nd

2 YEAR ENGLISH
Single Answer for All Annotations & Questions PROSE
1. HOW TO AVOID FOOLISH OPINIONS Bertrand Russel
ANNOTATE the following in about 100 words each:
a) If Someone maintains that two and two are five or that Iceland is on the equator, you
feel pity rather than anger....
b) Persecution is used in theology, not in arithmetic, because in arithmetic, there is
knowledge, but in theology, there is only opinion.
c) I have frequently found myself growing less dogmatic and cocksure through realising
the passible reasonableness of a hypothetical opponent.
d) Be very wary of opinions that flatter your self-esteem.
Ans.
Reference: These lines are taken from the essay "How to Avoid Foolish Opinions" written
by Bertrand Russell. He was a British philosopher, logician, Mathematician, Historian,
Writer, Social critic, Political Activist and Noble laureate.
Context: In this thought provoking essay, Russell advises the readers to develop rational
thinking. He gives us tips on how to avoid foolish opinions.
Explanation: The essay advises us on avoiding bad ideas. According to author a few simple
rules will keep you away not from all errors, but from silly errors. Russell explains that there
are many ways to avoid being dogmatic. Making a keen observation where it can settle the
bias is the first way. Second to know the thoughts of different social circles, by the way of
travelling and talking to people with different ideas. When someone says that two and two are
five or the Iceland is on the equator- a simple concept of Algebra and Geography. Then you
better feel pity rather than anger. Persecution is used in theology, not in arithmetic, because in
arithmetic there is knowledge but in theology there is only opinion. The third is arguing with
an imaginary opponent. The fourth one is to deal one's sense of self-worth which is the
hardest. The only solution is to remind people of "a brief journey of human life on this small
planet" in the little corner of the universe.

General Relevance: Avoiding stupidity is easier than seeking brilliance. It doesn't take a
genius. Only a few simple rules help us to avoid silly errors.

Answer the following QUESTIONS in about 100 words each.

a) How can we present developing a dogmatic attitude as per Russell's suggestion?
b) Travel is an excellent educator. Explain with reference to Russell's essay "How to
Avoid Foolish Opinions".?
c) According to Russell, what is the only way to tackle self-pride?
 d) What does Bertrand Russell say about a person getting angry about a difference of
Opinion?
Ans.
About the Author: These lines are taken from the essay "How to Avoid Foolish Opinions"
written by Bertrand Russell. He was a British philosopher, logician, Mathematician,
Historian, Writer, Social critic, Political Activist and Noble laureate.
About the Essay: In this thought-provoking essay, Russell advises the readers to develop rational
thinking. He gives us tips on how to avoid foolish opinions. The essay advises us on avoiding bad
ideas. According to author a few simple rules will keep you away not from all errors, but from
silly errors. Russell explains that there are many ways to avoid being dogmatic. Making a keen
observation where it can settle the bias is the first way. Second to know the thoughts of different
social circles, by the way of travelling and talking to people with different ideas. When someone
says that two and two are five or the Iceland is on the equator- a simple concept of Algebra and
Geography. Then you better feel pity rather than anger. Persecution is used in theology. not in
arithmetic, because in arithmetic there is knowledge but in theology there is only opinion. The
third is arguing with an imaginary opponent. The fourth one is to deal one's sense of self-worth
which is the hardest. The only solution is to remind people of "a brief journey of human life on
this small planet" in the little corner of the universe.

Conclusion: Avoiding stupidity is easier than seeking brilliance. It doesn't take a genius.
Only a few simple rules help us to avoid silly errors.

2. THE AWAKENING OF WOMEN K M Panikkar

ANNOTATE the following in about 100 words each:

a) 'Undoubtedly women in ancient India enjoyed a much higher status than their
descendants in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.
b) From the first days of his movement Gandhiji realised that there was a source of
immense untapped power in the womanhood of India……….
c) It was a matter of surprise to the outside world that independent India should have
appointed women to the highest posts so freely, as members of the Cabinet...
d) The contribution of women to modern India may therefore be said to have led to a
reintegration of social relationships.
Ans
Reference: These lines are taken from the essay" The Awakening of Women", written by
K.M. Panikkar. He was a statesman, diplomat, journalist, historian ad writer. He was a
prolific writer and published 50 books and numerous articles in Malayalam and English.
Context: "The Awakening of Women" is an interesting essay about the position of women in
India over time. It traces the transformation of women's position in India.
Explanation: The Eighteenth and nineteenth centuries witnessed a rigorous fall in women's
condition. The author says that women enjoyed a much higher status in ancient India. From the
first days of Gandhian movement, Gandhiji realised that women were powerful and their power
could be used in the freedom struggle. When the movement was actually started women were
everywhere at the forefront. Gandhiji brought a change in the lives of women. He encouraged
them to participate in freedom struggle. He gave them high posts. Even after Independence,
women were appointed in the cabinet. They became Governors and Ambassadors. They
represented the delegations in international conferences, which was a great surprise to the outside
world. The Government of India also brought in laws of equality of women. They were given to
right to property, to freedom of marriage, to education and employment.

General Relevance: The role of the Gandhian movement in effecting this change is
emphatically established. Lucid style and suitable diction make this informative and
insightful essay offer a rich reading experience.

