English for Class 10 ( First Flight ) Worksheet Solutions

Q1. How does Lomov speak warmly of Chubukov’s family in the beginning? Why does he change his stand?
Ans: Lomov speaks warmly about Chubukov‘s family at the start, recalling that he has known them since childhood. He mentions that his late aunt and uncle held great respect for them, highlighting the long-standing friendship between their families. However, his attitude shifts dramatically when he gets into a heated argument with Natalya and Chubukov over the ownership of Oxen Meadows, leading him to change his view.

Q2. Justify the title of the play. ‘The Proposal’ Or What is the theme or the message of ‘The Proposal’?
Ans: Anton Chekhov has aptly titled the play, The Proposal. The title reflects the central theme of the play, which is the marriage between Natalya and Lomov. Both characters wish to become life partners; however, their plans are disrupted by pointless arguments over Oxen Meadows and their dogs, Squeezer and Guess. The play conveys a clear message: the main issue of marriage should not be overshadowed by trivial disputes that can easily be avoided.

Q3. Why is Lomov anxious to marry Natalya?
Ans: Lomov is eager to marry Natalya because he feels it is time to settle down. He believes he should not delay any longer. He considers her to be an excellent choice: she is a skilled housekeeper, well-educated, and attractive. At his age of 35, he thinks he cannot find a better partner. Additionally, he is suffering from various health issues, which adds to his urgency. These factors contribute to his anxiety about marrying Natalya.

Q4. Describe Lomov’s first meeting with Natalya.
Ans: Lomov visits his neighbour Chubukov to ask for the hand of his daughter, Natalya. He feels nervous and struggles to make the proposal, speaking in a roundabout way. During the conversation, he mentions his meadows that border their birchwoods, which leads to a heated argument between them over the ownership of the meadows. This quarrel distracts from the marriage proposal, highlighting the tension between the characters.

Q5. Describe the incidents of humour in the play, ‘The Proposal’?
Ans: The Proposal is a humorous play filled with amusing incidents. The entrance of Lomov, dressed formally, and the way Chubukov greets him with affectionate terms like “darling” and “my beauty” is comical. The marriage proposal, which should be romantic, turns into a farce as Natalya and Lomov argue over trivial matters such as the ownership of Oxen Meadows and the superiority of their dogs. Their use of ridiculous insults, including terms like “scarecrow” and “stuffed sausage,” adds to the humour. Furthermore, Natalya’s hysterical reaction upon learning about the proposal, along with the dramatic wailing of both father and daughter when they believe Lomov is dead, creates a comedic atmosphere. The climax occurs when Natalya, amidst their ongoing arguments, places her hand in Lomov’s, indicating her acceptance of the proposal, which is both funny and unexpected. Overall, the play is rich in humour, making it an entertaining experience.

Q6. Chubukov has all the attributes of a quarrelsome rich Russian landlord. Instead of solving the problems, he only adds fuel into the fire in their quarrel over Oxen Meadows and the dogs. Justify the statement.
Ans: Chubukov embodies the characteristics of a typical wealthy landlord from 19th century Russia. He is quite affluent and resourceful, as evidenced by his neighbour Lomov, who acknowledges the frequent assistance Chubukov provides. For instance, he lends his threshing machine to Lomov, which delays his own threshing until November. Chubukov is practical and sees Lomov as a suitable match for his daughter, Natalya. He eagerly agrees to Lomov’s marriage proposal, having anticipated it for some time. However, his desire for land drives him to oppose Lomov’s claim over Oxen Meadows, even threatening to send his mowers there. Chubukov’s quarrelsome nature is evident as he resorts to insults, calling Lomov a “land grabber” and a “villain.” Despite his contentious behaviour, Chubukov seizes the opportunity when Lomov regains his composure. He encourages Natalya to embrace Lomov, ultimately facilitating their marriage.

Q7. What does Chubukov say to Lomov about his being a hunter?
Ans: Chubukov tells Lomov that he is not a hunter. He suggests that Lomov should stay at home with his palpitations instead of trying to track animals. Chubukov believes Lomov only goes hunting to argue with others and meddle with their dogs, rather than for the sport itself.

Q8. What do you learn about Natalya from the play, ‘The Proposal’?
Ans: Natalya is the only daughter of the landowner Chubukov. Although she is well-educated, she does not apply her knowledge wisely. Natalya is known for her short temper and frequently engages in arguments with those around her. She often emphasises the help she provides to her neighbours and is very possessive about her land, showing a strong determination to keep it.

Q9. What other controversial argument arose between Lomov and Natalya? Discuss.
Ans: Another controversial argument between Lomov and Natalya revolved around their dogs, Guess and Squeezer. Lomov claimed that his dog Guess had become lame after being bitten by another dog. He had bought Guess for 125 roubles, considering him a top-quality dog. However, Natalya insisted that her dog Squeezer was superior, having been purchased for 85 roubles. In response, Lomov argued that Squeezer was overshot, meaning it was a poor hunter, and that its lower jaw was shorter than the upper. Natalya countered by calling Guess old, ugly, and akin to a worn-out cab-horse. This led to a heated argument over which dog was truly better, showcasing their competitive nature.

