Ø Had to beg and steal.
Ø His philosophy: whole world a rat trap. It offers riches, joys, shelter, food etc. as bait.
Ø Everything comes to end and with no return.
Ø Shelter at Crofter's house:
Ø one-night rattrap man stayed at an old man's house.
Ø old man happy to get a company
Ø Crofter- generous, hospitable, served porridge, offered big slice from tobacco roll; played cards
Ø His cow supported him, earned thirty kronors.
Ø showed the rattrap man pouch having those kronors.
Ø Next day the rattrap man stole money.
Ø Did not continue on public highway, went into woods, lost his way
Ø Walked endlessly, tired, realized he himself has been caught in a rattrap.
Ø Heard sounds of hammer strokes, walked in that direction, reached iron mill.
Ø found master smith (Stjernstrom), did not notice peddler
Ø Iron master and his daughter Edla:
Ø Owner of Ramsjo Iron Mill mistook rattrap man as old acquaintance called Captain Von Stahle.
Ø Invited him home to spend Christmas
Ø Peddler did not agree agreed when Edla came and requested
Ø Overwhelmed by her compassionate and friendly manner
Ø Secrets Revealed:
Ø Peddler was given bath and new dress
Ø Iron man realized his mistake that the rattrap man was not his friend.
Ø complained that the rattrap man made no attempt to hide
Ø The peddler ready to leave the new dress and wear old rags.
Ø Edla requested her father to allow him to stay
Ø They had promised him to celebrate Christmas with him
Ø The peddler turned a new leaf; quietly ate food, slept whole time
Ø Next morning father and daughter went to church
Ø They heard that the crofter was robbed by a peddler
Ø Daughter sad, father anxious if their house would also have been robbed
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Ø But the peddler had left a gift of a small rattrap with thirty kronors and a note
Ø wished money to be returned to crofter
Ø confessed that he had made a mistake
Ø Got caught in his own rattrap
Ø Thanked Edla for treating him like a real captain, Edla’s kindness transforms him

4. INDIGO – LOUIS FISCHER

• Gandhi’s busy schedule- various congress conventions,

• Rajkumar shukla & his role –
• Champaran issue – atrocities, exploitation by the landlords,
• Deal b/w the poor farmers& the British landlords, contracts signed
• Gandhi arrives at Champaran, warm welcome& massive support by the people, Kriplani along with
the students
• Gandhi thought that going to law courts is useless when the peasants are fear-stricken
• Gandhi’s way of working, strategies, leadership qualities
• Gandhi’s conflict of duties – keeping the law or rendering humanitarian & national service, listened
to the voice of conscience
• Champaran – a turning point, victory of non- violence, non- cooperation
• Refund to the farmers- Gandhi asked for 50%, 25% refunded, why the refund was important- money
did not matter, it was refund of the dignity & lost prestige of the poor farmers
• Deadlock broken
• Gandhi’s loyalty not to the abstractions, it was a loyalty to living, human beings
• Social upliftment in Champaranby Gandhi & his volunteers- Mahadevi Desai, Narhari Parikh, Devdas,
his youngest son, his wife Kasturba
• Primary schools opened in six villages, doctor, his disciple volunteered his services for 6 months,
castor oil, quinine & sulphur ointment available
• Some names- Andrews, Malkani, Kriplani, rajender Prasad, Brij Kishore Babu, Maulana Maharul Huq

Message- non-violence, resist exploitation, be self-reliant, patriotism, qualities of a leader

5. GOING PLACES- A. R. BARTON

MAIN POINTS:
1. Two school girls- Sophie and Jansie- talked about their future plans after school-education.
2. Sophie wanted to have a 'boutique' but Jansie doubted as it needed huge amount of money.
3. Sophie would find money by working as a manager, or an actress or a fashion designer.
4. Jansie thought that they (Sophie & she) are earmarked for biscuit factory.
5. Geoff, her brother and an apprentice mechanic, a silent and realistic fellow by nature, was in her
complete trust.
6. She confided to him her illusory meeting with Danny Casey, a young Irish football player.
7. Her father did not like her make-believe world. He protested quite often.
8. On Saturday, the family went to watch the United, in which Casey scored for the United.
9. The family celebrated this in their own distinct manner.
10. Sophie under the delusion of meeting Danny Casey derives immense pleasure from it.
11. Gradually reality dawns on her., reality frustrates vher
12. She was disappointed, and is worried about her credibility.
13. But is convinced that Danny and she understand the situation. She continues to live in virtual reality.

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Major features:
Sophie Jansie
Day dreamer , passionate about sophistication Realistic
Ambitious Practical
Lives in a make-believe world
Fantasies Down-to-earth
Unhappy with harsh realities of her life gossip monger.

Sophie's family
(1) Geoff -Her elder brother ----- Apprentice mechanic- realistic and silent.
(2) Her father- middleclass, poor man- dislikes her wild stories, passion for soccer, takes the family to
watch matches
(3) Her mother --- busy in domestic chores, no say

Issues Raised
(1) Adolescent fantasising, an escape from reality
(2) Hero-worshiping

