CHAPTER-WISE IMPORTANT QUESTIONS

THE LAST LESSON

I.ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS:

Q1. The people in this story suddenly realise how precious their language is to them.
What shows you this? Why does this happen?
Ans. When the village men realize that their mother tongue, French will no longer be taught to
them, they realize its importance. Suddenly, they develop an inclination towards learning.
They attend the last lesson of French, bring their old, torn primers to learn the language which
shows their eagerness. They regret putting off learning French to the next day. Now, finally, the
last lesson has arrived, and they cannot read their own language. They are ashamed of
themselves and realize that the Germans have overpowered them due to their lack of knowing
their own language.
Q2. Franz thinks, “Will they make them sing in German, even the pigeons?” What could
this mean?
Ans. Franz is disheartened when he comes to know that he can no longer learn his language –
French. Their district has been captured by Germany and now German will be taught to them.
Franz feels that mother tongue comes to a person naturally, he is born with it and no one can
snatch it away.
Just like the pigeons make the ‘coo’ sound, irrespective of the country from which they are,
similarly, human beings also communicate in their mother tongue. As the Germans are trying to
impose their language on the French, so similarly, Franz feels that they will teach the pigeons
also to ‘coo’ in German language. He has given this example to highlight his point that language
is a natural mode of communication and it cannot be imposed.
The Last Lesson Extract Based Questions
Extract-based questions are of the multiple-choice variety, and students must select the correct
option for each question by carefully reading the passage.
A. “My children this is the last lesson I shall give you. The order came from Berlin to teach only
German in the schools of Alsace and Lorraine. The new master comes tomorrow. This is your
last French lesson.”
Question 1. In which language is the last lesson ?
A. German
B. American
C. French
D. British
Answer: C
Question 2. Who is the speaker in the above lines?
A. Franz
B. Hauser
C. M.Hamel
D. Wachter
Answer: C
Question 3. Where has the order come from ?
A. France
B. Berlin
C. Lorraine
D. Alsace
Answer: B
Question 4. Speaker is speaking to _________.
A. Franz
B. villagers
C. class
D. soldiers
Answer: C
B. “M. Hamel went on to talk of the French language, saying that it was the most beautiful
language in the world — the clearest, the most logical; that we must guard it among us and
never forget it, because when a people are enslaved, as long as they hold fast to their language
it is as if they had the key to their prison. Then he opened a grammar book and read us our
lesson. I was amazed to see how well I understood it. All he said seemed so easy, so Easy! “
(QB)

1. Which of the following can be attributed to M. Hamel’s declaration about the French
language?
A. subject expertise
B. nostalgic pride
C. factual accuracy
D. patriotic magnification
Answer: D
2. “I was amazed to see how well I understood it.” Select the option that does NOT explain
why Franz found the grammar lesson “easy”.
A. Franz was paying careful attention in class this time.
B. M. Hamel was being extremely patient and calm in his teaching.
C. Franz was inspired and had found a new meaning and purpose to learning.
D. Franz had realized that French was the clearest and most logical language.
Answer: B
3. Franz was able to understand the grammar lesson easily because he was
A. receptive.
B. appreciative.
C. introspective.
D. competitive.
Ans: D
4. Read the quotes given below. Choose the option that might best describe M. Hamel’s
viewpoint.
(i) Those who know nothing of foreign languages know nothing of their own. – Johann Wolfgang
von Goethe
(ii) Language is the road map of a culture. It tells you where its people come from and where they
are going. – Rita Mae Brown
(iii) A poor man is like a foreigner in his own country. – Ali Ibn Abi Talib
(iv) The greatest propaganda in the world is our mother tongue, that is what we learn as children,
and which we learn unconsciously. That
shapes our perceptions for life. – Marshal McLuhan
A. Option (i)
B. Option (ii)
C. Option (iii)
D. Option (iv)
Ans: B
C. “Poor man! It was in honour of this last lesson that he had put on his fine Sunday clothes, and
now I understood why the old men of the village were sitting there in the back of the room. It was
because they were sorry, too, that they had not gone to school more. It was their way of thanking
our master for his forty years of faithful service and of showing their respect for the country that
was theirs no more.” (QB)
1. Choose the option that might raise a question about M. Hamel’s “faithful service”.
A. When Franz came late, M. Hamel told him that he was about to begin class without him.
B. Franz mentioned how cranky M. Hamel was and his “great ruler rapping on the table”.
C. M. Hamel often sent students to water his flowers, and gave a holiday when he wanted to go
fishing.
D. M. Hamel permitted villagers to put their children “to work on a farm or at the mills” for some
extra money.
Ans: D
2. Why does the narrator refer to M. Hamel as ‘Poor man’?
A. He empathizes with M. Hamel as he had to leave the village.
B. He believes that M. Hamel’s “fine Sunday clothes” clearly reflected that he was not rich.
C. He feels sorry for M. Hamel as it was his last French lesson.
D. He thinks that M. Hamel’s patriotism and sense of duty resulted in his poverty.
Ans: C
3. Which of the following idioms might describe the villagers’ act of attending the last
lesson most accurately?
A. ‘Too good to miss’
B. ‘Too little, too late’
C. ‘Too many cooks spoil the broth’
D. ‘Too cool for school’
Ans: A
4. Choose the option that most appropriately fills in the blanks, for the following
description of the given extract.
The villagers and their children sat in class, forging with their old master a (i) _____
togetherness. In that moment, the class room stood
(ii) _____. It was France itself, and the last French lesson a desperate hope to (iii) ______ to the
remnants of what they had known and
taken for granted. Their own (iv) _______.
A. (i) graceful; (ii) still; (iii) hang on; (iv) country
B. (i) bygone; (ii) up; (iii) keep on; (iv) education
C. (i) beautiful; (ii) mesmerised; (iii) carry on; (iv) unity
D. (i) forgotten; (ii) transformed; (iii) hold on; (iv) identity
Ans: C
D. “It was so warm, so bright! The birds were chirping at the edge of the woods; and in the open
field back of the sawmill the Prussian soldiers were drilling. It was all much more tempting than
the rule for participles, but I had the strength to resist, and hurried off to school. When I passed
the town hall there was a crowd in front of the bulletin-board. For the last two years all our bad
news had come from there— the lost battles, the draft, the orders of the commanding officer —
and I thought to myself, without stopping, “What can be the matter now?” Then, as I hurried by
as fast as I could go, the blacksmith, Wachter, who was there, with his apprentice, reading the
bulletin, called after me, “Don’t go so fast, bub; you’ll get to your school in plenty of time!”

1. What does the extract say about the narrator’s attitude towards French?
A. French was equally appealing to him as the beauty of nature.
B. He attends the lesson out of compulsion.
C. He was eager to receive the French lesson
D. He lacked interest in the lesson.
Ans: D
2. What can be inferred about the living condition of the place?
A. Everybody lived in peace and harmony.
B. Natives are intimidated by the foreign presence
C. The inhabitants coexisted with external force without qualms
D. There is a sense of uneasiness looming around the environment.
Ans: D
3. Identify the factor that does not serve the purpose of implying the theme.
A. The reference to the bulletin board.
B. The presence of Prussian soldiers
C. The description of nature.
D. The narrator’s stand on French lesson.
Ans:: C
4. Which word from the given extract fits the description?
A person who is learning a trade from a skilled employer, having agreed to work for a fixed
period at low wages”
A. Prussian
B. Commanding Officer
C. Apprentice
D. Sawmill
Ans: C
E. How it must have broken his heart to leave it all, poor man; to hear his sister moving about in
the room above, packing their trunks! For they must leave the country next day.
1. Who are ‘they’ here?|
A. M. Hamel and his sister.
B. Franz
C. Villager
D. Houser
Ans: A
2. Why is M. Hamel’s heartbroken?
A. Because he has to leave the country the next day
B. Because of transfer
C. Because of retirement
D. Because of a student’s misbehaviour.
Ans: A
3. Why do they have to leave the country?
A. German would be taught in place of French.
B. French will be taught now.
C. New languages will be taught.
D. He has got a new job.
Ans: A
4. Who is packing the trunks?
A. M. Hamel’s sister
B. M. Hamel’s wife
C. M. Hamel’s father
D.M. Hamel’s servant
Ans: A
F. Then, as I hurried by as fast as I could go, the blacksmith, Wachter, who was there, with his
apprentice, reading the bulletin, called after me, “Don’t go so fast, bub; you’ll get to your school
in plenty of time!” I thought he was making fun of me, and reached M. Hamel’s little garden all
out of breath.
1. The phrase ‘called after me’ here refers to
A. tease someone.
B. shout at
C. request something
D. to cause embarrassment
Ans: B
2. Who was called ‘bub’ here ?
A. Franz
B. M. Hamel
C. Villagers
D.Postmaster
Ans: A
3. What has M. Hamel’s little garden been referred to in the extract?
A. His country
B. His home
C. His garden
D. His school
Ans: C
4. Which word in the passage means same as ‘sufficient’?
A. breath
B. plenty
C. fast
D. hurried
Ans: B
G. All at once the church-clock struck twelve. Then the Angelus. At the same moment the
trumpets of the Prussians, returning from drill, sounded under our windows. M. Hamel stood up,
very pale, in his chair. I never saw him look so tall. “My friends,” said he, “I—I—” But something
choked him. He could not go on. Then he turned to the blackboard, took a piece of chalk, and,
bearing on with all his might, he wrote as large as he could — “Vive La France!” Then he
stopped and leaned his head against the wall, and, without a word, he made a gesture to us with
his hand — “School is dismissed — you may go.”

1. What does ‘Angelus’ refer to?

A. Sound of church bell ringing.
B. Roman Catholic prayer.
C. Sound of thanksgiving.
D. A prayer sung in a group.
Ans: B
2. What does the trumpets of the Prussians imply?
A. Igniting patriotic fervour
B. Playing the band to reduce war stress
C. People of Alsace are now enslaved
D. Prussians cheering up the victory over France
Ans: D
3. Why is M. Hamel pale?
A. He feels emotional and heart-broken.
B. He is unwell.
C. He is annoyed.
D. He doesn’t like the sound of the trumpets.
Ans: A
4. What does Franz mean when he says , ‘”I never saw him look so tall.”
A. M. Hamel had grown physically taller.
B. M. Hamel seemed very confident.
C. Franz had developed a lot of respect for M. Hamel.
D. Franz looked at his teacher in a different way that day.
Ans: C
H. But now it was all so still! I had counted on the commotion to get to my desk without being
seen; but, of course, that day everything had to be as quiet as Sunday morning. Through the
window I saw my classmates, already in their places, and M. Hamel walking up and down with
his terrible iron ruler under his arm.
1. ‘Counted on’ means___________
A. To count numbers
B. To depend on
C. To borrow
D. To think
Ans. B
2. Find a synonym of disturbance
Ans. Commotion
3. Why did the narrator want to reach his desk without being seen?
A. He was afraid of the enemy soldiers
B. He was afraid of being caught by the teacher
C. He was afraid of his classmates
D. He was afraid of his mother
Ans. B
4. Why was everything quiet on a Sunday morning?
Ans. It was quiet on a Sunday morning because it was a holiday in the school.
5. State true or False
The statement “M. Hamel walking up and down” means that he was walking on the wall of the
classroom
Ans. False
I. Ah, that’s the great trouble with Alsace; she puts off learning till tomorrow. Now those fellows out there
will have the right to say to you, ‘How is it; you pretend to be Frenchmen, and yet you can neither speak
nor write your own language?’ But you are not the worst, poor little Franz. We’ve all a great deal to
reproach ourselves with.”
1. Who / what is Alsace?
A. A girl
B. A district
C. not mentioned
D. Both a and b
Ans. B
2. Who are ‘those fellows’?
Ans. The enemy German soldiers.
3. Why does he call Franz poor?
Ans. Franz is called poor because he is not learned in his mother tongue the French language.
4. Find a synonym of scold
Ans. Reproach
5. ‘A Great deal’ means
A. A big matter / issue
B. A big business deal
C. both a and b
D. None of these
Ans. A
J. Then, from one thing to another, M. Hamel went on to talk of the French language, saying that it was
the most beautiful language in the world — the clearest, the most logical; that we must guard it among us
and never forget it, because when a people are enslaved, as long as they hold fast to their language it is as
if they had the key to their prison. Then he opened a grammar and read us our lesson. I was amazed to see
how well I understood it. All he said seemed so easy, so easy! I think, too, that I had never listened so
carefully, and that he had never explained everything with so much patience.
1. How can we guard a language?
Ans. We can guard a language by not forgetting it and by using it in our daily lives.
2. How is our language the key to the prison of enslavement?
Ans. One’s language or mother tongue helps one remain attached to the mother land and unites all
countrymen because it is a unique thing which is common in the people of one country.
3. Why on that day Franz understood the lesson?
A. It was easy
B. He listened carefully
C. Teacher had taught with patience
D. B and C
Ans. D
4. Find a synonym of surprised
Ans. Amazed

ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS:

Q1. What was the order from Berlin and what changes did it cause in the school? (AU India 2013)
or
What changes did the order from Berlin cause in the school? (Delhi 2012)
or
What was the mood in the classroom when M Hamel gave his last French lesson?(Delhi 2009)
Ans: The order from Berlin stated that only German will be taught in the schools of Alsace and Lorraine.
The order effected many changes, as an unusual silence prevailed in the school, compared to the hustle and
bustle earlier. M Hamel became soft in speaking to the students, while the people realised the importance
of their language. The villagers even attended the school to show respect to M Hamel.
Q2. Franz didn’t learn French, whom did M. Hamel blame?
Ans: M. Hamel didn’t blame Franz for not learning but his parents who were not anxious to have him
learn. Instead they wanted him to work on a farm or at the mill to earn money. Even he blamed himself for
sending him to water the flowers instead of learning and for declaring holiday when he wanted to go
fishing.
Q3. What was the news which was put up on the bulletin board?
Ans: For the last two years all bad news – the lost battles, the orders of the commanding officer was
displayed on the notice board. That day, the news that only German would be taught in school of Alsace
and Lorraine was displayed on the notice-board which made the crowd gather there to read it.
Q4. What did Franz notice that was unusual about the school that day?
Ans: Franz noticed the absence of the routine hustle and bustle caused by the opening and closing of
desks, repeating of the lessons and rapping of the teacher’s ruler on the table. The usual hustle – bustle was
replaced by a strange stillness that was the characteristic of a school on a Sunday morning.
Q5. What happened when the church clock struck twelve?
Ans: The moment the church clock struck twelve, they started prayer in the church and the trumpet of
Prussian soldiers returning from the drill sounded under their window. M. Hamel stood up and tried to
speak but his voice was choked. He gathered his strength and wrote on the black board as large as he could
Vive La France and dismissed the school.
Q6. What was more tempting to Franz rather than going to school?
Ans: Since Franz was not prepared with participles and was late for the school, he found warm and bright
weather with birds songs and Prussian soldiers drill much more tempting than going to school.
Q7. What changes did the order from Berlin cause in school that day?
Ans: The order from Berlin brought to a standstill, all the routine hustle-bustle of school life. M. Hamel
taught his lessons with patience and became more sympathetic to his students. The students became more
attentive in their classes. The villagers, who were sitting as usual at the empty back benches had come to
show their respect and gratitude to M. Hamel, and regretted not going to school more often.
Q8. What did M. Hamel say about the French language?|
Ans: He said that it is the most beautiful language in the world, the clearest, and the most logical. He
requested them to guard it so that they could be united and fight back for their freedom.
Q9. What was the narrator’s greatest fear as he moved towards the school?
Ans: Franz had started late for school that day and was afraid of being scolded. His fear gripped him
further for he was also unprepared. He had not learnt the rules of participles as instructed by his teacher,
thus dreaded the teacher’s anger.
Q10. Franz thinks, “Will they make them sing in German, even the pigeons?” What does this tell us
about the attitude of the Frenchmen? (All India 2011)
Ans: This shows that the Frenchmen were full of hatred and desperation against the Germans. Besides,
they feared German atrocities. They thought that they would be forced to read German and no one would
be spared.
Q11. How did M Hamel say farewell to his students and the people of the town? (All India 2012)
Ans: At the end of his ‘Last Lesson’, M Hamel stood up to say farewell to his students and the people of
the town. He tried to speak, but overwhelming emotion choked his voice. He then wrote as large as he
could on the blackboard ‘Vive La France’; then he dismissed the class with a gesture with his hand.
Q12. What made M Hamel cry towards the end of his last lesson? (Compartment 2014)
Ans: M Hamel had taught French at the school for the last forty years. He was emotionally attached to the
school and everything in and about it. He was really heartbroken to leave it all. Besides, his own
predicament reminded him that his country would soon lose its independence. All this made him cry
towards the end of his last lesson.
Q13. What words did M Hamel write on the blackboard before dismissing the last class? What did
they mean? (Compartment 2014)
Ans: Before dismissing the last class, M Hamel turned to the blackboard, and wrote the phrase, ‘Vive La
France!’ as large as he could. These words meant ‘Long live France’, and spoke of M Hamel’s great love
for his country and his deep sense of patriotism.
Q14. “What a thunderclap these words were to me!” What were the words that shocked and
surprised the narrator? : (Delhi 2013)
Ans: M Hamel told his students that it was their last French lesson, as an order had come from Berlin that
henceforth only German was to be taught in the schools of Alsace and Lorraine. This announcement
seemed to be a thunderclap to Franz. He was left in surprise and shock to learn that a new master was
going to arrive the next day and they would learn German instead of their mother tongue.
Q15. How was the scene in the school in the morning of the last lesson different from that on other
days? (Delhi 2008)
Ans: Usually, there used to be great hustle and bustle when school began. The din of opening and closing
of the desks, lessons being repeated in unison and the rapping of the teacher’s ruler on the table, could be
heard out in the street. But that day, it was all very quiet and still as on a Sunday morning.
Q16. “You realise the true value of a thing only on losing it.” Comment on this statement in the light
of the story, The Last Lesson. (SQP 2022-23)
OR
Prussians put a ban on the French language – People realized the importance of holding onto their
mother tongue.
Ans: M Hamel was considered strict and the classes/work given by him were not taken seriously. After the
invasion of France, the German language was banned. The realization that they may never have the
opportunity to learn German again serves to underscore the importance of the lessons they received and the
role that M. Hamel played in their lives. The story serves as a reminder of the importance of cherishing and
appreciating the opportunities we have in life, rather than taking them for granted.
Q17. Comment on the significance of the villagers sitting at the back in M. Hamel’s classroom. (SQP
2020-21)
Ans: The presence of the villagers in Mr Hamel’s class on his last day at school was, in reality, a reflection
of their tremendous respect for him. They came to express their gratitude to Mr. Hamel for his forty years
of devoted service. Also, they had come to pay respect to the nation that was no longer their own.
Q18. Who did M. Hamel blame when Franz was unable to answer a question on French participles?
(SQP 2019-20)
Ans: Hamel blamed the parents for the neglect of learning on the part of boys like Franz because they
wanted them to work to earn some money instead of focusing on education. M. Hamel also blamed himself
for his negligence in his teaching.
Q19. “We‟ve all a great deal to reproach ourselves with” said M.Hamel. Refer to the context and
explain what he wanted to convey to his students. (SQP 2018-19)
Ans: M. Hamel said it to Franz when he felt embarrassed at not being able to answer – he consoles Franz
by saying everyone in Alsace is to be blamed for them not learning their mother tongue/parents ,teacher
and children all are to be blamed for taking their language for granted.
Q20. If this had been M. Hamel’s first lesson, how do you think the school experience of the students
might have been impacted? (QB)
Ans: If it had been Mr. Hamel’s first lesson and Germany had not sent the notice of making German
compulsory, then everyone would have been ignorant as always towards their language.
Q21. Little Franz is the narrator of the story. The name ‘Franz’ means ‘from France’. In what way
does the story being told as a first-person narrative of Franz impact your reading and understanding
of the story? Provide at least one evidence from the text to support your opinion. (QB)
Ans: attempt to learn his own language properly. The very fact the narrator is called Franz which means
‘from France’ re-emphasises the theme of pride in one’s heritage and identity that one’s language imparts.

The Last Lesson Long Answer Questions

Q1. The people in this story suddenly realize how precious their language is to them. What shows
you this? Why does this happen?
Ans: The huge crowd of villagers at and around the bulletin board, their silent presence in class, the
absence of the usual commotion at school, and the emotions engulfing M. Hamel and Franz, representing
the teacher and the student community respectively, were all signs that the villagers realised how important
their language was to them. In the narrative, M. Hamel claimed that people only come to understand the
value of someone or something in their lives after it has been taken from them or lost. The people also
came to understand the value of their language because of the Berlin regime.
Q2. Franz thinks, “Will they make them sing in German, even the pigeons?”
After reading the chapter, you realise that man has an intense desire to subjugate others. You feel
that in the modern world, there is a strong need for brotherhood. Write an article in about 120-150
words for a national magazine on this.
Ans: In the chapter ‘The Last Lesson’ , France lost two districts to Germany. The Germans issue the order
that the school will now solely offer education in German. Franz hears the pigeons on the roof chirping in
a quiet voice as he enters his final French class. He speculates whether the Germans will make the pigeons
sing in German as well. This comment was made by a French boy in response to being forced to learn
German. This demonstrates how far the Germans would go in their pursuit of linguistic chauvinism. This
proves that man has a strong desire to control and impose his will on other people. Compassion, tolerance,
and brotherhood are desperately needed in our violent world if we are to find peace and prosperity.
Q3. ‘My Last French Lesson! Why I hardly knew how to write! I should never learn anymore! I
must stop there, then!
The problem of school dropouts and illiteracy / backwardness still plagues our country. What
qualities on the part of the administration, educationists and youth do you think will help to
surmount this hurdle?
 Ans: India has one of the lowest literacy rates in the world. The issue of school dropouts and widespread
illiteracy persists despite all government initiatives aimed at improving literacy. Together with a strong
political will, the administration and educators in our nation must have a clear vision for how to overcome
these issues. They need to raise awareness of the value of education in eradicating illiteracy and
backwardness among parents and kids. In this situation, it is crucial that wealthy and successful individuals
contribute back to society by supporting the government in such endeavours. By utilising their services, the
government may use the educated youth to join the drive to eliminate this roadblock to progress. Giving
such students who volunteer for this activity during their breaks a stipend can speed up the process even
more.
Q4. After reading ‘The Last Lesson’, can you compare any of your teachers with M Hamel? What
values did he possess that every teacher should be endowed with? Was he a patriot?
Are you a true patriot? Explain.
Ans: A teacher should serve as an example to the students, and M. Hamel did just that. He was a stern
enforcer who was also well-liked by them. He was a devoted teacher. He expected his students to exhibit
the same pride in their language. He was not only the best instructor, but also a patriot. My class teacher,
Ms. Tanya is deserving of comparison to M. Hamel because she possesses all the traits that M. Hamel did.
Together with Hamel, the villagers also radiated a strong sense of patriotism. Notwithstanding the sad fact
that the Germans were occupying their land, they wanted to show their appreciation for their country by
doing so. Their devotion for their country deeply affects me.
I find immense inspiration in the lives of martyrs like Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Bhagat Singh, Lokmanya
Tilak, and numerous more who gave their lives in defence of their country. I also wish to contribute to my
nation.
Q5. At the end of his last lesson, M. Hamel decides to leave a little note for each of his students for
them to find the next day at their desks. Based on your reading of the story, what might his note to
Franz read? (QB)
You may begin like this:
Dear Franz,
I know you have always preferred to run in the open fields …
Ans: Dear Franz,
I know you have always preferred to run in the open fields, collect birds’ eggs and spend time in nature.
But you must also realise the fact that we have our duties that we are responsible about. For example,
duties to our family, society, and nation. Ignoring these duties for the sake of pleasure or money, leads to
serious consequences.
Learning our mother tongue is our prime responsibility. We, the people of Alsace and Lorraine have not
done this duty sincerely. As a result, we have been invaded by the Prussians. Now they have imposed their
language on us. Now, we have realised how much we love our language. But mere love without
commitment is nothing. I saw in my last lesson that you were greatly hurt at the loss of the freedom to
learn French. I appeal to you not to lose heart. Keep making efforts to learn French. Soon we will be free
once again.
Q6. Though tempted by the bright day, Franz stated that he had “the strength to resist, and hurried
off to school.” As the story progresses, the reader realizes that Franz, M. Hamel and the villagers
would perhaps need “the strength to resist” much larger forces. Discuss how the story provides
strategies for resistance and protection of one’s identity and community through its events and
characters. Provide relevant textual details to support your argument. (QB)
Ans: The story is mainly based on procrastination and linguistic chauvinism. In the opening lines of the
story, we see that despite being tempted by the bright day and the beauty of nature, Franz decides to go to
school. Later on, we come to know that the Germans had captured the cities of Alsace and Lorraine, and
the teaching of French would be stopped and German would be implemented. Franz, M Hamel and the
villagers require the strength to resist the linguistic chauvinism of Germans and retain their own identity.
M Hamel provides us the strategy as he says, “When people are enslaved, as long as they hold fast to their
language, it is as if they had the key to their prison.
Q7. On the day of the last lesson, Franz felt that the “whole school was strange”. Throughout the
story, the reader encounters Franz’ account of how school usually was, and what it was like on the
last day of class with M. Hamel. This contrast comes across through events, and the actions and
viewpoints of various characters.
● In what way can the story be seen as a comment on schooling in general?
● Does Franz’ description of school life resonate with your own experience?
● Do you think the story might also provide advice on what good education entails? Substantiate your
argument with relevant instances from the text.
Ans: Through the view of FRANZ:
The school felt strange on the day of the last lesson because :
● Everything was quiet like Sunday morning.
● Mr. M. Hamel was being kind.
● Along with the students the villagers attended the class.
● Villagers were seated at the end to pay tribute to the teacher for 40 years of his service.
● School seemed sad and solemn.
● Pin-drop silence was there in the classroom.
Franz’s usual day was as follows-
● Great bustle was there.
● The teacher was harshly rapping his ruler on the table.
● Noise of opening and closing of desks was there.
● Lessons were prepared in unison.

Q8. Franz from The Last Lesson and the peddler from The Rattrap demonstrate the importance of
learning from our mistakes to evolve into better people. Imagine that Shubhangi, your friend, feels
as if she has made a mistake by not taking her academics seriously. Write an essay to Shubhangi in
120–150 words discussing instances from the two texts to give her an insight into the human
tendency to make mistakes and learn from them.
You may begin like this:
Shubhangi, all of us have made mistakes at one point or another in our lives. After all, to err is
human……….. (SQP 2022-23)
Ans: “Failure is the stepping stone towards success”
Everyone makes mistakes. Mistakes are inevitable since we are humans. We learn from our mistakes and
discover ways to do better in the future. We learned how Franz, who resented school and M. Hamel’s
lessons, was suddenly able to grasp and comprehend everything M. Hamel taught on the last day in
Alphonse Daudet’s Chapter The Last Lesson. Franz felt a thunderclap of shock as M. Hamel announced
to the class that it was their last lesson. He was shocked by what he heard. He felt guilty about not studying
German when he had the chance to learn. Selma Lagerlof’s The Rat Trap chapter demonstrates how people
can improve by learning from their failures. After stealing thirty kroners, the peddler became trapped in the
rat trap. Elma’s generosity and kindness helped him to see his error. She brought the peddler to his house
and treated him like the Captain despite the fact that she was aware that he might have stolen something or
escaped from jail. Making mistakes is acceptable as long as we are prepared to evolve from them and are
willing to put in the effort to improve.
Top

CBSE Class XII Board Questions

Q1: Answer in 30 – 40 words: (2) [CBSE paper, 2012]
What changes did the order from Berlin cause in the school?
Ans: The order from Berlin directed schools in the districts of Alsace and Lorraine in France to teach
German instead of French.
Q2: Answer in 30 – 40 words: (2) [CBSE paper, 2013]
How did Franz react to the declaration that it was their last French lesson?
Ans. Franz was shocked and sad when he heard this news. Suddenly he developed a liking for ‘his’
language and was keen to learn French. He was remorseful for not learning well in the past and was sad
that his teacher, Mr. Hamel would go away.
Q3: Answer in 30 – 40 words: (2) [CBSE paper, 2014]
Why were the elders of the village sitting in the classroom?
Ans: The elders of the village came to the classroom to attend the last lesson of French in the school as a
mark of respect to the French teacher Mr. Hamel who had been teaching there for the last forty years.
These ‘elders’ had not studied well and could not read and write their mother tongue, French and so as it
was the last opportunity for them, they came to attend the class.
Q4. Answer the following question in 120 – 150 words: (6) [CBSE paper, 2015]
The order from Berlin aroused a particular zeal in the school. Comment.
OR
Answer the following question in 120 – 150 words: (6) [CBSE paper, 2016]
Our language is part of our culture and we are proud of it. Describe how regretful M. Hamel and the
village elders are for having neglected their native language, French.
Ans: When Berlin ordered that French language would no longer be taught in schools in the French
districts of Alsace and Lorraine, it stirred the otherwise lazy Frenchmen. Suddenly, they all had a strong
desire to learn how to read and write their mother tongue. It was not only the children who went to school
but also the elders of the village who had not studied seriously in their childhood, putting off ‘unimportant’
works to the next day. The day finally arrived as the last day of French language in the schools. They
become serious and keen to learn as they feel the German would laugh at them for not knowing their own
language. They are ashamed of themselves when the teacher says that this lack of knowledge is the reason
for their defeat to the Germans and asks them to guard their mother tongue as being close to one’s
language is the key to escape from the prison of slavery.

Class 12 English Lost Spring: Stories of Stolen

Childhood Question Answers Lesson 2 – Extract Based
Questions
Extract-based questions are of the multiple-choice variety, and students must select the correct
option for each question by carefully reading the passage.
A. “I will learn to drive a car,” he answers, looking straight into my eyes. His dream looms like a
mirage amidst the dust of streets that fill his town Firozabad, famous for its bangles. Every other
family in Firozabad is engaged in making bangles. It is the centre of India’s glass-blowing
industry where families have spent generations working around furnaces, wielding glass,
making bangles for all the women in the land it seems. Mukesh’s family is among them. None of
them know that it is illegal for children like him to work in the glass furnaces with high
temperatures, in dingy cells without air and light; that the law, if enforced, could get him and all
those 20,000 children out of the hot furnaces where they slog their daylight hours, often losing
the brightness of their eyes. Mukesh’s eyes beam as he volunteers to take me home, which he
proudly says is being rebuilt.
1. Which of the following statements is NOT TRUE with reference to the extract?
A. Children work in badly lit and inadequately ventilated furnaces.
B. The children are not aware that it is forbidden by law to work..
C. Children work in the furnaces for hours which poorly affects their eyesight.
D. Firozabad has emerged as a budding producer of bangles in the country.
Ans: D
2. The simile ‘dream looms like a mirage amidst the dust of streets’ indicates that his
dream was
A. a reality, yet seemed distant.
B. lost in the sea of dust.
C. illusory and indistinct.
D. hanging in the dusty air.
Ans: C
3. ‘I will learn to drive a car,’ he answers, looking straight into my eyes. This sentence
highlights Mukesh was
1. Determined 2. Fearless 3. Hopeful 4. Valiant 5. Ambitious 6. stern
A. 1 & 5
B. 2 & 4
C. 2 & 5
D. 3 & 6
Ans: A
4. Every other family in Firozabad is engaged in making bangles indicates that
A. bangle making is the only industry that thrives in Firozabad.
B. Everyone in Firozabad works in the bangle industry.
C. majority of the population in Firozabad is involved in bangle making.
D. bangle making is the most favoured occupation in Firozabad.
Ans: C
Class 12 Lost Spring: Stories of Stolen Childhood
Important Question Answers Video
Top
B. She still has bangles on her wrist, but no light in her eyes. “Ek waqt ser bhar khana bhi nahin
khaya.” she says, in a voice drained of joy. She has not enjoyed even one full meal in her entire
lifetime-that’s what she has reaped! Her husband, an old man with a flowing beard says, “I know
nothing except bangles. All I have done is make a house for the family to live in.” Hearing him
one wonders if he has achieved what many have failed in their lifetime. He has a roof over his
head! The cry of not having money to do anything except carry on the business of making
bangles, not even enough to eat, rings in every home. The young men echo the lament of the
elders. Little has moved with time, it seems in Firozabad, years of mind-numbing toil have killed
all initiative and the ability to dream.
1. Choose the term which best matches the statement ‘The young men echo the lament of
their elders.’
A. acceptance
B. reflection
C. reiteration
D. doubtfulness
Ans: C
2. ‘Years of mind-numbing toil have killed all initiative and the ability to dream’. This
shows that
A. Although the bangle manufacturers are tired and exhausted, they are ambitious and have
dreams.
B. The drudgery of work has destroyed their willingness to improve their lot.
C. The grind of daily life has darkened and stolen the dreams of the bangle manufacturers.
D. There is no time for dreaming because the bangle manufacturers are working so hard.
Ans: B
3. ‘She still has bangles on her wrist, but no light in her eyes.’ This implies that
A. She is married, but the charm in her eyes has faded.
B. She is a married woman who has aged poorly and lost her grace.
C. Though she is married, her eyes are devoid of happiness.
D. She is a married woman with visual impairment.
Ans: C
4. ‘He has a roof over his head!’ The tone of the author is
A. pessimistic.
B. empathetic.
C. sympathetic.
D. optimistic.
Ans: D
C. “Why do you do this?” I ask Saheb whom I encounter every morning scrounging for gold in
the garbage dumps of my neighbourhood. Saheb left his home long ago. Set amidst the green
fields of Dhaka, his home is not even a distant memory. There were many storms that swept
away their fields and homes, his mother tells him. That’s why they left, looking for gold in the big
city where he now lives.
1. Saheb’s home, before Delhi, was in|
A. Bengal
B. Orissa
C. Dhaka
D. Bihar
Ans: C
2. Why did Saheb and his family move to Delhi?
A. because storms had swept away their fields and homes
B. their village was flooded
C. there were landslides
D. there was a deadly virus in the village
Ans: A
3. ‘Why do you do this?’ This question was asked by the author to
A. the bangle sellers
B. Mahesh
C. Saheb
D. Saheb’s mother
Ans: C
4. Saheb’s profession was that of a
A. cook
B. rag-picker
C. bangle seller
D. driver
Ans: B
D. “If I start a school, will you come?” I ask, half-joking.
“Yes,” he says, smiling broadly. A few days later I see him running up to me. “Is your school
ready?”
It takes longer to build a school”. I say, embarrassed at having made a promise that was not
meant. But promises like mine abound in every corner of his bleak world.”
Q1.Where does the line occur?
Ans: These lines occur in the prose “Lost Spring” written by Anees Jung.
Q2. Who is referred to as ‘I’?
Ans: Here in this extract from “Lost Spring”, the writer Anees Jung is referred to as ‘I’.
Q3. Why is the speaker embarrassed?
Ans: The speaker is embarrassed because she promised Saheb to enrol in her school after she
built it. But as she did not do it and Saheb enquired about her school, she was embarrassed.
Q4. Find out the word from the passage which means ‘plenty’?
Ans:The word ‘plenty’ means abound.
E. “Saheb left his home long ago. Set amidst the green fields of Dhaka, his home is not even a
distant memory. There were many storms that swept away their fields and homes, his mother
tells him.” That’s why they left, looking for gold in the big city where he now lives.
“I have nothing else to do,” he mutters, looking away. “Go to school,” I say glibly, realising
immediately how hollow the advice must sound.

Q1. Who is the speaker here?

Ans: Anne’s Jung,the author of ‘Lost Spring’ is the speaker here.
Q2. Who are ‘they’?
Ans: Here ‘they’ refers to the family of Saheb.
Q3. From where did ‘they’ come?
Ans: They came from Dhaka in Bangladesh.
Q4. What do they do now?
Ans: Now they pick rags in the dustbins in Delhi.
Q5. What has been swept away by storms?
Ans: The homes and fields of Saheb’s family were washed away by storms.
F. Food is more important for survival than an identity. “If at the end of the day we can feed
our families and go to bed without an aching stomach, we would rather live here than in
the fields that gave us no grain,” say a group of women in tattered saris when I ask them
why they left their beautiful land of green fields and rivers. Wherever they find food, they
pitch their tents that become transit homes. Children grow up in them, becoming partners
in survival. And survival in Seemapuri means rag-picking. Through the years, it has
acquired the proportions of a fine art. Garbage to them is gold. It is their daily bread, a roof
over their heads, even if it is a leaking roof. But for a child it is even more. (SQP 2020-21)
Q1. The phrase ‘transit homes’ refer to the dwellings that are
A. unhygienic.
B. inadequate.
C. fragile.
D. temporary.
Ans: D. temporary.
Q2. Identify the figure of speech used in the sentence “Garbage to them is gold”.
A. hyperbole
B. simile
C. synecdoche
D. personification
Ans: A. hyperbole
Q3. Choose the term which best matches the statement ‘Food is more important for
survival than an identity.”?
A. immorality
B. necessity
C. obligation
D. ambition
Ans: B. necessity
Q4. What does ‘acquired the proportions of a fine art’ mean?
A. Rag-picking has regained its lost status.
B. A segment of ragpickers are skilled in fine arts.
C. Rag-picking has attained the position of a skill.
D. Only a few people are experts in rag-picking.
Ans: C. Rag-picking has attained the position of a skill.
G. “I have nothing else to do,” he mutters, looking away. “Go to school,” I say glibly, realising
immediately how hollow the advice must sound. “There is no school in my neighbourhood. When
they build one, I will go.” “If I start a school, will you come?” I ask, half-joking. “Yes,” he says,
smiling broadly. A few days later I see him running up to me. “Is your school ready?” “It takes
longer to build a school,” I say, embarrassed at having made a promise that was not meant. But
promises like mine abound in every corner of his bleak world. (SQP 2021-22)
Q1. Saheb’s muttering and ‘looking away’ suggests his
A. anger
B. shyness
C. embarrassment
D. Anxiety
Ans: C. embarrassment
Q2. Of the four meanings of ‘glibly’, select the option that matches in meaning with its
usage in the extract.
A. showing a degree of informality
B. lacking depth and substance
C. being insincere and deceitful
D. speaking with fluency
Ans: B. lacking depth and substance
Q3. Who do you think Saheb is referring to as ‘they’, in the given sentence? “When they
build one, I will go”
A. The officials
B. The inhabitants
C. The teachers
D. The journalists
Ans: A. The officials
Q4. Select the option that lists the feelings and attitudes corresponding to the following:
(1) I ask half-joking (2) …he says, smiling broadly

1. Part arrogance, part seriousness 1. Part amusement, part irritation

A. B.

2. hesitation 2. submissiveness
 1. Part concern, part hurt 1. Part humour, part earnestness

C. D.

2. pride 2. Self belief

Answer: D
Q5. Select the option that lists reasons why Saheb’s world has been called ‘bleak’.
(1) The absence of parental presence
(2) The poor socio-economic conditions
(3) His inability to address problems
(4) His lack of life-skills
(5) The denied opportunities of schooling
A. (1) and (4)
B. (2) and (5)
C. (3) and (5)
D. (2) and (4)
Ans: B. (2) and (5)

Class 12 English Lost Spring: Stories of Stolen

Childhood Short Question Answers (including questions
from Previous Years Question Papers)
.