Answer the following QUESTIONS in about 100 words each.

a) Why were Indian women in the nineteenth century the most backward of all women
in the world?
b) But when the movement was actually started, women here everywhere at the
forefront. Elaborate.
c) What is the true test of the changed position of women in India?
d) Name some legislative reforms mentioned in the essay The Awakening of Women
that seek to establish the equality of women.
Ans.
About the Author: K.M. Panikkar was a statesman, diplomat, journalist, historian and
writer. He was a prolific writer and published 50 books and numerous articles in Malayalam
and English.
About the Essay: "The Awakening of Women" is an interesting essay about the position of
women in India overtime. It traces the transformation of women's position in India. In this essay,
the author highlights the role played by women in the Indian struggle for Independence.

The Eighteenth and nineteenth centuries witnessed a rigorous fall in women's condition. The
author says that women enjoyed a much higher status in ancient India. From the first days of
Gandhian movement, Gandhiji realised that women were powerful and their power could be
used in the freedom struggle. When the movement was actually started women were
everywhere at the forefront. Gandhiji brought a change in the lives of women. He encouraged
them to participate in freedom struggle. He gave them high posts. Even after Independence,
women were appointed in the cabinet. They became Governors and Ambassadors. They
represented the delegations in international conferences, which was a great surprise to the
outside world. The Government of India also brought in laws of equality of women. They
were given to right to property, to freedom of marriage, to education and employment.
Conclusion: The role of the Gandhian movement in effecting this change is emphatically
established. Lucid style and suitable diction make this informative and insightful essay offer
a rich reading experience.
 3. SOLUTION TO PLASTIC POLLUTION Internet

ANNOTATE the following in about 100 words each:

a) He could easily be mistaken for a Sanskrit Pundit if you heard him quote the holy text
as a solution to any problem in the world.
b) One day your test will become the convention.
c) “But think it my duty to serve by country first and therefore gave it free to the Indian
Government"
d) The plastic instantly melts and coats the gravel without releasing gases toxic into the
atmosphere.
Ans.
Reference: These lines are taken from the lesson "Solution to Plastic Pollution", an article
adopted from the Internet
Context: It is about the contribution of Dr. Rajagopalan Vasudevan, the professor and Head,
Department of Chemistry in Thiagarajar College of Engineering. Chennai in this article. Dr
Vasuderan focused his research on the methods of recovery and reuse of plastic waste.
Explanation: Dr. Vasudevan had been the professor and Head, Department to chemistry in
Thiagarjar College of Engineering. Though he was a professor of chemistry his appearance is
like that of Sanskrit Pandit. He name is on his forehead, the Bhagavad Gita in his hands and
quoting many shlokas to his students. His hunger for research with chemicals and mission for
"Clean India" made him find a solution to plastic waste. He invented simple technology to lay
roads with plastic waste. Dr. Vasudevan showed the same experiment to Dr. APJ Abdul
Kalam when he visited the college. Kalam encouraged him to go ahead with his discovery.
He first laid 60 feet long plastic road within the Engineering College Camps It was
successful. He gave the patent to the Government of India free of cost. The benefits are many.
3. low cost, 2. Simple Technology. 3. Spot use plastic. 4. Water proof roads 5. Doubling for
Road strength. Thus, he become popular as "The Plastic Road Man.
General Relevance: With low cost and simple techniques, Dr. Vasudevan showed permanent
solution to the world.
Answer the following QUESTIONS in about 100 words each.
a) Describe the deportment of Dr. Vasudevan as the Professor of TCE.
b) How did Dr. Vasudevan experiment with plastic waste and what has been the result?
c) How did APJ Abdul Kalam encourage Dr. Vasudevan and what has been the outcome?
Ans.
About the Essay: The article "Solution to Plastic Pollution" is adopted from the Internet. It is
about the contribution of Dr. Rajagopalan Vasudevan, the professor and Head Department of
Chemistry in Thiagarajar College of Engineering, Chennai. He is popular as the "Plastic
Road Man. In this article, Dr. Vasudevan focused his research on the methods of recovery
and reuse of Plastic Waste.
Dr. Vasudevan had been the professor and Head, Department to chemistry in Thiaganar
Colege of Engineering. Though he was a professor of chemistry, his appearance like that of
Sanskrit Pandit. He named on his forehead, the Bhagavad Gita in his hands and quoting many
shlokas to his students. His hunger for research with chemicals and mission for "Clean India”
made him find a solution to plastic waste. He invented simple technology to lay roads with
plastic waste. Dr. Vasudevan showed the same experiment to Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam when he
visited the college. Kalam encouraged him to go ahead with his discovery He first laid 60 feet
long plastic road within the Engineering College Camps. It was successful He gave the patent
to the Government of India free of cost The benefits are many 1 low cost, 2. Simple
Technology 3. Spot use plastic. 4. Water proof roads 5 Doubling for Road strength. Thus, he
became popular as "The Plastic Road Man.

Conclusion: With low cost and simple techniques, Dr showed a permanent solution to the
world.

