Category: English

Introduction

In the following sonnet, William Shakespeare, one of the most famous writers in history, expresses his thoughts on love. The flow of this sonnet is superb. In this sonnet, the poet aims to demonstrate the potency of rhyming couplets. This sonnet makes use of a number of literary tropes. Some of the literary devices are Alliteration, Allusion, Personification, Repetition, and Epithet. What follows is poetry about the devastating force of nature.

Broken statue

Summary

The following is William Shakespeare’s sonnet number 55. The sonnet has lovely rhythm and structure. The author has made an effort to illustrate the strength and endurance of poems and literature.

The poet claims in the opening verse that his work will outlive the statues and monuments to the wealthy and powerful that he has written. Such folks may believe that by erecting marble tombs and gilded sculptures, they would be granted eternal life, yet time is unreliable. Time is the number one enemy of monuments, and it does not discriminate between the wealthy and the poor in this regard. Eventually, every monument and statue will crumble. The author uses the analogy of a slutty, unfaithful prostitute to depict the passage of time. The author claims that the great monuments that mighty kings erect to their grandeur will eventually be destroyed, either by conflict or the passage of time, so that future generations would never know the majesty of those rulers. The beautiful lyrics about the greatness of those powerful and loving individuals, however, will always make an imprint on one’s spirit that will not be forgotten. The author expresses the hope that poetry will endure since it is appreciated by many. Nothing, not even the god of battle, can wipe the memory of poetry from one’s heart, no matter how mighty the warrior.

The poet continues by saying that it doesn’t matter how strong a monument one constructs; it will eventually be demolished, either in a conflict or with the passage of time, because humans are inherently destructive. The author emphasises once more that a person’s poetry and artistic legacy are the only things that will outlive time and oblivion. People who care for them will remember them fondly, and their legacy will be preserved via poetry. The author dedicates this exquisite sonnet to his companion in this sentence. He claims that the poem and his friend’s memory will outlast all statues and monuments.

The poet continues by saying that even when physical reminders of the person’s life are gone, the person’s legacy will endure in the form of great poetry. For as long as mankind endures, his name will be remembered and his lyrics recited. The poet alludes to Doomsday, the apocalyptic date when mankind is predicted to end.

The poet assures his buddy in the final two lines that they, too, shall be resurrected on the Day of Judgment. For Christians, the end of the world and all of humanity coincide with the day of judgement, or the final day of history. And his friend’s memory will be preserved in people’s minds and souls till the end of time. According to the author, his friend’s memory will go on forever.

This poem exemplifies the transformative potential of art and literature. When people pass away, their achievements and contributions to society are not memorialised with statues or plaques but rather with works of literature.

Textbook Questions and Answers: 

Q.1  Why do you think the rich and powerful people get monuments and statues erected in their memory?

Ans: Rich and Powerful people are filled with pride and arrogance and think people will see their glory even after they die. They did not realise that monuments get destroyed by nature and people will not remember them forever.

Q.2 Describe how the monuments and statues brave the ravages of time.

Ans: Monuments and statues remade of stone and cement which are strong and structures constructed with these can stay for centuries. They can withstand extreme weather conditions.

Q.3 Why does the poet refer to Time as being sluttish?

Ans: Time has been referred to as sluttish, by the poet because it doesn’t wait for anyone. It cares for no one and treats everyone the same. Time has no one, it does not care for anyone.

Q.4 The poet says that neither forces of nature nor wars can destroy his poetry. In fact, even the godly powers of Mars will not have a devastating effect on his rhyme. What quality of the poet is revealed through these lines?

Ans: In the following lines, the poet simply wants to say that, Poetry and rhymes are permanent. It will always be alive with humanity. Even God could not destroy the rhymes and powerful and egoistic people can’t understand this.

Not Marble nor the Gilded Monuments Extra Question

Q.1 What does Shakespeare think about poems?

Ans:  According to Shakespeare, poems are indestructible and cannot be destroyed by nature like other man made things. Poet thinks that his lyrics are immortal.

Q.2 What is the structure of “Not Marble, nor the Gilded Monuments”?

Ans: “Not Marble, nor the Gilded Monuments” is a sonnet, which is a type of poem consisting of 14 lines. It follows the typical structure of a Shakespearean sonnet, with three quatrains (four-line stanzas) and a final couplet (two-line stanza). The poem is written in iambic pentameter, which means each line has 10 syllables with a pattern of unstressed and stressed syllables.

Q.3: What is the theme of this poem?

Ans: The theme of “Not Marble, nor the Gilded Monuments” is the power of poetry to preserve the memory of people and events. Shakespeare argues that poetry is a more enduring and powerful memorial than any physical monument, no matter how grand or beautiful. The poem also explores the nature of immortality and the inevitability of mortality.

Introduction

The funny story known as “The Hack Driver” was written by the American author Sinclair Lewis. It’s a funny story about a good lawyer and a rickshaw driver who get lost in a village while looking for Oliver Lutkins. Because the hack driver Bill was so kind to him, he quickly warmed up to the people who lived in the hamlet and developed an affection for the community as a whole. In the end, Lutkins was the one who successfully tricked the lawyer by posing as a hack driver.

Summary of the chapter

The protagonist of this piece is a recent law school graduate who finds work as an assistant clerk at a prestigious legal firm. The witness Oliver Lutkins, who resided in the nearby hamlet of New Mullion, required his personal service on more than one occasion. The protagonist was looking at a bright platform when he spotted a hacker.

Hack driver

The attorney hired Bill’s rickshaw to help him track down Lutkins. Bill was the one who led the lawyer on a goose chase to several places in search of Lutkins. When he learned of Lutkins, he naturally had questions. When the gang went to Fritz’s business, they were told Lutkins had gone to Gustaff barber for a shave, but when they followed him there, they found him playing poker. Also at Gustaff’s residence, they were unable to locate him, but word reached them that he had been spotted at the pool hall. He was last seen leaving the store with a pack of smokes, and his whereabouts have since been uncovered.