Q1. In what sense is garbage gold to the ragpickers?

Ans: For the ragpickers, garbage is equivalent to gold in that it provides them with a livelihood.
Garbage provides them with their daily rations and a place to live.
Q2. What did garbage mean to the children of Seemapuri and to their parents?
Ans: The author claims that garbage is gold to ragpickers because, to children, trash is a source
of amazement. They anticipate receiving some cash, jewels, or both in it. They occasionally
discover a rupee or even a ten-rupee note, if luck is on their side. Adults use garbage as a
source of income.
Q3. Give a brief account of the life and activities of the people like Saheb-e-Alam settled in
Seemapuri.
Ans: Anees Jung notes in “Lost Spring” that Saheb-e-Alam’s life and activities are entirely
dependent on garbage. That is, in truth, garbage is their daily sustenance, and to them it is no
less than gold. The poor rag pickers are generally barefoot, which she says is “an excuse to
justify a permanent state of poverty”. They currently reside in mud structures with tin and
tarpaulin roofs, without sewage, drainage, or running water. Whenever they can find food, they
set up their tents. They have been residing in Seemapuri for more than 30 years without an
identity or permission. They do, however, carry ration cards which enable them to vote.
Q4. Garbage to them is gold. How do ragpickers of Seemapuri survive?
Ans: For the inhabitants of Seemapuri, nothing else matters except survival. They set up their
tents wherever there is food. The people of Seemapuri rely on garbage collection and ragpicking
to provide for their daily needs and a roof over their heads. Finding money in the trash—whether
it be one rupee or ten—can occasionally make someone’s day, especially if they are a child. It
gives them hope. Hence the writer’s statement that “garbage to them is gold” is true.
Q5. What does the writer mean when she says, ‘Saheb is no longer his own master’?
Ans: The author intended Saheb to be a carefree youngster who worked and still had time for
himself when he was a ragpicker. Yet as soon as he began working at the tea shop, he lost his
freedom because he was forced to work for a master and obey his commands. He could no
longer act however he pleased. As a result, he was no longer his own master.
Q6. Is Saheb happy working at the tea-stall? Explain.
Ans: Saheb was not happy working at the tea stall. There was fixed earning and food to suffice
his hunger but he had lost his freedom. Earlier, working as a rag picker, his earning was meagre,
but he had enjoyed his work as he was not accountable to anyone. Thus he was no longer his
own master.
Q7. What makes the city of Firozabad famous ?
Ans: The bangle manufacturing sector is well known in Firozabad. In Firozabad, bangle
manufacturing is a way of life for every family. It is the hub of India’s glass blowing industry,
where families have spent years welding, producing glass, and creating bangles for ladies while
surrounded by furnaces.
Q8. What is Saheb looking for in the garbage dumps? Where is he and where has he come
from?
Ans: In pursuit of “gold,” Saheb rummaged through and explored the garbage heaps. He lived in
a slum outside of Delhi called Seemapuri with thousands of other rag pickers. He had left
Bangladesh with his parents after numerous storms destroyed their home and farmland.
Q9. How was Mukesh’s attitude to his situation different from that of his family ?
Ans: Mukesh was prepared to leave the family’s history and vicious cycle of glassmakers. He
followed his tender heart’s desire to train as a mechanic. In order to obtain the training and
abilities he needed, he willingly undertook the burden of walking a significant distance to the
garage. He therefore had the courage to pursue his dream.
Q10. Mention the hazards of working in the glass bangles industry ?
Ans: Workers in the glass bangle industry toiled their daylight hours working near hot furnaces in
dingy cells having no proper lighting and inadequate ventilation. At times they lose their eyesight
because of the dust emitted while polishing glass bangles. In Firozabad, children also laboured in
glass bangle industries where they fell prey to such hazardous working atmosphere.
Q11. What trade does the family of Mukesh follow? Why does the writer feel that it’s
difficult for Mukesh to break away from this tradition?
Ans: Engaged in bangle making for decades, it is difficult to break away from this trade. He
belongs to the caste of bangle makers. His family is caught in the web of sahukars, the
middlemen, policemen, politicians and bureaucrats, from which there is no escape.
Q12. What does Saheb do for a living? Why?
Ans: Saheb is a rag picker. His family has left the life of poverty behind in Dhaka to pursue their
dream of finding a better life. The children like him have no access to education and are forced
into rag picking.
Q13. Why did people migrate from the village in Dhaka to Delhi?
Ans: Their homes and farmland were destroyed by numerous storms. Political unrest at the
period made life for these people very tough, and their fields eventually turned to desert. They
left their home in Dhaka and moved to Delhi in the hopes of finding better living, educational, and
employment possibilities.
Q14. What explanations does the author offer for the children not wearing footwear ?
Ans: The author had seen children walking barefoot, in cities as well as on village roads. It was
customary for them to remain barefoot because they believed that their ragged clothing and
being barefoot emphasized their ongoing poverty and tracked an ancient tradition that had been
retained by the suffering rag pickers.
Q15. What does garbage symbolise for adults and children?
Ans: Garbage has a different connotation for kids than it does for adults. When they discover a
rupee or ten-rupee note inside, the children’s eyes light up with wonder. They eagerly explore the
trash in the hopes of discovering more. But so far, it is a means of survival for the elderly.
Q16. Why can’t the bangle makers of Firozabad organise themselves into a cooperative?
(Comptt. Delhi 2013)
Ans: The makers of bangles are locked in a vicious cycle that starts with poverty, progresses
through apathy, greed, and injustice, and ends with injustice. Their hopes and goals are crushed
by mindless labour. Because they were caught in a vicious loop of sahukars, intermediaries,
police, bureaucrats, and politicians, the Ferozabad bangle producers were unable to organise
themselves into a cooperative. Collectively, priviledged people had imposed baggage on these
individuals that they were unable to shed.
Q17. What is Mukesh’s dream? Do you think he will be able to fulfil his dream? Why? Why
not? (Comptt. Delhi 2014)
Ans: Mukesh wants to become a mechanic and learn how to drive. He appears to be
determined to see his dream realised, which increases the likelihood that it will come true.
Regardless of the distance between his house and the garage, he is prepared to walk there in
order to learn despite all the odds against him.
Q18. Describe the irony in Saheb’s name. (Delhi 2016)
Ans: Saheb’s full name is Saheb-e-Alam which means ‘Lord of the Universe’. Saheb, though, is
a destitute ragpicker who relies on garbage dumps to support himself. His name offers a stark
contrast to his sad situation.
Q19. How was Mukesh different from other bangle makers? (Comptt. Delhi 2016)
Ans: Mukesh was different from other bangle makers because he wanted to be his own master.
When other bangle manufacturers did not even dare to dream and had accepted their fate,
Mukesh had an ambition of becoming a mechanic.
Q20. Which industry was a boon and also bane for the people of Firozabad? How?
(Comptt. Delhi 2017)
Ans: The glass-bangles making industry was a boon and also bane for the people of Firozabad.
Although the industry has provided them with a means of support, the dangerous working
conditions in the hot furnaces have a negative impact on their physical well-being.
Q21. The youngsters echo the lament of their elders who have been doing the mind-
numbing toil of bangle-making since long. This is the reason that the writer says that little
has moved with time, it seems, in Firozabad. (SQP 2020-21)
Ans: The young people share the sorrow of their elders who have been engaged in the mind-
numbing labour of producing bangles for a long time. Because of this, the author claims that
hardly much seems to have changed over time in Firozabad.
Q22. Why does Anees Jung say that the bangle makers are caught in a vicious web?
(CBSE SQP 2019-20)
Ans: The bangle makers in Firozabad are exploited at the hands of the Sahukars, middlemen,
policemen, law makers, bureaucrats and politicians. They toil day and night, but are not paid
appropriate wages and are steeped in poverty. They cannot form cooperatives for their
betterment. Moreover, their children are also compelled to join the same trade at an early age
and cannot dare to take up any other profession.
Q23. Why do you think Mukesh is content to dream of cars and doesn’t dream of flying a
plane?
Ans: Mukesh was drawn towards being a motor mechanic and not a pilot because he had seen
a lot of cars going around his place but had hardly seen any plane flying past and hence, he
made a more realistic or practical decision to be a mechanic instead of a pilot.
Q24. Do you believe that ‘God-given lineage can be broken’? Support your position with a
rationale. (QB)
Ans: Yes, – God given lineage can be broken.Hardwork and determination always pays off and
makes us reach our dreams or goals. Mukesh was a hard-working man. He could achieve his
dream of becoming a motor mechanic by constant hard work towards life and towards the dream.
Q25. How do you think the author’s life might have been impacted after her interactions
with the children and their families mentioned in ‘Lost Spring’? (QB)
Ans: In the chapter ‘Lost Spring,’ the author ‘Anees Jung’ discusses the bleak world in which
people in positions of power make promises but never try to keep them. We learned from her
interactions with Saheb and Mukesh that the author cares about the lower class and oppressed
people. She believes that child labour should be prohibited in our country so that children who
want to study can do so.
Q26. What do we come to know about the author of Lost Spring, Anees Jung, through her
interactions with Saheb and Mukesh? (SQP 2022-23)
Ans: In the chapter ‘Lost Spring,’ the author ‘Anees Jung’ discusses the bleak world in which
people in positions of power make promises but never try to keep them. We learned from her
interactions with Saheb and Mukesh that the author cares about the lower class and oppressed
people.
Q27. What does the description of Mukesh’s family in Lost Spring reveal about gender
roles?(SQP 2022-23)
Ans: Mukesh’s family in Lost Spring reveals patriarchy and inequality in the treatment of men
and women. Women in the Mukesh family are still assigned to stereotypical gender roles, such
as doing household chores and caregiving, whereas men are assigned to earning work.
Class 12 Lost Spring: Stories of Stolen Childhood Long
Answer Questions Chapter 2
Q1. Would you agree that promises made to poor children are rarely kept? Why do you
think this happens in the incidents narrated in the text ?
Ans. We agree that promises made to underprivileged kids are frequently broken. We host
several chat shows to end child labour, however the majority of child labourers worldwide are
found in India. Children who work as children suffer both physical and mental suffering. The
author of the lesson “Lost Spring” painted a clear picture of children working in the bangle and
rag-picking professions. As she realised the plight of rag pickers, she asked Saheb if he would
attend a school if she decided to create one in the area. Eventually, she felt ashamed for making
a youngster a promise that she had no intention of keeping.Both child labourers in Firozabad and
rag pickers in Seemapuri had never attended school. All of their initiative, desire, and capacity for
dreaming were killed when they were persuaded to choose that line of work.
Q2. Mention the hazards of working in the glass bangle industry.
Ans. The glass bangle industry is highly dangerous to work in. Employees spend a lot of time
close to the glass furnaces, which operate at high temperatures. They toil during the day in
dismal cells with inadequate ventilation and illumination. Rather than the light and open air
outside, their eyes become more accustomed to the gloom that prevails inside their workshop.
They frequently lose their vision as a result of the dust that is released during the polishing of
glass bangles. Despite the fact that child labour is illegal under the law, young children are
mostly employed in this dangerous occupation. They work in a dimly lit hut with their parents or
other other adults, shaping bits of coloured glass into lovely round bangles.They become more
prone to accidents as a result of working in such poor sanitary conditions, and their desire to
follow their dreams and escape their family’s constraints is also killed.
Q3. How in your opinion, can Mukesh realise his dream?
Ans. Mukesh came from a family of bangle makers who practised their ancestors’ trade, thought
it was a calling from God, and accepted the hardship, pain, and exploitation that went along with
it as a part of their fate. Mukesh chose the profession of his choice with a tender heart. H e was
ready to leave the glass-making family’s legacy and its vicious cycle. He refused to let poverty
thwart his ambitions. He desired to work as an apprentice in a garage since he had an ambition
of becoming a mechanic. He aspired to get his driver’s licence so he could maybe work as a
mechanic or a mechanic’s assistant, and he was willing to travel a significant distance to go to
the garage.In this way, he dared to fulfil his dream.
Q4. What could be some of the reasons for the migration of people from villages to cities.
Ans. More and more people are moving from villages to cities as years roll on. The village is
under more strain now because of overpopulation, illiteracy, and unemployment. Furthermore,
landless labourers are forced to move to cities in search of employment due to the introduction of
mechanised farming. Their primary occupation used to be agriculture, but as a result of
increasing industrialization and advances in education, young people now move to cities in
pursuit of employment and educational opportunities. They don’t want to remain in the soiled
rural environment. Modern machines have also taken the role of the local crafts. The market is
crowded with high-quality, low-priced competition. The villagers are unable to sell their wares
because they are unable to compete with the new system of vast industrialisation. They
frequently become indebted because of agricultural loans and lose their lands and properties as
a result. Finally, as a result of urbanisation, the villages move to the metropolis to live a
contemporary lifestyle.
Q5. Why should child labour be eliminated and how?
Ans. Employment of child labour is illegal. The law forbids it. Nonetheless, it continues
uninterrupted in numerous cities and villages. It has a risky nature.
It causes them physical and mental harm because they are unable to comprehend or
communicate. They frequently lose or hurt their important organs while working. Before kids
reach adulthood, they lose their innocence. All of their initiative, ambition, and desire to dream in
life are killed by working day and night. They are even denied access to a formal education and
to healthy development. It is dangerous to use kids in dangerous businesses like making carpet,
bangles, and fireworks. These kids have no idea how to defend themselves in the event of an
accident or calamity. The only way to resolve the issue with the government and society is to
mercilessly punish the exploiters.
Q6. What forces conspire to keep the workers in the bangle industry of Firozabad in
poverty ?
Ans. Anees Jung correctly identified the two different classes that existed in the town of
Firozabad. Families trapped in the tradition of creating bangles made up the first group. They had
never considered careers outside of those of their ancestors. They were aware of how little
money they were making and how challenging it was to make ends meet.
The second stratum included sahukars, bureaucrats, police officers, and cunning politicians who
coerced the kids into child labour in the dangerous bangle making industry. Both young and old
were caught in this terrible loop. If they spoke out against this continued system, the police would
arrest them. They viewed it as a divinely mandated bloodline that could never be broken. They
never considered creating a union. They never spoke up to escape the web of poverty and the
grasp of the bureaucrats because they had accepted it as their fate.
Q7. Mukesh is not like the others. His dreams loom like a mirage amidst the dust of
streets that fill his town Firozabad‟. Justify the statement in the light of contrast in the
mindsets of Mukesh and the people of Firozabad. (SQP 2018-19)
Ans. Mukesh belongs to a family of glass bangle makers in Firozabad. Even though the children
of such families usually carry on their family profession, Mukesh wants to be a motor mechanic
and drive a car. Unlike his family members, and others of his community, he has dared to dream.
His grandmother’s words about the unbreakable lineage represent the attitude they have towards
their situation in life. They believe that it is their destiny to toil as bangle makers. Mukesh was
different from the others of his community. His dreams look like a mirage amidst the dust of
street that fill his town Firozabad. By daring to dream, he has already taken the first step towards
a big change. He wants to become a motor mechanic and drive a car. He can realise this dream
with determination and hard work. There might be many obstacles on his way but a strong
willpower will help him move towards the path of success. The resolute boy is willing to walk a
long distance from home to learn to be a mechanic.
Q8. How does the story, ‘Lost Spring’ highlight the apathy of society and those in power
to end the vicious cycle of poverty? Support your answer with textual evidence.
Ans. In this story, ‘Lost Spring’s Saheb and Mukesh were the two main characters in two
different stories and both of them suffered extreme poverty. In the first story Saheb was a child
who did rag picking with his family to fulfil their needs. After a few days he started working in a
tea stall and he is no longer his own master as he worked under someone.On the other side
mukesh belonged to a family of bangle makers and works in bangle making industry along with
his family but he was focused and determined for his aim to become a motor mechanic. Both
Saheb and Mukesh were unable to move out of poverty and live a normal life,as they got no
opportunities and it was almost impossible for them to fulfil their dreams. This was because the
upper class people, politicians and officials did not help them at all, rather they pushed them
down in poverty for their greed. Also they did not have much knowledge about their rights and
the importance of education, as no one told them about this. They both just followed the old
customs and worked in poverty as no one guided them. Even the people who have the power to
help them showed lack of interest in helping them. That is why this vicious cycle of poverty
continues and the poor people become more poor and the rich become richer. If the upper class
people and the men in power would have helped them to get out of poverty and get educated,
then both Saheb and Mukesh would definitely be able to fulfil their dreams and enjoy their life like
others. Also, it is the duty of common people to make them aware of their rights and tell them
how they can move out of poverty stricken life so as to make them succeed in life.
Q9. Certain traditions and lineage, condemn thousands of children to a life of abject
poverty and choke their aspirations. • Do you agree? Explain. • How can we change this?
Suggest some ways to tackle this issue. (QB)
Ans. Yes, I do agree that ‘Lost Spring’ narrates the grinding poverty and traditions that condemn
thousands of people have succumbed. The story written by Anees Jung revolves around the
pitiable condition of poor children who have been forced to live in the slums and work hard in
dirty conditions. The first part tells the writer’s impression about the life of poor rag pickers who
have migrated from Bangladesh but now are settled in the Seemapuri area of Delhi. The second
part narrates the miserable life of the bangle-makers in the town of Firozabad. The stark reality of
these families is that, in spite of back-breaking hard work that they put in, they cannot have two
square meals a day. Besides, false and blind belief in traditions does not let their children take up
other respectable and better paying jobs which will improve their financial situations.

English Deep Water Question Answers Lesson 3 Extract

Based Questions
Extract-based questions are of the multiple-choice variety, and students must select the correct
option for each question by carefully reading the passage.
A. My breath was gone. I was frightened. Father laughed, but there was terror in my heart at the
overpowering force of the waves. My introduction to the Y.M.CA. swimming pool revived
unpleasant memories and stirred childish fears. But in a little while I gathered confidence. I
paddled with my new water wings, watching the other boys and trying to learn by aping them. I
did this two or three times on different days and was just beginning to feel at ease in the water
when the misadventure happened. (CBSE QB, 2021)

1. Choose the correct option with reference to the two statements given below
Statement 1: The author’s father laughed to mock his son’s inability to swim.
Statement 2: The author wanted to swim just to prove to his father that he can swim.
A) Statement 1 is true but Statement 2 is false.
B) Statement 1 is false but Statement 2 is true.
C) Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 cannot be inferred.
D) Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 can be inferred.
Ans. C) Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 cannot be inferred.
2. “My introduction to the Y.M.CA. swimming pool revived unpleasant memories and
stirred childish fears.” It can be inferred that this was a clear case of
A) suppression
B) oppression
C) depression
D) repression
Ans. D) repression
3. The misadventure that took place right after the author felt comfortable was that
A) the author slipped and fell into the swimming pool.
B) a bully tossed him into the pool for the sake of fun.
C) his coach forgot to teach him how to handle deep water.
D) his father couldn’t help him from drowning into the water
Ans. B) a bully tossed him into the pool for the sake of fun.
4. Choose the option that describes the equipment used by the author while learning to
swim.

A) Option 1
B) Option 2
C) Option 3
D) Option 4
Ans. D) Option 4

Class 12 Deep Water Important Question Answers Video

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B. It was only two or three feet deep at the shallow end; and while it was nine feet deep at the
other, the drop was gradual. I got a pair of water wings and went to the pool. I hated to walk
naked into it and show my skinny legs. But I subdued my pride and did it.

1. The author subdued his pride and did it. This shows that he –
A. Hated swimming
B. Loved swimming
C. did not want to swim
D. Was forced to swim
Ans. B Loved swimming
2. What are water wings?
A. A pair of wings to fly over the water
B. A pair of life saving tube to swim in water
C. both a and b
D. None of these
Ans. B. A pair of life saving tube to swim in water
3. He got water wings before going to the pool. This shows that he –
A Was brave
B. Was courageous
C. was rich
D. Was scared
Ans. D. Was scared
4. State true or False –
The writer could drown at the shallow end of the pool
Ans. False
5. Find a synonym of overpower
Ans. Subdue

C. Then all effort ceased. I relaxed. Even my legs felt limp; and a blackness swept over my brain.
It wiped out fear; it wiped out terror. There was no more panic. It was quiet and peaceful. Nothing
to be afraid of. This is nice… to be drowsy… to go to sleep… no need to jump… too tired to
jump… it’s nice to be carried gently… to float along in space… tender arms around me… tender
arms like Mother’s… now I must go to sleep… I crossed to oblivion, and the curtain of life fell.
(CBSE QB, 2021)
1. Choose the correct option with reference to the two statements given below.
Statement 1: The author tried his best to jump out of water.
Statement 2: After a while, the author was not anxious in water.
A) If Statement 1 is the cause, Statement 2 is the effect.
B) If Statement 1 is the effect, Statement 2 is the cause.
C) Both the statements are the effects of a common cause.
D) Both the statements are the effects of independent causes.
Ans. A) If Statement 1 is the cause, Statement 2 is the effect.
2. The ‘curtain (of life) fell’ corresponds to an aspect of
A) Geometry.
B) History.
C) Sports.
D) Drama
Ans.D) Drama
3. The purpose of using “…” in the above passage is to
A) show omission.
B) indicate pauses.
C) shorten a dialogue.
D) replace an idea.
Ans. B) indicate pauses.
4. Which option indicates that the poet lost consciousness?
A) ‘It was quiet and peaceful.’
B) ‘I crossed to oblivion.’
C) ‘Tender arms like Mother’s.’
D) ‘It wiped out fear.’
Ans. B) ‘I crossed to oblivion.’

D. But I was not finished. I still wondered if I would be terror-stricken when I was alone in the
pool. I tried it. I swam the length up and down. Tiny vestiges of the old terror would return. But
now I could frown and say to that terror, “Trying to scare me, eh? Well, here’s to you! Look!” And
off I’d go for another length of the pool.
1. Find a synonym of trace
Ans. Vestige
2. Did the narrator actually speak to the terror?
Ans. No, he said this in his mind.
3. What quality can be seen in the author?
A Courage
B Terror
C fear
D All of these
Ans. A Courage

E. I laughed and said, “Well, Mr. Terror, what do you think you can do to me?” It fled and I swam
on. (CBSE SQP 2019-20)
1. Who is ‘I’ here? Who is being addressed to as Mr. Terror?
Ans. ‘I’ here is the writer William Douglas. The fear is being addressed as Mr Terror
2. Why has Mr. Terror been addressed so?
Ans. It is the same terror that he has experienced earlier also. So, he calls it Mr Terror
3. Why did the narrator laugh?.
Ans. He laughed because he had overcome the terror
4. Why did Mr. Terror leave?
Ans. Mr. Terror had to leave because the writer was not scared by it
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Class 12 English Deep Water Question Answers (including

questions from Previous Years Question Papers)
In this post we are also providing important short answer questions from the Chapter The
Deep Water for CBSE Class 12 Boards in the coming session. These questions have been
taken from previous years class 12 Board exams and the year is mentioned in the bracket along
with the question.

Q1. How did Douglas finally get rid of the fear he had of water? (Delhi 2009)
Ans. The terror that gripped Douglas as a result of his two mishaps with water was so intense
that he sought professional help to overcome it. He hired a swimming instructor for six months of
intensive training to ensure he overcame his fear of water, which he eventually did.
Q2. How did the incident at the YMCA pool affect Douglas? (All India 2009)
Ans. Douglas, a ten-year-old boy, was standing alone at the YMCA pool when a big bully of a
boy picked him up and tossed him into the deep end, and he was instantly at the bottom. Even
though he managed to escape with great difficulty, he could never return to the pool. He began
to be afraid of and avoid water. When he was near water, a haunting terror gripped him.
Q3. When Douglas realized that he was sinking, how did he plan to save himself? (Delhi
2010)
Ans. Douglas was terrified when he realized he was sinking, and it was then that he decided to
make a big jump to the surface. He considered lying flat on the water for a while and then
paddling to the pool’s edge.
Q4. What did Douglas experience as he went down to the bottom of the pool for the first
time? (Delhi 2010)
Ans. When Douglas is pushed into the pool, he immediately sinks to the bottom. To him, the
nine-foot-deep pool appears to be ninety feet deep. He has a strong feeling of unease and as if
his lungs are about to burst. Despite feeling completely suffocated, he makes desperate attempts
to survive.
Q5.What sort of terror seized Douglas as he went down the water with a yellow glow? How
could he feel that he was still alive? (Delhi 2010)
Ans. It was a nightmare for Douglas when he went down the water with a yellow glow. His legs
were nearly paralyzed, his lungs ached, and his head throbbed. The thumping of his heart and
the pounding in his head reminded him that he was still alive.
Q6. Why did William Douglas develop aversion to the water when he was three or four
years old? (Comptt. Delhi 2010)
Ans. When William Douglas was three or four years old, he developed a phobia of water. He
was standing with his father on a beach when a wave swept over him and knocked him down. He
became breathless after being submerged in water. He was terrified and developed a lifelong
aversion to water.
Q7. What misadventure did William Douglas experience at the YMCA pool? (Comptt. All
India 2010)
Ans. Douglas became afraid of water after an incident at the YMCA pool in which he was thrown
into the deeper end of the pool by a big boy. He went down into the water three times but never
came back up. Though he was eventually saved, he developed a fear of water as his lungs filled
with water. His head throbbed and his legs felt paralyzed, making him fear water for the rest of
his life.
Q8. Why did Douglas go to Lake Wentworth in New Hampshire? (Delhi 2011)
Ans. Douglas went to Lake Wentworth in New Hampshire to see if he still feared water. He
wasn’t sure if his fear of water had gone away despite his rigorous swimming practice. So he
decided to test his swimming abilities at Lake Wentworth. He dove into the lake, and it wasn’t
until he’d swum across the shore and back that he knew his fear of water was gone.
Q9. What did Douglas learn from his experience at the YMCA pool? (Comptt. Delhi 2011)
Ans. Douglas was deeply affected by his drowning experience at the YMCA pool. He became
terrified and terrified of death. He had felt both the sensation of death and the terror that fear of
death can cause. As a result, his desire to live grew stronger. He gradually overcame his fear of
swimming and learned to swim.
Q10. Which two frightening experiences did Douglas have in water in his childhood?
(Comptt. Delhi 2012)
Ans. Douglas’ first terrifying experience with water occurred when he was three or four years old.
While surfing at a California beach, he was knocked down by the waves. He had been terrified at
the time. Years later, his experience at the YMCA pool brought back unpleasant memories of
being thrown into the deep end of the pool by an eighteen-year-old boy. Douglas developed a
fear of water as a result of both of these experiences.
Q11. In Deep Water, which qualities of the swimming instructor played a role in helping
Douglas overcome his fear?(CBSE Sample Paper 2022)
Ans. Because of the instructor’s ability to empathise with Douglas and understand his fear, he
decided to teach him to swim by putting a belt around his waist. This instilled confidence in
Douglas.The instructor’s patience was crucial as he held on to the rope and walked the length of
the pool to help Douglas swim day after day.
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Class 12 Deep Water Long Answer Questions Chapter 3
Q1. “There was terror in my heart at the overpowering force of the waves.” When did
Douglas start fearing water? Which experience had further strengthened its hold on his
mind and personality? (All India 2010)
Ans. Douglas had been knocked down by the waves at a California beach when he was three or
four years old. The waves swept over him, burying him beneath them. Water’s overwhelming
power terrified him, and he developed an aversion to it. When Douglas was eleven years old, his
aversion to water reappeared and strengthened its grip on his mind and personality. Douglas
was thrown into the deep end of the pool by an eighteen-year-old boy. For the second time, the
descent into water was a terrifying experience. His legs were almost paralyzed, his lungs hurt,
his head throbbed, and he felt like he was suffocating.
Keeping his cool, he pushed himself to the surface of the pool, but his efforts were in vain. When
he regained consciousness, he was lying on his stomach beside the pool. Now the haunting fear
of water gripped his heart, and he was mortally afraid of water for a long time.
Q2. A big boy threw Douglas into the swimming pool. How did this experience affect
Douglas?
Ans. William Douglas had decided to overcome his childhood fear of water and joined the
Y.M.C.A swimming pool. He had gradually gained confidence and was attempting to learn to
swim by imitating other boys and using water wings. The misadventure occurred just as he was
beginning to relax.A big boy, about eighteen years old, saw Douglas sitting by the pool and threw
him into the deep end. Douglas was terrified, but he did not lose his mind. He planned on giving
himself a thrust just as he touched the bottom, then rising to the surface of the water and floating
towards the edge.
His plans fell through, and he went up and down in the water three times, unable to reach the
surface and breathe. When he was rescued, he had almost given up. The youngster admitted
that he was merely ‘fooling’.
Q3. We always admire those heroes who face challenges bravely in different phases of life
and emerge successfully. Elaborate on this statement with reference to William Douglas.
(Comptt. Delhi 2017)
Ans. Determination and perseverance are a set of characteristics and abilities that motivate
people to set goals for themselves and then take action to achieve those goals. Douglas was
able to overcome his fear of water by focusing on the values of positivity and courage. He was
initially afraid of water, but his tenacity and determination led him to seek out an instructor and
overcome his apprehension. Today’s determination leads to tomorrow’s success. It is that innate
quality in our soul that comes to the surface when something irritates it. It reflects the values
instilled in us by society and circumstance and enables us to overcome all obstacles.
There is always reverence for heroes like William Douglas who face challenges bravely and
eventually triumph. For years, he was plagued by a fear of water. It took away his enjoyment of
canoeing, swimming, fishing, and boating. Douglas was able to overcome his fear thanks to
deliberate, planned, and consistent efforts. He was dead set on overcoming his fear, and it was
only through his perseverance and tenacity that he triumphed.
Q4. With the help of courage one can achieve a lot. How did Douglas overcome his fear of
water? (Comptt. Delhi 2016)
Ans. Douglas was terrified of water from a young age. His mishap at the YMCA pool
exacerbated his fear of water. He was unable to participate in fishing and boating trips. He finally
decided that he had to overcome his fear. He couldn’t do it without professional assistance, so he
hired a coach who gradually turned him into an excellent swimmer. Douglas was still unsatisfied.
He took advantage of every opportunity to swim and dive in water, thereby confronting his fear.
He was able to completely overcome his fear, prompting him to state that what one is afraid of is
fear itself, and that if we can overcome that fear, we can achieve anything in life.
Q5. Douglas fully realized the truth of Roosevelt’s statement, “All we have to fear is fear
itself.” How did this realization help him brush aside his fear and become an expert
swimmer?
Ans. Fear is a crippling emotion. It limits all kinds of efforts, creativity, and ventures that one
might consider. Fear, however, can be overcome with grit, determination, and hard work. This
was demonstrated by William Douglas. He overcame his fear of water by first psychoanalyzing it
and then treating it methodically. Douglas has developed hydrophobia as a result of his
misadventure at the YMCA pool. Regardless, he hired a professional trainer and learned to swim
step by step. Douglas was made a swimmer by the trainer due to his strong willpower and
rigorous practice.
Douglas, however, was not satisfied and set a higher standard for his perfection, devising various
tests and situations to overcome fear in all forms. As a result, Douglas was eventually able to
overcome his fear of water and become an expert swimmer.
Q6. Desire, determination and diligence lead to success. Explain the value of these
qualities in the light of Douglas’ experience in “Deep Water”. (Comptt. All India 2014)
Ans. Determination and perseverance are a set of characteristics and abilities that motivate
people to set goals for themselves and then take action to achieve those goals. Douglas was
able to overcome his fear of water by focusing on the values of positivity and courage. He was
initially afraid of water, but his tenacity and determination led him to seek out an instructor and
overcome his apprehension. Today’s determination leads to tomorrow’s success. It is that innate
quality in our soul that comes to the surface when something irritates it. It reflects the values
instilled in us by society and circumstance and enables us to overcome all obstacles.
There is always admiration for heroes like William Douglas who face challenges bravely and
eventually triumph. For years, he was plagued by a fear of water. It took away his enjoyment of
canoeing, swimming, fishing, and boating. Douglas was able to overcome his fear thanks to
deliberate, planned, and consistent efforts. He was dead set on overcoming his fear, and it was
only through his perseverance and tenacity that he triumphed.
Q7. Describe the efforts made by Douglas to save himself from drowning in the YMCA
swimming pool. (Comptt. All India 2013)
Ans. Douglas was dragged into the deep end of the YMCA swimming pool. Those nine feet
seemed a long way down at the time. As soon as his feet touched the ground, he gathered all of
his strength and sprung upward. He slowly arose, opened his eyes, and saw only water. He
reached up as if for a rope, but his hands only clutched at water. He flailed at the water’s surface,
swallowed, and choked. He attempted to raise his legs, but they hung as if paralyzed. He began
his journey back to the pool’s bottom once more.
Then he remembered the plan: he would spring from the bottom of the pool and float to the
surface like a cork. He’d lie flat on the water and thrash around with his arms and legs. Then he’d
get to the pool’s edge and be safe. The jump made no difference yet again, and Douglas
eventually gave up and relaxed as blackness swept over his brain.
Q8. Courage and optimism are attributes that can make the impossible possible.
Elucidate with reference to Deep Water.
Ans. Man has only succeeded in making the impossible possible through courage, desire, and
determination. The best example is William Douglas’ struggle to overcome his fear of water.
Douglas developed a fear of water as a result of his near-drowning experience at the Y.M.C.A.
swimming pool. Panic attacks paralyzed his lumps the moment he entered the water. He had
lived for many years with this fear. But, in the end, he decided to overcome his fear and was
successful due to his perseverance and positive attitude. He hired a swimming instructor, who
transformed him into a swimmer through rigorous training and special technique. Douglas had to
overcome this fear for nearly seven months.
But, in the end, Douglas demonstrated that it was courage, determination, desire, diligence, and
optimism that enabled him to overcome his fear.
Q9. How did the instructor make Douglas a good swimmer? (All India 2011)
Ans. The instructor worked hard to ‘build a swimmer’ out of Douglas. He recognised Douglas’s
deathly fear of water and practiced with him five days a week for an hour each day. He devised a
novel method of teaching him to swim. He fastened a rope to Douglas’ belt, which passed
through a pulley that ran over an overhead cable. He made Douglas move back and forth in the
pool while holding the end of the rope in his hand, without causing him much fear. Douglas was
taught how to exhale underwater and inhale by raising his nose.
This exercise was repeated several times, and they swam across the pool week after week.
Douglas was then taught to kick with his legs by the instructor. His legs did not work at first, but
he was eventually able to control and command them. Finally, his instructor transformed him into
a near-perfect swimmer.
Q10. ‘This handicap stayed with me as the years rolled by.’ Which handicap is being
referred to and what are the events that made Douglas handicapped?
Ans. The handicap in question is Douglas’s fear of water, which he developed as a result of
some unfortunate events in his childhood. As a result, he was unable to participate in water
sports or swim. His father took him to the beach in California when he was three or four years
old. Douglas was knocked down by the sea waves and nearly drowned. He developed a phobia
of water. Furthermore, when he was ten or eleven years old, a thug threw him into a swimming
pool. He had a terrible experience at the time. He was almost submerged in water, which
suffocated him and paralyzed his limbs. He did, however, avoid drowning.
Since then, he has been afraid of water and has been unable to enjoy activities such as
canoeing, swimming, rafting, fishing, and so on. This became a disadvantage for him because he
was deprived of the enjoyment of water sports and swimming.
Q11. The prose selections, Deep Water and Indigo, bring out the importance of
overcoming fear, in order to be able to lead our lives successfully. Imagine yourself to be
a motivational speaker who has to address high school students. Write this address in
120 – 150 words elaborating on occurrences from the two texts to inspire your audience
and to convince them about the importance of overcoming fear.(CBSE Sample Paper
2022)
Ans. Good day, students! We’ve all experienced being afraid. Fear is our body’s natural reaction
to an impending threat or danger. But when fear takes over our lives and prevents us from
reaching our goals, it’s time to take action and overcome it. This message is conveyed in the
prose selections Deep Water and Indigo. Deep Water depicts the protagonist overcoming their
fear of water and learning to swim in the face of danger and uncertainty. This demonstrates that
overcoming our fears allows us to open ourselves up to new experiences and opportunities.
Similarly, in Indigo, the protagonist must overcome their fear of being different and embrace their
uniqueness in order to live a happy life.
This teaches us that facing our fears allows us to not only be true to ourselves, but also live an
authentic and meaningful life. So, students, I encourage you to face your fears and embrace the
challenges that come your way. Overcoming fear will not only make you stronger, but it will also
help you live a more successful and fulfilling life. Remember that the only thing to be afraid of is
fear itself. So, go out there and live your lives to the fullest!
Thank you.
Q12. The story Deep Water talks about Douglas’ attempts to overcome his fear of water.
The story can also be viewed as a figurative manifestation of life’s many challenges.
Elaborate with reference to the text.(CBSE Sample Paper 2020)
Ans. The story “Deep Water” can be interpreted as a metaphor for life’s many challenges, as
discussed further below. Since his childhood, William Douglas has had a fear of water. He
overcame his fear through sheer determination. To overcome his fear, he eventually hired an
instructor, whose instruction and practice relieved him of his anxiety. He was terrified and frozen
when he went underwater, but his determination to succeed helped him. The deep-water
metaphor refers not only to a fear of water, but also to human fear of all challenges in life. The
adjective ‘deep’ refers to the fear’s intricate nature and how hidden its mysteries are.
Every challenge in life is terrifying, and only a determined person can break free from the fears
that have encircled the challenges. The struggle and journey to overcome fears is prolonged.
Q13. The childhood experience of terror of Douglas made him stronger and more
determined. Elucidate the above statement supporting it with evidence from the text.
(CBSE Sample Paper 2018)
Ans. It is true; if the childhood mishaps had not occurred, Douglas would never have become
stronger and more determined. The terrifying incident at the YMCA pool, in which he nearly
drowned, instilled in him a deep fear of water. All of his outings with his friends were ruined by his
fear. Whenever he went to Cascades, Tieton, or Warm Lake with his friends, he was overcome
with fear of water, his legs paralysed, and icy horror gripped his heart.
Finally, in October, he hired a swimming instructor. The instructor fastened a belt around his
waist. He wrapped the belt around himself. He fastened the belt to an overhead cable.
He clung to the rope as the author attempted to swim back and forth across the pool for hours,
days, and weeks. It took the author three months to learn the fundamentals. The instructor then
showed him how to exhale underwater and inhale by raising his nose. He then showed him how
to kick water with his legs.
He asked the author to swim the length of the pool after teaching and perfecting the basics. The
author swam the length of the pool by himself starting the next day. There was no turning back
after that. He swam across Wentworth and Warmlake Lakes. That is how the author overcame
his apprehension. He emerged stronger and more determined.
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Board Questions
Q1: Answer the following question in 120 – 150 words: (10)
[CBSE paper, 2012]
How did Douglas develop an aversion to water?
OR
Q2: Answer the following question in 120 – 150 words: (6)
[CBSE paper, 2015]
What happened at the YMCA swimming pool which instilled fear of water in Douglas’
mind?
Ans. Since the age of three or four, when the author accompanied his father to the beach, he
realized that he disliked water. He would get frightened by the power of the waves which threw
him, swept over and he was buried in water.
Later, at the age of ten – eleven years, he decided to learn swimming. He joined swimming
classes at a swimming pool at the Y.M.C.A. He felt that the swimming pool was safe. Also, the
pair of water wings would help him stay on the surface but more, they instilled a sense of
confidence in him. It was just when he had started feeling comfortable that an incident took
place. A big boy picked up the author and threw him in the pool at the deep end. He got water in
his mouth and sank to the bottom. He was frightened but kept his mind working and devised a
way out but things did not turn out as planned. His lungs felt as if they would burst, he was
overpowered by fear, reached out, as if to grab something, but could only get his hands on the
water. He got suffocated due to lack of air, could not scream, moved his arms desperately but all
his efforts failed and he once again sank to the bottom of the pool. An unexplainable terror
seized him. His limbs were lifeless, rigid due to fear and he could not even scream, the only sign
of life was his heart beat. He sucked in water and then suddenly all his efforts to save himself
stopped. He was relaxed, peaceful, fearless and sleepy, almost dead.
It was due to these experiences that the author developed an aversion to water.
Q3: Answer in 30 – 40 words: (2)
[CBSE paper, 2013]
How did the instructor turn Douglas into a swimmer?
Ans. The instructor made him practice swimming step by step and gradually, piece by piece,
turned him into a swimmer. When he had perfected each piece, he put them together into an
integrated whole.
Q4: Answer the following question in 120 – 150 words: (6)
[CBSE paper, 2015]
Describe the efforts made by Douglas to overcome his fear of water.
Ans. Douglas was in the tight grip of a fear of swimming in water bodies and finally decided to
get rid of it. He hired an instructor who taught him swimming piece by piece and when he had
learnt it all, he combined all the pieces together and made Douglas a swimmer. Still, he was not
confident, and the terror would seize him time and again. Douglas wanted to get rid of all the
fear, he wanted to conquer it. So, he went to various lakes, dived and swam across them. He
reverted sarcastically to the tiny vestiges of fear that would grip him time and again until all of it
vanished away. Douglas realized that fear was merely a crop of the mind and once he had
conquered it, he felt released, free to walk arduous terrains, climb peaks and brush aside fear.
Douglas had faced stark terror and then by conquering it his desire to live life grew intensely.
Q5: Answer the following question in 30 – 40 words: (2)
[CBSE paper, 2016]
How did his experience at the YMCA swimming pool affect Douglas?
Ans: Douglas’ experience of drowning and almost being dead instilled a fear of water in him. He
shook and cried, couldn’t eat, for days a haunting fear engulfed him, the slightest exertion upset
him. He never went back to the pool, feared water and avoided it whenever he could.