The Interview – Christopher Silvester

PART 1
• The lesson begins with the introduction to interview as a commonplace of journalism since its
invention, which was a little over 130 years ago.
• According to the author, it is not very surprising that people have very distinct opinions about the
usage of interview. Some think of it in its highest form whereas some people can’t stand being
interviewed.
• The interview has become a commonplace of journalism. Today, almost everybody who is literate
will have read an interview at some point in their lives, while from the other point of view, several
thousand celebrities have been interviewed over the years, some of them repeatedly An interview
leaves a lasting impression and according to an old saying, when perceptions are made about a
certain person, the original identity of his soul gets stolen. Famous celebrities, writers and artists
have been heard criticising interviews.
• Many famous personalities have a bad impression in their minds about interviews. The cosmopolitan
writer, V. S. Naipaul feels that a bad interview has the tendency of leaving them wounded for life. The
creator of Alice in Wonderland never consented to be interviewed as he was too scared of the
interviewer. He feared that a lot of attention would be drawn towards him and thus, he remained
away from those who knew him - those who wanted to either interview him or get an autograph of
his. He would narrate tales of his success at avoiding such requests with satisfaction and enjoyment.
• V. S. Naipaul- Known as a cosmopolitan writer. In his travel books and in his documentary works he
presents his impressions of the country of his ancestors that is India. He received the Nobel Prize in
Literature in 2001.
Rudyard Kipling’s wife wrote in her diary how their day in Boston was ruined by two reporters.
Kipling considers interviewing an assault, a crime that should attract punishment. He believes that a
respectable man would never ask or give an interview.
• H. G. Wells in an interview in 1894 referred to ‘the interviewing ordeal’, but was a fairly frequent
interviewee and forty years later found himself interviewing Joseph Stalin. Saul Bellow, who has

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 consented to be interviewed on several occasions, nevertheless once described interviews as being
like thumbprints on his windpipe.
• H. G. Wells in an interview in 1894 referred to ‘the interviewing ordeal’, but was a fairly frequent
interviewee and forty years later found himself interviewing Joseph Stalin. Saul Bellow, who has
consented to be interviewed on several occasions, nevertheless once described interviews as being
like thumbprints on his windpipe.
• Joseph Stalin- A Great Russian revolutionary and an active political organiser.
Saul Bellow- A playwright as well as a novelist, Bellow’s works were influenced widely by World War
II. Among his most famous characters are Augie March and Moses. He published short stories
translated from Yiddish. He won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1976.

PART 2
• There is an excerpt from the interview between Mukund (from The Hindu newspaper) and Umberto
Eco, a professor at the University of Bologna in Italy who had already acquired a formidable
reputation as a scholar for his ideas on semiotics (the study of signs), literary interpretation, and
medieval aesthetics before he turned to writing fiction.
• The interview revolves around the success of his novel, The Name of the Rose whose more than ten
million copies were sold in the market.
• The interviewer begins by asking him how Umberto manages to do so many different things to which
he replies by saying that he is doing the same thing.
• He further justifies and mentions that his books about children talk about peace and non-violence
which in the end, reflect his interest in philosophy.
• Umberto identifies himself as an academic scholar who attends academic conferences during the
week and writes novels on Sundays. It doesn’t bother him that he is identified by others as a novelist
and not a scholar, because he knows that it is difficult to reach millions of people with scholarly work.
• He believes there are empty spaces in one’s life, just like there are empty spaces in atoms and the
Universe. He calls them interstices and most of his productive work is done during that time.
• Talking about his novel, he mentions that it is not an easy-read. It has a detective aspect to it along
with metaphysics, theology and medieval history. Also, he believes that had the novel been written
ten years earlier or later, it would have not seen such a huge success. Thus, the reason for its success
still remains a mystery.

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POETS AND PANCAKES by ASOKAMITRAN
• The Gemini studios owned by S.S. Vasan was one of the most influential film Producing Organizations
of India in the early years of Indian film making industry.
• Pancake was the brand name of a make-up material. Truckloads of it were brought to the Gemini
studios in Madras. It was used in the make-up of the actors as well as the crowds for the shooting.
• The make-up department of studios looked like a hair cutting salon.
• Had lights at all angles, half dozen mirrors, incandescent lights • The artists were subjected to misery
while application of make-up.
• The make-up department, consisting of people from different parts of the country, was a unique
example of National Integration.
• A strict hierarchy was maintained in the make-up dept.
• Narrator worked in a cubicle tearing newspapers, thought he was free, people barged in always.
• Kothamangalam Subbu, no.2 at Gemini studios, was always cheerful, tailor made for films, endowed
with great creativity, charitable yet had enemies
• He was loyal and faithful, very close to boss.
• He could offer various alternatives for how a scene could be invented. Subbu, in fact, gave direction to
Gemini studios during its golden years.
• The story Department of the studios comprising of a lawyer, officially known as legal adviser but was
treated the opposite. Once he brought a sad end to the career of a brilliant and promising young
actress.
• Story Dept wound up-lawyer lost job.
• A favourite haunt for poets – Mess had excellent coffee all day and for most of the night • Most
radiated leisure and wore Khadi, worshipped Gandhi, knew nothing about politics.
• Averse to Communism
- Communist was a Godless Man, would willingly betray family, loved ones
- always ready to spread unrest and violence among innocent and ignorant people
• A warm welcome was accorded to moral Re Armament Army (MRA) by the Gemini studios. They
presented two plays ‘Jothan Valley’ and “The Forgotten Factor” which had a great influence on Tamil
drama.
• THE MRA was a strong countermovement against communism.
• The Gemini studios again got an opportunity to welcome an English poet or an Editor. But the people
of Gemini Studio could not comprehend the purpose as well as the language of the poet or editor, so
his visit was a mystery.
• Later on, he came to know that the visitor was the editor of “The Encounter” and his name was Stephen
Spender. • “The God That Failed” was the collection of six essays by six men of letters including
Spender. These essays described separately their journey into communism and their disillusioned
return.
• Mystery was solved.

POEMS
MY MOTHER AT SIXTY-SIX - By Kamla Das
THEME: The poem "My Mother at Sixty- six" examines the themes of:

(i) Advancing age & contrast between old age and childhood

(ii) The fear of loss & separation (iii) helplessness of old parents & their children as well
MAIN POINTS TO REMEMBER:

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1. The poet was travelling in a car along with her mother to the Cochin airport.