Q10. Give a character sketch of Lomov.
Ans: Lomov is portrayed as a comical character. Although he is financially secure, he is physically weak and suffers from palpitations. His behaviour suggests he is somewhat eccentric, displaying traits such as being pretentious, proud, and argumentative. Lomov is also socially awkward and frequently experiences anxiety attacks. His proposal to Natalya is not driven by love but rather by the economic benefits of merging their families’ properties. He views her as beautiful and a good housekeeper, which reflects his regressive thinking about marriage. When he attempts to propose, a quarrel erupts between them, as Natalya mistakenly believes he is claiming Oxen Meadows as his own. This argument highlights his short temper. During the proposal, Lomov becomes so flustered that he faints, showcasing his confusion and lack of confidence. Despite these challenges, he ultimately succeeds in gaining her acceptance.

Q.1. What wisdom was imparted to the poet by an old religious man? Do you agree with the opinion?

The old religious man stated that it is only God who can love a person for themselves, regardless of their appearance or other attributes. I agree with this opinion because people are often influenced by physical traits and appearances. Only God’s love for His creation is truly unconditional. His affection is unbiased and selfless, unaffected by any unpleasantness in appearance.

Q.2. Do we love people because we like their appearances or we are fascinated by their physical appearances? How does Anne Gregory want to be loved?

This is the world of pomp and show. Things and people are often liked and loved not because of their merit, but due to their external appearances. Anne Gregory’s honey-coloured hair resembles the ramparts of a fort when it falls over her ears. Many adore Anne only for her distinctive yellow hair. However, Anne does not wish to be loved in this way. After all, how does the colour matter? She can dye her hair any shade she desires: brown, black, or even carrot-coloured. If her lover appreciates her solely for her beautiful hair, she will not accept him. She wants to be loved for herself alone. Unfortunately, the world does not align with her wishes. Only God can love a person for who they truly are; human beings will continue to be tempted by beautiful yellow hair.

Q.3. In Anne Gregory, what does the woman say she can do to make herself more desirable to young men? What does this show?

In Anne Gregory, the woman states that she would dye her hair black, brown, or carrot according to her wishes. This reflects the idea that men tend to place more importance on physical appearance rather than inner beauty.

Q.4. What makes a young man not to love the woman referred to in the first stanza?

The woman has beautiful yellow hair. But the outer part of her ears is not attractive. The poet says that never shall man love her only for herself.  

Q.5. Why doesn’t the young woman in the poem For Anne Gregory like to be loved for her yellow hair? What does she want to prove?

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 of carrot’s colour. But she doesn’t want to be loved for her beautiful long yellow hair. She should be loved for `herself alone’ or for what she actually is.

Q.6. What does the woman say she can do to make herself more desirable to young men? What does this show?

In Anne Gregory, the woman says that she would dye her hair into black, brown or carrot according to her wish. This shows that men give more importance to physical appearance than inner beauty. 

Q.7. The poet in the poem, For Anne Gregory conveys that we should give importance to the inner beauty and not to the physical appearance. Elaborate with reference to the poem.

The poet tries to show that inner beauty is the real beauty. The physical appearance is changeable and hence, unimportant. The poet conveys this through a conversation between Anne and another speaker. The speaker tells Anne that young men love her for her beautiful yellow hair and may never love her for what she really is. And only God can love her for herself alone. To this Anne says that her hair colour can be changed into black, brown or carrot, she implies that external beauty is all superficial and men should not love her for that. Through Anne’s reply, the poet makes clear his preference for internal beauty to physical appearance.

Q.8. People are not objects. They should be valued for being themselves. What lesson does the poet want to give to the readers through this poem?

Absolutely true. People are not objects; they should be valued for being themselves. Appearances can be deceptive. A person should be liked and loved for being himself or herself. Outward appearances may tempt and dazzle us. For instance, many people might admire Anne’s beautiful hair, which falls over her ears like the ramparts of a fort. Some may love Anne Gregory for her striking yellow hair. However, it is rare to find a true lover who appreciates Anne for herself alone. What is so special about yellow hair? Anne ridicules the notion of being loved solely for her hair colour. She can dye her hair any colour she prefers—brown, black, carrot, or yellow. Yet, the irony of this world is that people continue to be captivated by glamour and outward appearances. Ultimately, only God can love a person for themselves alone.

Q.9. To whom is the first stanza of the poem addressed? What does the speaker say to her?

The first stanza of the poem is addressed to a lady named Anne Gregory. She had a great influence on the poet. He had great respect for her. He tells her that although she is a noble lady, yet nobody would love her for herself alone.

Q.10. What is the theme of the poem ‘For Anne Gregory’?

The poem conveys the idea that physical beauty may be important for young men or 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 does not like her ramparts. The lady disapproves his love.

Q.1. “The life of mortals in this world is troubled and brief and combined with pain” With this statement of the Buddha, find out the moral values that Kisa Gotami learnt after the death of her child.

After the death of her only son, Kisa Gotami went to the Buddha. Firstly, she went to every neighbour, asking for medicine for her dead son. She had lost all her senses. She forgot that no medicine could bring back the dead. Then she went to Buddha for making her son alive. Buddha asked her to bring a handful of mustard seeds from a house where no death had occur. But she couldn’t find such a house. The Buddha made her realise that death is common to all. It also shows the detachment from mundane life. Only grieving cannot bring peace of mind.

Q.2. Describe the journey of Siddhartha Gautam becoming the Buddha.