English The Rattrap Question Answers Lesson 4 – Extract

Based Questions
Extract-based questions are of the multiple-choice variety, and students must select the correct
option for each question by carefully reading the passage
A. Since you have been so nice to me all day long, as if I was a captain, I want to be nice to you,
in return, as if I was a real captain — for I do not want you to be embarrassed at this Christmas
season by a thief; but you can give back the money to the old man on the roadside, who has the
money pouch hanging on the window frame as a bait for poor wanderers.
The rattrap is a Christmas present from a rat who would have been caught in this world’s rattrap
if he had not been raised to captain, because in that way he got power to clear himself. “Written
with friendship and high regard, Captain von Stahle.” (CBSE QB, 2021)
1. Which of the following CANNOT be attributed to the peddler, according to the above
extract?
A) indebtedness
B) reform
C) self-pity
D) self-awareness
Ans. C) self-pity
2 Why did the peddler gift a rattrap as a Christmas present?
A) It was all the peddler had that he could give away, and represented his turn to honesty.
B) It symbolized his successful escape from entrapment as he returned the stolen money.
C) It served as a reminder for Edla to be wary of the dangerous temptations of the world.
D) It was a practical and convenient present that the lady of the house could effectively use.
Ans. A) It was all the peddler had that he could give away, and represented his turn to honesty.
3 The word ‘frame’ has been used to indicate a rigid structure that surrounds something
such as a picture, door, or windowpane. There are other meanings of ‘frame’ too.
Choose the option that DOES NOT list the meaning of ‘frame’

A) Option (1)
B) Option (2)
C) Option (3)
D) Option (4)
Ans. D) Option (4)
4 This communication includes
1) a promise
2) regret
3) an apology
4) shame
A) only 4
B) only 1
C) 1 & 3
D) 2 & 4
Ans. C) 1 & 3

Class 12 The Rattrap Important Question Answers Video

Top
B. …it was a big and confusing forest which he had gotten into. He tried, to be sure, to walk in a
definite direction, but the paths twisted back and forth so strangely! He walked and walked
without coming to the end of the wood, and finally he realized that he had only been walking
around in the same part of the forest. All at once he recalled his thoughts about the world and
the rattrap. Now his own turn had come. He had let himself be fooled by a bait and had been
caught. The whole forest, with its trunks and branches, its thickets and fallen logs, closed in upon
him like an impenetrable prison from which he could never escape. (CBSE QB,2021)
1 How would you characterize the mood of the above extract?
A) mysterious, restful
B) ominous, despairing
C) thoughtful, whimsical
D) philosophical, anguished
Ans. B) ominous, despairing
2 By what bait had the peddler been fooled?
A) He had chosen to take the ‘safe’ forest route.
B) He had decided to avoid the public highway.
C) He had stolen money from the trusting crofter.
D) He didn’t realize the power of his rattrap analogy.
Ans. C) He had stolen money from the trusting crofter.
3 The consequence of ‘his own turn’ having come was that the peddler had ___________
A) got irreversibly lost in the thick, warped forest.
B) been fooled and imprisoned in a hopeless prison.
C) been walking around the same part of the forest.
D) walked the whole forest without finding the end.
Ans. A) got irreversibly lost in the thick, warped forest.
4 The above extract richly employs literary devices. Look at the table below. Choose the
option that correctly matches the instances/ examples in Column A with the literary
devices in Column B:

A) 1 – (i) ; 2 – (ii) ; 3 – (iii) ; 4 – (iv)

B) 1 – (iv) ; 2 – (i) ; 3 – (ii) ; 4 – (iii)
C) 1 – (iii) ; 2 – (iv) ; 3 – (i) ; 4 – (ii)
D) 1 – (ii) ; 2 – (iii) ; 3 – (iv) ; 4 – (i)
Ans. B) 1 – (iv) ; 2 – (i) ; 3 – (ii) ; 4 – (iii)
C. Now that he was no longer able to do day labor, it was his cow which supported him. Yes, that
boss was extraordinary. She could give milk for the creamery every day, and last month he had
received all of thirty kronor in payment. The stranger must have seemed incredulous, for the old
man got up and went to the window, took down a leather pouch which hung on a nail in the very
window frame, and picked out three wrinkled ten-kronor bills. These he held up before the eyes
of his guest, nodding knowingly, and then stuffed them back into the pouch.
1 Who is ‘He’ in the first line?
A Peddler
B Ironmaster
C Crofter
D Blacksmith
Ans. C Crofter
2 What does the crofter do with the milk?
A Consumed himself
B Supplied to dairy
C Sold it to the people nearby
D Stored it for cheese
Ans. B Supplied to dairy
3 Kronor is a currency of……..
A Venice
B Sweden
C Australia
D Zimbabwe
Ans. B Sweden
4 What is the antonym of the word ‘Incredulous’?
A Unbelievable
B Believable
C Ridiculous
D Ravishing
Ans. A Unbelievable
D. He realized, of course, that at first he dared not continue on the public highway, but must turn
off the road, into the woods. During the first hours this caused him no difficulty. Later in the day it
became worse, for it was a big and confusing forest which he had gotten into. He tried, to be
sure, to walk in a definite direction, but the paths twisted back and forth so strangely! He walked
and walked without coming to the end of the wood, and finally he realized that he had only been
walking around in the same part of the forest.
1 Why did the peddler choose woods instead of public highways?
A. For he was afraid of police
B. For he was afraid of being caught by sheriffs
C. For he was scared of being arrested
D. All of these
Ans. D All of these
2 What did he realize after walking for so long?
A. That he was smart
B. That he was ensnared
C. That he would go through the forest after sometime
D. All of these
Ans. B That he was ensnared
3 What kind of forest was that?
A. Perplexing
B. Orienting
C. Straight-forward
D. None of these
Ans. D None of these
4 How many kroners had he stolen from the crofter’s home?
A. 30
B. 40
C. 50
D. 35
Ans. A 30
E. “Those are the hammer strokes from an iron mill”, he thought. “There must be people nearby”.
He summoned all his strength, got up, and staggered in the direction of the sound. The Ramsjo
Ironworks, which are now closed down, were, not so long ago, a large plant, with smelter, rolling
mill, and forge. In the summertime long lines of heavily loaded barges and scows slid down the
canal, which led to a large inland lake, and in the wintertime the roads near the mill were black
from all the coal dust which sifted down from the big charcoal crates.
1 Which of the following is incorrect?
A. Peddler was dead tired
B. Peddler was looking for a shelter
C. Peddler was ensnared
D. Peddle was rejoicing there
Ans. A Peddler was dead tired
2 What does ‘Barges and scows’ mean?
A. Types of vehicles
B. Types of boats
C. Types of ships
D. Types of cars
Ans. B Types of boats
3 The phrasal verb ‘Sifted down’ means….
A. Moved down
B. Raised up
C. Called forth
D. None of these
Ans. A Moved down
4 Smelter is used to……
A. Extract metals by heating
B. Harden metals by cooling
C. Both i and ii
D. Neither i and ii
Ans. A Extract metals by heating
F. No one can imagine how sad and monotonous life can appear to such a vagabond, who plods
along the road, left to his own meditations. But one day this man had fallen into a line of thought,
which really seemed to him entertaining. He had naturally been thinking of his rattraps when
suddenly he was struck by the idea that the whole world about him — the whole world with its
lands and seas, its cities and villages — was nothing but a big rattrap. It had never existed for
any other purpose than to set baits for people.
1. According to the extract, which of these words best describes the man?
A. reflective
B. impulsive
C. indifferent
D. simpleminded
Ans. A. reflective
2. Rewrite the given sentence after replacing the underlined phrase with its synonym.
It had never existed for any other purpose than to set baits for people.
Ans. It had never existed for any other purpose than to trap people.
3. On the basis of the extract, choose the correct option with reference to the two
statements given below.
(1) The world offers living beings a life full of pleasure.
(2) However, only compassionate people can enjoy those pleasures.
A. (2) has been caused by (1)
B. (2) is a hypothesis based on (1)
C. (1) cannot be inferred from the extract but (2) can be
D. (1) can be inferred from the extract but (2) cannot be
Ans D. (1) can be inferred from the extract but (2) cannot be
4 In one sentence, rationalise the given statement.
It is challenging for others to be able to understand the despair of a vagabond’s life.
Ans. No one can imagine how sad and monotonous life can be for a homeless person
5 Replace the underlined word with its antonym from the extract.
The man who thought that the world was a rattrap lived a life that was interesting.
Ans. sad
6 The mood of the extract can be best described as __________.
A. cautious
B. malicious
C. melancholic
D. apprehensive
Ans C melancholic

Class 12 English The Rattrap Question Answers (including

questions from Previous Years Question Papers)
Q1. Why did the peddler think that the world was a rattrap? (All India 2009)
Ans. The peddler was a very poor man who made his living by selling rat traps he fashioned out
of materials he obtained by begging. As a result, his thoughts were constantly preoccupied with
rat traps. One day, he had the sudden realization that the entire world was a giant rattrap. He
believed that the world’s shelter, food, clothing, riches, and joys were all traps set to entrap man,
just as a rattrap offered cheese or meat to entrap rats. Everything came to an end as soon as
one was trapped.
Q2. Why did the peddler knock on the cottage by the roadside? How was he treated by the
owner of the cottage? (Compartment 2014)
Ans. The peddler knocked on the roadside cottage for shelter for the night. The cottage’s owner
was a crofter who lived alone in it. He considered the peddler to be welcome company and
treated him warmly. He not only gave him a place to stay for the night, but also fed him and
played cards with him.
Q3. Why did Edla still entertain the peddler even after she knew the truth about him?
Answer. Edla had always assumed that the peddler was a poor, homeless tramp. As a result,
when his true identity was revealed, she did not feel cheated. Instead, she felt terrible for him and
his plight, and she pleaded on his behalf. She and her father had promised him Christmas cheer,
and it seemed wrong to send him away.
Q4. What was the content of the letter written by the peddler to Edla? (Foreign 2014, CBSE
Sample Paper 2019)
Ans. The peddler had written that he wanted to be nice to Edla because she had treated him like
a captain. He didn’t want a thief to embarrass her at Christmas. He had asked for the return of
the crofter’s money, which he had stolen. He went on to say that the rattrap was a Christmas
present from a rat who would have been caught in the world’s rattrap if he hadn’t been promoted
to captain, which motivated him to change his ways.
Q5. Why did the peddler decline the invitation of the ironmaster? (Delhi 2012)
Ans. The ironmaster mistook the peddler for an old regimental comrade and invited him to his
home. Because he was carrying the money he had stolen from the crofter, the peddler declined
the invitation. He was well aware that if the ironmaster learned of his identity, he would turn him
over to the police. As a result, going to the manor house was like walking into a lion’s den for
him.
Q6. Who was the owner of Ramsjo iron mills? Why did he visit the mills at night?
(All India 2012)
Ans. The Ramsjo iron mills were owned by an ex-army man who was an ambitious and well-
known ironmaster. He was very concerned about the quality of his products and would visit the
mills even at night to ensure that good iron was shipped out of his mills.
Q7. How did the ironmaster react on seeing the stranger lying close to the furnace?(All
India 2012)
Ans. When the ironmaster noticed a stranger in rags lying near the furnace, he approached him
and removed his slouch hat to get a better look at his face. He mistook the peddler for Nils Olof,
an old acquaintance of his regiment, due to the dim light in the forge and the peddler’s filthy
appearance. He was overjoyed to see him and invited him to spend Christmas with him.
Q8. Why was the crofter so talkative and friendly with the peddler? (Delhi 2011)
Ans.The crofter was depressed. He lived in his cottage alone, without a wife, child, or other
companion. He was overjoyed to have the peddler’s company because he suffered from severe
loneliness. That explains his chattiness and friendliness with the peddler.
Q9. Did the stranger agree to go to the ironmaster’s house? Why or why not? (Comptt.
Delhi 2011)
Ans. The stranger initially declined the ironmaster’s invitation. He had the stolen thirty kronors on
him and imagined himself in the lion’s den. But he accepted the ironmaster’s invitation because
Edla’s sympathy and compassion calmed his fears and her friendly demeanor made him trust
her.
Q10. What brought about a change in the life of the peddler? (Comptt. All India 2015)
Ans. The peddler’s life was changed by Edla’s warmth, sympathy, and compassion. Despite
being aware of his true identity, he is moved by Edla’s kindness. His heart’s latent goodness is
awakened, and he behaves like a true Captain.
Q11. If the Christmas spirit is about selflessness, forgiveness and becoming ‘better’
versions of ourselves amongst other things, Edla Willmansson is the epitome of this
spirit. Justify with two points of evidence from The Rattrap.(CBSE Sample Paper 2022)
Ans. Edla demonstrates great selflessness by inviting the rattrap seller into her home and caring
for him while he is there. Despite his initial suspicious behaviour, she shows kindness and
generosity to a stranger, even giving him money to start a new life. This selfless act is in keeping
with the Christmas spirit, which encourages people to be kind and compassionate to others.
Q12. A mistaken identity led to a discovery of a new one for the rattrap peddler. How did
this impact him? (CBSE Sample Paper 2020)
Ans. The rattrap peddler suffered greatly as a result of the mistaken identity. The iron master
misidentifies him as an old comrade. Even after discovering he was a fraud, the ironmaster’s
daughter, Edla WIllmansson, showed him that love and compassion have the power to change
the world.
Q13. Explain the metaphor of the rattrap in context of the story by Selma Lagerlöf. (CBSE
Sample Paper 2020)
Ans. According to the rattrap metaphor, the universe exists solely to entice people into it by
baiting them. When a person is drawn to the finer things in life, he falls into a terrible trap.
As a result, the author passes harsh judgement on those who seek worldly pleasures.
The story emphasises the importance of kindness and goodness in general.
Only when the peddler recognises Edla’s goodwill will he be able to escape the vast rattrap
known as the world. As a result, the metaphor states that the world is a rattrap that traps people
with worldly pleasures.
Q14.Why was Edla happy to see the gift left by the peddler?(CBSE Sample Paper 2018)
Ans. Edla demonstrated great faith in him by allowing him to stay at their manor on Christmas
Eve. But the news of the robbery had depressed her. So she was overjoyed to find the package
and letter left by the peddler when she arrived home. The peddler’s expression of gratitude made
her happy.

Class 12 The Rattrap Long Answer Questions Chapter 4

Q1. Describe how the story, ‘The Rattrap’ shows that basic human goodness can be
brought out by understanding and love. (Delhi 2006)
Ans. The theme of ‘The Rattrap’ is that most people are prone to falling into the trap of material
gain. However, love and understanding have the power to transform a person and bring out his
or her inherent human goodness. The world had been very cruel to the peddler. So, despite the
old crofter’s kindness and hospitality, he betrayed his trust and stole thirty kronors from him. The
ironmaster’s invitation did not impress him either. However, Edla Willmansson’s compassion and
understanding caused him to change. Her human qualities aided in his development as a
gentleman. He was easily able to resist minor temptations.
The peddler, who had always considered the entire world to be a rattrap, was finally freed from it
thanks to Edla Willmansson’s sympathetic, kind, loving, and generous treatment, which was able
to bring out his basic human goodness.
Q2. Give examples from the story, “The Rattrap” to show how the iron master is different
from his daughter. (Delhi 2006)
Ans. The characters of Edla Willmansson and the iron master are diametrically opposed. Despite
her youth, the daughter demonstrates greater maturity than her father, who acts impulsively and
casually. He makes snap judgements without thinking. First, he misidentifies the peddler as an
old regimental comrade and invites him to the manor house without first confirming his identity.
When he realizes his error, he casually refers the matter to the sheriff. Edla, on the other hand,
exhibits an acute sense of observation. She correctly determines that her visitor is a tramp and
has a sympathetic attitude towards him.
She convinces her father to let the visitor stay, leads him politely to the dining table, and forces
him to eat despite her father’s protests. Because of her compassion and generosity, the peddler
has a change of heart and repents of his dishonesty. He leaves thirty kronors for the old crofter,
as well as a Christmas present for Edla.
Q3. The story ‘The Rattrap’ focuses on human loneliness and the need to bond with
others. Explain. (Delhi 2010) OR
How does the story, ‘Rattrap’ highlight the importance of community over isolation?
Support your rationale with textual evidence.(CBSE Sample Paper 2020)
Ans. The story ‘The Rattrap’ is primarily concerned with human loneliness. All of the characters,
whether they are the peddler, the crofter, the ironmaster, or his daughter, are lonely. The peddler
is a lonely man who has been shunned by society’s cold and unkind words his entire life. He
does not expect hospitality when he knocks on the door of the old crofter’s cottage, but the
crofter welcomes him because he is overjoyed to have someone to talk to after being alone for
so long. The crofter serves himself by serving the peddler. He feeds the peddler, gives him
tobacco, and plays’mjolis’ with him. He’s an excellent host. The ironmaster and his daughter, too,
are lonely, which makes the holiday season even more difficult. So, mistaking the peddler for an
old regimental comrade, the ironmaster invites him to his manor house for Christmas. Edla, the
ironmaster’s daughter, extends the invitation once more, telling the peddler he can leave
whenever he wants after Christmas. As a result, the story ‘The Rattrap’ is centered on the need
to bond.
Q4. Describe the peddler’s interaction with the ironmaster’s daughter. To what extent was
he influenced by her? (Comptt. Delhi 2011)
Ans. The peddler first meets Edla Wilmansson, the ironmaster’s daughter, when she comes to
invite him to their manor house for Christmas at her father’s request. He couldn’t refuse her
invitation because the sincerity in her voice moved him. Later, she discovers the peddler’s true
identity, but this does not alter her warmth, friendliness, or hospitality towards him. She continues
to treat him like a Captain, and the peddler, quite unexpectedly, begins to act like a real Captain.
He leaves a rattrap for Edla as a Christmas gift, along with a letter of thanks and a note of
confession.
He leaves a rattrap for Edla as a Christmas gift, along with a letter of thanks and a note of
confession. He leaves the stolen money behind to be returned to its rightful owner, the crofter,
thus atoning for his dishonesty. Edla Wilmansson’s sympathy, compassion, and understanding
provide an opportunity for the peddler to redeem and reform himself.
Q5. Describe the crofter’s interaction with the peddler. How did the latter get tempted?
(Comptt. Delhi 2011)
Ans. When the peddler knocked on the crofter’s door, he was greeted by a lonely old man who
was overjoyed to have someone to talk to. He was extremely gracious to the peddler and even
played cards with him. He also told the peddler that he had been a crofter at Ramsjo Ironworks
during his prosperous days and that his cow now supported him. He received thirty kroners in
payment for the cow milk he sold last month. He even showed the peddler the leather pouch on
the window where he had kept the thirty kronors, enticing him. The next day, after leaving the
crofter’s cottage, the peddler returned, smashed the window pane, stuck it in his hand, and took
hold of the pouch containing the thirty kronors. He then carefully hung the leather pouch back up
and left.
Q6. The story, ‘The Rattrap’ is both entertaining and philosophical. Do you agree with this
statement? Why/Why not? (Foreign 2011)
Answer. ‘The Rattrap,’ the story, is both entertaining and philosophical. The fast-paced narrative
in the third person, the author’s generous use of dialogue, and the various characters from
various mind-sets and locales make the story interesting and entertaining. Furthermore, the
author has managed to keep the reader guessing until the very end.
The events in the forge, particularly the arrival of the ironmaster at midnight, keep our attention.
The peddler’s repeated refusals to accompany him, but his acceptance of Edla’s invitation in one
go, the ironmaster’s realization of his error, and Edla’s sympathy and generosity all contribute to
the story’s suspense. While the events described above make the story interesting, there is also
an element of philosophy in it.
The peddler’s theory of the world being a rattrap is correct somewhere. One feels trapped in the
trappings of the world, like a rat. Some people fall into this trap and never get out. The story
teaches us that as humans, we are not immune to temptation.
Q7. The Rattrap is a story where a good deed or an act of kindness changes a person’s
view of the world. Discuss with reference to the theme.
Ans. ‘The Rattrap’ is an entertaining and philosophical story that explores the human proclivity to
redeem oneself from dishonesty. The tramp demonstrates that understanding and love can
awaken human beings’ inherent goodness. Circumstances had forced the peddler to commit
minor offenses. Despite the fact that he used to sell scrap metal rat traps, his poverty had
brought out the worst in him, turning him bitter and killing his conscience.
The tramp’s worldview was cynical: he envied those who had it better than him. He saw the world
as a rat trap that offered temptations like shelter and food to entrap victims. Even though he
appreciated the crofter’s hospitality and warm welcome, the peddler did not hesitate to steal
money from him. When he got lost in the forest, he was plagued by feelings of guilt. When he
met the ironmaster and his daughter, his bitter and hardened temperament was given a chance
to repent.
The author uses an effective twist in the story to demonstrate that all humans have inherent
goodness. It takes a little love, understanding, and a friendly act to bring it to the forefront. The
iron master’s daughter showed him sympathy, honour, and respect, as well as dignity. This
struck a chord in the peddler’s heart, and he realized that he was no longer the nameless tramp
he had been his entire life, but rather someone with an identity. He atoned for his actions by
returning the stolen money, motivated by Edla’s kindness.
Q8. The peddler believed that the whole world is a rat trap. How did he himself get caught
in the same? Answer in about 120-150 words.
Ans. The peddler’s sad and poor life makes him bitter. One day, while thinking about his rat
traps, he had the epiphany that the entire world is nothing more than a giant rat trap. It only
serves as a lure for people. The world provides wealth, joy, shelter, food, and clothing. They are
merely lures. The rattrap closes in on anyone who touches the bait. Everything then comes to an
end. The peddler, ironically, becomes the rat. The peddler can’t resist the temptation of stealing
the hospitable crofter’s bait of 30 kronor. When the ironmaster invites him to his manor house,
the metaphor of the rattrap returns to him.
The peddler is unwilling to go there. It entails willingly throwing himself into the lion’s den. When
Miss Willmansson persuades him to go there, he surrenders.
Finally, the peddler is free of the rat trap. It is because of Miss Willmansson’s deep sympathy,
kindness, love, and understanding for him. He rises above trivial temptations. If he hadn’t been
promoted to captain, he would have been trapped in the world’s rattrap. That gave him the
courage to break free from the trap.
Q9. The story ‘The Rattrap’ exemplifies the notion that the emotional needs of human
beings have a direct bearing on their behavior. Elucidate.
Ans. Without a doubt, human beings’ emotional needs have a direct impact on their behavior.
Indeed, our emotions drive our actions and behaviors. All of the characters in the story portray
the same thing. The peddler’s actions are all the result of the atrocities he has witnessed in his
life. He is mistreated. Being hungry and cold, with no food or shelter, has left him emotionally
weak and negative. As a result, when the tramp saw the crofter’s money, he stole it. Similarly,
the crofter, who was lonely because he had no wife or children, welcomed the peddler and
became overly friendly with him, and as a result, he was duped. Even the ironmaster had a
lonely existence.
His wife is no longer alive, and his sons are away. He has no family other than his daughter and
a few friends. As a result, he invited the peddler to his home, mistaking hull for an old friend.
Finally, Edla’s emotional need to serve and make someone happy on Christmas comes into play.
Her empathy and kindness caused her to treat the tramp with respect and kindness, bringing out
the goodness in the peddler.
Q10. The people we meet in life leave an impression on us. How is the rattrap peddler
affected by meeting the crofter and Edla? (Comptt. All India 2017)
Ans. Sometimes the good people we meet leave an impression on us. Compassion and
understanding have the power to transform a person and bring out his or her inherent human
goodness. As is the case with the rattrap peddler, whose meeting with the crofter and Edla
results in a positive change in his character. The peddler was treated extremely well by the lonely
old crofter. Despite his hospitality, the peddler stole his money and violated his trust. Edla, too,
treated him well, even after she discovered his true identity. Because of the crofter’s and Edla’s
kind, generous, and sympathetic treatment, the peddler, who had always considered the world to
be a rattrap that enclosed people, finally felt released from this rattrap.
He leaves Edla a letter of thanks, a Christmas gift, and the money he stole from the crofter,
which will be returned to its rightful owner.
Q11.Franz from The Last Lesson and the peddler from The Rattrap demonstrate the
importance of learning from our mistakes to evolve into better people. Imagine that
Shubhangi, your friend, feels as if she has made a mistake by not taking her academics
seriously.
Write an essay to Shubhangi in 120–150 words discussing instances from the two texts to
give her an insight into the human tendency to make mistakes and learn from them. You
may begin like this: Shubhangi, all of us have made mistakes at one point or another in
our lives. After all, to err is human……….. (CBSE Sample Paper 2022)
Ans. “Failure is a necessary step towards success.”
Everyone makes mistakes. We are human, and we are prone to making mistakes. Mistakes
teach us what we did wrong and how we can improve as a result of them. We saw in Alphonse
Daudet’s Chapter The Last Lesson how Franz, who hated school, M hamel, and his studies, was
suddenly able to learn and understand everything M hamel taught on the day of the last lesson.
He preferred to run in the open fields rather than study. When M hamel told the students that it
was their last lesson, it hit Franz like a thunderclap. He couldn’t believe what he had just heard.
He felt bad every time he didn’t study.
Books that were once a source of irritation for him became old friends. He felt sorry for M Hamel,
whom he used to dislike. On the day of the last lesson, he felt inspired and understood
everything. Selma Lagerlof’s chapter The Rattrap demonstrates how people can learn and grow
from their mistakes. After stealing thirty kronors, the peddler became trapped in the rat trap.
Elma’s kindness and good nature made him realise his error. Even though she knew the peddler
had stolen something or escaped from prison, she invited him to his house and treated him like
the Captain.
Thus, it is acceptable to make mistakes as long as we are willing to work and change to become
a better version of ourselves.

Class 12 English Indigo Question Answers Lesson 5 –

Extract Based Questions
Extract-based questions are of the multiple-choice variety, and students must select the correct
option for each question by carefully reading the passage.

A. They thought he would demand repayment in full of the money which they had illegally and
deceitfully extorted from the sharecroppers. He asked only 50 per cent. “There he seemed
adamant,” writes Reverend J. Z. Hodge, a British missionary in Champaran who observed the
entire episode at close range. “Thinking probably that he would not give way, the representative
of the planters offered to refund to the extent of 25 per cent, and to his amazement Mr. Gandhi
took him at his word, thus breaking the deadlock.” This settlement was adopted unanimously by
the commission. (CBSE QB,2021)
1. Gandhi knew that he would not get an agreement on the demand for 50% repayment.
Choose the option that offers the correct justification for the assumption made above.
A) He had anticipated the negotiating tactics of the planter’s representative.
B) He had been informed about the depleting funds of the planters.
C) He had taken the advice of the Reverend on board.
D) He had evaluated the commission’s attitude towards Indians
Ans. A) He had anticipated the negotiating tactics of the planter’s representative.
2 Given below are four real-life situations. Choose the option that perfectly describes a
deadlock.

A) Situation 1
B) Situation 2
C) Situation 3
D) Situation 4
Ans. B) Situation 2
3 Based on the given context, choose the option that exemplifies a deceitful extortion, out
of the examples given below.

1. The artisans demonstrated for their rights, 2. The head of the artisan union pretended to
peacefully, on the streets. address all the problems faced by them.