The more the attorney knew about Bill, the more he began to believe in Bill’s kindness and charity. As a result of his kind demeanour, he won the hearts of the locals. The shady driver recommended looking through his mother’s belongings for Lutkin’s. The awful truth about Lutkin’s mother, who threatened to burn them with an iron rod, was revealed when they visited her home. Once all was said and done, they were able to flee and save themselves. The attorney did not call for Lutkins and then he departed.

His supervisor gave him a nasty dressing down the next day and had him return to the village with a coworker who knew Lutkins. As soon as Bill arrived at the station, the lawyer eagerly offered to help him look for Lutkins. As soon as the lawyer found out that Oliver Lutkins had posed as Bill, he felt humiliated.

About the author

This narrative was written by an American author and dramatist by the name of Harry Sinclair Lewis. In 1930, he was honoured with the Nobel Prize in Literature for his work.

Conclusion

The cautionary tale “The Hack Driver” teaches us that we should be aware of the people in our immediate environment and not put our faith in anyone without conducting thorough research on them. This story reminds us not to put all our faith in other people without first investigating and exercising caution. When we judge others only primarily on their outward looks, we put ourselves in potentially dangerous situations.

Textbook Questions and Answers

1. When the lawyer reached New Mullion, did ‘Bill’ know he was looking for Lutkins? When do you think Bill devised his plan for fooling the lawyer?

Ans. At first, Bill was unaware that the lawyer was searching for him. Even though he knew he was needed as a witness, he wasn’t eager to testify; he must have drafted his plan when the lawyer told him he was looking for Lutkins.

2. Lutkins openly takes the lawyer all over the village. How is it that no one lets out the secret? (Hint: Notice that the hack driver asks the lawyer to keep out of sight behind him when they go into Fritz’s.) Can you find other such subtle ways in which Lutkins manipulates the tour?

Ans. When the lawyer is supposed to find Lutkins at a specific time, Lutkins never lets the lawyer get there. A hacker uses stories to convince the lawyer that Lutkins is a vagabond and scares him about Lutkins’ mother to fool the lawyer. Lutkins is never asked about by the lawyer, he just pretends to ask. Hence everybody in the village also supported Lutkins.

3. Why do you think Lutkins’ neighbours were anxious to meet the lawyer?

Ans. Because everybody in that village saw the lawyer, except Lutkins’ neighbours, when he got fooled by Lutkins. They were curious to see the person who got fooled so easily.

4. After his first day’s experience with the hack driver, the lawyer thinks of returning to New Mullion to practise law. Do you think he would have reconsidered this idea after his second visit?

Ans. I don’t think the lawyer would ever consider practising law at New Mullion because he was ashamed of himself for being fooled by Lutkins in front of the entire village.

5. Do you think the lawyer was gullible? How could he have avoided being taken for a ride?

Ans. I think the lawyer acted gullible. It would have been better if he had asked other villagers about Oliver Lutkins instead of believing everything he said.

6. Who is a ‘con man’, or a confidence trickster?

Ans. Someone who makes others look foolish is called a ‘con man’ or a confidence trickster. After gaining their trust, he gets anything he desires from them.

The Hack Driver Extra Questions and Answers

1. What is the moral of this story?

Ans. This story and its message are fantastic. This tale teaches us to be vigilant and research before blindly trusting others. 

2. What is a hack driver? 

Ans. Hack drivers are those who operate a cab or chariot for hire. Customers tend to go with the hack drivers in the train station or bus terminal.

3. How do people make a living in a village?

Ans. People in urban areas often migrate to rural regions, or “villages,” to work in agriculture. Around the settlements, we can see lush meadows, animals, and stunning hill stations.

Introduction of the Poem

Robert Arthur’s The Midnight Visitor is a detective story. This anecdote shows that a bit of common sense can get you out of a sticky situation. As the game progresses, we learn that Ausable is a covert agent on the hunt for a top-secret document. Meanwhile, his opponent Max had assaulted him. Max stated that the publications threatened Ausable and Fowler with violence. Author Fowler visits his buddy and fellow secret spy Ausable to learn more about the exciting life of the latter. Ausable, seeing the gravity of the situation, concocted a narrative involving cops and a phoney balcony in order to trick him into into the trap. Max fell for it and leapt from the phoney balcony. Given that Ausable resided on the top level of the hotel, Max sadly passed away.

Short Summary of the Poem

Though his clothes didn’t match his job description, Ausable was a covert spy. Fowler, a fellow writer and friend of his, came to visit him. They ended up staying up late chatting and drinking. Fowler was taken aback by Ausable’s presence, but he was promised that he would soon alter his mind. Ausable investigates in order to find the vital documents for national security. They checked into their room on the penthouse level of the French hotel. Max walked in at that very time, pointed a pistol at them, and demanded the documents they were holding. He said the documents were associated with missile reports. Despite the fact that this is par for the course for a covert spy, Fowler became a target of dread. When somebody repeatedly raps on the door, Ausable conjures up a narrative about the cops being called. Max, duped by the falsehood, vowed to open fire if the cops didn’t return. Ausable lied to Max about a balcony that didn’t exist and informed him about it. In an effort to get away, Max leaped from the balcony. There was a very audible yelling. As Max’s room was on the top level, he tragically passed away. Immediately upon the door was unlocked, a waiter walked in bearing the requested beverage. Fowler was mystified and intrigued by the whole affair. Max was duped as Ausable said there are no cops or balconies.

Man with gun

About the Poet

On November 10, 1909, in Cavite City, Philippines, on the island of Corregidor, Robert Jay Arthur Jr. was born. He wrote the young adult novel Three Investigators and was known as an exploration fiction writer for his radio series Mysterious Traveler. Both the Edgar Award for outstanding radio play and the Mystery Writer of America award were given to him. The Twilight Zone, Alfred Hitchcock’s TV Show, and Alfred Hitchcock Presents were all written by him. He passed away on May 2, 1969, at his home in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.

Conclusion

Wit, smarts, and good sense all come together in this entertaining tale. Ausable’s wit was important in tricking Max. The fable teaches us not to panic or lose our composure under pressure and to instead rely on our wits and common sense to help us out of sticky situations.

Textbook Questions and Answers 

Q1. How is Ausable different from other secret agents?