Gautam Buddha began his life as a royal prince. He was named Siddhartha Gautama. At twelve, Gautama was sent away for schooling in the Hindu sacred scriptures. At the age of sixteen, he returned home to marry a princess. The prince was deliberately shielded from all sufferings of the world. But this attempt failed when the prince while out hunting chanced upon a sick man. Then, he saw an aged man. He also chanced to see a funeral procession. Finally, he saw a monk, begging for alms. These sights of suffering, sickness and decay shocked and moved the prince. He wanted to seek the final solution of all these sorrows and sufferings. He wandered for seven Years in search of enlightenment. Finally, he sat down under a fig tree. He meditated there until he was enlightened after seven days. He renamed the tree the Bodhi Tree or the Tree of Wisdom. He became known as the Buddha or the Awakened or the enlightened one. The Buddha gave his first sermon at Benares on the River Ganges.

Q.3. Did Kisa Gotami get a handful of mustard seeds as directed by the Buddha?

Poor Kisa Gotami went from house to house. The people pitied her and were ready to give a handful of mustard seeds to her. But, she couldn’t find a house where no one had lost a child,husband, parent or friend.

Q.4. What did Buddha say about the mortals of the world?

The Buddha told Kisa Gotami that the life of mortals is troubled and brief in this world. Those who have been born can’t avoid dying. As ripe fruits are in danger of falling, so mortals are always in danger of death. All earthen vessels end in being broken.

Q.5. Why did Kisa Gotami understand the message given by the Buddha only the second time? In what way did the Buddha change her understanding?

Kisa Gotami had lost her only son and in grief, she carried her dead son to all her neighbours to get him cured and restored back to life. Finally, she went to the Buddha asking him for medicine to cure her boy. The Buddha felt that she needed to be enlightened about the truth of life — that death and sorrow are inescapable. He could see that grief had blinded her, and it would be difficult for her to accept the truth. So the Buddha told her to procure mustard seeds from a house where none had died. Kisa Gotami went from door to door. Then she realized that there was no house where no one had died and that death is common to all. She came back to the Buddha where He sermonized her that life in this world is troubled and filled with sorrows. He gave her examples of ripe fruits and earthen vessels whose ‘lives’ are short. This way he made her realize that death is unavoidable and none — even the near and dear ones — can save anyone from death.

Q.6. Who was Gautam Buddha? Write a few lines about his early life.

Gautam Buddha was a prince. He was named Siddhartha Gautam by his parents. He was born in 563 B.C. in North India. He was sent away for schooling when he was twelve years old but four years later, he got married to a princess. 

Q.7. Why did Kisa Gotami say, ‘How selfish am I in my grief!’ What did she realise about the fate of mankind?

Kisa Gotami became weary and hopeless. At last, the darkness of the night reigned 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 dead man to life.

Q.8. How do you usually understand the idea of selfishness? Do you agree with Kisa Gotami that she is ‘selfish’ on her grief? Is it natural for people to be selfish at times?

‘Selfishness’ means when a person does something only for his own benefit or thinks only about himself/herself. He/she does not consider other people’s happiness. Kisa Gotami is selfish in wanting her dead son to be alive. It is a mother’s love which has blinded her. However, she is wrong in wanting that as she cannot see the reality of life. Death is the reality of life. Every one dies as death is common to all. It is perfectly natural for anyone to be selfish at times. When this desire becomes harmful to others or the demands become unrealistic, it is immoral and wrong. A little bit of selfishness is there in general in everyone and it is human nature to be selfish to meet your goals and satisfy your desires. Selfishness can only lead to unhappiness as most of the times, we will not meet our goals. Then, human beings will feel devastated. Hence, human beings should be more selfless and open-minded.

Q.9. Life is full of trials and tribulations. Kisa Gotami also passed through a period of grief in her life. How did she behave in those circumstances?

After the death of Kisa Gotami’s only child, she became very devastated. She carried her dead child to her neighbours in order to get medicine to bring him to life. Her neighbours thought that she had gone insane as she was unable to accept the fact that her child was dead. Then, she met Gautama Buddha who gave her an exercise to do. She was asked to collect mustard seeds from a house where no one had ever died. Then,  she went from one house to another but was unable to find a single house in the town where no one had died. That way, she realised that death is a part of life and anyone who is born is bound to die one day. Thus, Gautama Buddha changed her understanding of death through this exercise. Buddha told her that only the wise do not grieve, and they accept the reality of life and death.

Q.10. Which people are referred to as “wise” by the Buddha in his sermons?

Buddha preached in his sermons that everything that is born will come to its end. Death is inevitable; both young and adult or fools and wise are subject to death. But the people who do not grieve knowing the terms of the world are called wise people. Wise people neither weep nor grieve.

Q.1. Evaluate Ogden Nash’s ‘The Tale of Custard the Dragon’ as a ballad. What message does the poet give to the readers in this poem?

Ballads are stories told in verse. Generally, ballads are tales of adventures and heroism. In the poem, the poet does present the encounter of Custard and the pirate in the typical spirit of a ballad.The four-line stanzas have the rhyme scheme: aa, bb throughout the poem. Ogden Nash gives a subtle message to the readers through the fate of Custard, the dragon. In this world of deceit, self-confidence, self-dependence and self-respect are essentials to earn your rightful place among your peers. The mere presence of physical strength is not enough. The more important point is that you must be conscious of your strength. You must be fully aware of the fact that many others who are far inferior in strength and power should have no right to taunt and ridicule you.