3. The head of the artisan union came with goons 4. The artisans in Hafr Gunj decided to sell their
and took all the assets of the poor artisans. wares directly to the government outlets

A) Option 1
B) Option 2
C) Option 3
D) Option 4
Ans. C) Option 3
4 The deadlock broke because
A) Gandhi’s settlement offer was worth considering.
B) All commission members agreed to adopt the representative’s offer.
C) Reverend J. Z. Hodge’s intervention brought both parties together.
D) The sharecroppers refused to be convinced by the commission.
Ans. B) All commission members agreed to adopt the representative’s offer.
Class 12 Indigo Important Question Answers Video
Top
B. But Champaran did not begin as an act of defiance. It grew out of an attempt to alleviate the
distress of large numbers of poor peasants. This was the typical Gandhi pattern — his politics
were intertwined with the practical, dayto-day problems of the millions. His was not a loyalty to
abstractions; it was a loyalty to living, human beings. In everything Gandhi did, moreover, he
tried to mold a new free Indian who could stand on his own feet and thus make India free. (CBSE
QB,2021)
1 Choose the option listing the sentence that is the most appropriate example of an ‘act of
defiance’, from the following:
A) She picked up the telephone terrified of what was about to come. She could hear nobody on
the other side.
B) Meanwhile, there was a thud at the door loud enough to scare her.
C) Curious as she was, she wanted to open it as soon as possible.
D) Her mother tried to stop her several times but she went ahead nevertheless.
Ans. D) Her mother tried to stop her several times but she went ahead nevertheless.
2 Choose the correct option with reference to the two statements given below.
Statement 1: His was not a loyalty to abstractions; it was a loyalty to living, human beings.
Statement 2: Gandhi was a humanitarian at heart.
A) Statement 1 is the cause of Statement 2.
B) Statement 2 is the effect of Statement 1.
C) Statement 2 can be inferred from Statement 1.
D) Statement 1 and Statement 2 are independent of each other.
Ans. C) Statement 2 can be inferred from Statement 1.
3 The given extract DOES NOT talk about
A) details of the daily problems faced by human beings.
B) efforts to relieve suffering of the common people.
C) the reason for the occurrence of Champaran.
D) Gandhi’s principles in the field of politics.
Ans. A) details of the daily problems faced by human beings.
4 Which option showcases an example of action (A) -result (R), from the passage?
(1) A= defiance R= poor peasants
(2) A= free Indians R= free India
(3) A= free India R= defiance
(4) A= defiance R= free Indians
A) Option 1
B) Option 2
C) Option 3
D) Option 4
Ans. B) Option 2
C. There Shukla led him to the house of a lawyer named Rajendra Prasad who later became
President of the Congress party and of India. Rajendra Prasad was out of town, but the servants
knew Shukla as a poor yeoman who pestered their master to help the indigo sharecroppers. So
they let him stay on the grounds with his companion, Gandhi, whom they took to be another
peasant. But Gandhi was not permitted to draw water from the well lest some drops from his
bucket pollute the entire source; how did they know that he was not an untouchable?
1 What does the word ‘Yeoman’ mean?
A. Man holding and cultivating a small land
B. Man who looks at others repulsively
C. Man who bothers everyone
D. None of these
Ans. (A) Man holding and cultivating a small land
2 Name the author of this chapter.
A Louis Updike
B Louis Fishing
C Louis Fischer
D Louis Fisherman
Ans. C Louis Fischer
3 Why was Gandhi not permitted to draw water from the well?
A For he was considered as a touchable
B For he was considered as an untouchable
C For he was accompanied by Shukla
D None of these
Ans. B For he was considered as an untouchable
4 Whom was Gandhi accompanied by?
A Louis Updike
B Raj Kumawat Shukla
C Raj Kumar Shukla
D Kasturbai Gandhi
Ans. C Raj Kumar Shukla
D. The Champaran episode was a turning-point in Gandhi’s life. ‘‘What I did,” he explained, “was
a very ordinary thing. I declared that the British could not order me about in my own country.” But
Champaran did not begin as an act of defiance. It grew out of an attempt to alleviate the distress
of large numbers of poor peasants. This was the typical Gandhi pattern — his politics were
intertwined with the practical, day-to-day problems of the millions. His was not a loyalty to
abstractions; it was a loyalty to living, human beings. In everything Gandhi did, moreover, he
tried to mold a new free Indian who could stand on his own feet. (CBSE Sample Paper 2022)
1 In the extract, the phrase ‘loyalty to abstractions’ refers to a strong commitment to
__________.
A. selected groups
B. simple pleasures
C. certain ideologies
D. governmental authorities
Ans. C. certain ideologies
2 Select a suitable word from the extract to complete the following analogy:
change: transform :: relieve: __________.
Ans. alleviate
3 Select the correct option to fill in the blank.
The primary motive of Gandhi’s actions was to _________.
A. make Indians self-reliant
B. eradicate peasant poverty
C. unite the people of Champaran
D. expose the incompetence of the British
Ans. A. make Indians self-reliant
4 Which of these best describes the primary purpose of the extract?
A. It highlights Gandhi’s intention to use peasants to overthrow colonial power.
B. It points out why the Champaran episode is still relevant in free modern India.
C. It explains the differences between the political strategies of Gandhi and the British.
D. It shows how Gandhi’s position in the Champaran struggle reflected his political views.
Ans. D. It shows how Gandhi’s position in the Champaran struggle reflected his political views.
5 Identify the textual clue that allows the reader to infer Gandhi’s view of his own
accomplishments (clue: a word).
Ans. Ordinary
6 Complete the sentence with an appropriate explanation, as per the extract. Gandhi uses
the words ‘turning point’ to refer to the Champaran incident because it __________.
Ans. was Gandhi’s first instance of civil disobedience.
E. They had merely heard that a Mahatma who wanted to help them was in trouble with the
authorities. Their spontaneous demonstration, in thousands, around the courthouse was the
beginning of their liberation from fear of the British. The officials felt powerless without Gandhi’s
cooperation. He helped them regulate the crowd. He was polite and friendly. He was giving them
concrete proof that their might, hitherto dreaded and unquestioned, could be challenged by
Indians. The government was baffled. The prosecutor requested the judge to postpone the trial.
Apparently, the authorities wished to consult their superiors.(CBSE Sample Paper 2020)
1 . The officials felt powerless because
A. of Gandhi’s refusal to cooperate with them.
B. of Gandhi’s polite and friendly behavior.
C. The crowd was listening only to Gandhi.
D. the crowd was getting violent.
Ans. C. The crowd was listening only to Gandhi.
2 The demonstration proved that the
A. policies of the British had failed.
B. dread instilled in the hearts of Indians had begun to lessen.
C. dealings with the Indian citizens had been unsuccessful.
D. might of the British had not been understood by Indians.
Ans. B. dread instilled in the hearts of Indians had begun to lessen.
3 Which style, from those given below, is being used by the author, when he says,
“Apparently, the authorities wished to consult their superiors.”?
A. humorous
B. dramatic
C. sarcastic
D. persuasive
Ans. C. sarcastic
4 Gandhiji’s behavior towards the British prior to the proposal of postponement of the
trial was that of
A. indifference.
B. calm acceptance.
C. ignorance of consequences.
D. polite helpfulness.
Ans. B. calm acceptance.
F. Sharecroppers from Champaran began arriving on foot and by conveyance to see their
champion. Muzaffarpur lawyers called on Gandhi to brief him; they frequently represented
peasant groups in court; they told him about their cases and reported the size of their fee.
Gandhi chided the lawyers for collecting big fee from the sharecroppers. He said, ‘‘I have come
to the conclusion that we should stop going to law courts. Taking such cases to the courts does
little good. Where the peasants are so crushed and fear-stricken, law courts are useless. The
real relief for them is to be free from fear.’’
1. Which of the following can be termed as a conveyance?
A. Horse Cart
B. Bus
C. car
D. All of these
Ans. D. All of these
2. Sharecroppers were ______
A. Farmers
B. Landlords
C. both a and b
D. None of these
Ans. A. Farmers
3. “chided “ means
A. Requested
C. Scolded
C. prohibited
D. None of these
Ans. B. Scolded
4. Gandhi wanted that the sharecroppers should _____________
A. Go to court
B. Pay the high fee
C. be free from fear
D. All of these
Ans. C. be free from fear
G. The official inquiry assembled a crushing mountain of evidence against the big planters, and
when they saw this they agreed, in principle, to make refunds to the peasants. “But how much
must we pay?” they asked Gandhi.
They thought he would demand repayment in full of the money which they had illegally and
deceitfully extorted from the sharecroppers. He asked only 50 per cent. “There he seemed
adamant,” writes Reverend J. Z. Hodge, a British missionary in Champaran who observed the
entire episode at close range. “Thinking probably that he would not give way, the representative
of the planters offered to refund to the extent of 25 per cent, and to his amazement Mr. Gandhi
took him at his word, thus breaking the deadlock.”
1. Crushing mountain means ____________
A. To be crushed under a big thing
B. A lot of
C. very important
D. Both b and c
Ans. B. A lot of
2. Find a synonym of cheating
Ans. Deceitfully
3. Who is a missionary?
A. Government official
B. Religious priest
C. land owner
D. Farmer
Ans. B. Religious priest
4. “Mr. Gandhi took him at his word” means –
A. He accepted the offer there and then
B. He believed his words
C. both a and b
D. None of these
Ans. A. He accepted the offer there and then

Class 12 English Indigo Short Question Answers

(including questions from Previous Years Question
Papers)
Q1. Why did Gandhiji feel that taking the Champaran case to court was useless?|
(Delhi 2014 Modified)
Ans. When Gandhiji learned about the plight of the peasant groups in Champaran from his
discussions with lawyers, he concluded that the poor peasants were so crushed and terrified that
the law courts were useless in their case. Going to court cost the sharecroppers a lot of money in
legal fees. What was really needed was to free them from their fear.
Q2. How did the Champaran peasants react when they heard that a Mahatma had come to
help them? (Compartment 2014)
Ans. When the Champaran peasants learned that a Mahatma had arrived to assist them, a large
crowd gathered in Motihari. Thousands of peasants demonstrated outside the courthouse where
Gandhiji was scheduled to appear. The crowd was so unruly that the officials felt powerless, and
Gandhiji himself assisted the authorities in keeping the crowd under control.
Q3. Why did Gandhiji object to CF Andrews’ stay in Champaran? (Foreign 2009)|
Ans. CF Andrews, an English pacifist, was a devoted Gandhiji follower. The lawyers believed
that Andrews, as an Englishman, could be of great assistance to them in their battle of
Champaran. Gandhiji, on the other hand, was opposed because he believed that enlisting the
assistance of an Englishman demonstrated weakness. Their cause was just, and they needed to
win by relying on themselves. This would enable them to be self-sufficient.
Q4. Why do you think Gandhi considered the Champaran episode to be a turning point in
his life? (All India 2011)
Ans. The Champaran incident began as an attempt to relieve the suffering of poor peasants. It
was ultimately a watershed moment in Gandhiji’s life because it was a loud proclamation that
made the British realize Gandhiji could not be ordered around in his own country. It instilled in the
masses the courage to question British authority and laid the groundwork for non-cooperation as
a new tool for fighting the British tooth and nail.
Q5. Why do you think the servants thought Gandhi to be another peasant? (Delhi 2010)
Ans. Rajkumar Shukla, the servants knew, was a poor farmer who pestered their master to help
the indigo sharecroppers. They mistook Gandhiji for a peasant because he accompanied Shukla
and was dressed simply. Gandhiji’s modesty and lack of assertiveness led to the misconception
that he was a peasant.
Q6. The peasants were themselves the most crucial agents in the success of the
Champaran Civil Disobedience. Expand. (CBSE QB,2021)
Ans. The peasants played a critical role in the Champaran Civil Disobedience’s victory. This is
because the movement would have been a disaster if they had not stood up to Gandhiji and
trusted him. Gandhiji could not have won Champaran by himself; the peasants were the
movement’s supporters.
Q7. Gandhi makes it clear that money and finance are a secondary aspect of the struggle
in Champaran. Comment on the aspect that you think was most important for Gandhi.
(CBSE QB,2021)
Ans. Gandhiji’s perseverance, determination, and resolve led to his success in Champaran. He
went to Champaran at the request of an illiterate peasant, where he listened to sharecroppers’
grievances and launched the Civil Disobedience Movement. He was victorious, and the landlords
relinquished their claims to their estates, which were returned to the farmers. They gained
courage and realized that they, too, could defend themselves. The landlords were forced to give
up some of their money and prestige. As a result, Gandhiji broke the impasse between farmers
and landlords.
Q8. Gandhi was a lawyer himself. Examine how his professional expertise helped in
Champaran. (CBSE QB,2021)
Ans.Terrorized peasants had no voice and no recourse in court against the landlords’ unfair
dealings. When Gandhiji arrived on the scene, he assessed the situation and declared that there
was no point in engaging in litigation because law courts would be unable to provide justice to
the peasants. He felt it was necessary to teach these oppressed farmers how to be brave. He
realized that they would never feel relieved until and unless they got over their fear of the
Britishers. As a result, he prioritized peasant empowerment and empowerment over legal battles
for them.
Q9. Explain the possible reasons for Gandhi’s quick popularity among the peasants of
Champaran. (CBSE QB,2021)
Ans. Gandhiji stayed in Champaran after his victory. During his stay, he realized that the
Champaran people were culturally and socially backward, so he decided to work on this front as
well. He decided to open primary schools and teach the people of Champaran about personal
hygiene, community cleanliness, and other topics. Kasturba Gandhi, Gandhi’s wife, joined him in
this movement. Gandhiji’s ascetic lifestyle, as well as his use of the dhoti and charkha,
contributed to his popularity among peasants. Thus, through his firm determination and
consistent efforts, he was able to effect change in the lives of ordinary people.
Q10. “The battle of Champaran is won!.” What led Gandhiji to make this remark? (Foreign
2010) OR
When Gandhi got the whole hearted support of the lawyers, he said, „The battle of
Champaran is won‟. What was the essence behind his statement?(CBSE Sample Paper
2018)
Ans. If Gandhiji was arrested, the lawyers first decided to return home. But they quickly realized
their error. When they declared that they would fight for the peasants’ cause if Gandhiji was
arrested and volunteered to go to court for the sharecroppers’ cause, Gandhiji was overjoyed
and exclaimed, “The battle of Champaran is won!”
Q11. As the host of a talk show, introduce Rajkumar Shukla to the audience by stating any
two of his defining qualities. You may begin your answer like this: Meet Rajkumar Shukla,
the man who played a pivotal role in the Champaran Movement. He …… (CBSE Sample
Paper 2021)
Ans. Meet Rajkumar Shukla, an important figure in the Champaran Movement. He was
determined to meet Gandhiji and protest the injustice of the landlord system in Bihar. His
persistence persuaded Gandhiji to look into the matter and resolve the sharecroppers’ issue.

Class 12 Indigo Long Answer Questions Chapter 5

Q1. Biographies include features of non-fiction texts – factual information and different
text structures such as description, sequence, comparison, cause and effect, or problem
and solution. Examine Indigo in the light of this statement, in about 120-150 words.(CBSE
Sample Paper 2021)
Ans. The story is based on an interview with Mahatma Gandhi conducted by Louis Fischer. In
order to write about him, he went to his ashram, Sevagram, in 1942, and was told about
Gandhiji’s Indigo Movement. The plot revolves around Gandhi and other prominent leaders’
struggle to protect sharecroppers from landlord atrocities. Indigo, as a biography excerpt,
contains elements of both fiction and nonfiction texts. The facts and information are described in
this chapter. It also has a text structure that is appropriate for nonfiction. The facts are from the
pre-independence era of history. The Champaran incident was a significant part of the freedom
struggle.This factual information is beautifully described while keeping the sequence of events in
mind. The issue of sharecroppers is accurately depicted. Gandhi took up the Champaran
farmers’ case after determining that their cause was just. He then used the principle of civil
disobedience to defy British orders to restrain him politely. This incident influenced Gandhi, who
decided that the British should leave India. The Champaran case’s victory fueled the Civil
Disobedience Movement. As a result, everything described in the chapter is true.
Q2. How did Gandhiji succeed in getting justice for the Indigo sharecroppers?(CBSE
Sample Paper 2019)
Ans. Gandhiji stayed in Muzaffarpur, where he met with lawyers and concluded that fighting
through the courts would not solve the problem of Champaran’s poor sharecroppers. He
declared that the greatest relief for them would be to be free of fear. He arrived in Champaran
with this intention and contacted the Secretary of the British Landlords Association. The
Secretary flatly refused to give him any information. Following this, Gandhiji met with the
Commissioner of the Tirhut division, who served him with a notice to leave Tirhut immediately.
Gandhiji signed the notice and wrote on it that he would not obey the order. He was even willing
to go to jail for the sake of the peasants’ cause.
Following four rounds of negotiations with the Governor, an official commission of inquiry was
formed, with Gandhiji appointed as the sole representative of the peasants. Through this
commission, Gandhiji was able to obtain from British landowners 25% of the compensation
award for poor sharecroppers. The peasants realized they had rights and advocates. They
gained courage.
Q3. How did the court scene at Motihari change the course of India’s struggle for
freedom?
Ans. The peasants in Champaran were terrified of the British government. The problem was
caused by indigo and the landlords’ greed. They had forced the tenants to plant indigo on 15% of
their land and hand over the entire harvest to the landlords. The landlords were ready to release
the above condition when synthetic indigo arrived. They demanded compensation, unaware of
the consequences, and the peasants agreed.When the peasants learned about synthetic indigo,
they demanded their money back. Thugs were hired by the British to oppose them. Gandhiji
realized that lawyers were unnecessary. He realized that releasing them from their fear would be
difficult due to their lack of education.
He did, however, champion their cause with his tenacity. He soon became the leader of a
nonviolent and Satyagraha movement. Many farmers gathered outside the courtroom where
Gandhiji had been summoned. The British felt challenged as a result of this. Champaran
sharecroppers came barefoot to see Gandhiji. Lawyers from Muzzaffarpur also contacted him.
He explained that what he had done was nothing out of the ordinary. He’d simply informed the
Britishe that he couldn’t be ordered in his own country. Gandhiji attempted to create new free
Indians capable of standing on their own.
This new realization provided him with a direction to lead the freedom struggle and thus proved
to be a turning point in India’s struggle for independence.
Q4. Imagine Gandhi were to deliver a speech to students in present day India showing
them the path to becoming responsible world leaders. Based on your understanding of
Gandhi’s own leadership skills, write a speech, as Gandhi, addressing the students about
the qualities that every leader and politician should nurture. (CBSE QB,2021)
Dear students, you are all leaders of social change. I see many bright and enthusiastic faces that
assure me that our future is in good hands. I have learnt from my own experience……………
(continue)………….
Ans. Dear students, you are all leaders of social change. I see many bright and enthusiastic
faces that assure me that our future is in good hands. I have learnt from my own experience that
sweeping away prejudices gives new values for living. I stress the importance of Truth and Non-
violence and call you to “Be Fearless”. I understand the feelings and sympathies of youth and
have designated you as agents of social change. Only spiritual and ethical values, I believe, can
bring about social change. I want today’s youth and students to be the means to form idealistic
thoughts. I encourage your minds about self-reliance as a critical requirement for success, I am
open-minded and want all young people to be the same.
I insist on being religiously tolerant of all faiths. As a life mantra, I emphasize simplicity, kindness,
truth, and nonviolence. These are the most important things for you to learn and follow as
students. Furthermore, I want today’s youth to adhere to moral values. I hope that Indian youth
will follow my ideals in order to lead a peaceful India.
Thank you.
Q5. Let us assume it was Rajendra Prasad who informed Charles Freer Andrews of
Gandhi’s decision and the reasons for other leaders’ support of him. Thinking creatively
of how Andrews would have responded and pen down the discussion you think would
have taken place between Rajendra Prasad and Andrews.(CBSE QB,2021)
Ans. Charles Freer Andrews, an English pacifist who had become a devoted follower of Gandhi,
came to bid Gandhi farewell before departing for a tour of duty in the Fiji Islands early in the
Champaran action. Gandhi’s legal associates thought Andrews should stay in Champaran and
assist them. Andrews agreed if Gandhi agreed. Gandhi, on the other hand, was vehemently
opposed. “You think that having an Englishman on our side would be beneficial in this unequal
fight,” he said. This demonstrates your heart’s weakness. The cause is just, and you must rely on
yourself to prevail. “And we had no reply… Gandhi taught us a lesson in self-reliance in this
way,” Rajendra Prasad says.
“I understand your point, Mr. Prasad,” Andrews said. “Gandhi’s politics were intertwined with the
daily lives of millions of Indians. This was not devotion to abstractions. It was a devotion to living
humans. Gandhi attempted to shape a new free Indian who could stand on his own two feet and
thus free India in everything he did “He stated.
“To obtain justice for oppressed people, persuasive argumentation and negotiation are required.
A good leader should have a magnetic personality and strong persuasive abilities. He had the
ability to attract people of all social classes to himself “Rajendra Prasad stated.
“To emerge as a champion of the oppressed and downtrodden, rural upliftment should be
prioritized. Gandhi performs humanitarian and national service in obedience to our higher law,
the voice of conscience. As a result, he comes across as polite and friendly “Andrews stated.
“His ability to read people’s minds renders them speechless. He believes in self-sufficiency, just
cause, and the purity of means to achieve success and triumph over evil!” Rajendra Prasad
exclaimed.
Q6. Why is the Champaran episode considered to be the beginning of the Indian struggle
for independence? (All India 2014 Modified)
Ans. The Champaran episode was a pivotal moment in the independence struggle. Gandhiji
decided to urge the British to leave India during the course of this small but significant
movement.
A close examination of the Champaran peasants’ problems opened Gandhiji’s eyes to the
British’s unjust policies. He realized that people had to be free of fear before they could be free of
foreign oppression. The people’s spontaneous demonstration demonstrated that Gandhiji had
the nation’s support in his fight against the British. It also instilled patriotism in the hearts of
Indians. During the freedom movement, the victory of civil disobedience at Champaran motivated
the large-scale launch of the movement. Gandhiji’s victory in the sharecroppers’ case
demonstrated that British authority could be challenged. As a result, the Champaran incident
served as a stepping stone in India’s struggle for independence.
Q7. The Champaran episode was a turning point in Gandhiji’s life. Elucidate. (All India
2012)
Ans. Gandhiji himself acknowledged that the Champaran incident was a watershed moment in
his life. It was then that he decided to urge the British to leave India.
In fact, the Champaran episode was India’s first instance of civil disobedience. On his way to
Champaran, Gandhiji stopped in Muzaffarpur and met the lawyers who were fighting cases for
sharecroppers. Gandhiji concluded that law courts were useless because the peasants were
crushed and terrified. The greatest relief for them was being free of fear. The peasants’
spontaneous demonstration demonstrated that they had been instilled with new strength and
spirit. With Satyagraha,Gandhiji demonstrated to the poor peasants how to fight the British. He
made them realize their own power as well as the power of ahimsa.
All of this laid the groundwork for his future movements and served as a source of inspiration and
strength for all Indians.
Q8. Give an account of Gandhiji’s efforts to secure justice for the poor indigo
sharecroppers of Champaran. (All India 2012)
Ans. During his journey to Champaran with Rajkumar Shukla, Gandhiji stayed in Muzaffarpur,
where he met lawyers and concluded that fighting through the courts would not solve the
problem of Champaran’s poor sharecroppers. He declared that the greatest relief for them would
be to be free of fear.
He arrived in Champaran with this intention and contacted the Secretary of the British Landlords
Association. The Secretary flatly refused to give him any information. Following this, Gandhiji met
with the Commissioner of the Tirhut division, who served him with a notice to leave Tirhut
immediately.
Gandhiji signed the notice and wrote on it that he would not obey the order. He was even willing
to go to jail for the sake of the peasants’ cause.
Following four rounds of negotiations with the Governor, an official commission of inquiry was
formed, with Gandhiji appointed as the sole representative of the peasants.
Through this commission, Gandhiji was able to obtain from British landowners 25% of the
compensation award for poor sharecroppers.
Q9. Describe how, according to Louis Fischer, Gandhiji succeeded in his Champaran
campaign. (Compartment 2014)
Ans. The Champaran campaign sought to liberate the poor peasants of Champaran from British
injustice and exploitation. Gandhiji was successful in this campaign by employing his satyagraha
and nonviolent tactics. He went to Muzaffarpur to learn everything he could about the
sharecroppers’ current situation. He first approached the relevant authorities, but when no
response was forthcoming, he organized a mass civil disobedience movement with the support
of the peasants.
Gandhiji’s main goal was to remove the fear of British landlords from the hearts of the poor
peasants and create a new free Indian who could participate in the country’s freedom
movement.He educated the peasants on their rights and instilled in them newfound confidence in
fighting their own battles. He also taught them to be self-sufficient by refusing to accept
assistance from his English friend, CF Andrews.
Q10. Gandhiji’s loyalty was not a loyalty to abstractions; it was a loyalty to living human
beings. Why did Gandhiji continue his stay in Champaran even after indigo sharecropping
disappeared? (All India 2014 Modified)
Ans. Gandhiji remained in the region after the Champaran battle was won and the land was
returned to the peasants. His loyalty was towards the living human beings, and he realized that
much needed to be done for the upliftment of the peasants in Champaran’s villages. Gandhiji
took the initiative and began working to eliminate their cultural and social backwardness. Primary
schools were established to educate poor peasants and their children. Gandhiji made an appeal
to teachers, and many of his followers, including his wife and son, volunteered for the job.
The area’s health conditions were also deplorable. Gandhiji persuaded a doctor to volunteer his
services for six months.
All of this demonstrates that Gandhiji’s loyalty was not to abstractions, but was always
intertwined with the practical day-to-day problems of millions.

Class 12 English Poets and Pancakes Question Answers

Lesson 6 – Extract Based Questions
Extract-based questions are of the multiple-choice variety, and students must select the correct
option for each question by carefully reading the passage.

A. His success in films overshadowed and dwarfed his literary achievements-or so his critics felt.
He composed several truly original ‘story poems’ in folk refrain and diction and also wrote a
sprawling novel Thillana Mohanambal with dozens of very deftly etched characters. He quite
successfully recreated the mood and manner of the Devadasis of the early 20th century. He was
an amazing actor-he never aspired to the lead roles-but whatever subsidiary role he played in
any of the films, he performed better than the supposed main players. He had a genuine love for
anyone he came across and his house was a permanent residence for dozens of near and far
relations and acquaintances. (CBSE QB, 2021)
1 Which of these statements is NOT TRUE about Subbu?
A) His literary accomplishments stole the limelight from his films.
B) He was a gifted poet and writer and his literary works were noteworthy.
C) He was selfless in nature and was empathetic towards others.
D) He never hankered after lead roles and performed minor roles in films.
Ans. A) His literary accomplishments stole the limelight from his films.
2 The word ‘sprawling’ has been used with the word ‘novel’. Pick the option with which
the word ‘sprawling’ CANNOT be used.
A) metropolis
B) handwriting
C) campus
D) portrait
Ans. D) portrait
3 The phrase ‘deftly etched’ shows that Subbu
A) created the roles delicately.
B) was skilful in creating the characters.
C) pondered beyond necessity about the characters.
D) gave very little thought to the characters
Ans. B) was skilful in creating the characters.
4 Pick the option that best describes Subbu according to the extract
1. benevolent
2. powerful
3. accomplished
4. witty
5. generous
6. temperamental
A) 4, 5 & 6
B) 2, 3 & 4
C) 1,3 & 5
D) 3 ,4 & 6
Ans. C) 1,3 & 5

B. Barring the office boys and a couple of clerks, everybody else at the Studios radiated leisure,
a prerequisite for poetry. Most of them wore khadi and worshiped Gandhiji but beyond that they
had not the faintest appreciation for political thought of any kind. Naturally, they were all averse
to the term ‘Communism’. A communist was a godless man-he had no filial or conjugal love; he
had no compunction about killing his own parents or his children; he was always out to cause
and spread unrest and violence among innocent and ignorant people. Such notions, which
prevailed everywhere else in South India at that time also, naturally, floated about vaguely
among the khadi-clad poets of Gemini Studios. Evidence of it was soon forthcoming. (CBSE QB,
2021)
1 Pick the option that uses the same figure of speech as ‘A communist is a godless man.’
A) She is as determined as Gandhi when it is a fight against injustice.
B) She is a Gandhi when she raises her voice against ‘hinsa’ or violence.
C) She, like Gandhi, feels that the earth is crying for deliverance.
D) She lives a life of opulence and calls herself a follower of Gandhi.
Ans. B) She is a Gandhi when she raises her voice against ‘hinsa’ or violence.
2 Based on the extract, choose the correct option with reference to the two statements
given below.
Statement 1: At Gemini Studios, the poets had a profound knowledge about Communists.
Statement 2: Communists were responsible for anarchy and discontent in the country.
A) Statement 1 is true but Statement 2 is false.
B) Statement 1 is false but Statement 2 is true.
C) Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 cannot be inferred.
D) Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 can be inferred
Ans. D) Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 can be inferred
3 Why do you think leisure is a prerequisite for poetry?
A) Poetry means freedom of expression.
B) One can enjoy poetry when there’s free time.
C) In order to write poetry, one needs free time.
D) Poetry means freedom from work.
Ans. C) In order to write poetry, one needs free time.
4 Asokamitran says that leisure is a prerequisite for poetry. He says this because poets
A) need to relax for a period of time before composing lines.
B) maintain a leisurely pace in all tasks they do.
C) are creative and need to have free time to weave their thoughts.
D) begin poetic compositions in a rushed way and end in a relaxed manner.
Ans. C) are creative and need to have free time to weave their thoughts.

C. A girl from the countryside, she hadn’t gone through all the stages of worldly experience that
generally precede a position of importance and sophistication that she had found herself
catapulted into. She never quite recovered from the terror she felt that day. That was the end of
a brief and brilliant acting career — the legal adviser, who was also a member of the Story
Department, had unwittingly brought about that sad end. While every other member of the
Department wore a kind of uniform — khadi dhoti with a slightly oversized and clumsily tailored
white khadi shirt — the legal adviser wore pants and a tie and sometimes a coat that looked like
a coat of mail. Often, he looked alone and helpless … (CBSE Sample Question Paper 2022)
1 Select the option that completes the given sentence appropriately.
‘Stages of worldly experience’ in the given context would refer to .
A. good education to gain knowledge.
B. situations that require one to be street smart.
C. smaller, not so important roles in acting.
D. training in soft skills.
Ans. B. situations that require one to be street smart.
2 Select the suitable word from the extract to complete the following analogy: sealed:
closed :: propelled:___________
Ans. catapulted
3 Select the correct option to fill in the blank. The harm done to the actress was
a/an_________
A. well-planned act.
B. unintentional act.
C. act of jealousy.
D. act of male dominance.
Ans. B. unintentional act.
4 Based on the above extract, choose the statement that is TRUE for the legal adviser.
A. He disliked the actress from the countryside.
B. He acted after thinking through things carefully.
C. He did not gel well with others in the Department.
D. He was always dressed smartly.
Ans. C. He did not gel well with others in the Department.
5 Identify the textual clue that allows the reader to infer that the writer is sympathetic
towards the professional fate of the actor. (Clue: a phrase)
Ans.textual clue that allows the reader to infer that the writer is sympathetic towards the
professional fate of the actor is “sad end”.
6 Complete the sentence with an appropriate explanation, as per the extract.
The writer uses the word ‘uniform’ to refer to the outfits of the Department members because just
like a uniform____________.
Ans. The writer uses the word ‘uniform’ to refer to the outfits of the Department members
because just like a uniform is a common dress code for all, similarly, their apparel/dress was
nearly the same- loose khadi shirt/khadi dhoti.

D. Subbu was the No. 2 at Gemini Studios. He couldn’t have had a more encouraging opening in
films than our grown-up make-up boy had. On the contrary he must have had to face more
uncertain and difficult times, for when he began his career, there were no firmly established film
producing companies or studios. Even in the matter of education, specially formal education,
Subbu couldn’t have had an appreciable lead over our boy. But by virtue of being born a
Brahmin a virtue, indeed! he must have had exposure to more affluent situations and people. He
had the ability to look cheerful at all times even after having had a hand in a flop film. He always
had to work for somebody.
1 Why was Subbu considered No.2 at Gemini Studios?
A) Owing to his flattering of boss
B) Owing to his talent
C) Owing to his being Brahmin
D) All of these
Ans. B) Owing to his talent
2 Find out the antonym of the word ‘Affluent’ from the following?
A) Rich
B) Poor
C) Balanced
D) None of these
Ans. B) Poor
3 Which of the following adjectives suits Subbu?
A) Cheerful
B) Helping
C) Resourceful
D) All of these
Ans. D) All of these
4 Who was more talented than Subbu according to Asokamitran?
A) Lawyer
B) Office boy
C) Stephen Spender
D) MRA
Ans. B) Office boy

E. The lawyer was also officially known as the legal adviser, but everybody referred to him as the
opposite. An extremely talented actress, who was also extremely temperamental, once blew
over on the sets. While everyone stood stunned, the lawyer quietly switched on the recording
equipment. When the actress paused for breath, the lawyer said to her, “One minute, please,”
and played back the recording. There was nothing incriminating or unmentionably foul about the
actress’s tirade against the producer. But when she heard her voice again through the sound
equipment, she was struck dumb.
1 Foul here means-
A) smelling bad
B) bad
C) illegal
D) None of these
Ans. B) bad
2 What happened to the actress on the set?
A) She started hugging others
B) She got happy after her voice was recorded
C) She got angry
D) None of these
Ans. C) She got angry
3 Who recorded the actress’s voice?
A) Asokamitran
B)Subbu
C) Lawyer
D) None of these
Ans. C) Lawyer
4 What happened when the actress heard her voice again?
A) She got dumbstruck
B) She got speechless
C) She got shocked
D) All of these
Ans. D) All of these

F. The great prose-writers of the world may not admit it, but my conviction grows stronger day
after day that prose writing is not and cannot be the true pursuit of a genius. It is for the patient,
persistent, persevering drudge with a heart so shrunken that nothing can break it; rejection slips
don’t mean a thing to him; he at once sets about making a fresh copy of the long prose piece
and sends it on to another editor enclosing postage for the return of the manuscript. It was for
such people that The Hindu had published a tiny announcement in an insignificant corner of an
unimportant page — a short story contest organised by a British periodical by the name The
Encounter. Of course, The Encounter wasn’t a known commodity among the Gemini literati. I
wanted to get an idea of the periodical before I spent a considerable sum in postage sending a
manuscript to England. In those days, the British Council Library had an entrance with no long
winded signboards and notices to make you feel you were sneaking into a forbidden area. And
there were copies of The Encounter lying about in various degrees of freshness, almost
untouched by readers. When I read the editor’s name, I heard a bell ringing in my shrunken
heart. It was the poet who had visited the Gemini Studios — I felt like I had found a long lost
brother and I sang as I sealed the envelope and wrote out his address.
1. Find a synonym of belief
Ans. Conviction
2. State true or false-
The staff at Gemini studios knew about the periodical named The Encounter.
Ans. False
3. What is a forbidden area?
a. Religious place
b. No entry area
c. High security zone
d. Court room
Ans. b
4. What does it mean by “there were copies of The Encounter lying about in various
degrees of freshness”?
Ans. There were numerous copies of the periodical – The Encounter. Some had been read
many times while some had not been read as many times. So some looked fresher than the
others.
5. Who was the editor of The Encounter?
a. Asokamitran
b. Subbu
c. Stephen Spender
d. Vasan
Ans. c

G. It was obvious that he too knew precious little about the poet (or the editor). The speech was
all in the most general terms but here and there it was peppered with words like ‘freedom’ and
‘democracy’. Then the poet spoke. He couldn’t have addressed a more dazed and silent
audience — no one knew what he was talking about and his accent defeated any attempt to
understand what he was saying. The whole thing lasted about an hour; then the poet left and we
all dispersed in utter bafflement — what are we doing? What is an English poet doing in a film
studio which makes Tamil films for the simplest sort of people? People whose lives least
afforded them the possibility of cultivating a taste for English poetry? The poet looked pretty
baffled too, for he too must have felt the sheer incongruity of his talk about the thrills and travails
of an English poet. His visit remained an unexplained mystery.
1. Find a synonym of sprayed
Ans. Peppered
2. Why was the audience dazed and silent?
a. They were sleepy
b. They could not understand
c. they were angry
d. They were forced to attend
Ans. b
3. Find a synonym of confusion
Ans. Bafflement
4. State true or false-
No one knew the purpose of the poet’s visit
Ans. True

H. In those days I worked in a cubicle, two whole sides of which were French windows. (I didn’t
know at that time they were called French windows.) Seeing me sitting at my desk tearing up
newspapers day in and day out, most people thought I was doing next to nothing. It is likely that
the Boss thought likewise too. So anyone who felt I should be given some occupation would
barge into my cubicle and deliver an extended lecture. The ‘boy’ in the make-up department had
decided I should be enlightened on how great literary talent was being allowed to go waste in a
department fit only for barbers and perverts. Soon I was praying for crowd-shooting all the time.
Nothing short of it could save me from his epics.
1. State true or false-
There were windows on two sides of the room
Ans. True
2. Did the boss think that the author did a lot of work?
Ans. No, the boss thought that the author was doing next to nothing
3. Find a synonym of rush
Ans. Barge
4. Why would people deliver an extended lecture?
Ans. They thought that the author did nothing and so, if they had any work for him, they would
enter his room and give instructions like a lecture.
5. Why does the author say that he prayed for crowd shootings?
Ans. On days of crowd shootings, the office boy would get busy doing the make-up of the crowd
and the author would not have to listen to his stories.
Class 12 English Poets and Pancakes Question Answers
(including questions from Previous Years Question
Papers)
.
Q1. What kind of effect does Asokamitran’s style of writing have on the reader? (CBSE
QB, 2021)
Ans. His works are distinguished by their simplicity and clarity of thought, and they are based on
his professional and personal experiences. The majority of his stories are about middle-class
people. As a result, he was able to touch the hearts and minds of countless readers both at
home and abroad. His skill and imagination as a creative writer have led several generations of
Tamil readers to a greater understanding of their plight in today’s world and, ultimately, a
reflective assertion of their own humanity.
Q2. Discuss the significance of the make-up room in the chapter, ‘Poets and Pancakes’.
(CBSE QB, 2021)
Ans. A Bengali was the head of the make-up studio at first, but he outgrew Gemini Studios and
moved on to better opportunities. Ans was in charge after him. A Maharashtrian led the charge,
with help from a Dharwar Kannadiga, an Andhra, a Madras Indian Christian, an Anglo-Burmese,
and the usual local Tamils. The fact that people from various cultures collaborated promotes the
post-independence national integration scenario. It demonstrates how people came together.
Q3. ‘In all instances of frustration, you will always find the anger directed towards a single
person openly or covertly…’ Do you think it is right to direct our anger towards someone
who is not responsible for the cause of anger? Justify. (CBSE QB, 2021)
Ans. No, it is not appropriate to direct our rage at someone who is not the source of our rage.
We become angry when we encounter roadblocks on our path to growth, when someone
challenges our authority, when someone mocks us and our self-esteem suffers, or when things
are simply not the way we want them to be. Weaker people become the target for our rage
because it is assumed they will not retaliate.
However, this is a bad practice, and one should try to control one’s anger to the greatest extent
possible.
Q4. The people left in ‘utter bafflement’ after the English poet’s speech. Mention two
things the speaker could have kept in mind before addressing an audience to avoid such
a reaction. Give your rationale for it. (CBSE QB, 2021)
Ans. Stephen Spender was summoned to the Gemini Studios to speak with the staff about
Communism, but what he said was about his struggles as a poet. Regardless of what he said, no
one seemed to be listening. When Spender realized that his audience had not followed his talk,
he came to a halt in humiliation at having given a speech to a deaf audience, while the Gemini
staff dispersed in humiliation because Spender’s accent had failed them.
So the speaker should have anticipated the audience’s interest and spoken accordingly.
Q5. Why was the Moral Re-armament Army welcomed at the Gemini Studios? (2010
Outside Delhi; 2011 Outside Delhi)
Ans. The Moral Re-armament Army was a sort of anti-International Communist movement. Mr.
Vasan, the CEO of Gemini Studios, literally played right into their hands. People at Gemini
Studios were opposed to communism. So the Moral Re-armament Army couldn’t have asked for
a better host in India than the Gemini Studios, which welcomed them with open arms.
Q6. Give one example to show that Gemini Studios was influenced by the plays staged by
MRA. (2010 Outside Delhi)
Ans. ‘Jotham Valley’ and ‘The Forgotten Factor’ were staged by the MRA. These were delivered
in the most professional manner possible. Because of the fantastic sets and costumes, the
Gemini family of 600 people saw these plays several times. For years, the Gemini Studios
imitated the ‘Jotham Valley’ sets and costumes. Also for some years almost all Tamil plays had a
scene of sunrise and sunset in the manner of ‘Jotham Valley’.
Q7. How did the people of Madras and those at Gemini Studios respond to the plays
staged by the Moral Re-Armament Army? (2010 Outside Delhi )
Ans. The Moral Re-Armament Army performed two plays, ‘Jotham Valley’ and ‘The Forgotten
Factor,’ in an extremely professional manner. Gemini Studios employees saw the plays
numerous times. Though the message was simple, the costumes and sets were excellent. These
plays were performed several times in Madras and had a significant impact on the studios and
Madras in general. For many years, almost all Tamil plays imitated the scenes of ‘Jotham Valley’
at sunrise and sunset.
Q8. Account for Subbus importance in Gemini Studios. (2009 Outside Delhi)
Ans. Subbu was an all-around genius. He was a great poet, writer, and actor. He gave Gemini
Studios a new meaning and direction, as well as the art of filmmaking, by channeling all of his
energy and creativity into the company’s benefit. Furthermore, almost everyone admired him for
his noble and charitable nature.
Q9. Who was Subbu’s enemy? Why? (2008 Delhi)
Ans. The ‘boy’ in the make-up department was Subbu’s adversary. His rage and frustration were
directed at him. Subbu, the boy was convinced, was the source of his woes and miseries. This
‘boy’ was envious of Subbu’s rising stars, success, and closeness to the boss.
Q10. What does Asokamitran’s narrative in Poets and Pancakes demonstrate about
Subbu? (CBSE Sample Paper 2022)
Ans. In “Poets and Pancakes,” Asokamitran’s narrative delves into the character of Subbu, a
young writer working for a magazine in Chennai. The story depicts Subbu’s struggles with
creative expression and the pressures of the literary establishment through his experiences.
Subbu is portrayed in the story as a talented but insecure writer who frequently clashes with the
conservative and commercially-driven ethos of his magazine. The story reveals the complexity of
Subbu’s character and the conflicting motivations that drive him through his encounters with
other writers and editors.