4. THE RELEGION OF THE FOREST Rabindranath Tagore

ANNOTATE the following in about 100 words each:

a) The ideal of perfection preached by the forest-dwellers of ancient India runs through
the heart of our classical literature and still dominates our mind.
b) The view of this world which India has taken is summed in one compound Sanskrit
word, Sacchidananda.
c) Nature Stands on her own right, proving that she has her great function, to impart the
peace of the eternal to human emotions.
d) These poems contain the voice of warnings against the gorgeous unreality of that age,
which like a Himalayan avalanche, was slowly gliding down to an abyss of catastrophe.
Ans.
Reference: These lines are taken from the lesson "The Religion of the Forest" written by
Rabindranath Tagore. He was a polymath, fondly remembered as Gurudev and A.
Vishwakavi. He was awarded the Noble Prize in 1913 for his "Gitanjali".
Context: The essay "The Religion of the Forest" is an extract from Tagore’s original English
composition "Creative Unity" (1922). In this essay, he presents how ancient Indian's lived in
forests and how they preached the ideal of perfection to the world.
Explanation: Tagore seeks to present the ideal of perfection as explained by the ancient
Indian forest-dwellers. The words that open the essay, Sound and serve like the statement of
the purpose of the article. The words are pregnant with knowledge and wisdom. Ancient
India provided serene surroundings to her wise sages in her lush green forests. They preached
the ideal of perfection to the world. They wrote wonderful classics and excellent stories. Our
classical literature caught hold of that spirit and spread it far and wide. The essence of that
teaching is so universal and long-lasting that it dominates our minds even today.
General Relevance: Living in harmony with nature is the religion of the forest. This is the
ideal of perfection preached by forest-dwellers of ancient India.

Answer the following QUESTIONS in about 100 words each.

a) To make the spirit of the religion of the forest clear to readers, Tagore presents some
sets of contrasts. Explain them.
b) This aspect of truth cannot be ignored; it has to be known and mastered.
What is that aspect of truth, according to Tagore? Who has mastered it?
c) The hermitage shrines out in all our ancient literature as the place where the Chasm
between man and the rest of creation has bridged. Explain the statement of Tagore.
d) Explain how the old simplicity of Hindu life had broken up in Kalidasa's time.
Ans.
About the Author: Rabindranath Tagore was a polymath, fondly remembered as Gurudev
and Vishwakavi. He was awarded the Nobel Prize for his "Gitanjali" in 1913.
About the Essay: The essay "The Religion of the Forest" written by Rabindranath Tagore, the
master of elegant prose. It is an extract from Tagore's Original English composition "Creative
Unity" (1922). In this essay, he presents how ancient Indians lived in forests and how they
preached the ideal of perfection to the world. Tagore presents the classical way of life and
literature that hold up the ideal of perfection. To drive home his point, he pictures different sets of
binaries. Indians were mostly forest-dwellers. They picked up from nature the principle of
peaceful coexistence. Northmen, on the other hand, were mainly seafarers. They travelled by sea,
lived on the sea so picked up fight and dominance from the dangerous sea. Their motto was
confrontation and subjugation. The other sets of opposing views in the essay are: Materialism
verses spiritualism; ancient view and modern outlook; Oriental and Western points of view and
nature's place in the Indian and Western literatures. Tagore explains, objectively both the merits
and demerits of each side. Still he guides the reader to choose well.

Conclusion: Living in harmony with nature is the religion of the forest. This is the ideal of
perfection preached by forest-dwellers of ancient India.

GUILTY Horace J. Gardiner and Bonneviere Arnaud

ANNOTATE the following in about 100 words each:

a) May be the world needs good watchmen as much as it does engineers.
b) He is a fine, good boy and a hard worker.
c) Ma, you're talking like someone in a fog, without any sense.
d) You have put what you think is two and two together and made four out of it, haven't
you?
 Ans.
Reference: These words are taken from a delightful one-act play "Guilty" written by Horace
J. Gardiner and B. Arnaud.
Context: The play "Guilty" is short and humorous. It succeeds in delivering a clear social
message. It highlights the innocence and maternal love of Ma, also the honesty of Jim.
Explanation: Jim Ryan is a young engineer graduate. He didn't get a suitable job in the
engineering field. But he has been compelled to work as a night watchman, for want of better
job at the Van king Warehouse. Mrs. Moore told Ma that the world also needed not only
good engineers but also good watchmen. Ma said that Jim walked the streets before he did
find this job for a long. Ma Ryan also said that Jim is a fine, good boy and a hard worker.
These words are of an affectionate mother, who always thinks very high about her children.
General Relevance: The characters are just a few and the three unities-of time, place, theme-are
attentively observed. The readers comfort themselves with the saying "Small is beautiful.”