Q.2. How did Belinda and her pets behave when the pirate had been killed by Custard?

When the pirate was killed by Custard, Belinda embraced him. Mustard licked him, while Ink and Blink gyrated around him.

Q.3. The dragon, custard was considered a coward. The humble dragon proved his bravery in adversity. Analyse that certain qualities like bravery and courage are situational and spontaneous. Express your views with reference to the poem.

Custard’s humbleness won every reader’s heart as he showed true bravery and did not boast like Belinda and her other pets. Everyone boasted of their bravery but when they faced real danger, it was only Custard, who had the courage to face it. And he proved his bravery by not running away and facing the pirate and killing him. Qualities like bravery and courage can only be tested when someone is actually put in a dangerous situation. Therefore, these qualities are situational as becomes clear from Custard’s example. Custard looked for comfort all the time but this did not mean that he was a coward.

Q.4. How is ‘The Tale of Custard the Dragon’ a ballad?

A ballad is a poem that tells a story, typically characterised by themes of adventure, bravery, and romance. It is often musical due to its rhyme scheme. While ‘The Tale of Custard the Dragon’ possesses these qualities, it is also a parody of a traditional ballad. The poet presents these traits in a humorous manner.

Q.5. Do you think that one should be made fun of because of their ‘preferences and choices in life? Explain in the context of Custard, the dragon.

It is not right to make fun of anyone based on their lifestyle and choices. Custard, the dragon, always sought comfort and safety; thus, he often cried for a nice, safe cage. Belinda and the other pets made fun of him, believing he was a coward. However, Custard demonstrated that his desire for comfort did not equate to cowardice. In fact, he was the only one who had the courage to face the pirate and ultimately defeat him.

Q.6. How did Custard the dragon face the pirate? What was the outcome of their fight?

Custard, the dragon, jumped up, snorting as he prepared to face the pirate. He swung his tail, displaying his courage. The pirate, taken aback by this heroic gesture, gulped down some wine to lift his drooping spirits. He fired two bullets but missed his target. In the meantime, Custard swiftly swallowed the pirate, ending the confrontation.

Q.7. Why is it fair to say that Custard could be the ‘poster boy’ for the belief that the real nature of a person is revealed at times of the greatest difficulty?

Belinda and her pets used to make fun of Custard, calling him a coward. However, Custard revealed his true courage during a moment of real danger when he fought against the pirate. This incident demonstrated that he was capable of extraordinary bravery, proving that he could indeed be a poster boy for the belief that a person’s true nature is revealed in times of adversity.

Q.8. Why is it fair to say that Custard could be the ‘poster boy’ for the belief that the real nature of a person is revealed at times of the greatest difficulty?

Belinda and her pets used to make fun of Custard and call her a coward. But Custard displayed his courage and strength in times of real danger by fighting with the pirate. This incident proved him a superhero who was capable of becoming a poster boy.

Q.9.  The usage of words like ‘realio trulio’ creates a wonderful poetic effect. How?

The poem is a ballad that employs creative spelling to enhance its musicality. The poet alters the words ‘real’ and ‘true’ to ‘realio’ and ‘trulio’, which contributes to a unique poetic effect. This alteration creates a more lyrical quality, as the original spellings would not evoke the same rhythmic and melodic impact.

Q.10. State the reason you think the poet named the animals- Ink, Blink, Mustard and Custard?

The poet named the kitten Ink because she was black in colour. The name Mustard likely refers to the yellow plant, which also describes the dog’s yellow colour. Additionally, the poet altered the name slightly to Custard to create a rhyme with Mustard.

Q1: “Valli would stare wistfully at the people who got on or off the bus.” What is the meaning of wistfully?

(a) willingly
(b) longingly
(c) fearfully
(d) carefully

Correct Answer is Option (b)

Q2: “Hurry then! Tell whoever it is to come quickly.” What is the conductor’s assumption while saying the above line?

(a) The child is trying to catch the bus for her own self.
(b) The passengers in the bus are getting extremely impatient.
(c) The child is trying to stop the bus for an adult family member.
(d) The adults who should be supervising Valli are being very irresponsible.

Correct Answer is Option (c)

Q3: What was Valli’s age?

(a) Seven
(b) Eight
(c) Nine
(d)  None of these

Correct Answer is Option (b)

Q4: The fare of the bus was in one way journey.

(a) 20 Paise
(b) 30 Paise
(c) 50 Paise
(d) 75 Paise

Correct Answer is Option (b)

Q5: Valli reached home at ______.

(a) 2:45 afternoon
(b) 3:00 afternoon
(c) 3:45 afternoon
(d) 4:45 afternoon

Correct Answer is Option (c)

Q6: How did the conductor behave with Valli?

The conductor was a jolly fellow. He behaved very well with Valli. When she entered the bus, he guided her for the seat and gave her a ticket. He called her ‘fine madam’ as a comment because she behaved like a mature woman. He took Valli’s confident responses in humour. Moreover, when he came to know that she had no extra money except the bus fare, he offered her a cold drink. His behaviour towards Valli was positive and cheerful. 

Q7: Why does Valli refuse to look out of the window on her way back?

On her way to the town, Valli laughed heartily to see a young cow running at high speed in the middle of the road just in front of their bus. But on her way back, she saw a young cow lying dead near the road. She asked the bus conductor if it was the same cow that was running in front of the bus. The bus conductor nodded. She was shocked and sad. So she refuses to look out of the window on her way back because what was so beautiful a little while ago now looked so horrible. The memory of the dead cow haunts her. It dampens her enthusiasm.