Class 12 Poets and Pancakes Long Answer Questions

Chapter 6
Q1. Author has used gentle and subtle humor to point out human foibles and
idiosyncrasies in the lesson ‘ Poets and Pancakes’. Elucidate.(CBSE Sample Paper 2019)
Ans. This piece contains several instances of gentle humor. The description of the make-up
department consuming truckloads of pancakes (which they did not eat, of course) is particularly
intriguing. The make-up room, complete with mirrors and lights, resembled a hair salon. Because
there was a gang of people from different parts of India, the make-up department was a symbol
of national integration. This gang of nationally recognised make-up artists could transform any
decent-looking person into a hideous crimson-colored monster. The task of making actors look
ugly was assigned to a strict hierarchy in the make-up department.
There was a young man in the office (though he was not a boy but a grown up man of forty). He
had joined the Studios years before in the hopes of becoming a famous actor, screenwriter,
director, or lyricist. He came to the author to inform him of how great literary talent was being
squandered. The author, on the other hand, prayed for a crowd, shooting all the time to get rid of
a genius of a bore.
Q2. Why is Subbu described as a many-sided genius? Give a reasoned answer. (2013
Comptt. Outside Delhi)
Ans. The author depicts a caricature of the so-called “go-getters” who are not actually talented
but manage to create an aura of talent around themselves through the character of
Kothamangalam Subbu. Though he worked in the Story Department at Gemini Studios, he was
always with the boss. Subbu uses all of his energy and creativity to benefit his boss. He
successfully delves into the various spheres of filmmaking, giving the impression of being a
brilliant storyteller, a talented actor, and a man who is always ready with numerous solutions to
any problem. He makes the art of filmmaking appear simple to his boss.
Thus, Subbu, with his cunning, exploits his boss’s gullibility and presents himself as a multi-
faceted genius with multi-faceted abilities.
Q3. Subbu was ‘tailor-made for films’. How did he use his genius in various activities in
the Gemini Studios? (2008 Outside Delhi)
Ans. Subbu is portrayed by the author as a man with diverse abilities who can successfully delve
into various aspects of filmmaking. Subbu had mastered all aspects of filmmaking, from
storyboarding to poetry and character development. He had been ‘tailor-made’ for filmmaking.
Filmmaking appeared to be rather simple with an expert like Subbu walking around, as he
understood all of the minutiae and technicalities of filmmaking. Subbu was the one who gave the
Gemini Studios a “new direction and definition” during its golden years. Subbu focused all of his
energy and creativity on his boss, Mr. Vasan.
If his boss was unhappy with one scene, Subbu would offer him several alternatives. He was
familiar with all of the complexities of filmmaking and could demonstrate his talent in any artistic
arena.
Q4. How was the Moral Re-Armament Army welcomed at the Gemini Studios? (2008
Outside Delhi)
Ans. In 1952, Frank Buchman’s Moral Re-Armament Army, consisting of 200 people from twenty
different nationalities, paid a visit to Madras. The MRA was seen as a counter-movement to
international communism, and the Gemini Studios did not hold communism or communists in
high regard. But because Mr. Vasan, the boss at Gemini Studios, was fascinated by the MRA,
they couldn’t have found a “warmer” host than Gemini Studios in India. The MRA performed two
plays, ‘Jotham Valley’ and ‘The Forgotten Factor,’ in a professional manner. Six hundred Gemini
Studios patrons saw the plays several times. Although the messages in these plays were simple,
the sets and costumes were of the highest quality.
Both the Tamil drama community and Gemini Studios were impressed. The sunrise and sunset
scenes from ‘Jotham Valley’ were copied for years.
Q5.‘Subbu was a troubleshooter.’ Do you agree with this statement? Give an account of
Subbu’s qualities of head and heart. (2012 Outside Delhi)
Ans. Subbu was a self-centered go-getter whose subservience brought him close to his boss
and propelled him to the number two position at Gemini Studios. He was a cunning individual
who preyed on his boss’s gullibility and portrayed himself as competent and capable. Despite the
fact that he was undeserving and lacked talent, he always maintained a positive attitude and
refused to let anything dampen his spirits. He had something nice to say about everyone. With
an expert like Subbu around, filmmaking appeared to be simple. He put all of his energy and
creativity to work for his boss.
Subbu was also a fantastic poet and actor. He wrote truly original poems for the masses, and as
an actor, he was better at playing secondary roles than the main actors. His adoration for his
boss earned him enemies. He also enraged many of these people, who saw themselves as far
more talented and deserving than him.
Q6. What political significance does Gemini Studios’ invitation to Moral Re-Armament
army and Stephen Spender show? (2012 Outside Delhi)
Ans. The Moral Re-Armament army was a counter-movement to Communism, and the Gemini
Studios had a natural dislike for Communists and Communism. They believed that the
Communists’ goal was to sow discord and violence. By acting as a “warm host” to the Moral Re-
Armament army, the Gemini Studios demonstrated a counter-movement to Communism’s ideas.
The Gemini Studios invited Stephen Spender to highlight how a renowned English poet, who was
once attracted to Communism, was later completely disillusioned by it. This fueled their antipathy
towards Communism, which they were able to publicly express.
Q7. What was the Moral Rearmament Army? Describe their visit to the Gemini Studios.
Ans. In 1952, Frank Buchman’s Moral Rearmament Army paid a visit to the Gemini Studios. It
was a theater company. In reality, it was an anti-international communist movement. It had 200
participants and was billed as an international circus. The players were from twenty different
countries.They performed two plays in the most professional manner possible. The plays were
simple homilies with fantastic costumes and sets. Their play, “Jotham Valley,” made an
impression on the Tamil theater. For years, they imitated sunrise and sunset scenes in their own
unique way. The scenes were performed on a bare stage with a white backdrop and a flute tune.
Though the MRA was anti-communist, and anti-communist sentiment existed at the Studios, the
arrival of the MRA had no effect on the bosses’ attitude; their businesses continued as usual.
Q8.The ‘office boy’ of the Gemini Studios was not as blessed as Subbu. Explain.
Ans. According to the hierarchy in the make-up room, the ‘office boy’ was the junior-most and
thus was in charge of the make-up of the players who played the crowd. He wasn’t exactly a
‘boy;’ he was in his early forties and had started working in the studios years before in the hopes
of becoming a star actor, screenwriter, director, or lyrics writer. The ‘boy’ felt that his great literary
talent was being squandered in a department reserved for barbers and perverts.
Subbu, on the other hand, had risen to the position of No. 2 at Gemini Studios solely because he
was a Brahmin. He’d started out as a make-up artist in the movies.He must have had to deal with
more uncertainty and difficulty because there were no well-established film producing companies
or studios when he began his career.
Q9. After reading this story, you are impressed by the author’s use of gentle humor to
point out human foibles. Evaluate whether using such humor contributes towards
bringing about change in people’s attitude and accepting their foibles. (CBSE QB,2021)
Ans. Asokamitran employs subtle humor and satire in the chapter ‘Poets and Pancakes’ to
highlight human foibles. Petty professional differences and insignificant differences not only keep
our minds occupied, but they also bring out a subtle humor that is spontaneous but not
superfluous. Subbu, the office boy, and the legal advisor are all played with a sense of humor.
Asokamitran’s chatty demeanor quickly shifts from one thought to the next. For example, he
mocks the makeup used by artists, which can transform any normal-looking person into a
hideous crimson-colored monster. Such references make people laugh.
Everyone is perplexed by the Moral Rearmament Army’s and the English poet’s visits. Satire is
also directed at those who are opposed to communism and will go to any length to oppose it. The
writer’s tone of mockery is devoid of any trace of mockery, which is admirable.
In most cases, an individual’s use of such humor does not contribute to changing people’s
attitudes and accepting their flaws. Instead, it is shame or embarrassment that causes emotional
or mental distress. As a result, it causes more harm than good.
Q10. Imagine Asokamitran witnesses a film shooting and visits a film set of present day
Bollywood. As Asokamitran wrote a diary entry penning down the transformation you
notice between film making of yesteryears and today. (CBSE QB,2021)
Ans.
XX May, 20XX
Dear Diary, 8 p.m.
I went to Gemini Studios today and was completely taken aback. There has never been a better
time for aspiring filmmakers than now. Previously, films were stored in the form of negatives,
which required a lot of space, infrastructure, and money. There have been instances where
copies of films were destroyed due to natural and man-made disasters. We can now write off the
loss of a cinema print as a thing of the past. The process of showing a movie has become
simpler and less expensive. As a result, releasing a film across the country at the same time has
become commonplace. Previously, analogue prints had to be physically delivered to various
locations across the country.
As a result, not every location in the country had simultaneous access to a movie. Moviegoers
had to wait months to see a highly anticipated film. Digital prints can now be sent via the infinitely
simpler electronic route. Another significant benefit of cinema digitization has been in post-
production. Computerized non-linear editing has increased flexibility and produced better results.
Viewers’ cinematic experiences have been transformed by the use of Virtual Reality (VR),
Augmented Reality (AR), Mixed Reality (MR), and advanced Visual Effects (VFX).
There is no reason why the final product cannot be good if the story is good and the execution
plan is good. The audio-visual content is no longer consistent.
(Your Signature)

Class 12 English The Interview Question Answers Lesson 7 –

Extract Based Questions
Extract-based questions are of the multiple-choice variety, and students must select the correct option for
each question by carefully reading the passage.

A. Read the given extract and answer the questions that follow:
Since its invention a little over 130 years ago, 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. So it is hard to supervise the opinions of the interview of its functions, methods and merits very
considerably.
1. What is an interview? What’s its place in journalism?
Ans. An interview is a one-on-one conversation between an interviewer and an interviewee. It is
commonplace in journalism.
2. What is the relation of an interview with a celebrity?
Ans. Though, according to the text, most of the celebrities despise interviews but several thousand times,
celebrities have been interviewed over the years, some of them repeatedly.
3. What is an interview for a literate person?
Ans. For a literate person, an interview is an exciting content through which he comes to know about their
idols.
4. Name the chapter and the writer.
Ans. The chapter is ‘The Interview’ by Christopher Silvester.

B Read the given extract and answer the questions that follow:
Yet despite the drawbacks of the interview, it is a supremely serviceable medium of communication.
“These days, more than at any other time, our most vivid impressions of our contemporaries are through
interviews, Denis Brian has written. “Almost everything in a moment reaches us through one man asking
questions of another.” Because of this, the interviewer holds a position of unprecedented power and
influence.

1. Despite the drawbacks, what is an interview?

Ans. Despite the drawbacks, an interview is a supremely serviceable medium of communication.
2. Through which medium do we get the most vivid impressions of our contemporaries?
Ans. Through interviews, we get the most vivid impressions of our contemporaries.
3. How, according to Denis Brian, almost everything in a moment reaches us?
Ans. According to Denis Brian, almost everything in a moment reaches us through one man asking
questions to another.
4. Because of interviews, what position does the interviewer hold?
Ans. Because of interviews the interviewer holds a position of unprecedented power and influence.

C Read the given extract and answer the questions that follow:
That’s possible. But let me tell you another story, because I often tell stories like a Chinese wise man. My
American publisher said while she loved my book, she didn’t expect to sell more than 3,000 copies in a
country where nobody has seen a cathedral or studied Latin. So I was given an advance for 3,000 copies.
but in the end it sold two or three million in the US. A lot of books have been written about the medieval
past before mine. I think the success of the book is a mystery. Nobody can predict it. I think if I had written
‘The Name of the Rose’ ten years earlier or ten years later, it wouldn’t have been the same. Why it worked
at that time is a mystery.

1. What does the American publisher say to Umberto Eco?

Ans. The American publisher says that in a country where nobody has seen a cathedral or studies Latin,
sales of the book will not exceed 3,000 copies.
2. How many copies of that book were sold?
Ans. Two or three million copies of that book were sold.
3. What does Umberto Eco say about the success of the book?
Ans. Umberto Eco says that the success of the book is a mystery.
4. What is a mystery according to Umberto Eco?
Ans. According to Umberto Eco, why the book worked at that time is a mystery. The sale and success of
the book was a mystery.

D Read the given extract and answer the questions that follow:
So it is hardly surprising that opinions of the interview — of its functions, methods and merits — vary
considerably. Some might make quite extravagant claims for it as being, in its highest form, a source of
truth, and, in its practice, an art. Others, usually celebrities who see themselves as its victims, might
despise the interview as an unwarranted intrusion into their lives, or feel that it somehow diminishes them,
just as in some primitive cultures it is believed that if one takes a photographic portrait of somebody then
one is stealing that person’s soul. V. S. Naipaul ‘feels that some people are wounded by interviews and
lose a part of themselves.’
1. Why do celebrities despise interviews?
Ans. Celebrities despise the interview as an unwarranted intrusion into their lives, or feel that it somehow
diminishes them.
2. What is the belief in some cultures about photography?
Ans. In some primitive cultures it is believed that if one takes a photographic portrait of somebody then
one is stealing that person’s soul.
3. What are V. S. Naipaul’s feelings about interviews?
Ans. V. S. Naipaul feels that some people are wounded by interviews and lose a part of themselves.
4. What do most people think about interviews?
Ans. Other than celebrities, mostly common persons think that an interview is the only and best source of
truth. It, according to them, is an art.

E Read the given extract and answer the questions that follow:
The interviewer is Mukund Padmanabhan from The Hindu. Umberto Eco, a professor at the University of
Bologna in Italy 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. Literary
fiction, academic texts, essays, children’s books, newspaper articles— his written output is staggeringly
large and wide-ranging. In 1980, he acquired the equivalent of intellectual superstardom with the
publication of The Name of the Rose, which sold more than 10 million copies.

1. What newspaper is Mukund Padmanabhan from?

Ans. Mukund Padmanabhan is from The Hindu.
2. Why was Umberto Eco reputed?
Ans. Umberto Eco was 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.
3. Which book did Umberto Eco write?
Ans. Umberto Eco published the book- The Name of the Rose.
4. How many copies were sold of Umberto Eco’s book?
Ans. The Name of the Rose sold more than 10 million copies.

F Read the given extract and answer the questions that follow: (CBSE SAMPLE QUESTION
PAPER 2022-23)
Some might make quite extravagant claims for it as being, in its highest form, a source of truth, and, in its
practice, an art. Others, usually celebrities who see themselves as its victims, might despise the interview
as an unwarranted intrusion into their lives, or feel that it somehow diminishes them, just as in some
primitive cultures it is believed that if one takes a photographic portrait of somebody then one is stealing
that person’s soul.
1. What is the most likely reason some people consider the practice of interviews to be an art? This
could be because it requires
A fluency of words.
B sensitive and careful handling.
C creativity and imagination.
D probing and focusing on details.
Ans. C creativity and imagination.
2. Rewrite the sentence by replacing the underlined phrase with its inference. Celebrities feel that an
interview diminishes them.
Ans. Celebrities feel that interviews make them look like common people.

3. On the basis of the extract, choose the correct option with reference to the two statements given
below.
(1) Celebrities don’t consent to be interviewed.
(2) Interviews intrude on the privacy of celebrities.
A (1) Can be inferred from the extract but (2) cannot.
B (1) cannot be inferred from the extract but (2) can.
C (1) is true but (2) is false.
D (2) is the reason for (1).
Ans. D (2) is the reason for (1).
4. Rationalise, to support the given opinion: To say that an interview, in its highest form, is a source
of truth, is an extravagant claim.
Ans. It is an extravagant claim as an interview cannot be a source of truth due to the following- Interview
may be scripted OR People may make false statements OR Certain questions may be left unanswered.
5. Replace the underlined word with its antonym from the extract. Some celebrities hate the idea of
having to give an interview because it makes them feel like supporters.
Ans. victims
6. The author’s views on the interview, in the extract, can best be described as statements based on
__________.
A facts
B hypothesis
C beliefs
D superstitions
Ans. A facts
Top

Class 12 English The Interview Question Answers (including

questions from Previous Years Question Papers)
In this post we are also providing important short answer questions from the chapter The
Interview for CBSE Class 12 Boards in the coming session. These questions have been taken from
previous years class 12 Board exams and the year is mentioned in the bracket along with the question.

Q1 Other than celebrities, what do some people think about an interview?

Ans. Other than celebrities, mostly common persons think that an interview is the only and best source of
truth. It, according to them, is an art.
Q2 In which way do the celebrities take an interview?
Ans. Celebrities find themselves as victims, they take interviews as an unwarranted intrusion into their
lives which somehow diminishes them.
Q3 How can we say that Umberto Eco had a wide range of writing?
Ans. Umberto Eco had an expertise in semiotics and other than this he started to write fiction, literary
fiction, academic texts, essays, children’s books, newspaper articles etc. So his versatility in writing can be
easily understood.
Q4 What made ‘The Name of the Rose’ a highly successful novel?
Ans. According to Umberto Eco, the most possible reason for the success of the novel was a mystery and
actually nobody could predict the exact reason for it.
Q5 What is Umberto Eco’s theory of interstices?
Ans. Umberto Eco says that if we eliminate the empty spaces from the universe, then the universe would
become as big as his fist. He stresses on the importance of the empty spaces of time.
Q6 Umberto Eco does many things, but says, ‘I am always doing the same thing but that is more
difficult to explain.’ What does he mean to say?
Ans. Umberto Eco says that he has philosophical interests which reflect in all his writings, fiction and
nonfiction. In this way, he does the same thing, though he seems to pursue various activities: writing notes
for newspapers, teaching novels, writing essays, children’s books etc.
Q7 Despite the drawbacks, the interview is a supremely serviceable medium of communication.
Explain.
Ans. Though an interview is an intrusion into the personal life of the interviewee, it is always a supremely
serviceable medium of communication. Through the interviews only we get vivid impressions of our
contemporary celebrities. We get a glance of their way of working, their personal life and experiences.
Q8 What are some of the positive views on interviews?
Ans. Interview is considered as a reliable source of truth. Contemporaries and their success can be read
through the interviews. Nowadays, a very important part of journalism is interviews.
Q9 Why do most celebrity writers despise being interviewed? (CBSE 2003, 2005, 2010)
Ans. Most celebrity writers despise being interviewed because they have faced the fright of interview.
Among them, the interview is regarded as an unwarranted entrance into their privacy.
Q10 What do you understand by the expression “thumbprints on his windpipe”?
Ans. Thumbprints on his windpipe expresses the blockage to any person’s freedom and privacy. It can be
considered as a suffocation felt by the interviewees.
Q11 Do you think Umberto Eco likes being interviewed? Give reasons for your opinion.
Ans. Umberto Eco surely likes being interviewed as a part of his interview is presented in this chapter. He
answers every question asked by Mukund and never frustrates or criticizes the interview like many other
celebrity writers do.
Q12 How does Eco find the time to write so much?
Ans. Umberto Eco uses each and every moment of time. He is capable of utilizing the little space of free
time between different activities. So he calls it the usage of interstices, the management of time.
Q13 What was distinctive about Eco’s academic writing style? (CBSE 2004)
Ans. Eco’s academic writing style can be said as a narrative which is personalised and interesting. Eco’s
writing style is not dull and boring like the others.
Q14 Did Umberto Eco consider himself a novelist first or an academic scholar?
Ans. Umberto Eco firstly considered himself as an academic scholar because he was a professor and wrote
many academic texts while he wrote his first novel at the age of 50, that too, accidentally.
Q15 What is the reason for the huge success of the novel, The Name of the Rose? (CBSE 2008)
Ans. ‘The Name of the Rose’ is a serious detective story but it delved into metaphysics, theology and
medieval history. The novel got huge success and the reason for its success is perhaps, the favourable time
of its publication.
Top

Class 12 The Interview Long Answer Questions Chapter 7

Q1 Explain the word Interview and how many writers find favor with it.
OR
Why do you think Christopher Silvester describes the viewpoints of other writers and authors when
discussing the concept of an interview? Support your opinion with reference to any one writer cited.
(CBSE QUESTION BANK)
Ans. The word ‘interview’ is derived from the French derivative word “entrevue”. It is a conversation
between a journalist or broadcaster and a person of public interest. It is an oral examination of an applicant
for a job through the process of formal questioning. Since the word has wider implications, it duly involves
screening, interaction and introspection. During the process, both the interviewer and the interviewee
participate and the interviewee has to face the horror of the interviewer.
The word interview was inserted 130 years ago. Since then it has become a commonplace in journalism. In
this world, all have to undergo the process of the interview. Thousands of people are interviewed daily for
one or the other kind. Depending on the merit of the interview, people have claimed in its highest form as a
source of truth and in its practice, it is an art. H.G. Wells remained averse to ‘interview’ and in 1894 he
referred to it as an ordeal. But forty years later he himself was found interviewing Joseph Stalin of Russia.
People view that almost everything reaches us through asking the interviewer who holds a position of
unprecedented power and influence.
Q2 Mukund Padmanabhan was a reporter from ‘The Hindu’. In the context of the chapter, reveal
his traits as an interviewer.
OR
How would you evaluate Mukund Padmanabhan as an interviewer? Mention at least two qualities
he displays in his interview, supported by textual evidence. (CBSE QUESTION BANK)
Ans. Mukund Padmanabhan was surely a successful and well thought-out reporter who always used to ask
answerable and dexterous questions to his interviewees. He used to plan and prepare to conduct an
interview of a celebrity. He never asked ugly or embarrassing questions and on the other hand, the
celebrity whom he interviewed always seemed to be comfortable with his questions. Through the
interviews, readers not only got the information about the celebrities but many other important aspects of
Mukund’s personality also came in their knowledge. He asked brief and quality questions to his
interviewees scrupulously. He let the interviewees speak in their own manner and never tried to interrupt
or cross-questioned them.
 His interviewees used to be free and frank with him. He was always a prepared interviewer. Mukund, in
advance arranged the information and personality traits of his interviewees and then with full preparations
started his sessions. In all we can say that Mukund Padmanabhan was a disciplined and dedicated
interviewer.
Q3 Several celebrities despise being interviewed. Is this justified? Why? Why not? (CBSE 2010)
Ans. There are several celebrities mentioned in this chapter like Rudyard Kipling, VS Naipaul, H.G.
Wells, Saul Bellow, etc. who dislike interviews very strongly. They never became ready to be interviewed.
Most of them considered interviews as an unwarranted intrusion into their lives. They did not want to
reveal the secrets of their personal lives.
Even an interview is considered as an immoral activity, as a crime or sometimes as an assault. They feel
that the interviewers waste their precious time which can be used by them for more creativity. On the other
hand, the common mass takes interviews very positively as they come to know about the inner and hidden
things of their ideals. But interviews have their drawbacks also.
Celebrities feel shy and disappointed when they are asked for interviews but they forget that they become
famous and wealthy through the successful interviews General mass become their fan and devotee by
knowing more and more about their ideals. Celebrities are even worshipped. In this regard, it can be said
that an interview cannot be termed as an immoral activity.
Q4 Give a character sketch of Umberto Eco on the basis of the chapter ‘The Interview’.
OR
What do you think about Umberto Eco? Does he like being interviewed? Give reasons in support of
your answer. (CBSE 2008)
OR
What impression do you form about Umberto Eco as a scholar and writer on the basis of ‘The
Interview’? (CBSE 2010)
Ans. Umberto Eco, a university professor at the University of Bologna in Italy, is an academician and a
famous novelist. He, through various interviews, discloses his secret of success in life and never hates the
interviewers. He has his taste in various fields of writings as academic texts. fiction and nonfiction, literary
fiction essays, children’s books, newspaper articles etc.
He always wanted to be called an academician not a novelist. He used to participate in academic
conferences, on the other hand, he avoided the meetings of writers and Pen Club Members. He has written
forty scholarly works and five novels. He used to denote time for writing novels on only Sundays. He
discovered a magical trick of working in interstices.

He used to use even the seconds of his time. He captured the empty spaces for writing notes or any
content. He had an expertise in Semiotics, the study of signs. He never became a slave of pride as he
openly admitted that his novel ‘The Name of the Rose’ got success accidently and the time was in his
favour. He didn’t have any celebrity attitude though his novel was bought by more than 10 million of the
readers.

English Going Places Question Answers Lesson 8 –

Extract Based Questions
Extract-based questions are of the multiple-choice variety, and students must select the correct
option for each question by carefully reading the passage.

A. Read the given extract and answer the questions that follow:
Sophie watched her back stooped over the sink and wondered at the incongruity of the delicate
bow which fastened her apron strings. The delicate seeming bow and the crooked back. The
evening has already blacked in the windows and the small room was steady from the stone and
cluttered with the heavy breathing man in his vest at the table and the dirty washing piled up in
the corner. Sophie felt a tightening in her throat. She went to look for her brother Geoff.
1. Whose bow did Sophie watch and what did she feel?
Ans. Sophie watched the back bow of her own mother stooped over the sink and wondered at
the incongruity of the delicate bow.
2. What was the condition of the small room?
Ans The small room was steamy from the stove and cluttered with the heavy breathing man in
his vest at the table and the dirty washing piled up in the corner.
3. What did Sophie feel and what did she do then?
Ans. Sophie felt a tightening in her throat and she went to look for her brother Geoff.
4. Name the chapter and its writer.
Ans. The chapter’s name is ‘Going Places’ and its writer is A. R. Barton’.

B. Read the given extract and answer the questions that follow:
It was nothing like that. Geoff It was me who spoke first. When I saw who it was I said, “Excuse
me, but aren’t you Danny Casey? And he looked sort of surprised And he said. “Yes, that’s right.
And I knew it must be him because he had the accent you know like when they interviewed him
on the television So I asked him for an autograph for little Derek, but neither of us had any paper
or a pan. So then we just talked a bit About the clothes in Royce’s window. He seemed lonely.
After all, it’s a long way from the west of Ireland And then just as he was going, he said, if I would
care to meet him next week he would give me an autograph then of course, I said I would”
1. Who looked sort of surprised and why?
Ans. Danny Casey looked sort of surprised because Sophie asked him about his name (identity).
2. How did Sophie confirm that he was Danny Casey?
Ans. By hearing his accent and remembering his interview cin television, she confirmed that he
was Danny Casey.
3. What did Sophie ask him and what happened then?
Ans. Sophie asked him for an autograph for little Derek but neither of them had any paper or a
pen.
4. While going, what did Danny Casey ask her?
Ans. While going, Danny Casey asked her if she would care to meet him next week he would
give her an autograph then.

C. Read the given extract and answer the questions that follow:
After dark she walked by the canal along a sheltered path lighted only by the glare of the lamps
from the wharf across the water, and the unceasing drone of the city was muffled and distant. It
was a place she had often played in when she was a child. There was a wooden bench beneath
a solitary elm where lovers sometimes came. She sat down to wait for it to be the perfect place,
she had always thought so for a meeting of this kind. For those who wished not to be observed.
She knew he would approve
1. After dark, where did she walk along?
Ans. After dark she walked by the canal, along a sheltered path lit only by the glare of the lamps
from the wharf across the water.
2. Why was that place suitable for meeting?
Ans. The unceasing drone of the city was muffled and distant, so that place was suitable for
meeting.
3. Where and why did she sit?
Ans. There was a wooden bench beneath a solitary elm where lovers sometimes came, she sat
down there to wait.
4. Why was it a perfect place?
Ans. It was a perfect place because lovers meeting there could not be observed by anyone.

D. Read the given extract and answer the questions that follow:
And afterwards you wait there alone in the arcade for a long while, standing where he stood
remembering the soft melodious voice, the shimmer of green eyes. No taller than you No bolder
than you. The prodigy, The innocent genius, the great Danny Casey And she saw it all again,
last Saturday saw him ghost past the lumbering defenders, heard the fifty thousand catch their
breath as he hovered momentarily over the ball, and then the explosion of sound as he struck it
crisply into the goal, the sudden thunderous eruption of exultant approbation.
1. What was she remembering about Danny Casey?
Ans. She was remembering about the scene of the arcade where he stood. She remembered
the soft melodious voice and the shimmer of green eyes.
2. What titles did she use for Danny Casey?
Ans. She titled Danny Casey “No taller than you the prodigy, the innocent genius, the great
Danny Casey.
3. When and what did she see last Saturday?
Ans. Last Saturday, she saw him ghost past the lumbering defenders, and heard the fifty
thousand catch their breath as he hovered momentarily over the balk.
4. What explosion could be seen at the stadium?
Ans. The explosion of sound, the sudden thunderous eruption of exultant approbation could be
seen at the stadium.

Top

Class 12 English Going Places Question Answers (including

questions from Previous Years Question Papers)
In this post we are also providing important short answer questions from the Chapter Going
Places for CBSE Class 12 Boards in the coming session. These questions have been taken from
previous years class 12 Board exams and the year is mentioned in the bracket along with the
question.

Q1 Why did Jansie discourage Sophie from having dreams?

Ans. Jansie and Sophie both belonged to low middle class families. They did not have any
means to fulfil their ambitions and dreams Jansie had calmly accepted her fate. But Sophie was
a very ambitious girl. She had very unrealistic dreams and fantasies. Jansie knew that her friend
had to meet disappointment in the end. Therefore she discouraged Sophie from having dreams.
Q2 What did Sophie think of doing after her school?
Ans. Sophie was a highly ambitious girl. First she decided to open a boutique, then she thought
of becoming a manager to start with. She also thought of becoming an actress.
Q3 Why did Sophie long for her brother’s affection?
OR
Why did Sophie like her brother more than any other person? (CBSE 2010)
Ans. Sophie liked her brother more than any other person. But he was very introverted. He
would not tell any of his secrets. However he was the only person who listened to Sophie’s wild
stares: Therefore. Sophie longed for her brother’s affection.
Q4 Why didn’t Sophie want Jansie to know about her meeting with Danny? (CBSE 2011)
Ans. Sophie thought if Jansie came to know about her meeting with Danny, she would tell
everyone. Then thousands of people would come to her house and it would make her father very
angry. She thought that her father could then possibly murder her.
Q5 Why did Jansie discourage Sophie from entertaining thoughts about the sports star
Danny Casey? (CBSE 2011)
Ans. Jansie knew her friend Sophie well. She knew that Sophie’s meeting with Danny Casey
was just her imagination. She wanted Sophie to be practical. She thought such thoughts would
create troubles for Sophie Therefore she discouraged Sophie from entertaining thoughts about
the sports-star Danny Casey.
Q6 It is natural for teenagers to have unrealistic dreams? What would you say are the
benefits and disadvantages of such fantasizing?
Ans. Teenage is considered the best period in a person’s life. In this age the person has
maximum energy and he is free from every responsibility. But it is also the age when the person
has dreams and fantasies. Every teenager has some role model. Also it would be beneficial for
the person if he goes into the direction of his/her dreams diligently. But mere fantasising and
dreaming bring nothing but disappointment.
Q7 Damn that Geoff, this was a Geoff thing not a Jansie thing: Why did Sophie say so?
(CBSE 2010)
Ans Sophie told her brother, Geoff about her meeting with Danny Casey She was sure that he
would not tell anybody her secret. But on the other hand, Geoff told that secret to Jansie’s
brother and Jansie asked Sophie about it Sophie became very angry with her brother and said,
Damn that Geoff, this was a Geoff thing not a Jansie thing.
Q8 How did Sophie’s father react when Geoff told him about her meeting with Danny
Casey?
Ans.Sophie’s father turned his head on his thick neck to look at her. His expression was one of
disdain. Sophie told him that Danny Casey was going to buy a shop. At this her father muttered
This is another of your wild stories. One of these days you’re going to talk yourself into a load of
trouble” This shows that the old man knew his daughter very well.
Q9 What is Geoff’s profession? How is he different from his sister?
Ans. Geoff left his school three years ago Now he works as an apprentice mechanic. He has to
travel to his work to the far end of the city. But he is very introverted. He is not a daydreamer like
Sophie But he loves his sister very much so he listens to her wild stones patiently.
Q10 Who was Danny Casey? How can you say that the members of Sophie’s family were
great fans of his?
Ans. Danny Casey was a young football player. He played for the United Sophie and the
members of her family were a great fan of his Sophie even started dreaming to have a date with
him. Her family went to see a football match in which Danny was playing.
Q11 Do you think that Sophie’s meeting with Danny actually happened or it was just a part
of her imagination?
Ans. It appeared possible that Danny might have met with Sophie at the arcade it also appeared
possible they might have talked a bit. But it didn’t appear to be possible that Danny would have
called her to meet the next week. The last part of her story is highly improbable; it was just a part
of her imagination.
Q12 What thoughts come to Sophie’s mind as she sit by the canal? (CBSE 2011)
Ans. Sitting by the side of the canal Sophie waits for Danny Casey to come. The time keeps on
passing. She starts feeling pangs of doubt inside her. Then she remembers Geoff saying he
would never come. She thinks that she will never be able to prove that the others were wrong to
doubt her.
Q13 Why didn’t Sophie want Jansie to know about her story with Danny?
Ans. Sophie didn’t want Jansie to know her story about Danny Casey. She thought that Jansie
would fill everyone in on it. Then the people would come in large numbers to know about it in
detail Sophie was very afraid of her father. She feared that her father would become furious. He
could also murder her.
Q14 Did Sophie really meet Danny Casey?
Ans. It is very difficult to say whether Sophie met with Danny Casey: She might have seen hun
from a distance and then she weaved the whole story about her meeting with him in her mind.
Q15 Why did Sophie like her brother Geoff more than any other person? From her
perspective, what did he symbolise?
Ans. Sophie liked her brother because she had full faith in him. She thought that he would never
let her secrets out. Therefore, she used to share her secrets with Sophie’s brother and spoke
very little. Sophie thought he was a symbol of some exotic and interesting world.
Class 12 Going Places Long Answer Questions Chapter 8
Q1 Sophie lives in a world full of dreams which she does not know she cannot realise.
Comment.
OR
Contrast Sophie’s real world with her fantasies. (CBSE 2009)
Ans. Sophie belongs to a low middle class family. She has no means to gain name and fame.
Therefore, she starts weaving in her mind the unrealistic dreams and fantasies. First of all, she
thinks that she would open a fine boutique in the city When her friend Jansie tells her that it
would take a lot of money to open a boutique, she says that she would become a manager to
begin with. She does not realise that no one would make her a manager straight off.
Then she thinks of becoming an actress. She takes a chance meeting with Danny Casey as the
beginning of a love affair with him. She dreams of meeting with him. But this and her other
dreams are just a product of her imagination. She doesn’t know how to realise them.
Q2 Describe the bond between Geoff and Sophie in spite of differences in their
temperament and thinking.
Ans. Geoff was Sophie’s elder brother. He was an apprentice mechanic and left his school three
years ago. Unlike Sophie he was very introverted. Sophie was in fact jealous of his silence. But
in spite of all this he loved his sister very much. Sophie would share all her secrets with her Geoff
knew that most of the stories Sophie told him were just a product of her imagination.
But even then he listened to her very patiently. He knew that Sophie’s story of meeting with
Danny Casey was not true. But even then he promised her that he would not let her secret out to
anybody. However, be warned Sophie that Danny Casey was a famous player. He must have a
lot of girlfriends. He knew that Danny Casey would not turn up next week to meet her. He tried to
persuade Sophie against her craziness for Danny in fact Geoff was not only the elder brother of
Sophie but also her friend and guide.
Q3 How different is Jansie from Sophie? Jansie is just as old as Sophie but she is very
different from her. Bring out the contrast between the two friends, citing relevant
instances from the story, “Going Places”.
OR
Sophie and Jansie were class-mates. What were the differences between them that show
up in the story?
OR
Jansie is just as old as Sophie but she is very different from her. Bring out the contrast
between the two friends citing relevant instances from the story, “Going Places”. (CBSE
2009)
Ans. Sophie and Jansie are classmates and friends But they are poles apart as far as their
character and temperament is concerned Jansie is a very down to earth girl. She knows that she
belongs to a low middle class. She knows her limitations. She has accepted her fate that she has
to work in a biscuit factory as a petty employee after her school education.
On one hand Sophie is an ambitious girl. She too belongs to a low middle class: But she has
very unrealistic ambitions and dreams. First of all, she says that she will open a boutique, then
she says she will become a manager. She also wants to become an actress In fact she doesn’t
know what she wants to become. She weaves a fantasy around a famous football player: She
imagines that he would come and meet her. As a result of her unrealistic dreams and fantasies
she has to face disappointment.
Q4 Attempt a character sketch of Sophie as a woman who lives in her dreams. (CBSE
2012)
Ans. Sophie belongs to a low middle class family. She has no means to gain name and fame
Therefore she starts weaving in her mind the unrealistic dreams and fantasies. First of all, she
thinks that she would open a fine boutique in the city. When her friend Jansie tells her that it
would take a lot of money to open a boutique, she says that she would become a manager to
begin with.
She does not realise that no one would make her a manager straight off. Then she thinks of
becoming an actress. She takes a chance meeting with Danny Casey as the beginning of a love
affair with them. She dreams of meeting with him. But this and her other dreams are just a
product of her imagination In fact, Sophie is a woman who lives in her dreams. She doesn’t know
how to realise her dreams.
Q5 Teachers always advise their students to dream big yet the same teachers in the
classroom find fault with Sophie when she dreams. What is wrong with Sophie’s dreams?
Ans. It is always good to dream big. But the dreams should also be realistic. We can’t achieve
great heights suddenly as if someone has turned a magical wand Sophie belongs to a low middle
class family. She has no means to gain name and fame: Therefore, she starts weaving in her
mind the unrealistic dreams and fantasies. First of all, she thinks that she would open a fine
boutique in the city. When her friend Janse tells her that it would take a lot of money to open a
boutique, she says that she would become a manager to begin with. She does not realise that no
one would make her a manager straight off.
Then she thinks of becoming an actress. She takes a chance meeting with Danny Casey as the
beginning of a love affair with him. She dreams of meeting with him. But this and her other
dreams are just a product of ner imagination. She doesn’t know how to realise them. We should
dream big but for that we should make constant efforts. Mere dreaming brings disappointment as
it happens with Sophie.
Q6 What were the options that Sophie was dreaming of? Why does Jansie discourage her
from having such dreams
Ans. Sophie was a very ambitious girl. She lived in the world of dreams and fantasies. She told
Jansie that she would open a boutique after leaving the school. At this, Jansie informed her that
it took a lot of money to open a boutique. At this Sophie said she would begin her career as a
manager Jansie informed her no one would appoint her as a manager straight off
Then Sophie told Jansie that she would become an actress since the actress had not to work for
the whole day. She said when she had earned enough money then she would open her
boutique. Jansie knew that she and Sophie were both earmarked for a biscuit factory. She
wished that Sophie should not say such unrealistic things. Jansie wanted Sophie to be sensible
and she wanted to discourage her from such fantasies.
Q7 Sophie is caught between the world she lives in and the world she wants to live in.
Elucidate. (CBSE QUESTION BANK)
Ans. Sophie is a girl who attends school. She inhabits a universe that is far apart from the harsh
facts of life and is filled with fantasy. She has lofty aspirations that are outside the scope of her
resources. She considers opening a boutique. She then considers pursuing a career as an actor.
She is also capable of designing clothing. She stands in stark contrast to Jansie, a friend and
classmate. Jansie is sensible and grounded. She is aware that the biscuit factory has been
assigned to both of them.
Sophie worships heroes because of her passionate and idealistic personality. Danny Casey, a
talented young Irish football player, is the hero of her dreams. She now finds him to be
romantically fascinating. Even Geoff reminds her that Casey is a well-known person. She must
follow him like many other girls do. But she is a hopeless romantic. He is constantly on her mind.
She sits there day after day seeing Danny Casey approaching her. She is aware that he never
will. She feels helpless and depressed. She carries her hopes and disappointments with her
every day. They do not exist. They are all works of her imagination.
Q8 Evaluate the two different perspectives to life that Jansie and Sophie represent. (CBSE
QUESTION BANK)
Ans.Jansie and Sophie were distinct from one another. Sophie loved to daydream and use her
imagination to create her own imaginary worlds. She showed a desire to rise above her working-
class background and achieve refinement by following her dreams of being a fashion designer or
actress.
In contrast to Sophie, Jansie was more grounded and sensible. She made unsuccessful attempts
to bring Sophie back to reality. Jansie’s attempt to remind her buddy that they were designated
for the biscuit factory and extravagant ambitions were out of character for their financial situation
shows her maturity and sensibility.
Q9 Unrealistic dreams often lead to a great deal of unhappiness. Justify the statement on
the basis of the story “Going Places‟. (CBSE SAMPLE QUESTION PAPER 2018-19)
Ans. Unrealistic dreams often lead to a great deal of unhappiness. One must learn to maintain a
healthy balance between fantasies and reality. Fantasising based on realistic goals or the world
around, provides a means to reach higher ambitions and dreams. Sophie is a day dreamer who
likes to live in an imaginary world. She escapes the harsh reality of the world and dreams of
opening a boutique as a side business. She dreamt of becoming a successful actress.
Sophie’s hero worship and fantasising were in clash with her socio-economic background. She
belonged to a family of meager means and resources. However, her dreams and fantasising
were quite extreme. She could not afford to day dream and be lost in her reveries. In order to
make her dreams become realities, she needed to work very hard, which she did not do. Not only
did she suffer from day-dreaming but also became prone to telling lies. As a consequence,
nobody trusted her. She was expected to believe more sensibly by her father, Geoff and Jansie.
Q10 ‘Their mother sighed.
Sophie watched her back stooped over the sink and wondered at the incongruity of the
delicate bow which fastened her apron strings.’
The prose selection, Going Places includes this telling comment about Sophie’s mother.
In Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers, we are told that – ‘The massive weight of Uncle’s wedding band
Sits heavily upon Aunt Jennifer’s Hand.’
Imagine a conversation between Sophie’s mother and Aunt Jennifer.
Create this exchange with reference to the two extracts given above.
You may begin the conversation like this …
Sophie’s mother: Your embroidery is so beautiful. Do you love tigers? (CBSE SAMPLE
QUESTION PAPER 2022-23)
Ans. Sophie’s mother: Your embroidery is so beautiful. Do you love tigers?
Aunt Jennifer: I’m afraid of real tigers, but I adore tigers in art.
Sophie’s mother: Can you explain why you like tiger art but are afraid of tigers in real life?
Aunt Jennifer: “I want to express myself through tiger art.”
Sophie’s mother: What does it imply? I didn’t understand it. Could you please elaborate?
Aunt Jennifer: It represents a show of strength for me, and it is the only way I can express myself
because my husband does not listen to me and always dominates the family. My life has been
spoiled.
Sophie’s mother: “How sad!” I understand now. My family also treats me the same way. And
you’ve made your decision.