Answer the following QUESTIONS in about 100 words each.

a) Describe the importance of Mrs. Moore's role in Guilty.
b) Ma Ryan puts what she thinks is two and two together and makes four out of it. Discuss
the developments that lead (or, rather mislead) Ma Ryan into making this mistake.
c) Sketch the character of Jim in the light of Ma Ryan's comments like: It is the same!
But how did it get into Jim's pocket?
d) "Ma, you are talking like someone in a fog, without any sense." Are these words from
Jim an order or exception? Explain.
Ans.
About the Author: Horace J. Gardiner and Bonneviere Arnaud are considered as "a single
author" by people for the apparent reason of the non-availability of any literary work by them
individually.
About the Play: The one-act play "Guilty" is written by Horace J. Gardiner and B. Arnaud It
succeeds in delivering a clear social message. It highlights the innocence and maternal love
of Ma, also the honesty of Jim Ryan. Mrs. Moore is the neighbour of Jim Ryan. She enters
his house with a newspaper. She talks to Ma Ryan about Jim Ryan. She says that the world
requires good night watchmen besides good engineers. She talks about "dignity of Labour".
Mrs. Moore shows the newspaper to Ma Ryan and tells her about the robbery in the
Warehouse where Jim Ryan is working. She also tells Ma Ryan about the punishment given
to the son of Mrs. Wilson. Then Mrs. Moore sees the diamond pendant in the newspaper and
also the real one in the hands of Ma Ryan. She finally leaves the room saying that it is time
for her Michael to come. Thus Mrs. Moore plays a good role in telling us the news of robbery
in the Van king Warehouse and about the punishment given to a criminal. She hints the
spectators that the same punishment may be given to Jim Ryan.

Conclusion: The characters are just a few and the three unities-of time, place, theme-are
attentively observed. The readers comfort themselves with the saying "Small is beautiful.”
 POETRY
1. GOODBYE PARTY FOR MISS PUSHPA T.
S Nissim Ezekiel
ANNOTATE the following in about 100 words each:
a) We are meeting today to
wish her bon voyage.
b) I don't mean only external
sweetness but internal sweetness.
c) That is showing good spirit.
I am always appreciating the good spirit.
d) Pushpa Miss is never saying no.
Whatever I or anybody is
asking she is always saying yes,
Ans.
Reference: These lines are taken from the and humorous poem "Goodbye Party for Miss
Pushpa T.S "by Nissim Ezekiel. He is one of India's renowned foremost Indo- Anglian Poets.
He is a versatile poet with a great sense of humour and wit.
Context: The poem is a farewell speech for Miss Pushpa T.S from her friends, who is leaving
the country. It is a parody of English as used by some Indians. The speaker's language
reminds of "Babu English",
Explanation: This poem is a farewell speech for miss Pushpa, who is leaving the country.
They have gathered there to bid farewell to her. They want to wish her a good journey. He
addresses his colleagues as friends and Miss Pushpa as sister. The speaker speaks about the
virtues of Pushpa's nature in his typical Indian English. He appreciates her helpful qualities
and concern for her friends. The speaker states that Pushpa is a sweet person. She is excellent
both internally and externally in appearance and attitude. He explains that Pushpa is the
daughter of famous advocate. She is sweet ever smiling. popular, helpful and always in good
spirits. She is popular with women as well as men. Her response is always "Just now only
and will do it". She is always Saying "Yes". The speaker believes this is indicative of good
spirit. Additionally, Miss Pushpa never says no, whatever he or anybody is asking. The lines
highlight the speaker's good nature and intention. The style is simple and clear.

General Relevance: The poem is in free verse, with no specific rhyme scheme or meter. It
touches upon the use of English by Indians and the speaker's attitude to comment on post-
colonial India's fascination to go abroad.
Answer the following QUESTIONS in about 100 words each.
a) Do you agree that the poem Goodbye party for Miss Phushpa TS is a farewell
address? Justify your response.
b) How does the speaker describe Miss Pushpa in the poem?
c) What is the central idea of the poem Goodbye party for Miss Pushpa T S?
d) Does the poem bring out the sweetness of Miss Pushpa? Justify your answer?
 Ans.
About the Poet: The satirical and humorous poem "Goodbye Party for Miss Pushpa T.S"
written by Nissim Ezekiel. He is one of India's renowned foremost Indo-Anglian Poets. He is
a versatile poet with a great sense of humour and wit. The poem is a farewell speech for Miss
Pushpa TS from her friends, who is leaving the country. It is a parody of English as used by
some Indians. The speaker's language reminds of "Babu English".
About the Poem: This poem is a farewell speech for miss Pushpa, who is leaving the
country. They have gathered there to bed farewell to They want to wish her good journey. He
addresses his colleagues as friends and Ms Pushpa as sister. The speaker speaks about the
virtues of Pushpa's nature in his typical Indian English. He appreciates her helpful qualities
and concern for her friends. The speaker states that Pushpa is a sweet person She is excellent
both internally and externally in appearance and attitude explains that Pushpa is the daughter
of fame advocate the is sweet aver smiling popular helpful and always in good spirits. She is
popular with women as well as man Her response is always "hat now only and i will do it"
She is always Saying "y" The speaker believes this is indicative of good spirit. Additionally,
Miss Pushps never says no, whatever he or anybody is asking. The lines highlight the
speaker's good nature and intention. The style is simple and clear.

Conclusion: The poem is in free verse, with no specific rhyme scheme or mater It touches
upon the use of English by Indians and the speaker's attitude to comment on post-colonial
India's fascination to go abroad

2. ON THE GRASSHOPPER AND CRICKET John Keats

ANNOTATE the following in about 100 words each:

a) The poetry of earth is never dead.
b) He rests at ease beneath some pleasant weed.
c) On a lone winter evening, when the frost
Has wrought a silence, from the stone there shrills
The Cricket's song, in warmth increasing ever,
d) And seems to one drowsiness half lost;
The Grasshoppers among some grassy
hills. Ans.
Reference: The above line is taken from the sonnet "On the Grasshopper and Cricket written by
John Keats. He is an English Romantic poet. He devoted his life to the perfection of poetry.