Q8: What details did Valli pick up about the bus journey? How did she pick up these details?

The details that Valli picked up were the distance that the bus travelled, the duration of the trip and the fare. She gathered this information by hearing the conversations of her neighbours and the people who took the bus. She also asked discreet questions to people to know more about their journey.

Q9: What was the most fascinating thing that Valli saw on the street?

Valli watched that the bus was travelling between her village and the nearest town. The sight of the bus filled each time with a new set of passengers was the source of unending joy for Valli. She was excited to start her bus journey.

Q10: What was Valli’s deepest desire? How did she fulfill that?

Valli was an eight-year old Tamil girl. She was very wise. She didn’t have any playmates. So, her favourite pastime was standing in the front doorway of her house and looking at the street outside. She watched every activity very carefully. She watched a bus that ran between her village and the nearest town. Soon a deep desire to ride on that bus raised in her heart. She collected every needed information about the journey like how many miles away the town was, how much time it took to complete this journey, the fare and the bus routes by carefully listening to other people’s conversations and by asking discreet questions. She also started saving money to fulfil her deepest desire. She didn’t buy toys, balloons etc. She even didn’t ride on the merry-go-round in the village fair. Finally, she saved sixty-paise and fulfilled her deepest desire.

Q.1. How does the poet compare fog to a living being?

The poet compares the fog to a cat. The silent steps of a cat and the way it sits on its haunches is very similar to the way fog comes and surrounds the city and looks over it.

Q.2. What image does the poet give to the fog? What are the similarities between that image and fog?

The poet looks at fog as a living creature and compares it to a cat. The fog moves like a cat on little cat feet and sits on haunches like a cat.

Q.3. Which line states that the poet compares fog to a cat?

“The fog comes on little cat feet.” This is the line where we get to know that the poet compares fog to a cat.

Q.4. Does the poet actually say that the fog is like a cat? Then how do we know that the fog is like a cat?

No, the poet does not say that the fog is like a cat. However, he has used the cat as a metaphor for describing the fog. He says that the fog comes on its little cat feet which implies that the fog is like a cat as it comes slowly. As a cat comes without making any noise and goes away. In the same way, the fog comes and spreads slowly and silently over harbour and city.

Q.5 Who silently looks over harbor and city?

The fog silently looks over the harbor and the city.

Q.6. Difficulties come but they are not to stay forever. They come and go. Comment referring to the poem ‘Fog’.

Difficulties, when faced by people, tend to leave them hopeless and shattered. It takes a lot of courage to overcome any problem and to solve it. If we take a clue from the poem and compare difficulties to fog, we find that just like fog, difficulties also come and go. Fog is a very small poem written by Carl Sandburg. He has described the process of arrival of the fog into a city and the harbour. He has very beautifully compared it to a cat. One need not be hopeless and lose courage when problems come, one should rather think of it as fog, meaning that it has not come to stay but will always leave, like fog.

Q.7. Does the fog move on as the cat does?

Yes, the fog moves on just like the cat does.

Q.8. According to the poet in what respect is the fog similar to a cat? Do you think the comparison made is appropriate?

According to the poet, the approach of the fog is silent and noiseless, stealthily advancing on its silent, ‘paws’. From a distance, it seems like a cat on its haunches with its knees bent, the fog too sits silently for a while and then slowly moves on, cautiously analysing its surroundings before it engulfs the entire city and the harbour in its folds. The comparison of the fog to a cat seems very appropriate because while reading the poem, one feels that truly the fog approaches stealthily just like a cat.

Q.9. Difficulties come but they do not stay forever. They come and go. Comment referring to the poem Fog.

Difficulties, when faced by people, tend to leave them hopeless and shattered. It takes a lot of courage to overcome any problem and solve it. If we take a clue from the poem and compare difficulties to fog, we find that just like fog, difficulties also come and go. Problems are also temporary and they will go away like fog as they cannot stay or trouble anyone permanently. One need not be hopeless and lose courage when problems come; one should rather think of it as fog, meaning that it has not come to stay but will always leave, like fog.

Q.10. Nature has many wonders that people take for granted and never pay attention to. How is the poem ‘Fog’ different from this perspective?

Fog is a very small poem written by Carl Sandburg. He has described the process of arrival of the fog into a city and the harbour. He has very beautifully compared it to a cat. The poet has taken utmost pleasure in nature and natural phenomenon like fog. Fog is so special to the poet that he cared enough not only to write about it, but also thinks of its resemblance with other things in the world. In his close attention to fog, he found fog resembles a cat, in the way it moves and sits on its haunches.
The fact that such a resemblance was found by the poet shows how connected he is to various things in nature. This poem serves as a motivation for people, who take nature for granted to find such interesting comparisons and similarities around them.

Q.1. The way Maxwell was worried about Mijbil when he had to take him to London shows that he was very concerned about him. Do you think, owning a pet is a life-time commitment ? Elucidate.