Ans:- As far as I’m aware, Ausable has never been able to pass for a covert operative. He’s overweight, makes appointments using a regular telephone, and sleeps at a dingy, musty French hotel. He’s been in Paris for 20 years, but his American accent hardly shows when he talks German or French. He’s not as perceptive or as bright as author Fowler had hoped.

Q2. Who is Fowler and what is his first authentic thrill of the day?

Ans:- Fowler earns his living as a professional writer. His day begins with a genuine excitement as he successfully outwits Ausable and himself while being threatened with a pistol by a guy in order to gather material for his next book about a secret spy.

Q3. How did Max got in?

Ans:- Max uses a pass key to enter Ausable’s cabin in his absence to get a report on new missiles.

Q4. How does Ausable say he got in?

Ans:- Ausable says that Max enters the room via the window of the balcony and he would complain to the hotel authority for closing it.

The Midnight Visitor Extra Question Answer

1. What is the theme of “The Midnight Visitor” by Robert Jay Arthur Jr?

Ans: The theme of “The Midnight Visitor” by Robert Jay Arthur Jr is the danger of trusting strangers and the importance of being vigilant in one’s own safety.

2. How did MAX die?

Ans: Max believed the story of the balcony that did not even exist and jumped out from the sixth floor.  Ausable was confident because he knew the truth. Max died as a result of this. 

3. How did Fowler feel about Ausable?

Ans: Even though Fowler admired Ausable’s intelligence and he sensed a certain air of mystery and romance emanating from him, he believed him to be uninteresting and fat. As Fowler’s mental image of an agent differed from Ausable’s, he came to that conclusion.

Introduction

The author of “Bholi” is Khwaja Ahmad Abbas. Sulekha, or Bholi as she is better called, is the protagonist of this tale. Because of her unattractiveness and lack of skill, she was looked down upon by everyone. She turned down her marriage proposal from a stingy elderly guy on her wedding day after she’d reached adulthood.

Summary of the chapter

The narrative’s protagonist is a young lady named Sulekha. She was known as Bholi because of her plainness. She suffered from a stutter due to the brain damage she had throughout her early years of learning to speak. She caught smallpox as a kid, permanently disfiguring her face with pockmarks. As a result, she endured ridicule for her ugliness and lack of intelligence.

Indian girl 

Tehsildar instructed Ramlal to sign up his daughters for school on the first day of classes. At first, Bholi was terrified by the thought of attending school. After she obtained the attention, clothing, and other necessities she needed, however, she began to see school as preferable to her home. As the instructor called her name, she stutteringly answered, much to the amusement of her other students. She grew disheartened and started crying as a result. Only after her instructor asked her to repeat the name with a cheerful expression did Bholi finally learn how to pronounce it correctly. The educator offered her encouragement to keep returning to school despite her stammering. That gave Bholi a reason to believe in a better future.

Bholi was proposed to by Bishamber Nath, an elderly crippled man whose own children were now adults when she reached adulthood. A female attendant lifted the veil off her face when the groom was getting ready to approach the bride. Bisambar was put off by Bholi’s unattractive appearance and hence was unwilling to marry her without a dowry. Her dad set up the dowry funds. But, Bholi turned down Bishamber’s marriage proposal because of his avarice. She shocked everyone by not stuttering when she spoke. Bishamber left the event and returned home. Bholi promised her father that she would one day teach at the school from which she had benefited greatly and also look after his ageing parents.

About the author

Besides being an Indian film screenwriter, director, journalist, and novelist, Khwaja Ahmad Abbas was a writer in Hindi, English, and Urdu as well. The Indian film industry honoured him with four ‘National Film Awards’.

Conclusion

This story teaches us that during the crucial years of childhood when children are still developing into responsible adults. We need to provide them with moral and emotional support. It discusses the harmful social practices that are still common in certain regions of the world and how young girls are made vulnerable to these practises due to a lack of knowledge in the community as a whole.

Textbook Question and Answers

1. Bholi had many apprehensions about going to school. What made her feel she was going to a better place than her home?

Ans. Once she had received proper care, good clothes, and other things, she started believing that school was a better place than her home.

2. How did Bholi’s teacher play an important role in changing her life?

Ans. The school teacher motivated her to talk with confidence. In addition to being polite, she played a key role in enhancing her confidence level and making her a more capable reader, writer, and speaker.

3. Why did Bholi at first agree to an unequal match? Why did she later reject the marriage? What does this tell us about her?

Ans. Bholi agreed to an unequal match because her parents were concerned about her marriage, and the groom was not asking for any dowry. Later she rejected the marriage because the groom asked for a dowry after seeing her ugly face. This indicates that Bholi was full of confidence and self-respect, because of which she could handle the worst situation wisely by taking a brave decision.

4. Bholi’s real name is Sulekha. We are told this right at the beginning. But only in the last but one paragraph of the story is Bholi called Sulekha again. Why do you think she is called Sulekha at that point in the story?

Ans. In the entire story, the girl’s name is mentioned as Bholi, which means a simple girl who does not express her point of view in any situation. When she got an education, she gained the confidence to speak and stand for her rights. When she refused to marry the old man in front of everyone she proved that she was not a Bholi anymore. So the author called her Sulekha.

5. Bholi’s teacher helped her overcome social barriers by encouraging and motivating her. How do you think you can contribute towards changing the social attitudes illustrated in this story?

Ans. We can contribute towards changing the social attitudes illustrated in the story by educating boys and girls regarding their rights, providing equal education opportunities, and opposing dowry.

6. Should girls be aware of their rights and assert them? Should girls and boys have the same rights, duties and privileges? What are some of how society treats them differently? When we speak of ‘human rights’, do we differentiate between girls’ and boys’ rights?

Ans. There is no doubt that girls should be aware of and assert their rights. The rights, privileges, and duties of girls and boys must be equal. In villages and small towns, people treat boys and girls differently. Girls are usually trained to be polite, calm, and expert at household chores with their parents, whereas boys are more likely to be educated. The law does not distinguish between girls’ and boys’ rights when we speak of ‘human rights’, but society does.