2. She compares the ashen face of her mother to a dead body; suddenly realizes that her mother has
grown old & will finally die leaving her alone in this world.
3. This thought is painful to her so to divert her mind she looks out of the window of the car.
4. She sees the young trees running &the happy children coming out of their homes.

5. They are representatives' of-youth, energy, life &are in contrast to the pale worn out face of her
mother who is sleeping beside her.

6. The dull face of her mother reminds her of the late winter's moon & troubles her once again of losing
her mother.
7. At last she says good bye to her mother with a smile& without disclosing her feelings and fear of
separation.

Gist of the poem:

1- The poet is driving from her parents’ home to Cochin by car, her mother by her side— sleeping –
open mouthed very pale, colourless and frail-like a dead body indicating that her end was near.
2- The poet looks at her and feels intense pain and agony to realize that soon death will cast her
mother from her.
3- Tries to divert her mind, looks outside at the young trees and happy children bursting out of their
homes in a playful mood (a contrasting image)
4- After the security check at the airport looked again at her mother’s face—pale and cold.
5- “Familiar ache-My childhood fear” –the poet has always had a very intimate and close relationship
with her mother and she has always felt the fear of being separated from her mother hence it is
familiar.
6- The poet reassures her mother that they will meet again

Figures of Speech used:

SIMILE-: her face ashen like that of a corpse, as a late winter’s moon.
REPETITION-: smile and smile and smile
IMAGES- wan, pale, dozed, open-mouthed, sprinting trees, merry children
CONTRAST-: Old mother in the car has been contrasted with the young trees running and happy children
coming out of their homes to the sadness of the poet on realizing the advancing age of her
mother.
METAPHOR - the merry children spilling out of their homes
PERSONIFICATION -young trees sprinting

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KEEPING QUIET - By Pablo Neruda

THEME: Necessity of quiet introspection and creating mutual understanding among humans. Emphasis
on introspection leading to peace, harmony and universal brotherhood, deep silence a great source of
peace and tranquillity, environmental deterioration, wars –a great threat to mankind
Main Points
1. The poet requests readers to keep quiet till he counts to twelve
2. He requests us not to use any language and move our arms so much for a while as it will become a
hurdle in keeping quiet.
3. When there is no rush; no movement and noise of engines, the threat of sudden strangeness will tie
all of us together into an exotic moment
4. This will bring about relief to the fishermen in cold sea and the salt gatherer also will be able to look
after their injured bleeding hands.
5. A good sense will also prevail on the war-mongers as they will understand the futility of the same
6. When environment is in jeopardy; human-existence is threatened on the earth, the survivor of the
war will face fatal consequences.
7. Such war-mongers are also exhorted to put on clean clothes and walk about with their brothers
8. The poet urges us not to mistake inactivity advocated by him for death.
9. He clarifies that single-minded indulgence in the rat-race of self-centered goals leading to materialism
is unwarranted.
10. Keeping quiet and discharging our duties peacefully will evolve better understanding in us.
11. The achievement of mental peace will lead us to introspection and mutual understanding. The
absence of these two traits amounts to various conflicts in the world.
12. Modern man’s busy and mechanized way of living leading him to sad state, no understanding
13. With the development of mutual understanding comes empathy and then our life becomes a
pleasant experience.
14. Lesson from the Earth- how life goes on in apparent stillness, example of cycle of seasons – in autumn,
winter everything seems to be dead, leaves get buried in the soil and later on same get germinated
and life blossoms
15. Finally, he declares his departure while persuading us to keep quiet.
The poem “Keeping Quiet” by Pablo Neruda is a unique blend of introspection retrospection,
universal fraternity and abhorrence to war.

Poetic devices:
1. Alliteration – “we will”, “we would”, “once on”, “we would”, “his hurt hands”, clean clothes, sudden
strangeness
2. Repetition – “without rush, without engines”
4. Imagery – “Cold Sea”
5. symbol of mankind- Brothers. clean clothes- good thoughts, purity of mind 6. In the shade-
metaphor- just as shade protects us from the harsh sun, we will protect and shelter each other as
brothers, thus live in peace and harmony.
7. no truck – euphemism
8. Earth can teach us as when everything… symbol
9. Pun- arms
10. Oxymoron- victory with no survivours

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A THING OF BEAUTY by John Keats

Theme – beautiful things give us permanent & everlasting joy, this happiness never fades, soothes our
troubled minds

1. An object of beauty gives us a perennial joy.

2. Beauty never fades and is not devalued. It never passes into nothingness.
3. The poet refers to the sun and moon that shine brilliantly in the sky, other objects also.
4. Refers to old and young trees which provide us shade in summer.
5. Different type of flowers spread beauty and charm.
6. Streams of clear water bring a cooling effect in summer.
7. Based on a Greek legend, the poem is an excerpt from 'Endymion'
8. According to the poet a beautiful thing is a constant source of joy. Its loveliness never ends but
increases forever.
9. It gives sweet dreams and peaceful sleep, fine breathing and good health. Hence, a boon to all.
10. We are surrounded by jealousy and disappointment.
11. The ignoble qualities make our life gloomy and miserable resulting in suffering and pain.
12. A thing of beauty removes the gloom (sadness) from our spirits.
13. The sight of nature such as- clear streams of water, daffodils (a flower), musk-rose and forest thickets
-make our lives sweet, soothing and happy
14. This beauty is also experienced in grandeur of the dooms that we have imagined for our powerful
dead forefathers - Doom-refers to the ruins of the great deeds of the legendary heroes.
15. Lovelier than lovely tales, the incessant beauty of nature is pouring unto us like an immortal drink
through an endless fountain from the heaven meaning that nature's beauty acts as an elixir for
humanity.
16. Human beings – sad, despondent, selfish- beautiful things can only remove this sadness, their
memory rejuvenates us
17. Roses spread fragrance everywhere, Beautiful objects of nature are a source of joy forever.
18. All the beautiful things are like nectar for us, God’s gift.
19. Grandeur of the dooms- magnificent deaths of warriors and nobles who die, sacrifice their lives for
others, it is a great inspiration, their noble actions are called beautiful, they leave an indelible imprint
on our mind
LITERARY DEVICES-
1. Metaphor- a bower quiet, sweet dreams, flowery band, immortal drink
2. Images- clear rills, musk roses, green world, fair musk roses,
3. Alliteration – simple sheep, cooling covert, sprouting a shady., noble natures, some shape of beauty
4. Contrast / opposite- trees old and young
5. Transferred epithet- gloomy days
6. Oxymoron – grandeur of doom