POEMS

English My Mother at Sixty Six Question Answers Poem

1 – Extract Based Questions
Extract-based questions are of the multiple-choice variety, and students must select the correct
option for each question by carefully reading the passage.

A. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow.
I looked again at her, wan, pale
as a late winter’s moon and felt that old
familiar ache, my childhood’s fear,
but all I said was see you soon, Amma,
all I did was smile and smile and smile ……… (Foreign 2014; Modified)

1. What was the poet’s childhood fear?

Ans. In her childhood, the poet was insecure about losing her mother, just as all young children
often are.
2. What were the poet’s parting words?
Ans. The poet’s parting words were, “See you soon, Amma”, which are suggestive of the hope
that they will meet again.
3. What is the poetic device used in these lines?
Ans. The poetic device used in these lines is simile, where the mother’s dull and lifeless face is
compared to a late winter’s moon.
4. Why did the poet smile and smile?
Ans. The poet smiled and smiled (meaning that she smiled continuously) because she was
trying to hide her real feelings. She feared the fact that she might not see her mother again,
which left her almost in tears.
Class 12 My Mother at Sixty Six Important Question Answers
Video
Top
B. Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow.
……….but soon
put that thought away and
looked out at young
trees sprinting, the merry children spilling
out of their homes……………(Compartment 2014;Modified)
What thought did the poet drive away from her mind?
Ans. The poet drove away the painful thought of the distressing reality that her mother was
getting old and she might die anytime.
1. What did she see when she looked out of the car?
Ans. When she looked out of the car, she saw young trees on the roadside, which appeared to
be moving. She also saw a group of children, merrily rushing out of their homes to play.
2. How do you know that the joyful scene didn’t help her drive away the painful thought
from her mind?
Ans. As the poet passed through a security check at the airport and happened to look at her
mother, she was again haunted by the same fear of losing her to death. This shows that the
joyful scene earlier didn’t help drive away the painful thought from her mind.
4. What are the merry children symbolic of?
Ans. The merry children are symbolic of the exuberance of youth. The energetic and lively
children present a contrast to the poet’s mother who has grown old and pale.

C. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow.
…………….and felt that old
familiar ache, my childhood’s fear,
but all I said was, see you soon, Amma,
all I did was smile and smile and smile (All India 2013)
1. What was the childhood fear that now troubled the poet?
Ans. As a child the poet was insecure about losing her mother and the same fear has come
again now when her mother has grown old.
2. What do the poet’s parting words suggest?
Ans. The poet, while parting, smiled and said to her mother that she would see her soon. This
expression of her suggests that though she was aware that her mother was quite old and weak,
yet she hoped that she would live and that they would meet again.
3. Why did the poet smile and smile?
Ans. The poet smiled and smiled only because she wanted to hide her fears from her mother.
She was reassuring herself and also her mother that they would meet again.
4. Explain, “that old familiar ache.”
Ans. “That old familiar ache” refers to the agony and pain of separation from her mother that the
poet felt in her childhood, as she feared that she might lose her mother.

D. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow.
Driving from my parent’s
home to Cochin last Friday
morning, I saw my mother, beside me
doze, open mouthed, her face ashen like that ‘
of a corpse and realized with pain .
that she was as old as she looked …

1. Where was the poet driving to?

Ans. The poet was driving to Cochin airport from her parent’s home.
2. Why was her mother’s face looking like that of a corpse?
Ans. Her mother’s face had lost all its glow and color. It was nearly lifeless. That is why it was
looking like a corpse’s face.
3. What did the poet notice about her mother?
Ans. The poet noticed that her mother was sleeping with her mouth open. Her face looked like
that of a corpse. She suddenly realized that her mother had become very old.
4. Why was the realization painful?
Ans. The realization that her mother had grown very old was painful because it brought with it
the distressing thought that she was also nearing her death, whose cruel hands would separate
the poet from her mother.

E. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow.
…….and
looked but soon
put that thought away and
looked out at young
trees sprinting,
the merry children spilling
out of their homes,………..
1. Name the poem and the poet.
Ans. The name of the poem is ‘My Mother at Sixty-Six’ and the poet is Kamala Das.
2. What did the poet realize? How did she feel?
Ans. The poet realized that her mother was getting old and was nearing her impending death.
She felt afraid of losing her mother, the same fear which she used to face in her childhood.
3. What did she do then?
Ans. The poet at once turned her face away from the harsh reality and looked out of the window
to divert her mind.
4. What did she notice in the world outside?
Ans. The poet saw green trees sprinting by. She also saw a group of children who were
exuberant, enthusiastic and were merrily coming out of their houses.

Top
Class 12 English My Mother at Sixty -Six Question
Answers (including questions from Previous Years
Question Papers)
Q1. What is the kind of pain and ache that the narrator feels?
Ans. The emotional pain and anguish the narrator feels is the realization that her mother is old,
frail and pale as a corpse.

Q2. Why are the young trees described as ‘sprinting’? (Delhi 2012,2010)
Ans. While driving to the airport, the poet looks at the young trees sprinting to distract herself
from thoughts of her aging mother. The trees sprinting represents the rapidly passing years of
human life from childhood to old age. This image of activity and strength contrasts with that of
her elderly and frail mother. In contrast to her mother’s impending death, the ‘young’ trees
represent life.

Q3. Why has the narrator brought in the image of the merry children ‘spilling out of their
homes’?
Ans. The poet has depicted contrasting images of life and death in the poem. She has used the
image of the happy children running out of their houses to play to represent life, vigor, health,
beauty, and happiness. This image contrasts sharply with that of her mother, who is nearing the
end of her life and has become old, inactive, weak, and withered. The poet has juxtaposed the
two images to emphasize the differences between them. Childhood is the beginning of life, while
old age is the end.

Q4. Why has the mother been compared to ‘late winter’s moon’?
Ans. The poet’s mother’s vitality and radiance have begun to fade as she ages. The poet
compares her mother to a “late winter’s moon” to indicate her impending death. Winter, as the
year’s final season, is associated with lifelessness and dormancy. A winter’s moon is also pale-
white in color, resembling her mother, who, having lost all her strength, appears ‘wan’ and ‘pale’
to the poet.

Q5. What do the parting words of the narrator and her smile signify?(All India 2010)
Ans. The parting words “goodbye Amma” are used by the narrator to reassure the mother and to
increase the narrator’s own optimism. She accepts the reality of her mother’s imminent death,
but continues to keep smiling and happy. It requires a lot of effort and that is why the poet uses
poetic repetition to emphasize it. She tries to hide her fear with a smile on her face.

Q6. What childhood fears do you think the narrator is referring to in the poem ‘My Mother
at Sixty-Six’?
Ans. The poet’s childhood fear was that she would lose her mother to death and thus be
separated from her for all time. As a result, she was terrified of being separated from her mother.
Q7. What does the narrator mean by ‘all I did was smile and smile and smile…’?
OR
A smile does not always indicate happiness.’ Does My Mother at Sixty-Six reflect this
statement? Justify your response with an example from the poem.(CBSE Sample Paper
2022)
Ans. Throughout the stanza, ‘all I did was smile and smile and smile…’ the poet tries to conceal
her concern about her mother’s failing health. The poet smiled and smiled, hoping to reassure
herself that she would be able to see her mother again.

Q8. What does the narrator’s mother look like? What kind of images has been used to
signify her aging?
Ans. The narrator’s mother is sixty-six years old, looking as pale as a corpse. The image of
death arises with this comparison. The color of her face is of ash which shows pale and weak.
She is like the late winter’s moon which lacks energy.

Q9. What were the activities that the narrator saw outside the car window?
Ans. The narrator noticed young trees speeding by, as if they were sprinting or running fast.
Children running out of their homes were seen to be happy, enthusiastic, and energetic. They
present an image of youth and energy in contrast to the narrator’s mother’s lack of energy.

Q10. Why does the narrator look outside? What does she perceive?
Ans. Even the thought of being separated from her mother shocks and depresses the narrator.
She experiences the fear that she may never see her mother again. To ward off such negative
thoughts, she looks out the window and her mind changes when she sees the trees appear to be
moving fast and children playing happily.

Q11.State the common issue faced by most of the aged in the current times, with
reference to the poem My Mother at Sixty-six.(CBSE Sample Paper 2022)
Ans. The most common issue faced by most of the aged in the current times, with reference to
the poem My Mother at Sixty-six is the absence of a supporting presence or loneliness or they
feel alone when children move away. This issue was faced by the aged mom of the poet as she
lived away from her mother.

Q12. Kamala Das speaks of ‘an old familiar ache…’ What do you think is the reason for
this feeling? (CBSE Sample Paper 2020)
Ans. Kamla Das’ mother is elderly and pale, and her health appears to be failing. As a result, the
poet experiences a familiar pain, which is one of her constant fears of losing her mother. She
recollects her childhood fear of being separated from her mother.
Top
Class 12 My Mother at Sixty- Six Long Answer Questions
Poem 1
Q1. Aging is a natural process; have you ever thought about what our elderly parents
expect from us ?
Ans. Aging is a natural process. A person becomes weaker as he ages, he needs support both
mentally and physically. So, it is our duty to give our elderly parents the love, emotional support
and respect they deserve. Our parents usually give us the best time of their lives to bring us up.
Therefore, it is our moral duty to respond in kind as they age.
Loneliness is common in the elderly, and they require companionship. The pessimistic attitude
they develop towards life can be avoided only if we lavish them with love, importance, and
empathy. They expect their children to sit quietly and talk to them about what is going on in their
lives, and to consider their advice when making important decisions. Their depleted vitality can
thus be easily restored. This joy will inspire them to live life to the fullest. Thus, ensuring that we
give them the best time of their lives just as they once did for us when we were younger.
Q2. Write a brief summary of the poem, ‘My Mother at Sixty Six’ by Kamala Das.
Ans. The poem begins with Kamala Das, the poet, is on her way to the airport in Cochin,
accompanied by her elderly mother. She suddenly realizes her mother has grown old. Her face is
ashen, as if she were a corpse. This thought disturbs her because it reminds her of her mother’s
impending death. As a daughter, the thought of losing her mother disturbs her, and in order to
distract herself, she begins looking out the window at the trees that appear to be sprinting as she
drives a car. She also notices small children rushing out of their homes to play outside. This
brings back memories of her youth and beauty. Her mother, on the other hand, is getting older.
She has grown old and is nearing the end of her life. This gives her a sense of insecurity. In
contrast to the young children and green trees, the mother has aged and become as pale as the
winter moon.
As she waves goodbye to her mother at the airport, the poet experiences the same pain and fear
she did as a child, but she masks her feelings with a smile that assures her mother that she will
return soon. So, even when the poet is terrified of old age, her smile gives her mother hope of
survival.

Q3. Imagine you are the poet’s friend. Write a dialogue exchange between yourself and
the poet where the latter confides in you about her fears and asks for your advice. What
would your advice be to face her fears, to ignore them or something else? (CBSE QB,
2021)
Ans.
Poet: Hi, how are you doing?
Friend: I am good, but you are not your usual self. What happened? You seem lost somewhere
else
Poet: I met my mother over the weekend. She is just sixty-six but was looking older than her age.
Friend: Oh, they all look like that. My father is only fifty-nine but he already looks like seventy.
Poet: Not only that, but her health was also looking deteriorated. I had to shift over here due to
professional work. It was a pain leaving her alone at home. I have not spent enough time with her
lately. There is so much I want to discuss with her, but don’t have time
Friend: Don’t worry, she will be well. We all seem afraid of the impending truth. But, come on,
face your fears boldly. Take a week’s off and spend time with her. At least, you will not regret
later in life.
Poet: But, my boss will not allow me to take off. You know the work pressure we have right now
at the office
Friend: Don’t worry, I will take care of that. I will work overtime for a couple of days and cover up
for you.
Poet: Thanks dear, you are truly a friend indeed. I will talk to boos in the morning. Thanks and
good night
Friend: So, cheer up now! All will be well. Good night.

Q4. Analyze the concept of losing our dear ones on account of old age in the context of
the poem.
Ans.The poem ‘My Mother at Sixty-Six’ captures the natural complexities of the human mind, as
well as the universal fear of losing our parents. Aging is an unavoidable part of human life that
we must accept regardless of the pain it causes in our hearts. The poet discusses her mother,
who is getting older and has a pale and weak face. Her mother, who is sixty-six years old, is
depicted as an elderly woman in need of rest. The poet recalls how, even as a child, she was
terrified of losing her mother. Her fear has evolved over time into a fear of losing her mother to
death. Her attention is diverted by her mother’s failing health, but she smiles, expressing her
desire to see her soon.

Q5. In the last line of the poem, ‘My Mother at Sixty-six’, the word ‘smile’ is repeated three
times. What is its significance ?
Ans.Even after attempting to distract her from the fact that her mother was aging, the poet
couldn’t help but notice her mother’s fading face. She is afraid that this is the last time she will
see her mother. However, the poet chose to conceal her fear from her mother. The poet uses the
word “smile” three times in the final line to emphasize that, while she is afraid of losing her
mother and is distressed by their separation, she does not let it show on her face. She smiles to
persuade herself and her mother that they will meet soon.

Q6. What are the main ideas combined in the poem ‘My Mother at Sixty- six’
Ans. In this poem, the poet details what her mother looks like at the age of 66. She also shares
her pain at seeing her deteriorate so much. It was her last Friday morning at home when she
looked up at her mother as she drove to the airport. The poet was not only injured but also
shocked to see her sleeping with her mouth open. She became all the more worried as she
looked pale, shriveled and withered like a corpse. To distract himself from this pain and suffering,
she looked outside and saw young trees and children. She understood in them life, vigor and
vitality. Then to airport security. A similar old age was reflected in her pale body. She compared
her to a late winter month and realized that it was due to old age. The poet smiled at her to see
her again and left. The poem was an example of the pain caused by old age and separation.

Q7. In the poem “My Mother at Sixty-six,” how does the poet convey the nuance of human
relationships?
Ans. In the poem ‘My Mother at Sixty-six,’ the poet Kamala Das depicts a close relationship
between a mother and a daughter with such sensitivity that the reader is moved by similar
emotions. The poem is written in one continuous sentence and depicts a single thread of thought
interspersed with real-world sights and sounds that connect to the main idea of old age and
death. The poet is about to leave the airport with her elderly mother. Her heart is gripped by the
agony of losing her mother to death, but she suppresses it. The fear in her heart is hidden by a
smile on her face, and she leaves knowing she will see her mother again.

Q8. Read the following and answer the question that follows.
“but all I said was, see you soon, Amma,
all I did was smile and smile and smile…………….”
It is always painful to depart from our loved ones. Our hearts bleed but lips smile. Nothing is
more difficult than to wear an artificial smile, notwithstanding the tragic fact that there may not be
another meeting with the loved person. Death is the ultimate goal of life.
After reading the above lines and the poem ‘My Mother at Sixty-Six’, do you feel that death
should be accepted silently and there is no use crying over something inevitable? Or do you feel
that sentiments don’t understand the nature of death and sadness can’t cease? Justify your
answer.
Ans. According to me, Death should be accepted silently because it is unavoidable and our
minds are aware of this. However, our hearts are unaware of something that is unavoidable. It
understands emotional language. It understands how to laugh and cry. We all care about those
close to us. Love is a beautiful emotion and the foundation of life. We are heartbroken when
someone we care about dies. Our mind understands that death is the ultimate goal of life, but our
sadness is natural. Similarly, the author is aware that this is most likely her last meeting with her
mother. She is depressed, and her smile is an attempt to hide it. She can’t stop loving her
mother, and she can’t stop mourning her mother’s departure and impending death.

Q9. Bring out the poetic devices used in the poem.

Ans. The poem “My Mother at Sixty-Six” is structured into a one-sentence frame with commas.
This shows one chain of thought that runs through.
In her poem, My Mother’s Sixty-six, Kamla Das employs imagery to convey her main point: aging
is natural, and we all have to go through it at some point in our lives. We should not be
concerned about aging because it is a natural process. The poet employs imagery to convey the
concepts of death and youth. “Trees sprinting, happy kids spilling.” This is explained by the poet
by comparing her mother’s old age to trees and young children. Similes like “ashen as a corpse’s
face,” “as a late winter’s moon.” are used. The poet compares her mother’s old age to a corpse
and the moon in winter. They are symbols of hopelessness and darkness. It refers to the
symptoms of death caused by old age. The body and ashes have arrived at the cremation
facility. The poem reflects the poet’s fear of losing her mother, which no one wants. She uses
words and phrases like “doze, open-mouthed,” “wan, pale as a late winter’s moon,” and “wan,
pale as a late winter’s moon” to describe these as signs of aging.
Young trees and children are personified by the poet. The young trees grow quickly because
children are active and represent youth, whereas their mother’s face is pale, ashy, and corpse-
like. Her youth is fleeting, and she will soon be old like her mother. In My Mother at Sixty-six, the
metaphor “children spilling” is used. A child’s action represents youth, while her mother
represents old age. Youth and children are similar in that they are both active and not in the state
of dormancy like her mother.

Q10. Imagine the mother gets to know of the poet’s persona’s fears. Write a letter, as the
mother, telling the daughter why she must not dwell on these fears. (CBSE QB,2021)
You may begin this way:
Pallipuram
Cochin, Kerala
22 August ‘60
My dear Kamala,
I am writing to you because when you left me at the airport, I felt something wasn’t right.
Judging by how little you spoke that day ………………………. ………………………………………
(continue)…………………………………
With love Amma
Ans.
Pallipuram
Cochin, Kerala
22 August ‘60
My Dear Kamala,
I’m writing to you because something didn’t feel right when you dropped me off at the airport,
judging by how little you said that day. I understand you were attempting to conceal your fears.
You are afraid that you will lose me and that I will die soon. You can put your worries to rest, my
child, because I am in the prime of my health. I am actively performing my daily chores and am
not becoming tired; I am looking forward to meeting you soon. If everything goes as planned, I’ll
be shitting near you in about a month.
Having said that, my child, you must recognise that death is the ultimate truth of life. The one
who is bom must perish. We will all face this fate sooner or later. As your guide and mentor, I
would advise you to face this truth boldly, as it will be realized in my case as well. Remember,
when that day comes, I want you to cherish the happy times we shared and move on with your
life, not mourn. I look forward to seeing you soon.

With love Amma

English Keeping Quiet Question Answers Poem 2 –

Extract Based Questions
Extract-based questions are of the multiple-choice variety, and students must select the correct
option for each question by carefully reading the passage.

A. “For once on the face of the Earth

let’s not speak in any language,
let’s stop for one second,
and not move our arms so much.
It would be an exotic moment
without rush, without engines,
we would all be together
in a sudden strangeness.” (CBSE QB, 2021)

1. The poet uses the word “let’s” to _______

A) initiate a conversation between the poet and the readers.
B) invite readers as part of the poem’s larger call to humanity.
C) welcome readers into the world of the poem and its subject.
D) address readers as fellow members of the human race.
Ans. B) invite readers as part of the poem’s larger call to humanity.
2. Margaret Atwood said, “Language divides us into fragments, I wanted to be whole.”
Choose the option that correctly comments on the relationship between Margaret
Atwood’s words and the line from the above extract – “let’s not speak in any language”
A) Atwood endorses Neruda’s call to not speak in any language.
B) Atwood justifies Neruda’s request to not engage in any speaking.
C) Atwood undermines Neruda’s intent to stop and not speak in any language.
D) Atwood surrenders to Neruda’s desire for silence and not speak in any language.
Ans. A) Atwood endorses Neruda’s call to not speak in any language.
3. Why do you think the poet employs words like “exotic” and “strangeness”?
A) To highlight the importance of everyone being together suddenly for once.
B) To emphasize the frenetic activity and chaos that usually envelops human life.
C) To indicate the unfamiliarity of a sudden moment without rush or without engine.
D) To direct us towards keeping quiet and how we would all be together in that silence.
Ans. B) To emphasize the frenetic activity and chaos that usually envelops human life.
4 Choose the option that correctly matches the idioms given in Column A with their
meanings in Column B.

Column A Column B

1. On the face of the earth (i) In existence

2. What on earth (ii) To do all possible to accomplish something

3. Move heaven and earth (iii) To express surprise or shock

4. The salt of the earth (iv) To be good and worthy

A) 1 – (i); 2 – (iv); 3 – (iii); 4 – (ii)

B) 1 – (i); 2 – (iii); 3 – (ii); 4 – (iv)
C) 1 – (ii); 2 – (i); 3 – (iv); 4 – (iii)
D) 1 – (iv); 2 – (ii); 3 – (iii); 4 – (i)
Ans. B) 1 – (i); 2 – (iii); 3 – (ii); 4 – (iv)
B. “Perhaps the Earth can teach us
as when everything seems dead
and later proves to be alive
Now I’ll count upto twelve
and you keep quiet and I will go.” (All India 2013)

1. What does the Earth teach us?

Ans. The Earth teaches us how new life springs from dead remains, and how there is life under
apparent stillness.
2. What does the poet mean to achieve by counting up to twelve?
Ans. The poet wants to achieve peace by counting up to twelve. He wants us to introspect in a
moment of silence.
3. What is the significance of ’keeping quiet’?
Ans. Keeping quiet doesn’t mean just not speaking. It means that we should avoid all activities
which hurt nature and, in turn, hurt us.
4. What is always alive, even when everything seems to be dead?
Ans. The Earth is always alive, even when everything else seems to be dead. There is always
some activity going on in nature beneath its apparent stillness.

C. “If we were not so single-minded

about keeping our lives moving,
and for once could do nothing,
perhaps a huge silence
might interrupt this sadness
of never understanding ourselves
and of threatening ourselves with death.” (CBSE QB, 2021)

1. Look at the images given below. Choose the image to which the above extract can be
seen as an appropriate response.

A) Option (i)
B) Option (ii)
C) Option (iii)
D) Option (iv)
Ans. D) Option (iv)
2. What do you think is the mood of the poet in the above extract?
A) gloomy, cynical
B) reflective, inspired
C) introspective, aware
D) critical, demotivated
Ans. C) introspective, aware
3. Pick the option that DOES NOT complete the given sentence suitably, as per the
extract.
Threatening ourselves with death __________
A) feeds on the fear of death.
B) challenges the finiteness of life.
C) keeps us rushing through life.
D) makes us restless and impatient.
Ans. B) challenges the finiteness of life.
4. What might the “huge silence” signify?
A) melancholy
B) understanding
C) discomfort
D) flexibility
Ans. B) understanding
D. “For once on the face of the Earth
let’s not speak in any language,
let’s stop for one second,
arid not move our arms so much.” (Delhi 2012)

1. Why does the poet want us to keep quiet?

Ans. The poet wants us to keep quiet in the hope that the moment of tranquility might help us in
finding the answers to our problems.
2. What does he want us to do for one second?
Ans. The poet wants us to be silent and motionless for one second.
3. What does he mean by “not move our arms”?
Ans. The poet means that we should be in a state of total stillness with no physical activity at all.
4. How can this moment of stillness help us?
Ans. This moment of stillness can provide us physical and mental rest, during which our mind
will be at peace. We can analyze our actions and their consequences and avoid rash or
thoughtless behavior.

E. “It would be an exotic moment

without rush, without engines,
we would all be together
in a sudden strangeness.” (Foreign 2011)

1. What will happen if there is no rush or running of engines?

Ans. It will be an ecstatic moment of tranquility without rush or running of engines.
2. Why would it be called an exotic moment?
Ans. It would be called an exotic moment because it would be an instance of universal peace
and brotherhood. In that moment, all of us would initiate introspection through meditation and the
whole world will be enveloped in quietness.
3. According to the poet, how would we feel at that moment?
Ans. We would feel very strange at that moment, because at that time everyone will have a
feeling of oneness with their fellow human beings. It will be a new feeling altogether.
4. Name the poem and the poet.
Ans. The poem is ‘Keeping Quiet’, and the poet is Pablo Neruda.

F. What I want should not be confused with total inactivity.

Life is what it is about;
I want no truck with death. (CBSE Sample Paper 2018)

1 Name the poem and the poet of the above stanza.

Ans. This extract is taken from the poem ‘Keeping Quiet’ written by ‘Pablo Neruda’.
2 What does the poet mean by “inactivity‟?
Ans. This poem emphasises the importance of remaining calm and quiet. The poet believes that
all of our problems stem from the frantic pace of our lives. However, his point of view should not
be confused with complete inactivity. His idea of ‘keeping quiet’ is silence, not inactivity, lethargy,
or idleness.He advises everyone to take a break from the world’s frenzy. He believes that
observing stillness every now and then helps people to spring back into action.
3 Explain what life is all about, according to the poet?
Ans. The poem’s title alludes to the significance of silence. The poem emphasises the
significance of self-examination and introspection. It is also an appeal for global peace. It
conveys the message of finding peace and tranquillity through leisurely introspection.
4 What is the ultimate expectation of the poet from all human beings?
Ans. Taking a break from our monotonous routine by ‘counting up to twelve’ and ‘keeping still,’
according to the poet, will help us better understand ourselves and those around us. The silence
will help us understand the importance of peace and tranquillity in this age of futile activities. As a
result, they will aid us in introspection and self-analysis.

G. Those who prepare green wars,

wars with gas, wars with fire,
victory with no survivors,
would put on clean clothes
and walk about with their brothers in the shade,
doing nothing. What I want
should not be confused with total inactivity. (CBSE Sample Paper 2022)
1 Which of these uses the same poetic device as used in the third line of the extract?
A. The boy ran at lightning speed.
B. The little joys of life are necessary.
C. The absence of his presence was felt.
D. The hooter buzzed when the shooter shot.
Ans. C. The absence of his presence was felt
2 From the extract, identify the line or phrase that suggests the following: Humans are
involved in the exploitation of natural resources.
Ans. “Those who prepare green wars, wars with gas, wars with fire, victory with no survivors…”
3 Based on the extract, which of these best describes the poet?
(i) prudent
(ii) spiritual
(iii) visionary
(iv) methodical
A. (i) and (ii)
B. (i) and (iii)
C. (ii) and (iv)
D. (ii), (iii) and (iv)
Ans. B. (i) and (iii)
4 Complete the sentence appropriately in no more than TWO words. When the poet says
that people who participate in wars ‘would put on clean clothes’ he means that they
should __________.
Ans. start afresh/adopt peace.
5 Based on the extract, select the correct option with reference to (1) and (2).
(1) Not every win is a triumph.
(2) Self reflection is crucial to evolution.
A. (1) is the result of (2)
B. Both (1) and (2) are true
C. Both (1) and (2) are false
D. (1) is a hypothesis based on (2)
Ans. B. Both (1) and (2) are true
6 Which of these is an appropriate title for the extract?
A. Standing in Solitude
B. Looking for Prosperity
C. The Desire for Renewal
D. The Road to Uncertainty
Ans. C. The Desire for Renewal

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Class 12 English Keeping Quiet Question Answers
(including questions from Previous Years Question
Papers)
In this post we are also providing important short answer questions from the poem
Keeping Quiet for CBSE Class 12 Boards in the coming session. These questions have been
taken from previous years class 12 Board exams and the year is mentioned in the bracket along
with the question.

Q1. Which is the exotic moment that the poet refers to in ‘Keeping Quiet’? (Delhi 2014) OR
What does Neruda mean by ‘an exotic moment without rush’ in his poem, ‘Keeping
Quiet’?(CBSE Sample Paper 2020)
Ans: Pablo Neruda longs for the exotic moment when humanity will be free of greed, cruelty, and
harmful behavior. Unnecessary rush and noise have caused discomfort and issues. The poet
wishes that the noise of engines and machines would stop and that peace and tranquility would
reign.
Q2. What is the sadness the poet refers to in the poem ‘Keeping Quiet’? (All India 2011,
2014)
Ans: The poet’s sadness in the poem ‘Keeping Quiet’ is the sadness of never understanding
oneself and nature. Humans are frequently involved in a frenzy of activities and have no time for
introspection, threatening themselves with death or destruction as a result. This darkens their
paths with distress and misery.
Q3. How, according to Neruda, can keeping quiet change our attitude to life?
(Compartment 2014)
Ans: According to Neruda, when people on Earth consider remaining silent for a period of time,
they will experience an exotic moment in which they will be able to forget their differences and a
sense of camaraderie will prevail among them. When man goes silent for a while, most of his evil
thoughts vanish. Man will realize his utter stupidity and refrain from harmful and destructive
activities if he remains silent.
Q4. Why shouldn’t we “speak in any language” and “not move our arms so much”?
Ans: People all over the world communicate in a variety of languages. They engage in pointless
debates and squabbles. The majority of these debates result in destructive wars. The poet
encourages people to refrain from speaking in any language. They must speak from the bottom
of their hearts. So far, men have only moved their arms to harm others. As a result, the poet
wishes that they not move their arms as much and allow these arms to rest for a moment. He
asks the people to allow humanity to develop a sense of mutual understanding.
Q5. What does the poet ask the fisherman and the man collecting salt to do? What does
he exactly want to convey by this?
Ans: Pablo Neruda is opposed to all forms of violence. He addresses the fishermen and asks
them not to harm the whales that live in the polar seas. He also requests that the person
gathering salt at the seashore stop working and instead look at his hands, which are hurt and
wounded as a result of overwork.
Q6. What alternative does Pablo Neruda suggest instead of indulging in wars?
Ans: Pablo Neruda suggests that instead of fighting, the people must take to the streets in their
finest gowns with their then-brothers. They should go for a walk under the shade of the trees and
do nothing. This would foster a sense of community among them.
Q7. How does the poet distinguish ‘stillness’ from ‘total inactivity’? Why does Neruda say
“I want no truck with death”?
Ans: Pablo Neruda prefers silence or stillness, in which we sit still and quietly for a while. Total
inactivity, on the other hand, is a permanent suspension of work. It is the same as death. The
terms ‘stillness’ and ‘total inactivity’ should not be used interchangeably. Life continues as usual.
There can be no such thing as total inactivity. Therefore, by saying “I want no truck with death”
the poet refuses to associate with or confront death.
Q8. Justify the title ‘Keeping Quiet’.
Ans: The poem’s title is both appropriate and logical. It implies the importance of quiet
introspection. People all over the world are hyperactive and constantly on the move. Their
actions have caused untold misery and suffering. According to the poet, they will benefit greatly
from remaining silent. It will protect them from a variety of harmful and violent activities.
Furthermore, it will aid in reflecting on man’s fate and creating a sense of mutual understanding
among humans.
Q9. What are the different kinds of war mentioned in the poem that the poet is against?
(All India 2013)
Ans: The poet is opposed to all wars. He wishes for an end to the war. As stated in the poem,
the poet is opposed to wars started by people, such as green wars (which destroy the
environment by cutting down trees), wars with gasses (which pollute the environment with the
industries and factories), wars with fire (which destroy and kill others with weapons), and wars
with no survivors (i.e., the powerful people who defeat others by killing them)
Q10. Why does the poet feel that we should not be so single-minded?
Ans: People are usually single-minded and obstinate. They choose to concentrate on just one
thing. They want to continue living their lives and are constantly on the move in their pursuit. The
poet wishes that they were not so preoccupied with constantly being on the move. They need
some respite or rest. They, too, require peace or silence.
 Q11.Give two reasons why, according to Pablo Neruda, is ‘keeping quiet’ is essential to
attaining a better, more peaceful world. (CBSE Sample Paper 2022)
Ans.There are two reasons why, according to Pablo Neruda, “keeping quiet” is necessary for
achieving a better, more peaceful world:
1. Quietness causes us to pause and reflect on our actions.
2. It enables us to recognise that many of our mindless actions are causing us harm rather than
bringing us happiness.