7. Do you think the characters in the story were speaking to each other in English? If not, in which language were they speaking? (You can get clues from the names of the persons and the non-English words used in the story.)

Ans. The characters in the story were not speaking to each other in English. It is evident from the text that characters spoke in Hindi, using terms like the number dar, pita ji, tehsildar, and izzat.

Bholi Class 10 Extra Questions and Answers

1. Discuss children’s rights.

Ans. Children have the same rights as adults, including health care, an appropriate education, the means of subsistence, safety, and participation in decision-making, among other things.

2. Can speech problems take place due to brain problems?

Ans. Damage to the part of the brain which controls the “speech movement” can result in stammering while speaking. People who get traumatic brain injuries have a chance of stammering.

3. What is the moral of the story?

Ans. We can learn from this story that children should be morally and emotionally protected during their formative years to grow up to be good citizens.

Introduction

The poem “Ozymandias” is one of the most famous creations of P.B. Shelly. This is a poem about the time-bound ness of humanity. a traveler tells the story of a stone statue that he interacted with in the desert. The statue was of the famous king Ozymandias. He was the most powerful king of his time. This poem shows that no matter how powerful a person is or how magnificent a statue is, it all will eventually fall but the stories and art will live forever.

 Ozymandias

Summary

The poet encounters an old-world traveler. Travelers tell poet about their travels. He describes a desert-found stone statue. Just the statue’s legs survived. He spotted the statue’s face far from the legs. The statue was somewhere in the desert. . The statue was of Ozymandias, according to the inscription. The inscription calls him king of kings and mighty. The inscriptions addressed all subsequent rulers and stated that none could match Ozymandias’ magnificence. The traveler found that hard to accept because nature destroyed the statue and all the beauty of that enormous country. Only ruins supported Ozymandias’ assertions.

The traveler praises the sculptor for perfectly depicting the king’s egoistic and haughty features. The sculpture’s engravings were meaningless. Nature destroyed Ozymandias’ inscriptions.

Poet contemplates irony. They etched the monument to demonstrate his majesty and strength to other rulers. The only remnants are the engravings.

This proves that time destroys everything but art and tales.

Conclusion

The above poem is written by P.B Shelly. In this poem, the author has tried to show that no matter how powerful a person becomes and no matter how much wealth and glory he acquires. He cannot become immortal and that glory will not last forever. Nature is the true enemy of monuments and glorious statues. The author tries to convey that only one thing which can be saved from the brute force of nature is art. Arts in forms of stories and tradition will flourish for generations.

Textbook Questions and Answers

Q.1 “The hand that mocked them, and the heart that fed.” Whose hand and heart has the poet referred to in this line?

Ans: The heart refers to the King’s heart whose sculpture was made. The hand refers to the hand of the sculpture.

Q.2 “My name is Ozymandias, king of kings:” Why does Ozymandias refer to himself as King of Kings? What quality of the king is revealed through this statement?

Ans: Ozymandias refers to himself as the king of kings because he was the most powerful king of his time, and it shows the powerful and arrogant nature of the king.

Q.3 “Look on my works, ye Mighty, and despair!” Who is Ozymandias referring to when he speaks of ye Mighty? Why should they despair?

Ans: Ozymandias is talking to other rulers who came after him. He is telling them to despair because they cannot be as great as he was.

Q.4 Bring out the irony in the poem.

Ans: The poem shows the irony of Ozymandias and other rulers like him, but it also shows the irony of time-bound humanity. The sculptor and Ozymandias thought of his creation to last forever but it was the story and tales of the travelers that lasted longer.

Q.5 ‘Nothing beside remains.’ What does the narrator mean when he says these words?

Ans: The narrator wants to say that humanity is time bound and every life and every creation will finish one day.

Q.6 What is your impression of Ozymandias as a king?

Ans: Ozymandias was a very powerful, boastful and arrogant ruler. he was the most powerful king of his time.

Q.7 What message is conveyed through this poem?

Ans: This poem explains the ultimate truth of human lives, that nothing is permanent. Everything in this world is time-bound and not immortal. However, the poet also conveys the power of art, which can outlive its creators and becomes immortal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the significance of the statue in the poem?

Ans: The statue of Ozymandias in the poem is a symbol of his power and glory. However, the statue is now ruined and forgotten, serving as a reminder that even the most powerful rulers are ultimately subject to the ravages of time.

2. What is the theme of “Ozymandias”?

Ans: The theme of “Ozymandias” is the transience of power and the fleeting nature of human achievements. The poem reflects on the impermanence of even the mightiest empires and serves as a warning against arrogance and hubris.

3. Why the poet praises the sculptor?

Ans: The poet praised the sculptor because he depicted the minutest details and every wrinkle of the king’s face in the sculpture perfectly. The sculpture shows the true expression of the king.

Introduction 

The following poem is about the poet’s encounter with a snake on a water trough. The poet is conflicted with the idea of whether to kill the snake or respect it. The snake was thirsty and drinking water. After drinking water, the snake started slowly going into the hole and then the poet threw a log at the snake. Then he felt ashamed of his   behaviour. 

Snake

Summary

One hot sunny day, the poet sees a snake drinking water on the water trough. The snake was Golden-Brown. When the poet saw the snake, he was alarmed by its colour and thought it was poisonous but he chose to respect it as it was drinking water quietly. The snake was there first which is why the poet chose to stop and wait for his turn. The snake came from the creek in the earth.  

The snake was unconscious of the presence of the author. The poet was conflicted about his decision whether to kill the poisonous snake or respect nature and let the snake drink water.

The poet is conflicted and in his social education says that the golden snakes are poisonous and therefore he shall kill them. But the poet’s natural human instincts make him like it and he feels happy that it came to his water trough to drink water. He was feeling honoured by the visit of the snake. While the snake started to depart after drinking the water, back to the hole from where he had come. The poet suddenly put his pitcher down, took a log of wood and threw it at the water trough. The snake went inside the hole at a lightning speed. The poet further says that he thinks the log did not hurt it. But he regrets doing this act of cruelty.