A ROADSIDE STAND- ROBERT FROST

GIST OF THE POEM
Ø The rural folk have erected a roadside stand by adding a shed to an old house by the side of the
road. They sell berries, squash, etc.
Ø The 'polished' city people feel irritated at the shabby stand which is clumsily painted and the signs
turned into wrong direction.
Ø The roadside people have self-respect, their aim is not to beg but to earn some cash to improve their
living standard.
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Ø The rural folk are promised a better life by re-locating them near cities and rehabilitating them.
Ø But the 'greedy good doers' and `beneficent beasts of prey'(politicians, etc.) exploit and cheat these
honest, hardworking rural people.
Ø The stand owners suffer a 'childish longing' i.e. a desire that city people would stop and purchase a
few items, thus helping them to earn hard cash.
Ø But this longing is `vain'(useless) as the car owners stop only to enquire about fuel, where the road
was leading to and for taking a U-turn.
Ø The poet feels the pain and disappointment of the people at 'roadside stand'.

THEME OF THE POEM

The poem A Roadside Stand depicts the lives of the rural poor. Robert Frost is critical of the contemptuous
way in which the city dwellers look at the villagers who yearn to sell their vegetables by setting up a roadside
stand by the side of the high way. He reminds us that the economic well- being of a country depends on a
balanced development of the villages and the cities.

‘A roadside Stand’ highlights the stark reality of class difference between the city rich and the rural poor and
calls for deepest sympathy and concern for the latter. The roadside stand owner, representing the rural poor,
complains of the indifferent attitude of the city folk as represented by the city motorists and appeals to them
to come forward to relieve the rural poor of their want and poverty.

MESSAGE OF THE POEM

There is a universal appeal to the rich and the government for the upliftment of the poor rural folk. The poor
rural folk can make progress only when the rich do not exploit them. The government and the big money
magnets should take the responsibility to improve the condition of the poor. Instead of promises grass root
action should be taken the right direction for their betterment. Let their hopes not shatter in this materialistic
and dazzling world.
LITERARY DEVICES
i. Personification - The poet has personified the stand by using the word plead for it - A roadside stand that too
pathetically pled. The poet has personified sadness by using the phrase ‘sadness that lurks near the open window
there.’
ii. Tautology- money , cash……… withering , sinking
1. Prominent sound of the vowel o in – ‘But for some of the money, the cash, whose flow supports’.
2. Prominent sound of the vowel 'i' in - "The flower of cities from sinking and withering faint."
iii. Alliteration - It is the repetition of a letter at the start of closely placed words. The repetition of the letter - 'p' in
"pathetically pled," gallon of gas.
iv. Transferred Epithet - The poet has used polished traffic to refer to the rich city dwellers. , selfish cars
v. Repetition - The word wrong has been repeated, cars , gallon of gas.
vi. Anaphora - It is the repetition of a word at the start of two or more consecutive lines -
(Or crook-necked golden squash with silver warts,
Or beauty rest in a beautiful mountain scene,).
Oxymoron - There is use of two words with opposite meanings together – ‘greedy good-doers’ ‘beneficient beasts of
prey’

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AUNT JENNIFER’S TIGERS by Adrienne Rich
Theme- gender inequality , gender conflicts , male chauvinism, victimization of women by their
counterparts leads to miseries, ordeals , suppression , no individuality, suppression of women in
matrimony and immortality of art work is also highlighted

1. Aunt Jennifer’s tiger refers to her embroidery work – embroidering tigers on a tapestry, panel
2. Description of tigers- bright, ‘topaz’ – yellow colour, fearless, prancing in the green world, forest with
dignity, pride etc., are unafraid of other beings (hunters) in the jungle. Bright here signifies their
powerful and radiant persona.
3. Contrast between the tigers and Aunt Jennifer, their creator- Aunt Jennifer is revealed as feeble, weak
and enslaved, very much the opposite of the tigers she was embroidering.
4. Her physical and mental trauma is depicted in the line – "find even the ivory needle hard to pull".
5. Suppressive environment, ordeals, no freedom – it has made her a nervous wreck, impact her fingers
are fluttering
7. Her inner free spirit has been jailed by the patriarchal society.
8. Weight of wedding band refers to all atrocities, sufferings because of male dominance, matrimony.
9. Her art work is an escape from the torturous reality, depicts her desire for freedom, dignity which she
has lost under the marital burden & constraint, marriage is not a pleasant experience for her. Art work
is her alternate world of freedom which she can inhabit only in imagination
10. Even her death couldn’t free her from the ordeals she was tortured to such an extent

