CBSE CLASS 12 ENGLISH PROJECT
Topic: Lost Spring – Anees Jung
Name: ___________________________
Class: XII - ________
Roll Number: ________
School Name: ___________________________
Session: 2024–25
Subject: English Core
Teacher’s Name: ___________________________
INDEX
1. Acknowledgement
2. Certificate
3. Introduction
4. About the Author – Anees Jung
5. Summary of 'Lost Spring'
6. Theme & Message
7. Characters
8. Critical Analysis
9. Literary Devices
10. Personal Opinion
11. Conclusion
12. Bibliography
Acknowledgement
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my English teacher for
assigning this insightful project on 'Lost Spring'. The opportunity to
work on this piece has expanded my understanding of social realities
and the plight of underprivileged children in India. I also extend my
thanks to my family and friends for their constant support. This project
not only enriched my academic knowledge but also sensitized me to
important social issues like poverty, child labour, and the loss of
childhood.
Certificate
This is to certify that ____________________, a student of Class 12,
Section ___, has successfully completed the English project on 'Lost
Spring' by Anees Jung, under the guidance of ____________________, for
the academic session 2024–25. This project adheres to CBSE
curriculum standards and showcases the student’s understanding and
reflection on the literary work.
Introduction
'Lost Spring: Stories of Stolen Childhood' is a touching and thought-
provoking piece written by Anees Jung. It explores the lives of poor
children who are forced to forego their childhood due to social and
economic pressures. Through powerful imagery and real-life
encounters, the author presents the struggles faced by children
engaged in rag-picking and bangle-making, highlighting the grim
realities of poverty and child labour in India.
About the Author – Anees Jung
Anees Jung is a renowned Indian author, journalist, and columnist
known for her work on women’s issues and social inequalities. Born in
Hyderabad, she studied in India and the United States and has worked
with major Indian publications. Her writings reflect deep empathy and
concern for the marginalized sections of society. 'Lost Spring' is a part
of her collection that sheds light on the harsh conditions faced by
children in rural and urban India.
Summary of 'Lost Spring'
The chapter is divided into two parts, each focusing on different
children deprived of their childhood.
**Part 1: Sometimes I find a rupee in the garbage** – This section tells
the story of Saheb, a ragpicker from Seemapuri. He symbolizes the loss
of dreams and aspirations due to poverty. Despite his desire for
education and a better life, he is forced into child labour. The title is
ironic, indicating how even a rupee in the garbage brings momentary
joy in their lives.
**Part 2: I want to drive a car** – This section presents the story of
children in Firozabad who are engaged in bangle-making. It introduces
a boy named Mukesh who aspires to become a motor mechanic. The
story highlights how tradition and poverty force generations into the
same exploitative occupation, stealing their right to education and
dreams.
Theme & Message
**1. Poverty and Exploitation:** The story portrays how poverty pushes
children into exploitative jobs, snatching away their innocence.
**2. Child Labour:** It powerfully illustrates how child labour persists in
India despite laws against it.
**3. Lost Childhood:** The narrative shows how these children are
denied their right to play, learn, and grow.
**4. Dreams and Hopes:** Even in adversity, children like Mukesh dare
to dream of a better future.
**Message:** Anees Jung appeals for empathy and societal change.
She urges the reader to recognize the injustice and work towards
giving children their basic rights—especially education and freedom.
Characters
**Saheb-e-Alam:** A ragpicker boy who represents the loss of
childhood and dreams. Though curious and hopeful, his circumstances
limit his opportunities.
**Mukesh:** A boy from Firozabad who aspires to become a car
mechanic instead of joining the family tradition of bangle-making. His
determination symbolizes hope amidst despair.
**Families of Firozabad:** They represent generations trapped in
poverty and tradition, unable to break free from exploitative cycles.
Critical Analysis
'Lost Spring' is a deeply moving piece of narrative journalism. Anees
Jung presents real stories without embellishment, allowing the raw pain
and strength of the children to shine through. Her use of first-hand
observations adds authenticity and emotional depth to the piece. The
contrast between the children’s dreams and their harsh realities
creates a powerful emotional impact.
The title itself is symbolic—'spring' refers to the season of joy and
growth, which these children are deprived of. Jung subtly critiques the
societal systems and traditions that normalize such injustice. She does
not offer solutions but evokes enough empathy to make the reader
reflect and care.
Literary Devices
**Irony:** Despite being called Saheb-e-Alam (Lord of the Universe),
the boy lives in extreme poverty.
**Imagery:** Vivid images of garbage heaps, dusty lanes, and furnaces
bring the setting to life.
**Symbolism:** 'Spring' symbolizes childhood, beauty, and joy, which
are lost in these children’s lives.
**Contrast:** There’s a stark contrast between dreams (education,
cars) and reality (rag-picking, bangle-making).
**Tone:** Compassionate, reflective, and socially aware.
Personal Opinion
Reading 'Lost Spring' opened my eyes to the harsh realities faced by
millions of children in our country. I was especially moved by Mukesh’s
quiet determination and Saheb’s innocent dreams. This story made me
realize the privileges I often take for granted. I strongly feel that every
child deserves education, freedom, and happiness, and society must
take steps to eliminate child labour and poverty. This piece has made
me more sensitive, aware, and motivated to contribute to change.
Conclusion
'Lost Spring' by Anees Jung is a powerful reminder of the stolen
childhoods that exist around us. It is not just a story but a call to action
—an appeal to restore dignity and rights to every child. The narrative
emphasizes that while poverty is a cruel reality, hope and courage can
still ignite dreams. As readers, we must acknowledge our responsibility
in building a society where no child has to rummage through garbage
or sit before a hot furnace instead of going to school.
Bibliography
- CBSE Class 12 English Textbook – Flamingo
- NCERT Notes and Summaries
- Author Biographies and Articles
- Educational Blogs and Class Discussions
- Sample School Projects and Reference Books