About the Poet

Textbook Questions and Answers:

Q.1 Why does the poet decide to stand and wait till the snake has finished drinking? What does this tell you about the poet? 

Ans: The poet decided to wait till the snake finished drinking because the snake came before him and he was drinking water. This shows that poets respect nature and every creature.

Q.2 In stanza 2 and 3, the poet gives a vivid description of the snake by using suggestive expressions. What picture of the snake do you form based on this description?

Ans: The snake that came to the water trough from a fissure in the earth was yellow-brown and soft-bellied. He sipped with his straight mouth and softly drank through his straight gums, into his slack long body, silently.

Q.3 How does the poet describe the day and the atmosphere when he saw the snake?

Ans:  The author described the day as a very warm and sunny day. For the author, it seems like a Sicilian July where Mount Etna is smoking.

Q.4 What does the poet want to convey by saying that the snake emerges from the ‘burning bowels of the earth’?

Ans: From the above line, the poet conveys that, Snake emerged from a fissure in the earth. The snake came from down the earth where it is dark like hell.

Q.5  Do you think the snake was conscious of the poet’s presence? How do you know?

Ans: No, the snake was not aware of the presence of the author. The snake was drinking water peacefully.

Q.6  How do we know that the snake’s thirst was satiated? Pick out the expressions that convey this.

Ans: After drinking the snake, silently lifted his head satisfied and flickered his branched tongue from his lips ‘as one who has drunken’ and slowly proceeded to draw his slow length curving round and climb again the broken bank of my wall-face.

Q.7 The poet has a dual attitude towards the snake. Why does he experience conflicting emotions upon seeing the snake?

Ans: The poet was conflicted after seeing the snake. On one hand, he wanted to respect nature and let the snake drink water peacefully but on the other hand, he was afraid that the snake was poisonous and that he should kill him.

Q.8  The poet is filled with horror and protest when the snake prepares to retreat and bury itself in the ‘horrid black’, ‘dreadful’ hole. In the light of this statement, bring out the irony of his act of throwing a log at the snake.

Ans: After drinking water the snake was slowly moving into the hole, the author picked a log and threw it over the snake. Upon hearing the sound of the log, the snake moved faster into the black hole. The author regretted his action and felt dreadful.

Q.9 The poet seems to be full of admiration and respect for the snake. He almost regards him like a majestic god. Pick out at least four expressions from the poem that reflect these emotions.

Ans: The poet considers him ‘like a god’ and wishes the snake would come back so that he could crown him ‘like a king’. He feels he had missed his ‘chance with one of the lords’ when the snake went back into its hole.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does the poem teach us?

Ans: The poem ‘Snake’ teaches us about respecting nature and treating every creature as equal.

2. Why was the poet confused?

Ans: The poet was confused after seeing the snake because the snake was yellowish and his social education has taught him that snakes are poisonous and we should kill them. But the poet wanted to respect the snake.

3. How does the poet describe the weather?

Ans: The poet describes the weather as the Sicilian July and Etna burning.

Introduction

The old sailor is portrayed as one of the wedding guests in this poem by the poet, who then begins to recount his tale. He began by describing how their ship sailed out of the harbour joyfully but later encountered difficulties and despair prevailed. He shot and killed a bird. Due to his sin, he was cursed.

Summary

One wedding guest was stopped by an elderly sailor as they were both heading to the wedding feast. He was eager to share his tale with him. The guest was compelled to wait back and hear the sailor’s tale because of his insistence.

The mariner started his account of how their ship left the harbour on a positive note. After a brief period of trouble-free travel, a storm pushed their ship southward toward snow and mist. The ship became stuck in a barren area surrounded by enormous amounts of ice. The ice cracked with tremendous noises.

A flying albatross appeared at this time through the fog. It was regarded as a great soul and a divine messenger. When it arrived, the snow split and made way for the ship, which resumed sailing.

The crew fed the holy bird, which travelled with the ship. The ship was forced out of the cursed country of snow and mist by a favourable south wind. The sailors thanked the bird for being a sign of good things to come.

The sailor’s expression abruptly changed to sadness, which the wedding guest saw. In response to his question, the sailor said that he had shot the bird with his crossbow on the spur of the moment.

His fellow sailors cursed and accused him of murdering the sacred bird, but eventually, they came to believe that he was justified in doing so because it was that bird that had caused the fog and mist.

The ship continued to go smoothly in the direction of the north for a while. The wind abruptly died, and the ship came to a complete halt.

Albatross over Ocean

About the author

“Samuel Taylor Coleridge”, an English poet, literary critic, and philosopher, co-founded the Romantic Movement with his friend “William Wordsworth”

Conclusion

The poem illustrates how one must deal with the consequences of bad deeds. As a result, we must avoid sin. But if that occurs, we must also confess our sins. The Rhyme of the Ancient Mariner is a cautionary tale about the consequences of recklessness and the power of redemption. The Mariner’s journey is a metaphor for life, and his story serves as a reminder that we must be mindful of our actions and take responsibility for our mistakes. The Mariner’s experience teaches us that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for redemption and a chance to start anew.

Textbook Questions and Answers

1. Answer the following questions briefly.

(a) How did the Ancient Mariner stop the Wedding-Guest?

Ans: The Wedding-Guest was stopped by the Ancient Mariner because of his odd look and dazzling eye. Additionally, he grabbed his hand and gave him a bright-eyed stare. The Wedding Guest immediately stopped due to a kind of magical charm cast by these.

(b) Was the Wedding-Guest happy to be stopped? Give reasons for your answer.

Ans: The wedding guest was not at all pleased to stop. As the next relative of the bridegroom, he requested that the Ancient Mariner release him. He had to be there for the wedding. Second, the party had begun and the guests had arrived. However, the Wedding-Guest was forced to listen when the Ancient Mariner gave him his sparkling eyes and turned to face him.

 (c) Describe the Ancient Mariner.

Ans: With his long, grey beard and sparkling eyes, the Ancient Mariner had a highly unusual and off-putting appearance. He wore interesting clothing and had skinny hands. This gave him a “weird and eerie” appearance. The Wedding Guest was under some sort of magical spell as a result of his personality. He had no choice but to follow the Mariner’s orders.