11. Her art work which was her escape route or in a way, her inner sense of freedom, will stay forever,
proud and unafraid.
12. Last stanza starts on a creepy note about Aunt Jennifer’s death. There will be no change in the mind
sets of the men folk, patriarchal society will go unchanged
13. Word ‘Aunt’ in the last stanza refers to all victimized women

LITERARY DEVICES-
1. Symbol – Tiger- terror, freedom of spirit, fearlessness and oppressor also .Aunt Jennifer- victimized,
victim of male subjugation
2. Metaphor- topaz
3. Images- The main images are of Aunt Jennifer as a fear stricken, subjugated wife and, secondly, the
magnificent tigers, Images of precious substances run through the poem: ‘topaz’, ‘ivory’:
4. The main contrasts are between nervous Aunt Jennifer and her confident tigers. Another contrast is
between the words ‘prancing’ and ‘fluttering’ contrast as well.
5. Hyperbole [Exaggeration] The poet exaggerates the weight of her husband’s wedding ring to make a
point about
6. Paradox [apparent contradiction]: Here a trembling and ‘mastered’ woman creates free and confident
creatures in her, ‘Fluttering’ fingers produce something that has ‘certainty’
7. Synecdoche – fluttering fingers
8. Alliteration – fluttering fingers

VISTAS
1. THE THIRD LEVEL by JACK FINNEY
THEME-
• Fantasy, imagination, a temporary refuge from a world full of insecurity, fear, war, and worry.

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• Stress, sense of insecurity and fear of people of modern times
• Increasing tension & worries
• People want to run away from reality
• Modern times, 20th century – war, greed, materialism on rise, restlessness of minds
• Pulls and pressure of modern times
• Man’s desire to find a peaceful state, the third level is a utopian world
• The Third Level symbolises an ideal place full of peace & tranquility
• Complexities of human mind
• LIFE IN PREVIOUS TIME- simpler & better

CHARACTERS-
Charley, Sam Weiner, Louisa About the personalities referred to in the chapter:
1. President Roosevelt
2. President Grover Cleveland
3. President James Garfield

SOME FACTS:
• This story was published in 1954.
• Real place- Galesburg: the writer had spent some time here

SUMMARY OF THE LESSON:

• The Third Level’ is a story that weaves together a psychological journey of the narrator into past,
present and moves towards future.
• Charley- 31-year-old, an American narrates his unusual experience of having been to the third level.
• He discovers brass spittoons, flickering gas lights, everyone dressed, like 1890’s with old fashioned
beards, side burns, fancy moustaches, engine with funnel shaped stack, newspaper - The World, few
ticket windows etc. in the third level.
• Charley goes to get the ticket for Galesburg - Illinois- Wonderful town, big houses, huge lawns, plenty
of trees, people with lots of leisure time and surprises when the clerk says that it is not currency and
he will be put behind the bars.
• Wife worried -takes him to his Psychiatrist friend
• He refuses to believe -says it a waking wish dream fulfilment as he could not face the modern world
which is full of fear, insecurity, war, worry, stamp collection a refuge from reality.
• Charley desperate to go to Galesburg & so exchanges new for old currency. But could never find the
third level. Sam’s disappearance has something to do with Galesburg as he was fond of the place.
One day while going through his stamp collection, he finds an envelope, containing a letter of July 18,
1894 written by Sam, who is living at Galesburg, assertions the Third level.
Grand Central Station of New York has two levels. But Charley, a thirty-one-year-old dweller of the city, talks
about there being three. Not only does he believe in the existence of this hypothetical third level but also
claims to have been there.

A visit to his psychiatrist friend

Charley visits a psychiatrist friend to talk about this problem. The psychiatrist calls it a “waking- dream wish
fulfilment” and rationalises Charley's psychology by saying that the “modern world is full of insecurity, fear,
worry, and war...” and everybody wants to escape to some “temporary refuge from reality.” According to
him, even hobbies like stamp collection is a manifestation of this escape.

Charley loses his way at Grand Central

19
The fast growing Grand Central station at times seems to be a maze to Charley. He had lost his way a couple
of times earlier too while taking the subway. Once, he entered the lobby of the Roosevelt Hotel while the
other time he emerged at an office building that was three blocks away. But this time when he loses his way,
something unique happens. He visits the third level!

The Third Level - Charley keeps walking in the quiet corridor, angling left and slanting downward, till he
reaches an architecturally old station that is completely different from the two familiar levels. The antiquated
small room with fewer ticket counters and train gates, a wooden information booth, flickering open flame
gas lights and brass spittoons reminds him of the architecture of the 1800s. He also finds that people are
dressed in outmoded outfits. He notices that the date on the newspaper The World is printed June 11, 1894.
As he tenders money to the clerk at the counter to buy two tickets, he realises that he need to have old
currency bills to do so.

Charley's plan for a journey not realised - He had always wanted to travel to Galesburg with his wife, Louisa.
In his mind, it is “a wonderful town still, with big old frame houses, huge lawns, and tremendous trees.” It is
a place with long and pleasant summer evenings and where people have
ample of time. So, the next day during lunch, he exchanges three hundred dollars for old style bills amounting
to some two hundred only. The loss doesn’t bother28 him much as he believes that in

Galesburg everything will be cheaper and that he can manage even with a small amount. But, he could never
again find the corridor leading to the third level.

Sam goes missing! –Charley’s wife Louisa is worried after knowing all this and asks him not to look for the
third level any further. Suddenly Charley realises that his friend, Sam Weiner, is nowhere to be found, so he
and his wife keep looking for him in the weekends. Sam was the one with whom Charley used to share his
ideas about Galesburg.