Context: The poem was written in December 1816. It was inspired by Nature's beauty which
popular theme of the poetry of Romantic poets, in this poem the poet John Keats celebrates
the music of the earth (or) poetry of earth the ever present symphony of future.
Explanation: The poem "On the Grasshopper and Cricket, John Keats celebrates the music
of the Earth He feds beauty in hot summer as well as in the cold winter Here in this poem, the
grasshopper is a symbol of hot summer and cricket is symbol of cold winter. The poet says
that the of nature or earth is always alive whether it is hot summer or cold winter. During the
hot summer, all the singing birds are tired and take rest under the shady branches of trees.
Even if they don't sing the song of nature. We can still hear the voice of the grasshopper who
runs from hedge to hedge. He keeps singing tirelessly and when tired rests beneath some
weed. Thus a grasshopper carries on the duty of singing the everlasting song of nature.
During the cold winter, the birds are silent. There is utter silence on the frosty winter days. At
that time the cricket takes up the responsibility and singing the glory of nature. He sings from
the stones but not from the trees. His song appears to be increasing the warmth every
moment. Thus we can say that the grasshopper and the cricket, two tiny insects, perform a big
responsibility. They carry on with nature's continuous and everlasting music.

General Relevance: In the poem, John Keats depicts the beauty of Nature. The poem uses
the song of two specific creatures. The grasshopper and the cricket to praise Nature's never-
ending beauty.
Answer the following QUESTIONS in about 100 words each.
a) What is the theme of the poem On the Grasshopper and Cricket?
b) According to Keats, when does one hear a cricket's song?
c) When does a grasshopper sing?
d) Discuss the Common features between the grasshopper and Cricket?
Ans.
About the Poet: The poem "On the Grasshopper and Cricket" written by John Keats. He is
an English Romantic poet. He devoted his life to the perfection of poetry. The poem was
written in December 1816. It was inspired by Nature's beauty, which is a popular theme of
the poetry of Romantic poets. In this poem the poet John Keats celebrates the music of the
earth (or) poetry of earth the ever-present symphony of Nature.
About the Poem: In the poem ""On the Grasshopper and Cricket", John Keats celebrates the
music of the Earth. He finds beauty in hot summer as well as in the cold winter. Here, in this
poem, the grasshopper is a symbol of hot summer and cricket is symbol of cold winter. The
poet says that the music of nature or earth is always alive whether it is hot summer or cold
winter. During the hot summer, all the singing birds are tired and take rest under the shady
branches of trees. Even if they don't sing the song of nature. We can still hear the voice of the
grasshopper who runs from hedge to hedge. He keeps singing tirelessly and when tired rests
beneath some weed. Thus a grasshopper carries on the duty of singing the everlasting song of
nature. During the cold winter, the birds are silent. There is utter silence on the frosty winter
days. At that time the cricket takes up the responsibility and singing the glory of nature. He
sings from the stones but not from the trees. His song appears to be increasing the warmth
every moment. Thus we can say that the grasshopper and the cricket, two tiny insects,
perform a big responsibility. They carry on with nature's continuous and everlasting music.
Conclusion: - In the poem, John Keats depicts the beauty of Nature. The poem uses the song
of two specific creatures. The grasshopper and the cricket to praise Nature's never-ending
beauty.
 3. HIROSHIMA CHILD Nazim Hikmet

ANNOTATE the following in about 100 words each:

a) I knock and remain unseen
b) I'm Seven now as I was then

c) I ask for nothing for myself

For I am dead for I am dead.
d) All that I need is that for peace
You fight today you fight
today. Ans.
Reference: This line is taken from the poem "Hiroshima Child" written by Nazim Hikmet.
He was a Turkish poet, playwright and novelist. He is recognised as one of the greatest poets
of 20th Century. Most of his writings are about war.
Context: The poem "Hiroshima Child" is about a seven-year-old girl who died in the
Hiroshima bomb attack by America during the World War II.
Explanation: The poem is about a seven-year old girl who died in Hiroshima bomb attacks
by American army during the world War-ll. The little innocent girl, who is no longer alive, is
the speaker of the poem. She was only seven-year-old when she died in the atomic bomb
blasts. She describes her feelings after and before the bomb. The girl also speaks about her
death; how the fire caught her and then she became ashes. Since then, the child has felt
neither growth nor hunger, nor any wants. She visits each home and knocks at their doors.
The poet describes her appearance when she died. Her hair was burnt, eyes grew dim and
became blind. As she is dead and has no physical appearance, none can see or hear her. Her
bones turned to dust which was scattered by wind. She seeks neither food nor things from
people. Her soul begs people to fight for peace and let their children grow, play and laugh
happily. The soul of the girl knocks on every door to warn about the adverse effects of war.
General Relevance: The devastation of Hiroshima and Nagasaki during the World War -II
was the worst event in history. Millions more died-many injured-many become home- less.
The poet's strong appeal is "Fight for Peace".