(d) How does the Mariner describe the movement of the ship as it sails away from the land? 

Ans: The ship was joyfully cheered when it left the harbor, according to The Mariner, who records its movements. It steered beneath the lighthouse, hill, and church. The ship eventually succumbed to the powerful storm after some time. It sailed as though a terrible enemy was following it. Its prow dipped, and its masts stooped low.

(e) What kind of weather did the sailors enjoy at the beginning of their journey? How has it been expressed in the poem?

Ans: The phrase “Merrily did we drop/below the kirk” can be interpreted as the sailors experiencing good weather at the start of their voyage. The sun shone brightly before setting into the right-hand sea. When a sea storm arrived, the weather altered. The ship was seized by this. Then the weather started to deteriorate further.

(f) How did the sailors reach the land of mist and snow?

Ans: The sea storm took the sailors to the region of mist and snow. It was so oppressive that it seized control of the ship and drove it to the region of mist and snow.

(g) How does the mariner express the fact that the ship was surrounded by icebergs?

Ans: The Mariner explains this fact by saying that the ice came floating by at mast height. There was ice all around the ship that appeared to be green. He continues by saying that there was ice everywhere. This ice hissed, raged, howled, and cracked.

(h) How do we know that the Albatross was not afraid of the humans? Why did the sailors hail it in God’s name?

Ans: The albatross once flew through the fog and boarded the ship. It came when sailors called it, and it ate food. As a result, it had no fear of people. Since it was the first live thing they had seen since they arrived at the ice-filled sea, the sailors hailed it in the name of God. There, the albatross appeared to be God’s messenger.

(i) What was the terrible deed done by the mariner? Why did you think he did it?

Ans: Mariner used his crossbow to kill the albatross. He shot it for a cause that he does not understand.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How did the other crew members treat the Ancient Mariner?

Ans: He was initially criticized by the other sailors for killing the albatross. They quickly altered their minds, though, and began to honor the ancient mariner who had killed the bird that had brought in the fog and mist. 

2. What caused the Mariner to kill the albatross?

Ans:  The mariner killed the albatross because he thought it was a bad omen and the reason why their wind had dropped.

3. What happens next when the Mariners shoot the albatross?

Ans: The sailors are so furious with the Mariner for killing the albatross and permanently cursing their ship that they force him to wear the bird’s body around his neck to symbolize the burden he must bear for doing so.

4. What is the irony in the poem?

Ans: The irony is that the sailors are unable to drink the seawater despite the ship being surrounded by it. Coleridge’s use of sarcasm in this passage helps to highlight how terrible things are for the sailors.

Introduction 

Kate Chopin, an American novelist, is well admired for her short stories. Besides her two novels, she also wrote over a hundred short stories. Her short stories were enthusiastically received by the audience. She was the third child born into her family. Her elder brothers and sisters all died at young ages. She learned to read and write while she was at home. For as long as she can remember, she has been an avid reader who particularly enjoys works of classic literature, poetry, and fairy tales that contain religious or moral themes.

Biography 

Kate Chopin was first educated at home, but she began her official education at Sacred Heart Academy when she was five years old, where she honed her skills in management and making consequential decisions. Her great-grandmother was a private teacher for her after the death of her father; she taught her things like music, French, history, and the basics of living a happy life.

She enrolled in a St. Louis convent and graduated with her class in 1868. Kate and Oscar Chopin wed on June 8, 1870, and shortly after moved to New Orleans. The couple eventually had three children. The family had precious years together before a tragic event irrevocably altered their way of life. In 1879, the family’s financial situation was so dire that they had to migrate to Cloutierville. Her mother’s and Oscar Chopin’s unexpected deaths added to her anguish. Family friend Dr. Frederick Kolbenheyer that she focuses on writing as a means of overcoming her sadness.

Therefore, she started putting in serious effort. As time has passed, her reputation as one of the greatest American authors has grown.

Kate Chopin began her career as a writer when the St. Louis Post-Dispatch published her first essay. In the 1880s, she began to establish herself as a published writer after sending out several articles and short tales to periodicals. One of her finest pieces of feminist fiction, “The Awakening,” was published in 1989. The backlash was so severe, however, that it was outlawed quickly.

Chopin authored almost a hundred short stories, one drama, and three novels within a span of twelve years after beginning to write. Once her husband passed away, she took over the management of their general store and ran it just as efficiently as she had before.

Her health made it difficult for her to write in her later years, but many readers attribute her fall in production to the negative reviews that followed the publication of The Awakening in 1899. On the afternoon of August 22, 1904, she suddenly died of a massive cerebral haemorrhage.

Works and Style 

Despite her hardships, Kate Chopin emerged as a formidable literary force. Her writings were groundbreaking in their innovation and literary brilliance, and she pioneered a number of important writing techniques.

Chopin’s first published story was in 1889, and she began work on her first novel, “At Fault,” the same year. Chopin exerted a lot of effort to submit articles to influential editors and develop relationships with them.

“Bayou People” and “A Night in Acadie” are two book collections of her short tales that were released after her pieces were featured in prominent periodicals like “Vogue” and “Atlantic Monthly“.

In 1889, she wrote “A Point at Issue!,” and in 1891, she wrote “A No-Account Creole.” She also wrote “Beyond the Bayou,” a children’s novel, and other works. Five of her works have appeared in magazines including Youth’s Companion and Harper’s Young People.

In 1892, she authored the works “Ripe Figs,” a short story, and “Désirée’s Infant,” a poetry. Eight more of her tales found their way into print as well. In the same year, “At the ‘Cadian Ball” was published for the first time in Two Stories. With the publication of “Madame Célestin’s Divorce” the following year, thirteen of her works were eventually published. Chopin travelled to New York and Boston in search of a publisher for his collections of short tales and novels.

Kate Chopin is currently considered a major American author.

Several authors and critics were profoundly affected by her work. Several individuals, long after her death, saw her as a pioneer of the feminist movement, despite the fact that she was never recognized during her lifetime. Several authors have praised her work because of the ambiguity with which she writes about her own feelings and perspectives.