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Class 12 Keeping Quiet Long Answer Questions Poem 2
Q1. In a world that is constantly running after ‘more’ chasing the next new thing, would it
be fair to think of Neruda’s call as merely a fanciful idea? (CBSE QB, 2021)
Ans: Yes, Neruda’s call is good, but it is more fanciful in character. However, if we are able to
remain silent, it will have two effects on life in and around the sea.
1. The fisherman will avoid killing whales, or any other animal for our own benefit for a while by
remaining silent.
2. Additionally, salt gatherers will have time to heal their injured hands, tend to them and not
overwork and simply rest for a while.
3. Moreover, man will not harm nature during this period of silence, and both humans and nature
will have time to attend to and heal their wounds.
As a result, everyone will have more time to reflect on themselves, nature or the past and the
decisions taken by them.
Q2. The world has become a global village, and people across boundaries, nationalities
and communities are now connected to one another. With the advancement of
technology, and the advent of social media, do you think that the task of keeping quiet, as
envisaged by Neruda, has become easier or more complicated? Justify your stance.
(CBSE QB, 2021)
Ans: World has become a global village due to transport and communication. People from all
over the world are linked together by means of transportation and communication. People use
communication technology to stay mentally connected to each other even when they are not
physically connected. They use various modes of transportation such as buses, cars, airplanes,
and ships to travel from one location to another for business or to visit loved ones. In today’s
world, social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, WhatsApp, Snapchat, and others have
grown into massive platforms that connect people all over the world.
Due to this advancement in technology and the advent of social media, the task of keeping quiet
both may and may not be achievable depending on the way people perceive it. People
understanding the need of introspection and reflecting on their actions, thoughts, etc. can
through the use of social media support and promote the idea of “keeping quiet”. However, on
the contrary, social media, technology and the world itself, for some people can prevent them
from “keeping quiet” thus making it a fanciful idea and more complicated to achieve in nature.
Therefore, people’s perception towards the idea and understanding of introspection and “keeping
quiet” would be an important factor in determining if the task would be complicated or easy to
achieve.
Q3. Analyze the importance of the dramatic count to twelve in ‘Keeping Quiet.’
Ans: The poem begins with the poet’s request that a count to twelve be followed by a moment of
silence. The poet associates silence with the desire for a moment of togetherness. The poet’s
request to count to twelve is repeated in the first and last stanzas, creating a personal space of
silence in the poem. The poet seeks this moment of silence to reflect and meditate, to share a
sense of camaraderie and oneness.
The poet wishes that the fishermen would not kill the whales at this precise moment, and that the
men gathering salt would rest their injured hands. The threat of global annihilation would be
eliminated. The poet wishes that at this moment we would have time for self assessment and
introspection. The number ‘twelve’ is dramatically significant in representing our clock time, a
real-life moment.
Q4. How is the poet’s appeal for keeping quiet different from absolute sluggishness ?
Answer: In his plea for silence, the poet emphasizes the importance of self-introspection in a
man’s life. As we face the sadness of death, he encourages us to seek a moment to understand
ourselves and analyze our actions. The poet’s request for a moment of silence or stillness should
not be misinterpreted as a request for inactivity or complete sluggishness.
He seeks a moment of silence in which people are not preoccupied with work and can reflect on
their actions. This moment of silence will aid them in overcoming their difficulties and flaws. The
poet even believes that the Earth will enlighten men in this process, because silence is only a
moment captured where there is activity under apparent stillness.
Q5. Analyze the poetic devices that the poet adopts in the poem.
Ans: The poet has used repetition in the lines ‘let’s not speak’ and ‘let’s stop for one second’ to
create a poetic effect of emphasis on his readers. Even the phrases ‘count to twelve’ and ‘count
up to twelve’ are symbolic, as the poet requests silence a second time. The word ‘twelve’
represents a unit of time that represents our clock time in real life, capturing a moment from our
current time. The phrases ‘hurt hands’ and ‘clean clothes’ are examples of alliteration. The word
‘brothers’ in the poem implies brotherhood, and synecdoche is used by using a concrete object
rather than an abstract concept. The poet also uses metaphor in ‘put on clean clothes,’ as he
wants the warmongers to shed their blood-soiled clothes (i.e., stop fighting) and put on new
clothes (meaning, follow brotherhood).
Q6. Elucidate and bring out what Pablo Neruda wants to convey through the following :
(i) Life is what it is about.
(ii) As when everything seems dead and later proves to be alive.
Ans: (i) Through “ Life is what it is about”, the poet encourages everyone to observe silence and
stand still for a while. He wishes to use this time for quiet introspection and to foster greater
human understanding. He does not imply death’s stillness and silence. After all, life must go on
and that normal and necessary activities cannot be put on hold.
(ii) Through “As when everything seems dead and later proves to be alive”, the poet tries
explaining to people that seasons change on a regular basis in nature. When it snows in the
winter, the earth appears to be dead, with no greenery, no flowering, and no movement of birds
and beasts. However, this situation is deceptive. After about a month, the earth demonstrates
that it is better prepared for new life. The poet thus, has related this to the change in nature over
the course of the year or our lives.
Q7. Bring out the underlying message and appeal of Pablo Neruda’s poem ‘Keeping
Quiet’. Why does he call upon all the people to keep quiet ?
Ans: Keeping Quiet is a poem with a historical significance. The poet calls on all people around
the world to observe a brief moment of silence, to suspend all activities, to stand still, and to
quietly reflect on what they are doing to kill themselves. The poet discusses the need to halt all
war-related activities and attack animals for our personal gains. The poet believes that it will be
an odd experience for the people to be free of tension and mad rush.” They will have time to get
to know their neighbors and their families’ needs. However, the poet is not advocating for total
inactivity. After all, life must go on in a quiet manner. Even when everything in nature appears to
be dead, the seeds of life remain alive in the earth.
Q8. Explain the theme of the poem “Keeping Quiet” by Pablo Neruda.
Ans: Silence and stillness is the central theme of the poem “Keeping Quiet” by Pablo Neruda.
Adopting silence and stillness in our lives, even if only for a short time, is essential, according to
the poet, because it allows us to reflect on ourselves and the world. This will put us on a
meaningful path in life, first on an individual level and then on a societal level. When we begin
working towards self-actualization, our focus shifts from the outside to the inside. As a result,
individuals and nations will live in peace and harmony. However, for this to happen, the poet’s
recommended silence and stillness must not be mistaken for complete inactivity. The poem also
has a secondary theme, i.e., Introspection. We can only achieve the perfect Utopian world
described in the poem through introspection and reflection.
Q9. It could be said that the poem ‘Keeping Quiet’ presents the poet’s philosophy for a
different kind of world. If you were asked to highlight elements of Neruda’s vision that
resonate in your specific social, political and cultural context, which three main ideas
would you engage with? Use relevant textual details to support your analysis. (CBSE QB,
2021)
 Ans: Pablo Neruda imagines a beautiful world in which silence and stillness become a regular
part of one’s life, understanding of oneself reduces environmental conflict and war.
Neruda’s vision can be adopted into a social, political and cultural context in the following ways:-
1. The first is that Neruda’s suggestion of remaining silent can be applied in a social context. Under
any circumstances, all professionals would be taught to be still, silent, and calm.
2. Second, Neruda’s suggestion of stillness can be suggested to political parties who can
incorporate them into their political doctrine.
3. Third, on a cultural level, stillness and silence can be adopted through a grassroots movement
beginning with public Stillness Clubs (where people go to stay still and be silent), which can then
be replicated in businesses and neighborhoods.
4. Ideally, stillness and silence should be taught at home and from childhood itself and from there,
it should spread all over the world.

Q10. The last two years of school tend to be about planning for life after school. This can
be motivating, overwhelming or encouraging for some, and stressful for others.
Write a diary entry recording your thoughts on the following:
● Neruda’s ideas in ‘Keeping Quiet’ as a guide in this situation.
● Thinking differently about your decisions with reference to Neruda’s ‘Keeping Quiet’.
(CBSE QB, 2021)
Ans:
23rd of July, 20XX
Dear Diary,
There are numerous things I want to do and accomplish in my life after finishing school. I have
many goals, the two most significant are to be content and successful.
I want to be happy because if I am not happy in life, no amount of money or fame will matter. For
me, success is simply doing something I’ve always wanted to do. That in and of itself is quite an
accomplishment. First and foremost, I intend to attend college and law school. I’m not sure what
will happen after this or even if this will happen because I can’t really plan out my life. There are
numerous obstacles that could prevent me from achieving my objectives.
Obtaining admission to a good college and law school are two of the challenges. Becoming a
lawyer necessitates extensive study, hard work, and determination. But, life frequently takes
unexpected turns. What I intend to do now may not be what I intend to do in a few years. I intend
to achieve my goals. Keeping quiet will always help me to regain my composure, give me the
strength to reflect, and make the best decisions for myself and society.

(Your Signature)

English A Thing of Beauty Question Answers Poem 3 –

Extract Based Questions
Extract-based questions are of the multiple-choice variety, and students must select the correct
option for each question by carefully reading the passage.

A. Therefore, on every morrow, are we wreathing

A flowery band to bind us to the earth,
Spite of despondence, of the inhuman dearth
Of noble natures, of the gloomy days,
Of all the unhealthy and o’er darkened ways
Made for our searching: yes, in spite of all,
Some shape of beauty moves away the pall
From our dark spirits. (CBSE QB, 2021)

1. In which of the following options can the underlined words be replaced with
‘despondence’?
A) The man paced about the room showing
B) A chat with a close friend can take away our
C) I was in jitters, seeing the boy trapped in the trench.
 D) Being dogged is what led him to negotiate the challenges.
Ans. B) A chat with a close friend can take away our blues.
2. Pick the option that is NOT an example of ‘unhealthy and o’er darkened ways.’
A) A person who is egoistic and looks down upon others.
B) A person who seeks God’s help for all his problems.
C) A person who uses evil ways to deceive others.
D) A person who is corrupt and manipulative.
Ans. B) A person who seeks God’s help for all his problems.
3. Pick the option that enumerates what ‘noble natures’ would include.
1. selflessness
2. insensitivity
3. enthusiasm
4. aggression
5. meticulousness
6. judiciousness
A) 1, 4 and 5
B) 2, 3 and 6
C) 2, 4 and 5
D) 1, 3 and 6
Ans. D) 1, 3 and 6
4. Based on the poem, choose the correct option with reference to the two statements
given below.
Statement 1: The earth without the beautiful things is a place full of despair and
unpleasantness.
Statement 2: The ornate band created by human beings; ushers hope in their lives.
A) Statement 1 is true but Statement 2 is false.
B) Statement 1 is false but Statement 2 is true.
C) Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 can be inferred.
D) Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 cannot be inferred.
Ans. C) Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 can be inferred.

Class 12 A Thing of Beauty Important Question Answers

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B. Rich with a sprinkling of fair musk-rose blooms;
And such too is the grandeur of the dooms
We have imagined for the mighty dead;
All lovely tales that we have heard or read;
An endless fountain of immortal drink,
Pouring unto us from the heaven’s brink. (CBSE QB, 2021)

1. Pick the quote that matches best with— ‘And such too is the grandeur of the dooms we
have imagined for the mighty dead.
A) In the night of death, hope sees a star, and listening love can hear the rustle of a wing.
B) When a great man dies, for years the light he leaves behind him, lies on the paths of men.
C) Endings are not always bad, most times they’re just beginnings in disguise.
D) Cowards die many times before their death; the valiant never taste of death but once.
Ans. B) When a great man dies, for years the light he leaves behind him, lies on the paths of
men.
2. Pick the option that refers to what ‘an endless fountain of immortal drink’ suggests.
1. inspirational deeds of great men
2. a ceaseless series of dreams
3. an infinite source of weakness
4. an elixir of life for upliftment of the soul
5. an eternal source of delight
6. a boundless gift of love
A) 1, 4 and 5
B) 2, 3 and 5
C) 1, 2 and 6
D) 2, 4 and 6
Ans. A) 1, 4 and 5
3. Pick the option that pairs the TRUE statements based on the extract, from the list
below.
1. The bushes with fragrant flowers lift the human spirit and bring joy.
2. Death is inevitable and everyone faces it no matter how powerful.
3. Immortality is achieved by man when he drinks the nectar of joy.
4. Legendary heroes and their heroic deeds instill inspiration in us.
A) 1 and 2
B) 2 and 4
C) 1 and 4
D) 2 and 3
Ans. C) 1 and 4
4. Pick the option that uses the same literary device as the ‘mighty dead’.
A) sleepless nights
B) deafening silence
C) glaring lights
D) time is a thief
Ans. B) deafening silence
C. And such too is the grandeur of the dooms
We have imagined for the mighty dead;
All lovely tales that we have heard or read;
An endless fountain of immortal drink,
Pouring unto us from heaven’s brink (Foreign 2009, Delhi 2014)
1. Who are the ‘mighty dead’? How do we know about them?
Ans. The mighty dead are our forefathers, who were great in their own right, and the dead
emperors. We learn about them by reading or hearing heroic stories about their numerous
sacrifices. They are a source of inspiration for everyone who goes reads them.
2. What images does the poet use to convey that beauty is everlasting?
Ans. ‘Endless fountain’ of joy is the image that has been used to convey that beauty is
everlasting. Things of beauty are an eternal source of motivation, a precious gift from heaven
which gives us infinite pleasure and delight.
3. What is the effect of the immortal drink?
Ans. The immortal drink that nature’s endless fountain pours on us gives us immense joy and
pleasure.
4. Write the words from the extract which mean
● stories
● magnificence
Ans. 1) tales, 2) grandeur

D. “Some shape of beauty moves away the pall

From our dark spirits,”
1. How does beauty help us when we are burdened with grief?
Ans. Whenever we look at a beautiful object, we are filled with comfort and joy. When we are
burdened with grief, a thing of beauty comes as a ray of hope, and makes us forget our sorrow
and suffering at least for some time.
2. Explain; “Some shape of beauty.”
Ans. Beauty is an abstract idea and has no specific shape. The poet here means beauty in some
form or some beautiful object which pleases us.
3. Identify the figure of speech in the above lines.
Ans. The above lines present an example of metaphor. Our souls are steeped in sadness and
disappointment which are compared to a pall or shroud covering the dead.
4. Why are our spirits referred to as ‘dark’?
Ans. Our spirits are dejected due to extreme sadness and disappointment which may be the
result of our own evil actions. So, the poet refers to them as dark, because of the hopelessness
we feel.

E. A thing of beauty is a joy forever Its loveliness increases,

it will never Pass into nothingness;
but will keep
A bower quiet for us, and a sleep
Full of sweet dreams, and health, and quiet breathing.
Therefore, on every morrow, are we wreathing
A flowery band to bind us to the earth (CBSE Sample Paper 2022)

1 Choose the option that displays the same poetic device as used in the first line of the
extract.
A. I’m as happy as I can be.
B. Life is a roller coaster ride.
C. Nature is God’s gift to us.
D. The dazzling divas enchanted all.
Ans. B. Life is a roller coaster ride.
2 What does the phrase ‘a bower quiet’ indicate?
A. serenity
B. morality
C. superiority
D. diversity
Ans. A. serenity
3 The benefits of a thing of beauty for humans include .
(i) healthy body
(ii) calm mind
(iii) struggle-free life
(iv) better relationships
(v) hope to carry on
Choose the most appropriate option.
A. Only (v)
B. (i), (ii) and (v)
C. (i), (iii) and (iv)
D. (ii) and (iv)
Ans. B. (i), (ii) and (v)
4. Answer in ONE word. When the poet says that ‘a thing of beauty’ will never pass into
nothingness, he means that it is __________.
Ans. eternal
5 On the basis of the extract, choose the correct option with reference to the two
statements given below.
(1) We are surrounded by beautiful things.
(2) Beautiful things provide us joy.
A. (1) can be inferred from the extract but (2) cannot.
B. (2) can be inferred from the extract but (1) cannot.
C. Both (1) and (2) can be inferred from the extract.
D. (2) is the reason for (1) and can be inferred from the extract.
Ans. B. (2) can be inferred from the extract but (1) cannot.
6 Which of the following is an apt title for the extract?
A. Full to the Brim with Joy
B. Beauty Galore
C. Live Life King Size
D. Hope Floats
Ans. D. Hope Floats
F. ‘Gainst the hot season; the mid forest brake,
Rich with a sprinkling of fair musk-rose blooms;
And such too is the grandeur of the dooms
We have imagined for the mighty dead;
All lovely tales that we have heard or read;
An endless fountain of immortal drink,
Pouring unto us from the heaven’s brink. (CBSE Sample Ppaer 2022)

1 Based on the extract, complete the following analogy:

have heard: alliteration :: ……………………………..: oxymoron
Ans. mighty dead
2 Which of these best indicates the phrase ‘mid forest brake’?
A. hidden pond
B. mass of shrubs
C. canopy of trees
D. sparkling stream
Ans. B. mass of shrubs
3 According to the extract, which of these bring joy to human life?
(i) shady trees
(ii) delightful drinks
(iii) fragrant flowers
(iv) changing seasons
(v) enchanting stories
A. (i) and (iii)
B. (iii) and (v)
C. (i), (iv) and (v)
D. (ii), (iii) and (iv)
Ans. B. (iii) and (v)
4 Complete the given sentence appropriately. When the poet mentions ‘an endless
fountain of immortal drink’, he refers to __________.
Ans. the eternal joy that beautiful things give.
5 Based on the extract, choose the correct option with reference to the two statements
given below.
(1) Beautiful things are blessings from the divine.
(2) Beauty is an outcome of imagination.
A. Only (1) can be inferred from the extract.
B. Only (2) can be inferred from the extract.
C. Both (1) and (2) can be inferred from the extract.
D. Neither (1) nor (2) can be inferred from the extract.
Ans. A. Only (1) can be inferred from the extract.
6 Which of these best describes the tone of the poet in the given extract?
A. nostalgic
B. generous
C. passionate
D. contemplative
Ans. D. contemplative
Class 12 English A Thing of Beauty Question Answers
(including questions from Previous Years Question
Papers)
Q1. Which objects of nature does Keats mention as sources of joy in his poem, ‘A Thing
of Beauty’? (All India 2015)
Answer: Nature is a thing of beauty and pleasure in and of itself. The sun, the moon, old and
young trees, daffodil flowers, small streams with clear water, fern masses, and the blooming of
musk-roses are among them. All of them are works of art. They are constant sources of
happiness and pleasure.
Q2. What are the things that cause miseries, sorrows and sufferings to man? (All India
2015)
Answer: All of man’s ills are the result of his own actions. We are plagued by malice and distress
because we lack human qualities, which renders us inhuman. Our lives become bleak. We foster
unhealthy and evil behaviors. All of these things bring man misery, sorrow, and suffering.

Q3. How do we bind ourselves to the earth every morning?

Answer: The relationship between man and nature is emphasized by all romantic poets. Keats
believes that man has an unbreakable bond with nature and the earth. Man is captivated by the
earth’s splendors. Every natural object is a source of beauty and happiness. Every day, we
weave a flowery wreath. This flowery band ties us to the earth’s beauty.

Q4. How does a thing of beauty provide us shelter and comfort? (CBSE 2013)
Answer: John Keats was a master of sensuous imagery, which he describes in the poem by
explaining how a thing of beauty provides us with shelter and comfort. Nature provides us with
rare and beautiful things. It keeps the bower peaceful for us. A bower is a relaxing spot in the
shade under a tree. A beautiful thing also gives us peace and security. We enjoy a good night’s
sleep that is full of sweet dreams, good health, and peaceful breathing.

Q5. What rich bounty has heaven given us?

Answer: Heaven has blessed us with unending beauty in nature, which encircles and beautifies
our lives forever whenever we think of it. Beauty, like an eternal fountain from the edge of
heaven, showers us with joy in perpetuity.

Q6. What spreads the pall of despondence over our dark spirits? How is it removed? (All
India 2013)
Answer: According to the poet, man is the source of his problems. His own personality and
actions make his life a living hell. He experiences misery and pain. His dark spirits are shrouded
in gloom. A thing of beauty gives man a ray of hope. Among these sorrows and sufferings, some
shape of beauty works wonders. It is a thing of beauty that lifts the gloom from our dark spirits.

Q7. Why and how is ‘grandeur’ associated with the ‘mighty dead’? (Delhi 2011)
Answer: “The mighty dead” are people who have done brave and noble things. They live on in
the stories and legends, which have now become a source of beauty for us. They will be
rewarded with “grandeur” on doomsday or judgment day because of the noble life they have led.

Q8. How does Keats show his unhappiness with his fellow human beings?
Answer: Keats expresses his discontent by stating that there are only a few people of noble
character who rise above minor differences by being magnanimous and generous. As man is
selfish and self-centered, there is a scarcity of such noble souls on our planet. Life’s trials and
tribulations cast a pall of despondency over our dark spirits. We can remove it by making life
worthwhile by enjoying the beautiful things that nature has bestowed upon us, but we are eager
to destroy them.

Q9. How is a thing of beauty lovelier than all the lovely tales we have heard and read?
Answer: Nature’s beautiful things are a boon to humanity. The magnificence and beauty of
natural objects outweigh the grandeur of dooms imagined for our mighty dead forefathers.
Therefore, It is more beautiful than all the lovely stories we have heard or read.

Q10. List the things that cause suffering and pain.

Answer: Many things cause us to suffer and be in pain. “The greatest source of our suffering” is
malice and disappointment. Another is the absence of noble qualities. Our unhealthy and evil
ways also give rise to a plethora of problems and sufferings. They lower our spirits. They act as a
pall of sadness in our lives.
Q11.Rationalize why Keats uses the metaphor ‘an endless fountain of immortal drink’ in
his poem, A Thing of Beauty. (CBSE Sample Paper 2021)
Ans. Keats employs a metaphor, an endless fountain of immortal drink because things of beauty
are like the immortal drink of the gods, which never runs dry. Just as the endless fountain of
God’s love is an elixir of life, so are things of beauty. They constantly provide humans with
everlasting joy, motivation and bliss.
Class 12 A Thing of Beauty Long Answer Questions
Poem 3
Q1. ‘A Thing of beauty is a joy forever.’ This is what John Keats says in the poem. Do you
think in the present times of acute stress and violence, proximity to beautiful things can
lead man to everlasting happiness? Discuss.
Answer: The message is that a thing of beauty is a joy forever. It exists outside of time. It will
never be forgotten. Beauty has the ability to dispel darkness and negativity, and it can help us
survive when there is a “lack of noble nature” or when we are surrounded by evil. It is beneficial
to one’s health. It promotes restful sleep. Furthermore, it emphasizes the fact that beauty is not
only physical but also spiritual, and it appears to flow down from heaven as an ‘immortal drink’
made for man.
In these times of extreme stress and violence, the objects of beauty take on even more
significance. When our minds are anxious and troubled, the sight of beautiful things can provide
us with temporary comfort and happiness. Appreciating beautiful things is synonymous with
appreciating God.
The presence of beautiful things draws us closer to the creator, who possesses the ultimate
power to provide us with relief from all anxieties and troubles. As a result, it is certain to bring
everlasting happiness at all times.

Q2. Write in brief the central theme of the poem.

Answer: ‘A Thing of Beauty’ is a passage from John Keats’ poem ‘Endymion: A Poetic
Romance,’ which is based on a Greek legend. In this poem, John Keats, a romantic poet,
discusses love, beauty, and youth. The poem, in fact, reflects his attitude towards beauty. The
poet believes that beauty is permanent and provides us with the same pleasure over and over. It
brings us eternal happiness and never fades away. Beauty is very important in our lives because
it helps us to stay happy and joyful in this sad, mundane world.
A thing of beauty is a constant source of joy. There is beauty everywhere. It has the potential to
change people’s lives. It also emphasizes the therapeutic quality of beauty, i.e. its ability to
remove negativity. It can be any object, nature, stories, or even our forefathers’ noble deeds.

Q3. ‘Beauty is best left undefined’. Support your position on this statement with your
rationale, coupled with ideas in the poem. (CBSE QB, 2021)
Answer: The poem, ‘A Thing of Beauty,’ by John Keats, conveys the message that beauty is
best left undefined, that beauty is everywhere, and that beauty is also found upon examination.
The theme of this work is primarily concerned with nature. Keats describes the effects that
beauty can have on a person. This beauty, according to Keats, never fades and its impact is felt
long after it is gone. Keats emphasizes that beauty is “Made for our seeking,” implying that some
people will find beauty in places where others will not.
I do believe that beauty should be best left undefined. Since, the definition and the form of
beauty differs from person to person, i.e. It is subjective in nature, making standards or norms for
beauty would tarnish its real value and thus, undermine its effects.
The theme of this poem is that beauty can be found anywhere and, when appreciated, can be
used to lift one’s spirits during difficult times.

Q4. How do things of beauty enrich us? (Delhi 2015)

Answer. Our desire to live on this planet is greatly influenced by the presence of beautiful things
that provide us with a constant source of joy. The earth is depressing and sad without beauty.
There is cruelty, selfishness, and mean behavior everywhere, as well as a lack of good-natured
people. This beauty, a creation of God, cleanses our minds and souls of sadness and darkness.
We have a reason to live longer when we are wrapped up in the beautiful flowery band or this
strong connection with nature. The sun, the moon, and old and young trees are all sources of joy
for us. The trees sprout and spread their branches to provide shade for the sheeps.
Daffodils bloom in the green environment in which they grow. The clear and small streams of
water provide a cooling refuge from the hot season. With their lovely musk roses, the dense
mass of ferns looks magnificent. All of these things enrich our lives to such an extent that we
cannot live without them.

Q5. How does Keats’ poem, A Thing of Beauty appeal richly to the senses, stimulating the
reader’s inner sight as well as the sense of touch and smell? (CBSE Sample Paper 2021)
Answer: In his poem ‘A thing of Beauty,’ John Keats has made extensive use of imagery to help
the reader connects with the poem. His descriptions delight us by appealing to all of our senses.
The bower’s cooling comfort, the beautiful daffodils dancing in the wind in its green surroundings,
the refreshing stream that babbles as it falls, and the musk rose blooms among the mid forest
brake all evoke our imagination, sense of hearing, touch, and smell.
The Sun, Moon, and both old and young trees provide a serene atmosphere. The endless
fountain of immortal joy is described as beautiful.
All the above things in the poem appeal richly to the senses, stimulating the reader’s inner sight
as well as the sense of touch and smell, much to the want of Keats.

Q6. Artists, singers and musicians have a different perception of beauty as compared to
people who are in other professions. Comment. (CBSE QB, 2021)
Answer: Beauty is perceived and responded to by artists, singers, and musicians. It could be
awe and amazement, wonder and joy, or something else. It could be compared to a “peak
experience” or an epiphany. It could happen while watching a sunset or admiring the view from a
mountaintop—the list is endless. It is a type of experience, an aesthetic response to the
representational qualities of the thing, whether manmade or natural. Artists, singers, and
musicians value the core beauty because they understand the effort and time required to
become one of these skilled performers.
Other professions, on the other hand, have a visual appeal for beauty; they value outward
beauty.

Q7. Analyse the myth of Endymion in the context of the poem.

Answer: The poem is an excerpt from John Keats’ first epic poem, ‘Endymion,’ which was
published in 1818. The title of this poem is inspired by the first lines of Endymion. Endymion was
a handsome young shepherd who lived on Mount Latmos in Asia Minor, according to Greek
mythology. He had feelings for the moon goddess Selene, also known as Cynthia.
In his admiration, the enchanted shepherd resolved to seek her out. This poem echoes the
shepherd’s pleasure as he wanders through the forests, taking in the beautiful sights of nature.
The poem expresses how beauty can instill joy in the soul that lasts forever.
Nature with its beauty, the sun, the moon and daffodils give life a new meaning and significance.

Q8. We have often heard the phrase: ‘Beauty is skin deep’. In spite of that, we often see
people idolizing actors and celebrities who are good looking and attractive. You have a
conversation regarding this with your friend who believes that physical beauty defines a
person. Write down that conversation. (CBSE QB, 2021)
Answer:
F 1: Some people find the phrases “beauty is only skin deep” and “beauty is in the eye of the
beholder” to be highly divisive. Those quotes are all based on how others perceive them.
F 2: There are people who express themselves through darker clothing, and then there are those
who always wear trendy and in-style clothing.
F 1: You have to like yourself first for anyone else to like you. Relating to ‘Beauty is only skin
deep’ means that people only look at what’s inside that counts.
F 2: People judge people. You look around and think by the clothes or hairstyle this girl wears
that she can either not afford them or chooses to be that way. So you think she is poor. Doesn’t
she deserve your attention too? I think that beauty is overrated.
 F 1: People need to look at your mind, your intelligence. Being pretty is not all it’s cracked up to
be. Since being pretty has got me a lot of compliments, it also brings in the bad sides of beauty.
F 2: Beauty is all about what is on the inside of a person. Inside beauty consists of a person’s
love for themselves, love for others, and personality. These characteristics contribute to the
development of a beautiful person. Being beautiful entails being aware of your own beauty.
F 1: Another way to show beauty is to be able to love others. Giving to others, even those who
mistreat you, is a beautiful thing. It takes courage and sometimes strength to show love to others
when the person is not treating you as you should be treated.

Q9. Analyse the poetic devices used in the poem.

Answer: The poem is full of images and employs a variety of poetic devices. There is alliteration
in the phrase “simple sheep,” which refers to humanity. Metaphor has been used. In Moves the
pall,’ our souls steeped in sadness and hopelessness are compared to dead bodies wrapped in a
shroud.
In the metaphor of the ‘immortal drink,’ a feeling of immense joy is compared to a drink that flows
down from heaven’s rim like an endless fountain. The words ‘noble natures,’ ‘simple sheep,’ and
‘cooling convert’ all contain alliteration. The poem is filled with imagery, such as ‘flowery bands,’
‘daffodils with the green world they live in,’ ‘clear rills,’ and ‘endless fountain.’

Q10. You are a blogger who loves to record travel stories. You recently visited a
picturesque location and you were enamored by its beauty. Pen down the post for your
blog giving vivid descriptions of the natural beauty of this place. Supplement your writing
with Keats’ ideas about beauty. (CBSE QB, 2021)
Answer: Every location has its own distinct characteristics. Some places are known for their
scenic beauty, while others are known for their architectural marvels.
I’ve been to a lot of historical and tourist attractions. It is said to be the closest thing to heaven on
Earth. It has the accolade of being “The Switzerland of India”. Kashmir is one of the most
beautiful places on the planet, with snow-capped mountains and lush green plains and valleys. It
has been a popular tourist destination both within the country and abroad.
Kashmir is well-known for its diverse flora and fauna. The location is very important for tourists
who want to visit religious sites. It is the home of the gods and goddesses. Its serpentine rivers,
huge calm lakes, mighty waterfalls, and long lines of cypress trees are among the delightful
tourist attractions.
The scene of Dal Lake with houseboats and their reflections in the still waters of the lake is
breath-taking. The cave of Amarnath, where Lord Shiva’s temple is located, is a wonderful place
for religious tourists. It is crowded during the months of September and October because it is
located at a height of 15,000 feet.
Kashmir is abundantly endowed with some of India’s best hill stations.
The emotion still lingers on me as if it were yesterday. Perhaps John Keats was correct when he
said, “A thing of beauty is a joy for all time.”

English A Roadside Stand Question Answers poem 4 –

Extract Based Questions
Extract-based questions are of the multiple-choice variety, and students must select the correct
option for each question by carefully reading the passage.
A. “No, in country money, the country scale of gain,
The requisite lift of spirit has never been found,
Or so the voice of the country seems to complain,
I can’t help owning the great relief it would be
To put these people at one stroke out of their pain.
And then next day as I come back into the sane,
I wonder how I should like you to come to me
And offer to put me gently out of my pain.” (CBSE QB, 2021)

1. The ‘country money’ contextually here refers to

A) money kept aside for rural development.
 B) wealth accumulated by the whole country.
C) meager income earned by the countryside people.
D) riches collected by the ancestral farmers over time.
Ans. C) meager income earned by the countryside people.
2. Pick the option that mentions elements justifying the monetary aspect as the ‘requisite
lift of spirit’.
1. confidence
2. ego
3. self-esteem
4. status
5. fame
A) 1, 2, 4
B) 2, 4, 5
C) 1, 3, 4
D) 1, 3, 5
Ans. D) 1, 3, 5
3. Choose the correct option with respect to the two statements given below.
Statement 1: The poet is agitated and depressed.
Statement 2: The poet realizes the futility of his thought about giving up
A) Statement 1 can be inferred but Statement 2 cannot be inferred.
B) Statement 1 cannot be inferred but Statement 2 can be inferred.
C) Statement 1 and Statement 2 can be inferred.
D) Statement 1 and Statement 2 cannot be inferred
Ans. B) Statement 1 cannot be inferred but Statement 2 can be inferred.
4. Choose the option that correctly paraphrases the given lines from the above extract.
“I can’t help owning the great relief it would be
To put these people at one stroke out of their pain.”
A) The poet wants to kill the impoverished people.
B) The poet feels that death is better than living such a miserable life.
C) The poet wants to eliminate poverty from society.
D) The poet states that it is important that these people become rich
Ans. B) The poet feels that death is better than living such a miserable life.
B. “The polished traffic passed with a mind ahead,
Or if ever aside a moment, then out of sorts
At having the landscape marred with the artless paint
Of signs that with N turned wrong and S turned wrong…” (CBSE QB, 2021)
1. The polished traffic in particular refers to the
A) sophisticated city dwellers in their vehicles.
B) shiny cars that the poet sees on the road.
C) extremely affluent people living in the neighborhood.
D) civilized manner in which traffic is coordinated.
Ans. A) sophisticated city dwellers in their vehicles.
2. ‘The urban and educated people have their minds ahead.’
Choose the option suggesting the correct meaning behind this line.

1 2
The people are well educated and knowledgeable The people are concentrating on the road that is
about the condition of the poor. ahead in order to drive safely.

3 4
The people are preoccupied only by the thoughts The people are focused on their goal of bettering
of their lives and nothing else. the country.

A) Option 1
B) Option 2
C) Option 3
D) Option 4
Ans. C) Option 3
3. What do the urban rich feel about the S and N signs that have been painted wrong?
A) Tolerant
B) Amused
C) Sympathetic
D) Annoyed
Ans. D) Annoyed
4. The passers-by find the sign artless but the landscape ___________.
A) animated
B) aesthetic
C) amusing
D) ancient
Ans. D) ancient
C. “The little old house was out with a little new shed
In front at the edge of the road where the traffic sped,
A roadside stand that too pathetically pled,
It would not be fair to say for a dole of bread,
But for some of the money, the cash, whose flow supports
The flowers of cities from sinking and withering faint.” (2009 Outside Delhi, 2010 Compartment
Delhi)

1. Where was the new shed put up? What was its purpose?
Ans. A little house at one side of the road was extended and a shed was added to it to put up a
road stand. It was set up to attract passersby to buy things from them so that they could earn
some money.
2. Why does the poet use the word ‘pathetic’?
Ans. By using the word ‘pathetic’ the poet emphasizes on the fact that the condition of the shed
was most humble and that it presented a rather pitiable sight.
3. Explain: ‘too pathetically pled’.
Ans. It was as if by putting up the shed the owner was desperately pleading to the rich city folks
to stop by at his roadside stand and buy things from there so that they could earn some extra
money.
4. Who are referred to as ‘the flower of cities’?
Ans. ‘The flower of the cities’ here refers to the rich and wealthy city-dwellers who can afford the
best things.

D. “Or beauty rest in a beautiful mountain scene,

You have the money, but if you want to be mean,
Why keep your money (this crossly) and go along.
The hurt to the scenery wouldn’t be my complaint
So much as the trusting sorrow of what is unsaid” (2010 Outside Delhi)

1. What attraction does the place offer?

Ans. The place offers a scenic view of the beautiful mountains.
2. What should one do if one wants to be mean?
Ans. If one wants to be mean he can keep his money and move on ahead.
3. What does the poet not complain about?
Ans. The poet does not complain about the landscape which has been spoiled because of the
artless painting done on the building.
4. What do you think is the real worry of the poet?
Ans. The poet’s real worry is the unexpressed sorrow of the people who have put up the
roadside stand.

E. “Sometimes I feel myself I can hardly bear

The thought of so much childish longing in vain,
The sadness that lurks near the open window there,
That waits all day in almost open prayer
For the squeal of brakes, the sound of a stopping car,
Of all the thousand selfish cars that pass.” (2004 Delhi, 2011 Outside Delhi)
1. What cannot be borne by the poet and why?
Ans. The poet cannot bear the thought of how these country folks are lured with false promises
which are never going to be fulfilled because he feels genuinely sad about so much deprivation
to these innocent people.
2. What is ‘childish longing’?
Ans. Like children, these country folk have many unfulfilled wishes and desires. So they keep
their windows open expecting some prospective customers to turn up so that some good fortune
can fall into their share.
3. Why the longing has been termed as ‘vain’?
Ans. The longing has been termed as ‘vain’ because it will never be fulfilled.
4. Why do the people driving in the cars stop sometimes?
Ans. The people driving in the car stop sometimes either to enquire about the way to their
destination or to ask for a gallon of gas if they ran short of it.