Answer the following QUESTIONS in about 100 words each.

a) What is the theme of the poem Hiroshima Child?
b) Why does the poet appeal for peace through a dead child?
c) Describe the feelings of the child when she knows she was dead at the age of seven.
d) ‘I ask for nothing for myself.’
Why do you think the child asked nothing for herself?
 Ans.
About the Poet: The poem "Hiroshima Child" written by Nazim Hikmet. He was a Turkish
poet, playwright and novelist. He is recognised as one of the greatest poets of 20th Century.
Most of his writings are about war. The poem "Hiroshima Child" is about a seven-year-old
girl who died in the Hiroshima bomb attack by America during the World War -11.
About the Poem: The poem is about a seven-year old girl who died in Hiroshima bomb
attacks by American army during the world War-11. The little innocent girl, who is no longer
alive, is the speaker of the poem. She was only seven-year-old when she died in the atomic
bomb blasts. She describes her feelings after and before the bomb. The girl also speaks about
her death; how the fire caught her and then she became ashes. Since then, the child has felt
neither growth nor hunger, nor any wants, she visits each home and knocks at their doors.
The poet describes her appearance when she died. Her hair was burnt, eyes grew dim and
became blind. As she is dead and has no physical appearance, none can see or hear her. Her
bones turned to dust which was scattered by wind. She seeks neither food nor things from
people. Her soul begs people to fight for peace and let their children grow, play and laugh
happily. The soul of the girl knocks on every door to warn about the adverse effects of war.

Conclusion: The devastation of Hiroshima and Nagasaki during the World War II was the
worst event in history. Millions more died-many injured-many become homeless. The poet's
strong appeal is "Fight for Peace".

4. AWAKE Sarojini Naidu

ANNOTATE the following in about 100 words each:

a) Who kneel in thy presence to serve and adore thee!
b) Awaken and sever the was that enthral us.
c) Ne'er shall we fail thee forsake thee or falter.
Whose hearts are thy home and thy shield and thine altar.
d) ………………………………. Hearken!
O queen and O goddess, we hail thee.
Ans.
Reference: - This line is taken from the Patriotic lyric "Awake" written by Sarojini Naidu,
the nightingale of India. She was the first Indian woman to be the President of Indian
National Congress and the Governor of a State in independent India.
Context: The poem is a vehement appeal for unity and action for the people of India. It is the
poem in the first section of "The Broken Wing" entitled "Songs of Life and Death". The poetess
recited this poem at the annual session of Indian National Congress, Bombay 1915. Explanation:
First, the nation is personified as our mother and all Indian's as her children. Sarojini Naidu
addresses mother India and says that her children pray her to awake. They kneel in her presence
as a sign of respect and readiness. They are ready to serve her and worship her. So she need not
be in the clutches of bondage hereafter. She assures mother India that they
never leave her and fail to protect her. They take vow not to leave or to give up her. They are
her shield with they would protect her. On behalf of all Hindus, Parsees, Musalmans,
Christians and all creeds, she offers prayers to Mother India.
All of them have crowned her with flowers, the flame of all their hopes surrounds her. The sword
of their love defends her, the songs of their faith attends her. She requests mother India to listen
to them-she calls her mother, queen and goddess. The worshipers of all Indian religions are
brought together to the altar of mother India to hail her as a queen and a "goddess".

General Relevance: Thus, the poem conveys the idea that mother India could be awakened
from her slumber and emancipated from her bondage by the united efforts of all her sons.

Answer the following QUESTIONS in about 100 words each.

a) Substantiate the critical comment that the poem Awake is a patriotic lyric?
b) What do the Children implore the mother in the poem Awake?
c) How do Indians plan to set their mother again in the forefront of glory?
d) What do the children of all creeds promise their mother separately and collectively?

Ans.
About the Poet: The Patriotic lyric "Awake" written by Sarojini Naidu, the nightingale of
India. She was the first Indian woman to be the President of Indian National Congress and the
Governor of a State in independent India. The poem is a vehement appeal for unity and action
for the people of India. It is the poem in the first section of "The Broken Wing" entitled
"Songs of Life and Death". The poetess recited this poem at the annual session of Indian
National Congress, Bombay 1915.
About the Poem: First, the nation is personified as our mother and all Indian's as her
children. Sarojini Naidu addresses mother India and says that her children pray her to awake.
They kneel in her presence as a sign of respect and readiness. They are ready to serve her and
worship her. So she need not be in the clutches of bondage hereafter. She assures mother
India that they never leave her and fail to protect her. They take vow not to leave or to give
up her. They are her shield with they would protect her. On behalf of all Hindus, Parsees,
Musalmans, Christians and all creeds, she offers prayers to Mother India. All of them have
crowned her with flowers, the flame of all their hopes surrounds her. The sword of their love
defends her, the songs of their faith attends her. She requests mother India to listen to them-
she calls her mother, queen and goddess. The worshipers of all Indian religions are brought
together to the altar of mother India to hail her as a queen and a "goddess".