Kate Chopin’s debut novel, “The Awakening,” may not seem like a good place to start, yet it helped launch her career.

In time, though, her feminist ideas and bold style choices helped her gain a massive following. She shed light on the perspectives of her female characters and mimicked their defiant attitudes in an empowering way. Her works actually strike a perfect mix between comedy, romance, and seriousness.

Conclusion 

Kate Chopin’s works, which are distinguished by the combination of symbolism and realism, consistently captivate and draw readers. Morality, Equality and Feminism, are the recurrent themes in the majority of the literature. She frequently used similes, metaphors, and other literary elements to develop a distinctive style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What did Chopin accomplish most successfully?

Ans. The scherzo, which Chopin rebuilt, the ballade, which he created, and the sonata were all greater forms in which he was successful. One of his best compositions, the B-minor and Sonatas in B-flat minor, which masterfully blend passionate drama and lyrical softness, are the four Ballades.

2. The Awakening is what kind of narrative?

Ans. The Awakening is typically categorized as a bildungsroman by academics. Although bildungsromans frequently depict the maturing of a kid or adolescent character, Edna officially enters the story as an adult.

3. What about Chopin’s life is fascinating?

Ans. He played for intimate assemblages in the salons of affluent Parisians instead of giving many public concerts throughout his lifetime—only around 30 in total. At age six, Chopin began writing and creating poetry, and at age eight, he gave his first concerto performance in front of an audience.

Introduction 

This poem explains how a frog takes advantage of a nightingale to make money. It demonstrates how the frog’s poor instruction led to the nightingale’s death. The frog and the nightingale’s story is a lesson in humility and respect. The frog learned that it is important to be humble and to respect the talents of others, even if they are different from his own. 

Summary

Once upon a time, there was a clever frog that resided in “Bingle Bog”. From night till dawn, this frog croaked in a harsh voice. Even if the other creatures disliked his voice, they were forced to listen to him because all their shouts, cries, and protests were ignored.

Nightingale

After that, a nightingale visited the Bog one night. All the creatures of the Bog listened to her mesmerizing song. They repeatedly asked her to sing. Because she was unfamiliar with such cheers, the nightingale continued to sing.

The nightingale was set to start singing the following night when the jealous frog informed her that he owned the tree. He presented himself as a well-known “music critic”. The nightingale asked the frog to comment on her song since she was impressed by the frog’s credentials and unsure of her abilities.

She was informed by the “cunning frog” that she needed experience and that he would charge her to teach her. Excited and happy, the nightingale started practicing under the frog. He started charging everyone who came to hear the nightingale an entrance fee. She was forced to practice non-stop for several hours 

The “melodic nature” of the nightingale’s voice soon started to fade. She was made even more miserable by the frog’s harsh warning. The bird tried to follow the frog’s instructions when he instructed her to blow air into her lungs and sing, but she burst a vein and died.

About the author

“Vikram Seth is an Indian novelist and poet”. He has published six books of poetry and three novels. His most prominent work is “A suitable boy”. 

Conclusion

There is wisdom to be learned from the story of the frog and the nightingale. The frog realized the value of humility and the importance of appreciating the skills of others, no matter how unlike they may be from his own. The nightingale realized the value of considering various perspectives and appreciating the skills of others, even if they were less outstanding than her own. The story concludes with the frog and the nightingale having grown from their experiences and developed a respect for one another’s abilities.

Textbook Questions and Answers

1. How did the creatures of Single bog react to the nightingale’s singing?

Ans: The singing of the nightingale attracted the first favorable response from the animals of “Bingle Bog”. They flocked to the locations where they could hear the nightingale’s enchanting song. Birds and animals traveled long distances to listen to her lovely song.

2. Which are the different ways in which the frog asserts his importance?

Ans: The frog claims his significance as a critic of art and music. He further emphasizes his significance by controlling and ruling over the “Bingle Bog”. Additionally, he promises her that if she receives training from him, her singing would reach new heights.

3. Why is the frog’s joy both sweet and bitter?

Ans: The nightingale was drawing large crowds to the concert, and the frog was profiting from them. This gave him great satisfaction. Such crowds had never come to hear him sing, so his joy was poisoned by jealousy. The frog was jealous of the nightingale, which made him bitter.

4. Why was the frog angry?

Ans: The nightingale didn’t sing beautifully to help the frog get more money, therefore he was upset about it. Second, she was starting to sound “uninspired.” Her singing was suddenly “bouncing, zipping, and trilling”.

5. How did the frog become the unrivaled king of the bog again?

Ans: After the nightingale died, the frog reclaimed his throne as the undisputed ruler of the bog. No bird or animal could now sing as well as him. Second, he frightened everyone present there.

6. Bring out the irony in the frog’s statement – ‘Your song must be your own.

Ans: The irony in the frog’s statements is that initially, when he first met the nightingale, she expressed her satisfaction that the song was her original composition, he rebuked her, telling her it was nothing to talk about, and afterward, “when the bird has passed away, he claims that the poor bird should have known that he should have sung her song in her way”.

7. Do you think the end is justified?

Ans: The poem encourages us to believe in our abilities. It exposes the greedy side of society and warns us to protect ourselves from such individuals. Although the innocent bird dies in the end, I believe that it still sends a strong message and cautions us not to get easily influenced by anyone.

8. Do you think the nightingale is ‘brainless’? Give reasons for your answer.

Ans: The nightingale is not stupid, but she is innocent, modest, and dismissive. She lacks confidence and is easily defeated by the cunning frog. She accepts the frog’s offer to train her because she wanted to become a well-known singer.

9. Despite having a melodious voice and being a crowd-puller, the nightingale turns out to be a loser and dies. How far is she responsible for her downfall?

Ans: The nightingale is to blame for her demise since she relies on the wicked frog and cannot judge him. She dies as a result of her stupidity and innocence.

10. Do you agree with the Frog’s inference of Nightingale’s character? Give reasons for your answer.

Ans: The frog’s assessment of the nightingale is correct. She was unable to determine the frog’s true intention, which led me to believe that she was stupid, foolish, and weak. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What was the frog’s method of introducing himself to the nightingale?