Philately & the first day covers -Philately is not just stamp collection but a broad term including the study
of stamps, postal history and other related items. When a new stamp is issued, on the first day, people mail
a blank paper to themselves and then retain that unopened letter with the date on the postmark. Charley
has inherited the hobby and the collection from his grandfather.

A letter from Sam - One day while fidgeting with his stamp collection, Charley comes across a letter that was
not there earlier. It bears the postmark on a faded six-cent stamp with a picture of the President Garfield.
The envelope was sent on July18, 1894 to Charley's grandfather in Galesburg and is addressed to Charley.
The letter reads that Sam has reached Galesburg and is having whale of a time there. He also invites Charley
and Louisa to Galesburg. When Charley goes to the stamp and coin store, he is apprised of Sam's exchanging
eight hundred dollars for the old currency bills to establish his business of hay feed and grain in Galesburg.
The letter was written by Sam Weiner, who was Charley's psychiatrist!

2. THE TIGER KING

CHARACTERS AND PLACES
The Tiger King : A hero of the story, the Maharaja of Pratibandhpuram, also known as His
Highness Jamedar, General Khiledar-Major, Sata-Vyaghra samhari,
Maharajadhiraja Visva Bhuvana samrat, Sir Jilani Jung Bahadur, M.A.D.,
A.C.T.C., or C.R.C.K.
Crown prince : Aten-day old baby who later became the Maharaja of Pratibandhpuram.

Chief astrologer : A royal foreteller of the state.

20
Durai : Means “chief, leader” in Tamil. A British high ranking officer & his
secretary
Dewan : A chief administrative officer of the Maharaja.
Duraisani : The wife of the high ranking British officer, a greedy woman who took all
the 50 or so diamond rings for herself.

INTRODUCTION
Kalki takes his readers to the days of autocratic and eccentric kings. These kings lived under the thumb rule
of the British, hence they fear them. In order to make the story mysterious Kalki has added supernatural
element in the story. The haughty king disapproved the prophecy made by the astrologer about his death,
but his death from the wooden tiger (100th tiger) approved it.
The story ‘The Tiger King’ is satire on the conceit of those in power. Most of the time the rulers are not
interested in serving the people or work for the welfare of the public; instead they spend their time foolish
pursuits. Even the coteries who surround these power centres are29 interested in taking advantage of the
proximity for their own welfare. This is a story about transience-of life, of power and reverberates (echo)
the maxim (precept): “Too many slips between a cup and a lip.”

THEME OF THE LESSON

Animals and birds are as much part of the nature as human beings. The destruction or haphazard killing of
one species may not only lead to its extinction, but it will adversely affect the ecological balance. Those
animals which serve as food for the wild animals, will increase in large number, if the beast of prey are wiped
out. Each species, howsoever fierce, deadly, ferocious or poisonous has its role in maintaining ecological
balance in nature.

MESSAGE OF THE LESSON

The story tiger king conveys that getting obsessed too much in winning over something and losing the control
over oneself leads only to mishappening and upheavals. The tiger king’s extreme urge to win over the
prophecy lead to his death.

GIST OF THE LESSON

Ø The Maharaja Sir Jilani Jung Jung Bhadur was called “Tiger King”
Ø When he was just 10 days old he asked intelligent questions to the astrologer and was told
that he would be killed by a tiger. He uttered “Let tigers beware!”
Ø No other miracle took place, the child grew like any other Royal child drinking white cow’s
milk, taught by an English tutor, looked after by an English nanny and watched English films.
Ø When he was 20, he was crowned as king. It was then the whisper of the prediction of his
death by the tiger reached the Maharaja’s ear and he in turn to safe guard himself killed a tiger and
being thrilled he told the astrologer who replied that he can kill 99 tigers but should be careful with
the 100th.
Ø From then he started killing tiger and none was allowed to hunt tigers. A high ranking British
officer visited the state that was fond of hunting tiger and his wish was declined.
Ø The officer requested for getting a photograph with the tiger killed by Maharaja and this request was
rejected. So, to please the officer’s wife, he sent 50 diamond rings expecting that she would take
1 or 2 instead she kept all the rings costing 3 lakh rupees and sent ‘thanks’ to the Maharaja. Thus, his
state was secured.
Ø In 10 years he killed 70 tigers and didn’t find any in Pratibandapuram.So, he decided to marry
a girl from royal state which had more tigers to complete his target. Whenever he visited his in-laws,
he killed 5 to 6 tigers. So, he killed 99 tigers and was feverishly anxious to kill the 100thbut couldn’t
find true news about the presence of a tiger near a village, proved disappointing.

21
 Ø Now the Dewan was warned of his danger. So, he visited ‘People’s Park in Madras’ and
brought an old tiger, kept it reserved and finally placed it in the forest and informed the Maharaja.
Ø The Maharaja in excitement took aim and shot the tiger and left the place with great triumph.
The bullet missed the target and the weak and old tiger became unconscious hearing the sound of
the bullet. Then the hunter killed the tiger and brought it in grand procession.
Ø It was the 3rd birthday of the Maharaja’s son and he wanted to buy a present from the
toyshop. He bought a wooden tiger which was poorly carved.
Ø While the Maharaja was playing with the prince a tiny sliver of the wooden tiger pierced his
right hand which later caused his death. Thus the hundredth tiger takes his final revenge upon the
“Tiger King”. Then nemesis (curse) proved right

3.JOURNEY TO THE END OF THE EARTH

About the author

Tishani Doshi is an Indian poet, journalist and dancer based in Chennai. In 2006 she won the Forward Prize
for her debut poetry book Countries of the Body. Her poetry book A God at the Door has been shortlisted
for the 2021 Forward Prize under best poetry collection category.