Maxwell was very concerned about his pet. The British airline refused to fly the animal. So he booked a flight to Paris on another airline, and from there to London. The airline insisted that Mijbil should be packed into a box not more than eighteen inches square, to be carried on the floor at his feet. He got the box made. He put Mijbil into the box so that he would become accustomed to the box, in which it had to travel. When Mijbil was injured in his attempt to come out of the box, the author was really concerned about his well being. He carried a parcel of fish for Mijbil on the flight. He carried Mijbil on his knee. The lesson definitely conveys the fact that when we decide to keep a pet, it is a commitment of lifetime. This is so because we are responsible for the well-being of that life and infact, keeping a pet at home is like bringing up and nurturing a child.

Q.2. What happened when the author walked in the streets of London?

When the author walked in the streets of London along with Mijbil, the average Londoner could recognise an otter. The people guessed about the otter, some guessed it to be a baby seal, a squirrel, a walrus or bear cub etc. Mijbil was anything, not an otter for them. All were very surprised to see Mij.

Q.3. Why did Maxwell decide to have an otter as a pet? How did he get it?

Maxwell’s pet dog Jonnie died. He felt alone without a pet. This time he decided to change his pet. He decided to own an otter as his pet. His place, Camusfearna was ringed by water. It would be a suitable place for this new experiment. One of his friends suggested that he could get an otter in the Tigris marshes. Otters were as common in the Tigris marshes as were mosquitoes. They were often tamed by the Arabs as pets. Maxwell got his mail after five days. He carried it to his bedroom to read.
There he found two Arabs squatting on the floor. A sack lay beside them. There was something moving and twisting in it. The Arabs handed him a note from his friend. It read, “Here is your otter …”
The sack was opened. And there emerged a Unique creature from the sack. Later on, this otter was named Mijbil by Maxwell.

Q.4. Why did Maxwell say the air hostess was ‘the very queen of her kind’?

Maxwell said that the air hostess was ‘the very queen of her kind’ because she was a very friendly and cooperative lady. He took her into his confidence about the incident with his pet. When she found the author in trouble for his otter, she permitted him to put the otter on his knees. This made the author develop a profound admiration for her.

Q.5. Describe the relationship between the otter and Maxwell in your own words.

Maxwell and the otter Mijbil shared a lovely relationship. Maxwell treated Mij like his own son.He took very good care of him. He gave him many toys including marbles, rubber bans, rubber fruits and a terrapin shell to play with. He took him to the bathtub to play in the water knowing the fascination of otters with water. He noticed his habits and traits. Mijbil hesitated on the first day but then became very friendly. Maxwell encouraged Mijbil to do whatever he liked to do. He took him out for exercise every day. When Maxwell saw blood on the box in which Mij was packed, he was horrified. When Mij came out of the box he jumped all over but then came and sat on Maxwell’s knees quietly.

Q.6. What happened when Maxwell took Mijbil to the bathroom? What did it do two days after that?

When the author first took Mijbil to the bathroom, the otter first went wild with joy in the water. He plunged and rolled in it. He jumped up and down the length of the bathtub. He made enough slosh and splash. After two days, the otter suddenly disappeared and went to the bathroom to play in the water and opened the tap on his own.

Q.7. What did the otter look like?

The otter looked like a very small, medievally-conceived, dragon. From the head to the tip of the tail he was coated with symmetrical pointed scaled of mud armour, between whose tips were visible a soft velvet fur like that of a chocolate-brown mole. 

Q.8. What games did Mijbil play?

Mijbil spent most of his time in play. He spent hours shuffling a rubber ball around the room like a four-footed soccer player using all four feet to dribble the ball. It played with ping-pong balls and marbles etc. Mijbil invented new games to play.

Q.9. What queries did the people make about the otter in London? Which was the most surprising query for the author?

For some time, the author stayed in London with the otter. There he took Mij for walks in the streets. Now the otter had developed some compulsive habits. He used to take the author near the wall of a primary school. Wherever he went with the otter, people started to ask random questions and guess about the otter. They became very surprised to see it and did not recognize it. They thought it was a seagull, a bear cub, etc, although it belonged to the small group of animals called Mustellines. The other animals of this group were-mongoose, badger, weasel, mink stoat, etc. More random guesses hit on ‘a baby seal’ and ‘a squirrel.’ ‘Is that a walrus, mister?’ Outside a dog show, the author heard ‘a hippo’. He also heard ‘A beaver, a bear cub, a leopard — one, apparently, that had changed its spots — and a ‘brontosaur’’. But for the author, the most surprising expression and the query was from a labourer digging a hole in the street. On seeing it, he left his digging work and laid down his tools and asked with surprise-“What is that supposed to be?”

Q.10. What ‘experiment’ did Maxwell think Camusfearna would be suitable for?

The writer had gone to Southern Iraq in the year 1956. He took a fancy to the idea that instead of keeping a dog as a pet, he would go for an otter. Camusfearna was surrounded by water, so it would be an eminently suitable spot for this experiment.

Q.1. Find, in the first stanza, three things that cannot happen in a treeless forest?

The three things mentioned in the first stanza that cannot happen in a treeless forest are:

• Birds sitting on the tree branches.
• The hiding of insects in the branches of trees
• The sun burying its feet in the shadow of the trees in the forest. 

Q.2. How does the poet describe the moon : (i) at the beginning of the third stanza, and (ii) at its end ? What causes this change ?

As the poet watches the night sky from the window overlooking the verandah, the moon is full, shining brightly in the open sky. As she imagines the trees moving out of the house, she envisions the moon light rippling over the crown of the oak tree and she metaphorically compares it to moon, being broken into several pieces and each piece reflecting its light separately.