Ans: The frog declared himself as the sumac tree owner, . He claimed to be a brilliant writer and critic who contributes to the magazine Bog Trumpet 

2.Why is the nightingale referred to as foolish?

Ans: The nightingale made a mistake by listening to the frog’s words. She attempted to sound like him, but she eventually lost her lovely voice and passed away.

3.Comment on the frog’s personality.

Ans: The frog is portrayed in the poem as being highly cunning. He symbolizes those who are clever. He uses the nightingale to eliminate his opponent because he has a good understanding of the character of the bird. He lacks talent himself.

Introduction

This is a virtual reality (or “science fiction”) narrative. The protagonist of the tale spent a lot of money on a gaming PC, VR goggles, and a collection of pricey video games. “Computers, video games, virtual reality, three-dimensional modeling”, etc. are all discussed in “Virtually True.” All of this is woven into the Sebastian Shultz story regarding video games. 

Video Game

Summary

This story is “science fiction” and is about virtual reality. The narrator of the story purchased a computer and virtual reality accessories with several expensive games. The narrator learns of ‘Sebastian Shultz’s” miraculous recovery” while riding a train. Sebastian had been in a long-term coma. The narrator then recalls how he frequently played computer games and assisted in saving Sebastian. 

The narrator assumes that Sebastian’s memory must have been transmitted to the computer when he may have unintentionally smashed his head against the screen. Thus in this instance, the computer recalled everything. 

About the author

“Paul Stewart”, a children’s book author who was born in London in 1955, is best known for three series that he wrote with the illustrator “Chris Riddell”.

Conclusion

This story conveys a message about virtual reality, and as a result, no one can definitively identify what is genuine or what is virtually real. The storyline in question takes place in a virtual reality environment or in a science fiction setting. The story’s protagonist dropped a tonne of cash on a high-end gaming computer, virtual reality headset, and library of expensive video games.

Textbook Questions and Answers

1. According to the newspaper, what had happened to Sebastian Shultz?

Ans: Sebastian suffered severe injuries in a car accident and fell into a “coma”. He had been in a coma for a very long time, and physicians had given up on him. Sebastian then emerged from his coma as if by magic.

2. Dad’s nutty about computers.’ What evidence is there to support this statement?

Ans: Dad of the narrator purchases a computer with the most recent setup available. Additionally, he purchases all the required accessories and virtual reality equipment. He thinks that a computer never makes a mistake. These details demonstrate how obsessed the father was with technology.

3. In what way did the second game seem very real?

Ans: The title of the second game was “Dragon Quest”. The story involved saving a princess from a dragon. With her extremely long hair, the princess has “Rapunzel”l-like features. Everything in the game, from the princess’ long hair to the dragon’s fiery breath, has been well explained. It can be claimed that the second game has a highly realistic feel to it.

4. The last game has tanks, jeeps, helicopters, guns, and headings would you put this and the other games under?

Ans: It is possible to classify all of the games as adventures.

5. What was Michael’s theory about how Sebastian had entered the games?

Ans: Michael assumed that Sebastian must have accidentally touched the computer screen, causing all of the information from his brain to be stored in the computer’s memory. Sebastian was now able to participate in the contest.

6. Read and answer the following questions

‘That was my idea’ said Sebastian excitedly.’ If only it would go a bit faster.

(a) Where was Sebastian when he spoke these words?

Ans: Sebastian was playing a game called “Jailbreak” at that time.

(b) What was his idea, and what was he referring to?

Ans: Sebastian was talking about the speed of a helicopter when he said it. He thought a faster helicopter might be able to save him.

(c) Was the idea a good one, and did it eventually succeed? How?

Ans: It was a wise decision. Finally, Sebastian could be saved thanks to the helicopter.

7. Why did the news of the ‘miracle recovery’ shock Michael?

Ans: Michael was startled to hear about the miracle recovery’ because he had played a significant role in saving Sebastian from certain death.

8. Michael’s meeting with Sebastian Shultz had been a chance meeting. Where had it taken place and how?

Ans: In the middle of a video game, Michael encountered Sebastian. This was a rather unusual location for the meeting of two actual people.

9. What kind of computers fascinated Michael and his dad? Why?

Ans: The most recent computers that had all the necessary accessories attracted Michael and his father. They were eager to investigate the enormous potential that computers may provide.

10. Describe the first place where Michael was virtually transported.

Ans: “Wildwest” was the name of the game. He was in a typical “Wild West bar”. There were numerous cowboys to be seen inside the pub because of its swinging doors.

11. What help did Sebastian Shultz ask Michael for? How did he convey this message?

Ans: Sebastian wished that Michael would come to his rescue and save him. He used the printer to send his message.

12. Why did Michael fail in rescuing Sebastian Shultz the first time?

Ans: When Michael was attempting to avoid the bullets in the first game, Sebastian got hit by something. Sebastian most likely took a bullet to the head and collapsed. Michael couldn’t save Sebastian because of this.

13. The second attempt to rescue Sebastian Shultz too was disastrous. Give reasons.

Ans: Michael played a game of Dragonquest during the second attempt. Sebastian was injured while they attempted to escape the dragon when he slipped into a ditch. Consequently, the second effort was also a failure.

14. Narrate the accident that injured Sebastian Shultz.

Ans: Sebastian was hurt in a traffic collision.

15. How had Sebastian Shultz entered the games?

Ans: The narrator thinks that Sebastian must have hit his head on the computer screen. All of his brain’s information was thus transferred to the computer’s memory as a result. Sebastian may have joined the game in this manner.

Frequently Asked Question

1. How did Michael’s theory work?

Ans: Michael’s theory is that Sebastian must have played one of these psycho-drive games right before the accident, causing his memory to be stored on the computer. And Michael became involved in various initiatives to get that memory back.

2. Describe the video game “Wildwest”.

Ans: It was a game that took the player back to the “American Wild West”, when saloons predominated and “sheriffs” served as “lawmen”.

3. Why did the narrator value the video game Jailbreak?

Ans: It was significant because the narrator needed to play the game Shultz recommended to have any chance of success.