INTRODUCTION
In ‘Journey to the End of the Earth’ Tishani Doshi describes the
journey to the coldest, driest and windiest continent in the world: Antarctica. The world’s geological history
is trapped in Antarctica. Geoff Green’s ‘Students on Ice’ programme aims at taking high school students to
the ends of the world. Doshi thinks that Antarctica is the place to go and understand the earth’s present,
past and future.

THEME OF THE LESSON

In 'Journey to the End of the Earth' aims at the exploration of the landmass covered by ice-cap of Antarctica
will surely reveal vital information about the birth and evaluation of the earth. And the sub-theme is the
need of saving the planet Earth from total annihilation (destruction) and the role the school students can
play in this gigantic task.

MESSAGE OF THE LESSON

The author gives us the message that rarely visited regions of the earth (North and South Poles) are a store
house of information and we can learn a lot about the earth’s past, present and future if we dig deep into
them. It also warns man against too much interference with nature and excessive encroachment on and
dominance over Nature which is injurious to the future of mankind and that ‘the threat of global warming is
very real’.

TITLE OF THE LESSON

The title of the story 'Journey to the End of the Earth' is an account of author’s personal experience to the
journey to Antarctica with a group of high school students on board ‘Akademik Shokalskiy. We know the
earth is round and if at all, ends are to be found they are either at the bottom (the South pole) or the top of
the earth (the North pole) the word ‘End’ used in the title is very forceful and meaningful, because the
scientists continually warn us against the catastrophic effects of the excessive “depletion of ozone layer”.
So, judicious use of natural resources is a must if we want to escape ‘End’ of the earth. Thus, the title is most
appropriate and true to its meaning.
4. THE ENEMY- PEARL S. BUCK

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CHARACTERS AND PLACES
Dr. Sadao Hoki : A Japanese doctor trained by Americans.
Sadao’s father : Much concerned about his son’s education, a true patriot.
Hana : Wife of Dr. Sadao, met in America, became friends and got married in Japan.
Tom : An American prisoner of war, a soldier of U.S. Navy.
The old General : A sick Japanese army General, needed an operation, trusted only Dr. Sadao.
An officer : A messenger of the General.
Gardener : An old gardener in the house of Dr. Sadao.
Yumi : Hana’s maid servant.
The cook : An old cook in the house of Dr. Sadao.
House of Dr. Sadao : A house built on a narrow beach near the sea
.

TITLE OF THE LESSON

“The Enemy” is an apt title for the story that has Second World War as the background that eventually
culminates in dropping of atom bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki by America. Under these circumstances
an American P.O.W. sailor, by no chance, could be treated as a friend by the Japanese. The servants in Dr.
Sadao’s house vehemently protest against his presence and treat him as their sworn enemy; so much so that
they severe their long standing relationship with the Sadao over to the police. For the masses that constitute
majority of the population all the world over, all individuals belonging to the country, their nation is at war
with, are their enemies. The Sadao couple too considers Tom to be their enemy; but being educated, they
have a broader and more generous view of life, and in spite of reservations, mental conflicts and various
other odds they are confronted with, they take a humanistic view. The doctor’s professional ethics also urge
him to treat the American sailor as a patient. Neither Dr. Sadao, nor Hana, at any stage consider him to be
their friend in spite of the fact that they have spent a number of years in the States. Hence “The Enemy” is
a befitting title for the story.

INTRODUCTION
The Enemy is a story written by Pearl Sydenstricker Buck. It is about a Japanese surgeon, Sadao. He went to
study in America and meets a Japanese girl, Hana, there. He marries her and brings her back to Japan to
settle down.
Theme- 1. Humanism transcends all prejudices 2. Humanitarian values breed peace & harmony 3.
Professional ethics of a doctor 4. Narrow-minded thinking is the real enemy 5. Stop wars and preach
peace

BACKGROUND & SETTING OF THE LESSON

In “The Enemy,” a story set in Japan during World War II, an American-trained Japanese surgeon pulls a
wounded American sailor, presumably an escaped POW, from the surf behind his home. At first he and his
wife. It is wartime and a doctor needs to make a life or death decision.

GIST OF THE LESSON:

Ø Dr. Sadao, a Japanese surgeon finds a wounded American soldier on the beach near his house.

Ø He is unable to throw him back though he was his enemy as he was a doctor and his first duty
was to save a life.
Ø Hana, his wife, though initially reluctant because it was dangerous for all including the
children to keep the enemy in the house, joins her husband in operating and nursing the enemy
soldier back to health, even though the servants desert the house.
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 Ø Hana assists Dr. Sadao in operating the soldier in spite of her physical discomfort and
hesitation.
Ø Though it was war time and all hands were needed at the front, the General did not send
Sadao with the troops as he is an expert surgeon and the General needed him.
Ø Sadao tells him about the enemy soldier but he does not take any action as he is self-absorbed and
forgets his promise that he would send his private assassins to kill the enemy and remove his body.
Ø Taking advantage of the general’s self-absorption Sadao decides to save the soldiers life. After
the soldier is out of danger Dr. Sadao helps him to escape from his house to