Q.3. Why do you think the poet does not mention “the departure of the forest from the house” in her letters? (Could it be that we are often silent about important happenings that are so unexpected that they embarrass us? Think about this again when you answer the next set of questions.)?

The poet did not mention the departure of the forest from her house because it is a part of human nature to ignore the important matters of their life. We all know that trees are so important for our survival on earth. But still human beings are cutting them for making profits without even thinking of the aftermath.

Q.4. On the other hand, Adrienne Rich has been known to use trees as a metaphor for human beings;this is a recurrent image in her poetry. What new meanings emerge from the poem if you take its trees to be symbolic of this particular meaning?

If trees are to be taken as a symbol for human beings, then the poem will define the efforts of humans to free themselves from the clutches of the desire to achieve everything. All the human beings are under a constant pressure of being at the top in every field. Either they are forced by their own desire of doing so or there is a constant peer pressure on them. So, the human beings will set themselves free from this race and try to live a happy and peaceful life.

Q.5. How does Patol Babu reconcile to the dialogue given to him?

Truly dejected to learn that he had just one word ‘Oh’! to speak in his part, Patol Babu felt that the unit had taken him for a ride. However, he reconciled himself to the dialogue by recalling how his mentor Gogon Pakrashi used to advise him never to consider it beneath his dignity to accept however small a part. Moreover he woke up to the immense acting possibilities in the monosyllable exclamation and reconciled to it.

Q.6. Why does Patol Babu walk away before he could be paid for his role? What does this reveal about his character?

Patol Babu came from a theatre tradition of the time. when film making was still very new in India and therefore had strong amateur incline. He lacked the professional and materialistic outlook that most people in the film industry had. He walked away without bothering to be paid for his role because for him performing his role to the best of his ability was more important than earning money. Money was nothing against the intense satisfaction of a small job done with perfection and dedication.

Q.7. Do you agree with the statement that Patol Babu is a practical man who comes to terms with whatever life has to offer?

Yes, Patol Babu is really a practical man who comes to terms with whatever life has to offer. He has taken ups and downs of his life in his stride.In his heydays in his youth he used to be a theatre artist. What popularity he enjoyed! He was in great demand as an actor. In fact he would appear in advertising handbills of theatre clubs and people would buy tickets to his shows. He enjoyed so much popularity and fan following, yet he did not go overboard. He continued to be the man he was – simple, humble and respectable.
Then the demands of life took him away from theatre and he got busy in his railway company job. He switched his job for higher salary. He joined Hudson and Kimberley where he had a smooth sailing for nine years. But then the World War II broke out and he lost his job in retrenchment – then a long struggle began for him. He tried everything he could – opened up a variety store, did odd jobs in companies, sold insurance but success eluded him everywhere. He kept trying like every practical man ought to. When the film role was offered to him, he was trying to take up a job with scrap iron dealer.
In performing the film role too, he was out rightly practical. He demanded his dialogue well in time so that he could rehearse it and do full justice to it.Perhaps the only impractical thing he does is not accept his remuneration for his role. On the whole, Patol Babu was a practical man who comes to terms with whatever life has to offer.

Q.8. What picture do these words create in your mind: “… sun bury its feet in shadow…”? What could the poet mean by the sun’s ‘feet?’

The sun’s feet are the rays of sun that reach the earth after falling on the leaves of the trees and finally, reach the earth’s surface.

Q.9. What does the poet compare their branches to?

The poet uses the word long cramped for the branches. She says that the branches are trying hard to come out of the roof. She then compares them with newly discharged patients who are trying to move out in their half consciousness.

Q.10. Where are the trees in the poem? What do their roots, their leaves, and their twigs do?

The trees are in the poet’s house. The roots are working hard to remove themselves from the cracks of veranda. The leaves are making an effort to reach towards the glass in order to come out and the twigs are making attempts to set themselves free and reach the forest.

Q.1. According to the text, Assam is said to be ‘tea country’. Do you believe that Assam has some of the best plantations in the world that makes it a unique country?

In India, some of the best plantations like tea and coffee are grown in huge quantities. India is also a home to many spices like haldi and while Assam is home to tea, Coorg is home to coffee.Others which are grown exclusively in India and exported to various countries. These plantations make India a unique country which has not just traditional spices and beverage plants growing within it but also follows traditional agricultural practices. 

Q.2. What are the elders reminiscing about the Portuguese days?

The elders are reminiscing nostalgically about the Portuguese days when bakers were important and they had a unique and different place among the people. The people love to eat loaves of bread. Those eaters of loaves might have vanished but the bakers are still there. The mixers, the moulders and those who bake the loaves are still in Goa. Those age-old, time-tested furnaces still exist. The fire in the furnaces has not yet been extinguished.  

Q.3. What are the legends related to the discovery of tea?

There are many popular legends about the discovery of tea. Two of them are as follows:

A Chinese emperor was used to drinking boiled water. One day a twig from the fire fell into the pot in which water was being boiled. It gave a delicious flavour to the drink. It is said that those were tea leaves.
An Indian legend goes like this. Once there was a Buddhist ascetic who used to feel sleepy during meditations. So he cut off his eyelids. Ten tea plants grew out of the eyelids. When the leaves from these plants were put in hot water and drunk they banished sleep.

Q.4. What are the elders in Goa nostalgic about? Write your answer in the context of Glimpses of India.