F. It is in the news that all these pitiful kin

Are to be bought out and mercifully gathered in
To live in villages, next to the theatre and the store,
Where they won’t have to think for themselves anymore,
While greedy good-doers, beneficent beasts of prey,
Swarm over their lives enforcing benefits
That are calculated to soothe them out of their wits,
And by teaching them how to sleep they sleep all day,
Destroy their sleeping at night the ancient way. (CBSE Sample Paper 2022)

1 What is the tone of the poet in the above lines?

(i) aggressive
(ii) tolerant
(iii) sarcastic
(iv) resigned
(v) sentimental
Choose the most appropriate option.
A. Only (i)
B. (ii) and (iii)
C. (i), (iv) and (v)
D. Only (iii)
Ans. D. Only (iii)
2 Identify the phrase from the extract, that suggests the following: No one bothers to take
‘their’ consent before pushing the promise of a better life, their way.
Ans. “enforcing benefits”
3 What quality of the villagers can be inferred through these lines?
A. gullible
B. futuristic
C. hypocritical
D. ambitious
Ans. A. gullible
4 Complete the following analogy correctly. Do NOT repeat from used example.
greedy good doers: alliteration ::…………………………….. Oxymoron
Ans. beneficient beasts of prey
5 On the basis of the extract, choose the correct option with reference to (1) and (2) given
below.
(1) The city dwellers make promises for the betterment of the villagers.
(2) The city dwellers have ulterior motives.
A. (1) is true but (2) is false.
B. (2) is true but (1) is false.
C. (2) is the reason for (1).
D. Both (1) and (2) cannot be inferred from the extract.
Ans. C. (2) is the reason for (1).
6 Fill the blank with an appropriate word, with reference to the extract. ‘… calculated to
soothe them out of their wits’ implies that ‘them’ are being.
Ans. manipulated

Class 12 English A Roadside Stand Short Question

Answers (including questions from Previous Years
Question Papers)
In this post we are also providing important short answer questions from the poem A
Roadside Stand for CBSE Class 12 Boards in the coming session. These questions have been
taken from previous years class 12 Board exams and the year is mentioned in the bracket along
with the question.
Q1. Why do the people who run the roadside stand wait for the squeal of brakes so
eagerly? (2003 Delhi)
Ans: The “squealing of brakes” indicates that a vehicle has come to a halt at their roadside
stand. It gives them hope that the city folk have stopped by to buy something from their roadside
stand and that they will receive some city money.
Q2. Explain: “soothe them out of them wits” with reference to the poem ‘The Roadside
Stand’. (2005 Delhi)
Ans: The powerful men approach the country folk, making false promises of better living
conditions and a better life. These simple and innocent country folk are soothed and satisfied by
their false claims. They fail to see through their crookedness and selfishness and end up falling
in their trap.
Q3. Why does Robert Frost sympathize with the rural poor? (2009 Delhi, 2011 Comptt.
Outside Delhi)
Ans: Robert Frost is in excruciating pain over the plight of the rural poor, who are ignored and
neglected by rich politicians. The government and the ruling party are unconcerned about their
well-being. They dupe them by making false promises, which they then fully exploit for their own
selfish gain, thus making Frost sympathize with the rural poor.
Q4. What news in the poem ‘A Roadside Stand’ is making its round in the village? (2013
Outside Delhi)
Ans: The news is spreading about the resettlement of poor, rural people who will be relocated to
villages near the theater and store. They would be close to cities and would no longer have to
worry about themselves.
Q5. Why do people at the roadside stand ask for city money?
Ans: Unlike the city dwellers, the people who run the roadside stand are poor and destitute. As
a result, they request city funds in order to live a happy and prosperous life. This much-needed
city money can provide them with the life that the ruling party promised them.
Q6. What does Frost himself feel about the roadside stand?
Ans: The poet is distressed to witness the stand owners’ interminable wait for prospective
buyers. He is heartbroken over the ‘childish longing in vain’ of those who have set up the
roadside stand.
Q7. Why does the poet refer to the roadside stand as pathetic?
Ans: The poet describes the roadside stand as pathetic because it appears awkward and
unappealing to the eye. Naturally, it failed to entice the sophisticated city dwellers who drove by
without looking at it twice.
Q8. Who do these pitiful kin refer to? Why will they be mercifully gathered in?
Ans: These pitiful kin are the villagers who have been evicted from their homes and lands. They
will be mercifully gathered in villages near the theater and shops.
Q9. What is the party in power keeping from these rural poor?
Ans: The government and civic authorities, who appear to help but actually harm them, are
relocating them to the outskirts of towns near theaters and shopping centers, which is a great
disservice to the people. They will thus be deprived of their voices, freedom, and ability to solve
their problems.
Q10. What kind of support do the country folks expect to receive from city dwellers?
Ans: Country people, who are cash-strapped, seek financial assistance and patronage from city
dwellers. They believe that if they had some money, they could live a much better and more
prosperous life.
Q11.State any two characteristics that can be inferred about the people from the
countryside in The Roadside Stand.(CBSE Sample Paper 2022)
Ans. Unlike the city dwellers, the people who run the roadside stand are poor. As a result, they
request city funds in order to live a happy and prosperous life. They trust others very quickly.
Trust is kept in the promises made by the political parties but later, these powerful people are
proved to be beneficial beasts of prey and greedy good-doers.
Top
Class 12 A Roadside Stand Long Answer Questions
Poem 5
Q1. Write in brief the summary of the poem.
Ans: Poet Robert Frost felt the pain of the poor farmers who set up their little shed stalls to sell
various products grown or manufactured by them, but the poet observed that, despite thousands
of visitors and vehicles, no one was interested in their offerings. The selfish travelers, on the
other hand, criticized their presentations and passed through proudly.
Poet is offended by their behavior and attitude and has a complaint for the survival of these poor
farmers because they, too, want to be a part of the flow of the economy, which is currently
dominated by city dwellers only. They, too, have the right to live comfortably in accordance with
their ideals. They are, however, always used for the selfish motives of greedy good-doers.
They use deception to impose their benefits on poor farmers, mislead them, and destroy their
ancient culture and way of life. They only want to seize their fields and homes. Poet is tired and
finds his expectations disappointed, too much disappointed by the financial situation and struggle
of the distressed peasants who sit, pray, and wait for the cars to stop at least to inquire or to buy
but the self-centered egoistic persons use the empty place to turn their vehicles or occasionally
stop to ask about the path or fuel.
Farmers’ rage is understandable; they respond by irritatingly questioning the common sense of
the proud persons.
Poet realizes that no miracle can be seen, that he is unable to console the impoverished farmers,
and that it is impossible to relieve the villagers’ suffering in a single stroke. When he comes to,
he realizes that his plea to help them is futile because no one is willing to help them.
Q2. Through this poem, Frost underlines his sympathy for the rural people in opposition
to the uncaring capitalistic elite. Justify.
Ans: Robert Frost depicts the lives of the poor and disadvantaged while portraying the rich
urban as pitiless and indifferent.
On the one hand, he paints a pitiful picture of the lives of the poor who beg for financial help to
survive. They have no plans to grow their company. They seek assistance that political parties
have promised in their manifestos. Surprisingly, the products of these people are what allow city
dwellers to live their glamorous lives. They travel in sophisticated vehicles, oblivious to the
terrible plight of the poor, which cries out for attention. These self-absorbed city dwellers have
money but refuse to spend it.
They have bought the poor and collected them to live near the theater and store, not for their
benefit, but as a distraction from their reality. Frost refers to the city dwellers as ‘greedy good-
doers, beneficent beasts of prey’ as they drain the very life out of the poor. They swarm over
their lives like flies, attempting to defraud them for their own gain. They teach them ‘how to
sleep,’ lull them to sleep, and rob them of their peace in the process.
Q3. The rural-urban divide causes immense anguish to the poet. How does he express
this?
Ans: The poet is distressed by the poor’s miserable plight and their vain childish hope that one
day, at least one of the thronging cars will stop to buy their wares. The situation is depressing
because the poor rural folk are non-existent for city dwellers.
Frost advocates for these people. While the majority of the population lives in poverty, no amount
of material progress can lift them up. He would be relieved if these people were relieved of their
suffering. But, in his calmer moments, he realizes that it is not an easy task. Nonetheless, he
begs for assistance for these people in order to be relieved of his suffering.
Q4. Describe the miserable existence of the rural poor.
Ans: Rural residents have a very low standard of living. The poem’s sole roadside stand
demonstrates how uneducated and underprivileged they are. The unfortunate person who has
been waiting all day at his stand hopes that someone will stop and make at least a small
purchase. But no one comes to see him because the shed looks pitiful with its clumsy paintings,
and people driving expensive cars believe the stand detracts from the neighborhood’s aesthetic
appeal.
The government and the ruling class frequently publish fabricated news articles claiming that
they will provide financial and institutional assistance to poor farmers. They guarantee that these
patients will live near cities with easy access to every modern amenity and will not have to worry
about anything. But no one notices these jokes, which are all meant to deceive these helpless
people. The poet claims that the wealthy class disturbs the poor’s sleep in “the ancient way,” or
as is customary. As a result, the rural residents’ situation remains unchanged. They are still
behind, impoverished, ignorant, and lowly. Their miserable lives do not improve.
Q5. Elucidate on the theme of the poem “The Roadside Stand”.
Ans: The poem A Roadside Stand is the artist’s request for thought for the helplessly poor
individuals who work tirelessly yet see no progress in their lives. He expresses his anguish at
their pity and distress and seeks assistance and relief for them. He believes that someone will
work selflessly for their restoration and will not abuse them. With hardhearted clarity and
humanity, he draws out the complete disparity between the wealthy and the poor, implying that a
nation’s monetary prosperity is dependent on the equitable advancement of towns and urban
communities.
A Roadside Stand Summary is about the lives of low-income people. Furthermore, the author
contrasts the arduous lives of field dwellers with the inhumane lives of city dwellers. The city
dwellers do not pause to consider the deplorable state of the roadside. The city dwellers do not
consider the battles that these roadside stand vendors must endure in order to sell their wares.
|These needy people have no choice but to hope that passing vehicles will stop and buy their
wares. If a vehicle comes by, it is to check its bearings or to complain about something. The artist
empathizes with and identifies with these beleaguered individuals. This compassion is portrayed
powerfully in the depiction of the side of the road sheds.
Q6. Comment on the symbolic significance of ‘The Roadside stand’.
Ans: The roadside stand represents the farmers’ desire to enjoy the conveniences of city life. It
is a symbol of the lives of poor and destitute country people who struggle to live with the
thoughtless city dwellers who don’t even notice the roadside stand that these people have set up
to sell their wares on the side of the highway outside. It is also a symbol of hope for farmers, who
believe that passing cars will buy their produce and help keep cities from falling into disrepair.
However, no cars ever stop, and those that do stop only comment on how the construction
obstructs the view of the surroundings, or how badly painted the incorrectly pointed North and
South signs are, or to notice without interest the wild berries and squash for sale in the stand, or
the beautiful mountain scene.
The farmer tells the rich travelers that if they meant to be mean, they should keep their money,
and that the hurt to the view is not as important as the sorrow he feels from being ignored. He
only wants money so that he can enjoy the luxuries portrayed in movies and other media, which
are said to be denied to him by political parties. Frost goes on to say that, while these people
have benefactors who plan to relocate them to villages with easy access to the cinema and the
store, they are actually selfish and only help these “pitiful kin” to benefit themselves indirectly.
The altruists want to make these villagers completely reliant on them for all of their benefits and
comforts, robbing them of the ability to think for themselves and be self-sufficient. In that sense, a
roadside stand represents wealth or money, and the poor dream of becoming wealthy. It is also a
symbol of the past’s demise. The farmer’s house’s open windows appear to wait all day for the
sound of a car stopping to make a purchase. However, they are always disappointed because
vehicles only stop to inquire about the price, ask for directions, reverse, or ask for a gallon of gas.
Thus, the Roadside Stand represents the futile hope of poor people to become wealthy.
 Q7. Elucidate on the central idea of the poem.
Ans: In his poem “A Roadside Stand,” Robert Frost vividly depicts the plight of the rural people
which is also the central idea of the poem. The city dwellers driving through the countryside pay
little attention to the roadside stand or the people who run it. The poet has emphasized the
importance of balanced development of both.
The poor villagers wait all day on the roadside stand for the polished city traffic passing through
to stop for a while. They have put high-quality consumables on the market for them. But few of
the thousand selfish cars stop there. If anyone does it, it is for some reason other than to help the
poor.
The sadness of the trusting sorrow lurks on their faces. They believe their childish longing is
futile. The city dwellers lack a spirit of cooperation and concern for the rural poor. They, on the
other hand, seek their calculated benefits. Still, the poet hopes that the city dwellers will relieve
the poor villagers’ suffering by assisting them. In exchange, it will relieve the poet’s excruciating
pain.
Q8. What are the poetic devices used in the poem?
Ans: Majorly four poetic devices have been used in the poem. They are as follows:-
Transferred Epithet:
There are two examples of transferred epithet in “A Roadside Stand.”
1. ‘polished traffic’ refers to the city dwellers who pass by the countryside and sometimes they take
out a moment to scrutinize the surroundings around them.
2. ‘Selfish cars’ is yet another use of a transferred epithet. This refers to the car owners who do
stop at the roadside stand but to ask about the police or the gas stations.
Personification: “the sadness that lurks behind the open window there…” where sadness is an
example of personification. Sadness dwells in the windows of the farmers because they wait for
cars to stop and make a purchase.
Alliteration and Oxymoron: ‘Greedy good doers’ and ‘beneficent beasts of prey’ are examples
of both alliteration and oxymoron.

Q9. Imagine a car stops and actually buys from the roadside stand. Keeping in mind the
reaction you think the peasants would have, write a diary entry as the farmer describing
not only your immediate experience but also your after-thoughts on being able to earn
“city-money”. (CBSE QB, 2021)
You may begin this way:
Wednesday, 2nd March XX 9 PM
We had an unexpectedly good day today!…
Ans: Wednesday, 2nd March XX 9 PM
Dear Diary,
We had an unexpectedly good day today! … We finally had a buyer today, after months of
waiting. A red car whizzed by our stand, then abruptly applied the brakes. After a few seconds, it
began to reverse and came to a stop directly in front of our stand. The driver exited the vehicle.
He was a young man of about 25 years old. I could see that he was driving with his wife and a
small child. He inquired whether we sold soft drinks and chips. I showed him various chips. He
chose six packets at random. When I asked what kind of soft drink he wanted, he changed his
mind and asked if we had packaged fruit juice.
I informed him that all we had was Mixed Fruit Juice. He also purchased six tetra packs of fruit
juice. He also left a small tip because we didn’t have enough change. Finally, we got something
which the city people call ‘money. How I wish we could get some ‘city-money’ on a regular basis
to alleviate our suffering. I truly showered them with blessings.
(Your Signature)
Q10. Imagine a child from the farmer’s family migrates to the city for their education. As
the child, write back to your family telling them whether you would or would not want to
turn into a city-person. Use the context of the poem “A Roadside Stand” in mind to pen
down this letter.
You may begin this way:
12, Davidson County
23 January ‘XX
Dear mom
I have been thinking about the roadside stall lately. Now that I find myself surrounded by city-
people all the time, I think……………………………………..
With love
Jennifer
(CBSE QB, 2021)
Ans.12, Davidson County
23 January ‘XX
Dear mom
I have been thinking about the roadside stall lately. Now that I find myself surrounded by city-
people all the time, I think the life at the stall was difficult, but it was better off. In cities, it appears
that no one knows their next-door neighbours. Life is nothing but a mad dash for money here.
Backbiting friends try to take advantage of one another. Everyone appears to be only concerned
with personal gain. People help each other not out of courtesy, but out of obligation or the desire
to cash it later. I yearn to return to our roadside stall. We had to struggle between meals, but we
were content to spend time together.
With love
Jennifer
Q11. ‘The cry of not having money to do anything except carry on the business of making
bangles, not even enough to eat, rings in every home.’ (The Lost Spring) ‘
…far from the city we make our roadside stand and ask for some city money to feel in
hand’. (A Roadside Stand)
Create a conversation between a bangle maker and the owner of a roadside stand with
reference to the above extracts. You may begin the conversation like this: Owner of a
roadside stand: Your bangles are pretty. Tell me about your experience in this business.
(CBSE Sample Paper 2022)
Ans. Road side stand owner: Your bangles are lovely! Tell me about your experience in this
industry.
Bangle Maker: Thank you, but this is a time-consuming and risky endeavour. They say it’s our
Karam, and we can’t do anything about it.
Road side stand owner: Oh! If you all believe it is risky, why can’t you form a cooperative and
work as a team?
Bangle Maker: Oh no! Then the police will beat us up for doing something illegal!
Road side stand owner: Inform the appropriate authorities then!!
Bangle Maker: No, we’re trapped in a vicious circle of middlemen like bureaucrats, sahukars, and
others. I hope your company does better than mine.
Road side stand owner: Absolutely not! We wait all day, expecting someone to come and buy
from our stalls…
Bangle Maker: And you make money when they buy. Is this correct?
Road side stand owner:I really wish you were, because they only stop to complain about how
we’ve ruined the landscape with artless paint and to tell us about the signs N turned wrong S
turned wrong… Sometimes to turn the car or to ask for a gallon of gas that we do not sell visibly.
Bangle Maker: Oh my God, my father has gone blind from working in dark, dingy furnaces with
small glass pieces. Neither of our jobs is as simple as they appear.
Road side stand owner: You are right

English Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers Question Answers Poem 5

– Extract Based Questions
Extract-based questions are of the multiple-choice variety, and students must select the correct
option for each question by carefully reading the passage.
A. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow.
“Aunt Jennifer’s finger fluttering through her wool
Find even the ivory needle hard to pull.
The massive weight of Uncle’s wedding band
Sits heavily upon Aunt Jennifer’s hand.” (CBSE QB, 2021)
1. How would you describe Aunt Jennifer based on the above extract?
A) oppressed
B) malnourished
C) aging
D) diseased
Ans. A) oppressed
2. Uncle’s wedding band sits heavily on Aunt Jennifer’s hand because
A) it is an expensive and heavy ring.
B) She was married against her will.
C) she feels burdened in her marriage.
D) their relationship is lacking in love.
Ans. C) she feels burdened in her marriage.
3. Pick the option that displays the image which correctly corresponds to the type of task
Aunt is engaged in.

A) Option (i)
B) Option (ii)
C) Option (iii)
D) Option (iv)
Ans. B) Option (ii)
4. Which of the following is an example of an alliteration?
A) finger fluttering through the wool
B) upon Aunt Jennifer’s hand
C) ivory needle hard to pull
D) massive weight of Uncle’s wedding band
Ans. A) finger fluttering through the wool

B. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow.
“When Aunt is dead, her terrified hands will lie
Still ringed with ordeals she was mastered by.
The tigers in the panel that she made
Will go on prancing, proud and unafraid.” (CBSE QB, 2021)
1. Aunt Jennifer’s plight is best explained by her hands, they hold both her freedom and
the instrument of her imprisonment.
Choose the option that best explains the above statement, as per the extract.
A) Aunt Jennifer’s hands are terrified, but when she is dead, her tigers will roam free.
B) Aunt Jennifer knits her desires, but is overpowered by the wedding ring she wears.
C) Aunt Jennifer’s tigers are proud and unafraid, but she is mastered by ringed ordeals.
D) Aunt Jennifer makes panels of tigers when she has time from her responsibilities.
Ans. B) Aunt Jennifer knits her desires, but is overpowered by the wedding ring she wears.
2. Which of the following CANNOT be inferred from the given extract?
A) Aunt Jennifer’s tigers will keep her alive in everyone’s memory.
B) Aunt Jennifer feels oppressed and constricted in her marriage.
C) Even in death, Aunt Jennifer cannot escape patriarchal subjugation.
D) Aunt Jennifer’s tigers prance as a lasting symbol of her desires
Ans. A) Aunt Jennifer’s tigers will keep her alive in everyone’s memory.
3. What makes the tigers “proud and unafraid”?
A) They embody the grandeur and supremacy of animals in the wild.
B) They symbolize authority and are ‘topaz denizens of green’.
C) They represent Aunt’s repressed desires for freedom and power.
D) They are a product of Aunt’s imagination and colonial experience.
Ans. C) They represent Aunt’s repressed desires for freedom and power.
4. Choose the option that DOES NOT reflect the movement implied by ‘prancing’.
A) bounding
B) frolicking
C) strutting
D) shuffling
Ans. D) shuffling

C. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow.
Aunt Jennifer’s tigers prance across a screen,
Bright topaz denizens of a world of green
They do not fear the men beneath the tree,
They pace in sleek chivalric certainty (Delhi 2010; Modified)

1. How are Aunt Jennifer’s tigers described?

Ans. Aunt Jennifer’s tigers have been described as golden yellow in colour. They prance
fearlessly across a screen in sleek chivalric certainty.
2. Why are they described as denizens of a world of green?
Ans. They have been called denizens of a world of green because they are the natives of dense
green forests.
3. Why are they not afraid of the men?
Ans. They are not afraid of men because they are brave, strong, fearless and full of confidence.
4. What are her tigers symbolic of?
Ans. Her tigers are symbolic of Aunt Jennifer’s desire for freedom. They are also symbols of
strength and self-confidence.

D. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow.
“When Aunt is dead, her terrified hands will lie.
Still ringed with ordeals she was mastered by.
The tigers in the panel that she made
Will go on prancing, proud and unafraid.” (Delhi 2012,CBSE Sample Paper 2018)

1. Who is the aunt mentioned here?

Ans. The aunt mentioned here is Aunt Jennifer, the protagonist of Adrienne Rich’s poem ‘Aunt
Jennifer’s Tigers’. She is a woman going through unpleasant experiences in her married life.
2. Why is she “ringed” with ordeals?
Ans. She is ‘ringed’ with ordeals because marriage has brought with it a host of family
responsibilities by which she is ‘ringed’ or surrounded. She feels so burdened by her marital
constraints that they seem like an ordeal to her.
3. What is the difference between her and the tigers?
Ans. Aunt Jennifer is quite weak and submissive, whereas the tigers are strong, bold and
powerful. She is bound by the constraints of her married life, while the tigers are free to move
about in the green woods.
4. Why has Aunt Jennifer created the tigers so different from her own character?
Ans. The tigers created by Aunt Jennifer are an expression of her desire to free herself from the
constraints of her married life. She wants to be bold and fearless like her tigers.

Class 12 English Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers Short Question

Answers (including questions from Previous Years
Question Papers)
Q1. What is suggested by the phrase, ‘massive weight of Uncle’s wedding band?
Ans: Her marriage is described by the wedding band. It is ‘massive’ on her hand because the
weight of her marital responsibilities has made her feel subjugated and unable to express herself
freely.

Q2. Why do you think Aunt Jennifer created animals that are so different from her own
character? What might the poet be suggesting, through this difference?
Ans: Aunt Jennifer is designing tigers, which represent strength, fearlessness, and confidence.
These are the characteristics that Aunt Jennifer lacks. Aunt Jennifer’s suppressed desires to
become bold, fearless and free from oppression are represented by these tigers. The poet
wishes to imply that these qualities are required for women to fight their oppressors.

Q3. What will happen to Aunt Jennifer’s tigers when she is dead?
Ans: Aunt Jennifer’s tigers will continue to prance around even after her death, as she created
them on the tapestry. This means that art outlasts human life. It also demonstrates that her
desire for freedom from male dominance will last forever, even after she dies.

Q4. How are Aunt Jennifer’s tigers different from her? (All India 2014, CBSE Sample Paper
2019)
Ans: Aunt Jennifer designed the tigers on the tapestry. They do, however, stand in stark
contrast to their creator. Aunt is weak, meek, and submissive, and she is afraid to express her
feelings openly, whereas the tigers are strong, fearless, and confident. They are fearless
creatures who fear no one, not even men.

Q5. What are the difficulties that Aunt Jennifer faced in her life? (Delhi 2014)
Ans: Aunt Jennifer faced oppression at the hands of patriarchal society. Her husband had
subjugated her, and the wedding band weighed heavily on her hand. Her hands fluttered even
when she was carrying something as light as knitting needles and wool.

Q6. How does Aunt Jennifer express her bitterness and anger against male dominance?
(Compartment 2014)
Ans: Aunt Jennifer is too afraid to openly oppose the oppression of which she is a victim. She
uses her art to express her resentment and rage at male dominance. On her tapestry, she
depicts tigers, which are symbols of bravery, fearlessness, and strength. Her tigers are wild and
free of any kind of enslavement.

Q7. How do ‘denizens’ and ‘chivalric’ add to our understanding of the tigers’ attitudes?
(All India 2012)
Ans: ‘Denizens’ refers to inhabitants of a specific location, while ‘Chivalric’ refers to honour,
bravery, and fearlessness. The tigers successfully occupy their territory and are fiercely
protective of it. They live on their own terms and have no fear because they consider themselves
to be superior in their domain.

Q8. Why do you think Aunt Jennifer’s hands are fluttering through her wool in the second
stanza? Why is she finding the needle so hard to pull? OR
How does the poet use the image of ‘fingers fluttering through the wool’ to highlight Aunt
Jennifer’s victimisation? (CBSE Sample Paper 2020)
Ans: Her fingers are fluttering, and she is having difficulty pulling the needle because she is
weak and afraid. She is traumatized by her marital ordeals and a male-dominated society which
has continuously oppressed her and her thoughts and ideas.

Q9. Why did Aunt Jennifer choose to embroider tigers on the panel? (Delhi 2012, All India
2009)
Ans: Tigers represent power and bravery. Aunt Jennifer is under a lot of pressure. Her marital
life has been a source of trauma for her. She has an inner desire to be free of oppression, which
she expresses through her art.

Q10. Of what or of whom is Aunt Jennifer terrified with in the third stanza?
Ans: Aunt Jennifer is terrified of her husband, who rules over her in their marriage. She is a
victim of exploitation at the hands of male-dominated society, specifically her own husband.

Q11. How can we say that marriage was a compromise for Aunt Jennifer? Support your
response with two justifications. (CBSE Sample Paper 2022)
Ans. Aunt Jennifer is said to be unable to escape her marriage, despite her needlework. Despite
the constraints of her marriage, the image of her stitching tigers into her tapestry can be
interpreted as a symbol of her attempts to assert her independence and individuality. This implies
that Aunt Jennifer is trapped in a relationship she did not choose, and that her marriage is a
trade-off in terms of her freedom and autonomy. Also, the description of Aunt Jennifer’s husband
as a “terrible” man who “weighs” upon her also supports the idea that her marriage is a
compromise.

Q12.Adrienne Rich chose to express her silent revolt through her poem, Aunt Jennifer’s
Tigers, just as Aunt Jennifer did with her embroidery. Explain. (CBSE Sample Paper 2021-
22)
Ans. Adrienne Rich’s poem criticises the traditional institution of marriage that was prevalent in
her times, implying that it oppressed women. Similarly, Aunt Jennifer, who is a victim of an
unhappy marriage due to a dominating husband, chooses to embroider fearless, free tigers to
express her desire for freedom. Both use their creative outlets to express their dissatisfaction
with societal expectations.

Q13. ‘It is only when we are fearless that we begin to create.’ Does this statement hold
true in the case of the poem, Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers? Support your stance with evidence
from the text. (CBSE Sample Paper 2022)
Ans. No, this statement does not apply to the poem. Even though Aunt Jennifer was afraid of her
husband, as evidenced by her ‘fluttering hands,’ and burdened by her marriage to him, as
evidenced by the weight of her wedding band, she channelled her fear into her art. Her fear did
not prevent her from creating art.
Class 12 Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers Long Answer Questions
Poem 6
Q1. ‘What knitting was to Aunt Jennifer; poetry was for Adrienne Rich’. Do you agree?
Comment with reference to the poem ‘Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers’. (CBSE QB, 2021)
Ans: In a male-dominated society, women are silenced; Aunt Jennifer’s Tiger addresses this
topic subtly. The poet has explored the mechanisms of ‘male domination’ and ‘patriarchy’ in
society in this poem. Adrienne Rich, a poet from a marginalized community, responds to the
dominant nature that shapes mainstream society. Rich saw poetry as a razor-sharp beacon that
could enlighten women’s lives and consciousness. The poem is an eye-opener in terms of re-
constructing women’s identities. The poet examines women’s positions in a traditional society
and makes a strong case for restructuring identity and rewriting norms in order to envision a new
world to come.
Hence, as Aunt Jennifer expresses her innate desires through her knitting, Adrienne Rich
displays her ideals through poetry.

Q2. Explain the stark difference in the death of Aunt Jennifer and the tigers prancing.
Ans: The tigers remain constant throughout the poem, only growing stronger as it progresses.
Aunt Jennifer, on the other hand, gradually fades away in her death. She is defeated in her death
as a result of her unfulfilled desires. She may accept the bond of domination because her fingers
are still ringed and she dies surrounded by her life’s difficulties.
The tigers are her cherished world of freedom, prancing in pride, a world she will never be able to
experience. It gives us a practical look at the reality that Aunt Jennifer never wins and accepts
defeat stoically as she conforms to the society in which she has lived. She bears the weight of
the ring, dead or alive, because she has already surrendered or was forced to surrender her
freedom by marrying.
 Q3. Read the given quote. In your opinion, what silence does the poem ‘Aunt Jennifer’s
Tigers’ break?
“Every poem breaks a silence that had to be overcome.” – Adrienne Rich (CBSE QB, 2021)
Ans: The role of women in society and the language men use for social and political gain are
inextricably linked. Adrienne Rich’s personal life becomes political, and this short poem, while not
overtly political, foreshadows more radical work to come. Aunt Jennifer has suffered for many
years and is looking for a positive outlet for her artistic abilities before it’s too late. She hopes that
her tigers will outlive her and become a symbol of freedom and independence. Aunt Jennifer is
too afraid to openly oppose the oppression of which she is a victim. She uses her art to express
her resentment and rage at male dominance. On her tapestry, she depicts tigers, which are
symbols of bravery, fearlessness, and strength. Her tigers are wild and free of any kind of
enslavement, which presents a stark contrast to her current state.
Q4. Analyse the symbols and poetic devices employed in the poem.
Ans: Adrienne Rich’s poem effectively conveys the theme by employing a variety of images,
symbols, and poetic devices. The tigers represent the spiritual freedom that Aunt Jennifer longs
for but only finds in her dreams and art. Aunt Jennifer is a metaphor for women in general,
women who are victims of male superiority and domination. Tigers represent the true nature of a
woman’s free spirit, which values strength and assertiveness.
The implied comparison of the tigers to the bright topaz denizens contains a metaphor, as tigers
are considered to be the inhabitants of the forests, the crafted green world on the panel. In their
confidence, tigers are also attributed with the quality of chivalry. The alliteration in ‘fingers
fluttering’ evokes the poem’s irony, as the fingers represent Jennifer’s physical frailty. As a result,
she has difficulty pulling the ivory needle. The alliteration ‘prancing proud’ represents the tigers’
everlasting strength.
Q5. Would you say that the poem ends on a note of hope? Justify your opinion. (CBSE
QB, 2021)
Ans: The prancing, free-spirited tigers will continue indefinitely, which is one redeeming feature
of Aunt Jennifer’s life. This provides a ray of hope for those who believe there is no way out of a
relationship. Art, however fragile, can bring a sense of inner peace and instill confidence in any
individual. This provides a ray of hope for those who believe there is no way out of a relationship.
This is a feminist take on the classic signature tune about art’s ability to outlive human life.
On the other hand, one could also think that the poem concludes on a depressing note, because
in the end of the poem also we find that in spite of a desire to liberate herself from the dominance
of the husband and Aunt Jennifer was not able to achieve that and even after her death the
oppression still continued which is reflected from the line “Her terrified hands lay still ringed by
the ordeals she was mastered by”.
Q6. In a predominantly male dominated society, women have always faced oppression
from men. What changes can be brought about in society for uplifting the position of
women like Aunt Jennifer?
Ans: The position of women like Aunt Jennifer in society can be improved by implementing the
following measures, which are currently lacking in society:
1. Education, particularly for girls, is still lagging behind, as girls are burdened with domestic duties
at a young age and also married at a young age.
2. Women are not given equal opportunities in life as men, whether in terms of upbringing,
education, or employment. Women should be treated equally with men in society.
3. Women should be given the ability to make their own life decisions. Aunt Jennifer is afraid of her
husband because he controls every aspect of her life; she is unable to make decisions on her
own. Thus, she expresses her suppressed desires through her knitting.
Q7. Read the given extract from an article published in The Independent:
“Turn your pain into art”: it’s a phrase most of us have heard before…
The theory that achieving something great requires suffering dates back to ancient times…
Pain, however, is less an artistic necessity and more a result of “contagion” – a term used for the
spreading of a harmful idea or practice…In the context of the struggling artist, it allows mental
illness to fester; to be glamorized and admired; even encouraged in the name of art.
– Do you think Aunt Jennifer “turned her pain into art”? What kind of “contagion” might
her pain be a result of?
– Evaluate Aunt Jennifer and her artistry in light of the above extract (CBSE QB, 2021)
Ans: Aunt Jennifer was oppressed by her husband in the poem ‘Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers. She was
confined within the four walls of her husband’s home, unable to do as she pleased. Her marital
responsibilities added to her stress. Despite her best efforts to overcome her fear, Aunt Jennifer
was still traumatized and oppressed by her husband. Her embroidering fearless, prancing tigers
could only provide her with a temporary release of her pent-up feelings of liberation.
Aunt Jennifer is submissive and weak, whereas the tigers are strong, bold, and powerful. She is
constrained by the constraints of her married life, whereas the tigers are free to roam the green
woods. Aunt Jennifer’s tigers are an expression of her desire to be free of the constraints of her
married life. She aspires to be fearless and daring like her tigers. Aunt Jennifer uses her art to
express her resentment and rage at male dominance. On her tapestry, she depicts tigers, which
are unafraid of men and represent bravery, fearlessness, and strength.
Q8. Does Aunt Jennifer get to be an “artist”? Why or why not? Use examples from the
poem.
Ans: The poem revolves around Aunt Jennifer’s status as a creator. She can use her embroidery
skills to create an entire “green world” within the confines of her hoop. She is not, however, a
“artist” in the traditional sense. Adrienne Rich emphasized in her writing that being a female artist
is difficult because artistic creativity necessitates complete freedom. Aunt Jennifer, on the other
hand, is constrained by her marriage, even in her role as a creator: she finds it difficult to even
draw the needle through the fabric. Artistic creation is frequently portrayed as a means of
achieving a kind of immortality, because the artist’s reputation lives on through their work.
In the third stanza, Aunt Jennifer’s tigers live on while she dies, Rich appears to allude to this
dynamic. Jennifer’s tigers live on in spite of her, rather than because of her art. Jennifer’s lack of
freedom, as a result, prevents her from reaping the benefits of being an artist, despite her
creative ability.
Q9. Discuss the symbol of the wedding ring. How does Rich use this object to speak
about marriage?
Ans: Jennifer’s wedding ring is one of the poem’s most significant objects. Rich uses its physical
characteristics to make several metaphorical points. She uses its weight, as a small metal object,
for example, to speak to the figurative weight of marriage on Jennifer’s life. Similarly, the shape
of the ring alludes to Jennifer being “ringed” by her marriage; encompassed by ordeals in the
same way that the ring encompasses her finger. The position of the ring on Jennifer’s hand is
also significant. Jennifer’s lack of freedom is represented by the ring. By placing it on her hand,
Rich suggests that marriage’s most significant infringement on women’s freedom is the inability
to freely use the hands—to make things and act upon the world.
Q10. Imagine that Aunt Jennifer read the poem that Adrienne Rich wrote about her. After
much contemplation, she decided to write a letter to her husband expressing her feelings
and thoughts. Write the letter as Aunt Jennifer. (CBSE QB, 2021)
Ans:
12, Davidson County
23 January ‘XX
Dear husband,
I’d like to express how much I adore you. I am confident that you share my sentiments. However,
because of the society in which we were raised, I became a target of male chauvinism. I’ve been
afraid of you, unknowingly to you. A girl must adjust to her new home immediately after marriage.
When she is burdened with rules and regulations in that situation, she loses confidence. The
same thing happened to me.
I was afraid to tell you this before, but Adrienne Rich’s poem gave me the courage to tell you the
truth. As I approach my deathbed, I want you to know that I have loved and cherished every
moment of my life that I have spent with you, but I have been afraid that any of my words or
activities will offend you. I hope you take this in good humor.
With love
Jennifer
Q11. ‘Their mother sighed.
Sophie watched her back stoop over the sink and wondered at the incongruity of the
delicate bow which fastened her apron strings.’
The prose selection, Going Places includes this telling comment about Sophie’s mother.
In Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers, we are told that –
‘The massive weight of Uncle’s wedding band Sits heavily upon Aunt Jennifer’s Hand.’
Imagine a conversation between Sophie’s mother and Aunt Jennifer. Create this exchange with
reference to the two extracts given above. You may begin the conversation like this …
Sophie’s mother: Your embroidery is so beautiful. Do you love tigers? (CBSE Sample Paper
2022)
Ans. Sophie’s mother: Your embroidery is so beautiful. Do you love tigers?
Aunt Jennifer: I appreciate it. I do, indeed. They are incredible creatures.
Sophie’s mother: I noticed you have your wedding band on your ring finger.
Aunt Jennifer: I do, indeed. It serves as a reminder of my devotion to my husband. However, it
can feel like a burden at times.
Sophie’s mother: I get it. I, too, have times when I feel weighed down by life’s responsibilities.
Being a wife and a mother is not easy.
Aunt Jennifer: It’s not just the duties, but also the expectations. Society expects us to be
submissive and obedient. To follow certain rules and conventions.
Sophie’s mother: But don’t we all have our own passions and desires? We each have our own
goals and dreams.
Aunt Jennifer: We do, indeed. And we must not allow anyone to suffocate them. We must find a
way to strike a balance between our responsibilities and our personal liberties. That’s why I like
to embroider. It’s my way of reclaiming my independence and expressing my uniqueness.
Sophie’s mother: That’s fantastic. You are a brave and strong woman. You are an inspiration to
all of us.