5. ON THE FACE OF IT – SUSAN HILL

Theme- miseries of physically disabled & their social alienation, insensitive society, lack of empathy,
overprotective parents& how optimistic approach helps in overcoming all hurdles, life should be lived to
the fullest
REMEMBER THE EXAMPLES FROM THIS CHAPTER
§ Play depicts the sad / alienated world of the physically impaired.
§ It is not the actual pain or inconvenience caused by a physical impairment that trouble a disabled
man but the attitude of the people around him.
§ Two physically impaired people, Mr. Lamb with a tin leg and Derry with a burnt face, strike a band
of friendship.
§ Derry is described as a young boy shy, withdrawn and pessimistic.
§ Mr. Lamb in spite of losing a leg has an optimistic approach towards life.
§ People tell him inspiring stories to console him, no one will ever kiss him except his mother that too
on the other side of his face.
§ Mentions about a woman telling that only a mother can love such a face.
§ He motivates him to think positively about life, changes his mind set about people and things how a
man locked himself as he was scared-a picture fell off the wall and got killed. § Everything
appears to be the same but is different- E.g. of bees. And weeds § The gate of the garden is always
open.
§ Derry is inspired and promises to come back.
§ Derry’s mother stops him but he is adamant saying if he does not go now it would be never.
§ When he comes back he sees lamb lying on the ground as he had taken a fall from the tree.
§ It is ironical that when he searches a new foothold to live happily, he finds Mr. Lamb dead.
§ In this way the play depicts the heart rendering life of physically disabled people with their
loneliness, aloofness and alienation.

MEMORIES OF CHILDHOOD

The chapter aims to showcase the bitter memories of the childhood of two women of different cultures
through their autobiographical extracts of social discrimination and oppression and the resulting feelings of
rebellion in them later in life. Zitkala-Sa and Bama, both look back at their childhood reflecting upon the
indignities and conflict between races and cultures respectively, which they had to face as children. Though
the women were young, they knew well of the injustice and oppression that prevailed and were determined
to face the odds and stand against it. The atrocities they faced as children, propelled them into becoming
rebels against the marginalisation of the underprivileged section of the society, and they went on with their
fight against injustice.

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THEME OF THE LESSON
Memories of Childhood explore a common universal theme of prejudices and humiliation faced by
marginalized communities from mainstream culture and how both brave girls use their talent,
understanding, wit and education to stand up for their own and community rights. Both use the power of
pen to fight oppression.

The lesson 'Memories of Childhood' is a portrayal of two autobiographical accounts. One by American Indian
woman and the second by a Tamil Dalit writer. Both stories highlight the women's oppression, class barriers,
racialism, discrimination and exploitation that tend to pull them down.

CHARACTERS AND PLACES

Gertrude Simmons : The narrator of the story
Judewin : A friend of Gertrude Simmons
A pale-faced woman : A teacher or a member of staff at the Carlisle Indian Industrial
School in Carlisle.

GIST OF THE LESSON

Ø The story begins with the introduction of the Carlisle Indian School. The narrator describes her first day
at school. It was very cold and unpleasant as there was a lot of snow around. The entire extract deals
with Zitkala-Sa’s shingling of hair. When she came to this school, she found it a strange place where
everything seemed to be mechanical. A very loud and metallic bell rang for breakfast. There was an
annoying clatter of feet on the entire bare floor. She is unnerved because of so much noise.
Ø Here, she finds that all the girls start marching to the dining room after hearing the bell. They have
been supervised by a pale-faced woman. Small girls wore aprons and had shingled hair. The girls were
dressed in clinging clothes. The breakfast was served and eaten very mechanically. There was a bell to
stand, another to sit, next to pray and after that another to start the breakfast. All this was totally new
for the narrator.
Ø Her friend Judewin warned her that the pale-faced woman was talking about the cutting of her long
hair. The narrator did not want her hair to be shingled because, in her community, shingling of hair
was considered as inauspicious and undignified. Only the traitors or the mourners had their hair
shingled. Though her friend told her that they would have to submit as others were stronger. The
narrator decided to struggle and not to submit. She creeps upstairs unnoticed and hid herself under
the bed in a dark corner. But finally, she was discovered and dragged out. She scratched and kicked
but was forcibly taken downstairs and was tied fast to a chair. Her thick braids were cut off. And with
this, she lost her spirits. She realised the indignities suffered by her after she was separated from her
mother. She was tossed here and there like a wooden puppet and felt humiliated like a coward. She
was treated like an animal and no one came to comfort her.

We Too Are Human Beings

Ø In this story, Bama narrates the experiences of a young Dalit school girl in a south Indian village. The
narrator had never heard of untouchability being talked about openly by anyone but she felt,
experienced and was humiliated by what she saw. While coming back from school, she used to spend
a lot of time watching all the fun and games, entertaining novelties, oddities, shops in the bazaar on
the way.
Ø She used to watch performing monkeys, a man pedalling for days, the activities at Maariyaata temple,
the statue of Gandhiji, the sweets and snacks, hunter gipsy and wild lemurs in cages. She used to hear
the political parties giving speeches, saw the puppet show, street plays, coffee shops, fruit trees and
peddlers selling fruits, snacks, halwa and iced lollies.

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While on the way, she saw an interesting scene outside the landlord’s house. Here a threshing floor was
set up with the landlord watching the proceedings. Some people were driving cattle for threshing the
corn. She saw an elder of her community carrying a big packet in a funny manner which made her
laugh. He gave this packet which contained vadais to the landlord without touching it and the
landlord opened the packet and ate the vadais.

SYNONYMS & MAKE USE OF TEXTUAL

LEARN THE NAMES ANTONYMS OF WORDS/PHRASES/EXPR
OF AUTHORS DIFFICULT WORDS ESSIONS & UNDERLINE
IN THE CHAPTERS THEM

1.Read All Questions Carefully

2. Do not panic to see challenging questions or get
excited to see the easy questions
3. Out of 15 mts devote 9 or 10 mts to read the
unseen passages, understanding them
4. In 15mts you should have a good understanding of
your paper
5. Make right and wise choices

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1. To put question number
2. To leave one or two lines after each answer
3. To give one confirmed answer for vocab
question
4. If you do not know any answer , do not
waste time on it, leave space and do it later

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