Conclusion: Thus, the poem conveys the idea that mother India could be awakened from her
slumber and emancipated from her bondage by the united efforts of all her sons.
 FEAR Khalil Gibran

ANNOTATE the following in about 100 words each:

a) It is said that before entering the sea
a river trembles with fear.
b) And in front of her, she sees an ocean
so vast, that to enter there seems
nothing more than to disappear forever.
c) The river goes back. Nobody can go back.
To go back is impossible in existence.
d) It's not about disappearing into the ocean,
but of becoming the ocean.
Ans.
Reference: - These lines are taken from the poem "Fear" Written by Khalil Gibran. He was a
famous Lebanese American poet, who wrote both in Arabic and English. His writings deal
with spiritual love and life issues.
Context: In the poem, the poet expresses his philosophical understanding of overcoming fear.
The speaker thinks of an image of a river flowing into the sea.
Explanation: -The speaker contemplates a river flowing into the Ocean. The statement "It is
said that" implies that Gibran's point of view is not wholly his own. He may have heard of the
river's fear and chose to give it some strength through the poetry. The river may have
travelled difficult paths before entering the Ocean, yet it trembles with fear at the sight of the
vastness of the Ocean. He compares humanity to rivers. Even for a man there is always the
fear of the unknown and being lost in it.
General Relevance: Thus through the emotions of the river, the poet establishes a strong and
powerful message for humankind who fear losing their identity, death, change, being left
forgotten in this vast universe and so on.

Answer the following QUESTIONS in about 100 words each.

a) What is the central idea of the poem Fear?
b) What does 'nobody can go back' mean in the poem Fear? Explain from your point of
view.
c) How can one overcome fear? Explain.
d) What does the line "The river needs to take the risk of entering the ocean" mean?
Discuss.
Ans.
About the Poet: The poem "Fear" written by Khalil Gibran. He was a famous Lebanese-
American poet, who wrote both in Arabic and English. His writings deal with spiritual love
and life issues. In the poem, the poet expresses his philosophical understanding of
overcoming fear. The speaker thinks of an image of river flowing into the sea.
About the Poem: The speaker contemplates a river flowing into the Ocean. A river generally
originates at headwaters of mountains range like a small canal. As the river looks back at the
journey it under took in mountains, forests, and villages; humans too look back at their past
instead of moving forward. The source of the river's fear is clear i.e., the fear of disappearing
into the ocean once and forever. When the river stands in front of the vast body of water, the
fear takes hold of its thoughts. It seems that nothing else can come out of it other than her
losing itself. Still, that is the only option left for the river and it can’t trace back to the path
behind it. Like the river. We have to take risks to conquer and overcome our fear.
Conclusion: Thus, through the emotions of the river, the poet establishes a strong and
powerful message for humankind who fear losing their identity, death, change, being left
forgotten in this vast universe and so on.
 SHORT STORIES
1. THE WOMAN ON PLATFORM NO.8 Ruskin Bond
Answer the following QUESTIONS in about 100 words each.
a) Describe the character of Arun, the boarding schoolboy?
b) What did Satish's mother advise him about strangers? How did Arun and Satish react
to her advice?
c) What made Arun call the strange woman 'Mother' at the end?
d) Give any four reasons to explain why Arun developed instant liking for the strange
woman in a white sari on platform No. 8?
Ans.
About the Writer: Ruskin Bond is an Indian author of British Nationality. He wrote his first
novel at the age of 17 that won him the Llewellyn Ruys Prize. He received the Sahitya
Akademi Award, Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan Awards. He has written several novels,
short stories and books for children.
About the Story: "The Woman on Platform No.8" by Ruskin Bond is a story about leve and
affection that transcends all barriers of kinship. It is narrated in the first person by a school boy
named, Arun. It narrates the experiences of a young boy - Arun. A twelve-year-old boy, Arun is
travelling back to his boarding school. He is a young. brave and confident and independent. He is
the best football player. Arun travels alone at midnight without fear. As part of his journey, he
has to take a train at Ambala Station. So he waits till midnight there on platform No. 8. He feels
lonely and bored. Suddenly, a strange woman in a white saree, approaches him and speaks with
him very affectionately. She is gentle and simple woman. She also offers Arun tea, samosas and
Jilebies. She helps him feel comfortable. Arun opens up and tells her about friends, school and
likes and dislikes. Meanwhile sathish, Arun's school friend and his mother reach at the platform
No. 8. She is large and imposing woman with glasses. She mistakes that the strange woman as
Arun's mother and says that it is not safe to send young boy alone, especially at night. There may
be dishonest people. So one must be careful. Arun finds sharp contrast in affection and humanity
between the two women. He dislikes Sathish's mother. He says "he likes strangers". Arun utters
the farewell words "Good-Bye-Mother".

Conclusion: Thus the character of Arun gives us the picture of a matured young boy with
good understanding and time sense.

2. A GIFT FOR CHRISTMAS O. Henry

Answer the following QUESTIONS in about 100 words each.