The elders in Goa are nostalgic about the good old Portuguese days and the Portuguese loaves of bread. The Portuguese were very famous for their bread. Those eaters of loaves might have vanished but the makers are still there. The mixers, the moulders and those who bake the loaves still exist. Those age-old, time-tested furnaces still continue to function. 

Q.5. What did Rajvir see while looking outside from the train?

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.

Q.6. How are the tea-pluckers different from the other farm labourers?

Tea pluckers are different from other farm labourers as the tea pluckers are hired labourers whereas the farm labourers can be hired or can be the owners of the land. Groups of tea-pluckers, with bamboo baskets on their backs, wearing plastic aprons, pluck the newly sprouted leaves. On the contrary, farm labourers go through the whole process, from sowing to harvesting.

Q.7. Why did Pranjol’s father say that Rajvir had done his homework before visiting Assam?

Rajvir was very excited about visiting the tea garden and thus, he studied a lot about it before visiting the tea garden. Thus, Pranjol’s father said that Rajvir had already done his homework before visiting Assam.

Q.8. How did Rajvir describe the view from the train?

Rajvir described the magnificent view of the landscape from the train window. It was green everywhere. Rajvir had never seen so much greenery before. Then 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 eye could see. Dwarfing the tiny tea plants were tall sturdy shade-trees and amidst the orderly rows of bushes busily moved doll-like figures. In the distance was an ugly building with smoke billowing out of tall chimneys.

Q.9. Where were Rajvir and Pranjol going and why?

Rajvir and Pranjol were going to Assam as Pranjol had invited Rajvir to spend summer vacation there.

Q.10. Should we learn from the history that has been passed on to us from generations?

History is the mirror through which we can relive our past. It actually provides us with a glimpse of the path that our ancestors have laid for us. The various battles and wars, that are fought and won, show us the strength and valour our people had. The traditions and customs make us better human beings. ‘A Baker from Goa’ is a pen portrait of a traditional Goan village baker who still has an important place in the society. People learn the customs of bread baking passed down from their ancestors. The leavened, oven-baked bread is a gift of the Portuguese to India. These traditions have strengthened our present as they make us more aware of the ways of life of our ancestors. Their way of living helps us understand how we exist in the present, what we did wrong and how we can avoid mistakes to live a better life in future. We should appreciate the gifts given by our previous generations so that we can use their skills and preserve their culture. People may come and go, but it is this culture that prevails in the long run.

Q.1. Does the title ‘Amanda’ suit the poem?

The poem revolves around the little girl whose name is ‘Amanda’. Her life is full of childhood struggle with no freedom at all. She wants to experience calmness, away from her nagging parents. So we can say that the title is justified.

Q.2. Who was Amanda? What idea do you form about her through the poem?

Amanda was a little school going, girl. She loved fairy tales like Rapunzel and mermaids. She did not like too many instructions or nagging that made her sulk and become moody. So she did not listen to her mother attentively and started daydreaming.

Q.3. Who is the sole inhabitant of the sea ? What does she want to do ?

Amanda is the mermaid who is the sole inhabitant of the green sea. Amanda  sees a day dream. She wants to drift blissfully with the soft- moving waves of the sea. 

Q.4. What can you depict of Amanda’s nature ?

Amanda is a moody girl. She is nagged most of the time. She often escapes from reality, which makes her moody and uninterested.

Q.5. What does Amanda yearn for?

Amanda yearns for freedom. She wants to lead a life without any restrictions. Off late, she has been getting instructions from her mother on every single thing which she does not appreciate at all. So, she wants to feel free and live a life on her own.

Q.6. What is the theme of the poem — ‘Amanda’?

Too many instructions and too much control are resented by children. They get bored and fed up. Then, they listen to their parents half-heartedly and indulge in daydreaming.

Q.7. How does Amanda tackle the nagging nature of her parents? Explain with examples from the poem. What values does it portray about Amanda?

Amanda is a small girl who is termed as moody for her careless behaviour. Amanda’s parents are upset over her behaviour and casualness, but she stays in her own world. But it is very surprising to know that this is her defence mechanism to shield herself from her nagging parents. Amanda’s response to her parents’ nagging is her world of imagination where she is a mermaid drifting effortlessly by the languid sea. Further, she is asked to clean her room and finish her homework to which she reacts being an orphan roaming in the street and making patterns with her bare feet. Amanda then faces the heat for eating chocolate, which had once caused her acne. She takes the form of Rapunzel and wishes to live on top of a tower away from everyone in her imagination. All these portray Amanda in a positive light and her parents in a negative light.

Q.8. What do you leam from the poem ‘Amanda’ ?

The poem ‘Amanda’ teaches us that children tend to learn bad habits, Any child can not be taught in one day. It is natural for a child like Amanda to seek freedom. Parents who are judging their children every time would do more harm than good. She is corrected every time by her parents we witness miserable failure of parents when Amanda wishes to be an orphan so that she could be free.

Q.9. What is the age of the girl in the poem ? How do you come to know her age ?

Amanda is 9 -10 years old school going girl. This fact is known because her parents are trying to inculcate good habits in her, but she is very innocent and immature.

Q.10. Amanda imagines herself to be Rapunzel, yet would not like to do what all she did. Identify and state the reasons for her decision.

Amanda wants to be Rapunzel to live a peaceful life in a tower, where no one gives any instruction and she doesn’t have to do any work. She doesn’t want to escape with a prince like Rapunzel.