a) "Love, sacrifice and generosity are the essential elements for happy living". Explain
this statement with reference to the story A Gift for Christmas.
b) Analyse the character of Della.
 c) Sketch the character of Jim.
d) A Gift for Christmas is an example of O. Henry’s comic irony. Justify?
Ans.
About the Writer: O. Henry is the pen name of William Sydney Porter, an A short-story
writer, he is known for his wit and storytelling technique. His stories are remarkable for their
surprise twist in the endings. He wrote nearly 600 stories about life in America. American
About the Story: The story "A Gift for Christmas" is taken from O. Henry's collection "The
Four Million". It narrates the story of a young married couple, Della and Jim, who love each
other enough and that they are willing to sacrifice something in order to buy a Christmas gift
for the other. Della and Jim are poor, young couple. They live in a shabby flat house in New-
York, they have meagre income. They are poor but they love each other very much. It is
Christmas time. Each wants to give a wonderful and surprise presentation to the other. Della
wants to give him a nice Christmas gift but she has only $ 1.87 which is not enough to buy
the gift. When she sees herself in the mirror. She finds a solution. She goes to Madame
Sofrane's store and sells her long, beautiful hair for $ 20. With her new funds, she is able to
find Jim a perfect present; a elegant platinum watch chain costs $ 21. Jim arrives home and
finds to his shock Della's hair is gone. After a while Jim gives her a gift-a fancy ivory combs
which she has wanted for a long time but now it is of no use for her Jim tells her that he has
sold his gold watch to pay for her Christmas gift. Then Della gives him her present. At the
end, they agree to put away their presents and have their dinner. Thus Della and Jim remains
in our mind as a symbol of love, affection and above all sacrifice.
Conclusion: -Thus, both of them show the true meaning of love, sacrifice and generosity for
happy living for happy living.

3. THE DOCTOR'S WORD R.K. Nanayan

Answer the following QUESTIONS in about 100 words each.

a) Sketch the character of Dr. Raman.
b) "People came to him (Dr. Raman) when the patient was on his last legs." Why?
c) Describe Gopal's health condition and his anxiety about the will.
d) "If my word can save his life, he shall not die," said Dr. Raman to himself. Explain the
situation that makes the doctor say so.
Ans.
About the Writer: R.K. Narayan was a well-known Indian writer, famous for his set of work
and writing in the fictional South Indian town of "Malgudi". He was one of the leading and
famous authors of early Indian literature written in English along with two others, Mulk Raj
Anand and Raja Rao. He won many awards like the Padma Bhushan, the Padma Vibhushan,
Shitya Akademi Fellowship and A.C. Benson Medal.
About the Story: "The Doctor's Word" is a short story from the collection of Malgudi Days"
by R.K. Narayan, published in 1943. In the story. The writer tells how a doctor's word save
the life of a patient by keeping his principles aside. Dr. Raman is an experienced professional
doctor in the town Malgudi. He treats his patients wonderfully. He often bursts out at patients
for coming late to him, after days or weeks of illness. He doesn't tell soothing lies. He never
believes in the idea that Doctor's word save the lives of patients. He is a man of deeds than of
words. He maintains high standard of ethics. Dr. Raman sometimes enjoys dinner with his
best childhood friend, Gopal. One day, Gopal is seriously ill. Dr. Raman goes to Gopal’s
house to see him almost on the death bed. He examines and attends to him. He operates on
him immediately with the help of his assistants. Gopal wants to sign the will and settle the
property before he dies to avoid endless misery to his family. But Dr. Raman believes that
soothing lies can’t save a dying man. Still, the doctor decides to fell his patient a lie for the
first time in his life. He says there is no danger to Gopal's life. This relieves him and gets cure
next morning. It remains a puzzle to the doctor as to how Gopal has survived. The Doctor's
word saves the life of patient from the jaws of death.

4. LOST Guy de Maupassant

Answer the following QUESTIONS in about 100 words each.

a) Attempt the character sketch of the lady in the story Lost.
b) Narrate the incident that led to the agreement the lady the baron.
c) What was the baron's wish? Was it fulfilled? Explain.
d) Write about the character of the baron.
Ans.
About the Writer: Guy de Maupassant is a French writer. He is remembered as the master of
the short story form. His stories depict human lives, destinies and social forces in pessimistic
terms.
About the Story: - The interesting story "LOST" is about a clever and beautiful lady who takes
revenge on a very wealthy business man (baron). It is at once amusing apart from giving a clear
message that immoral love leads to one's downfall. The lady in the story is Russian woman. A
baron from Palestine sees her in an exhibition and develops immoral liking for her. She is
married and her husband had a modest income. So the baron wants to take advantage of her
property. He proposes to her by offering her to buy an expensive fur coat. But the lady doesn't
like such relations and she plans to take revenge on him. She tells him that she will grant his
wish, if he allows her to whip him 25 cuts. The foolish baron, who is overpowered by his intense
desire to possess her. He agrees and takes the appointment for the next evening at 8 P.M. The
clever lady ties his hands and starts giving mighty blows. She completes twenty-four. She
intentionally skipped giving him the twenty-fifth cut. To show him the witnesses, she drew the
curtains and reveal her husband and two other gentlemen. The foolish baron is 'lost'. Thus a baron
becomes a prey to the clever woman's plan. Immoral love leads to one's downfall.
 AN INTERVIEW Richard Gordon

Answer the following QUESTIONS in about 100 words each.

a) The narrator though that his interview was superfluous? Why?
b) "The Dean began to look interested." What was he interested in? Why?
c) Why do you think the old man visited the waiting room?
d) "His face suddenly lightened.........." Do you think the Dean was really happy with the
narrator? Why?
Ans.
About the Writer: - Richard Gordon was an English surgeon and an anaesthetist. He wrote
numerous novels and screen plays for films and television. He also wrote short write-ups on
popular history mostly dealing with medicine.
About the Story: The short-story "An Interview" written by him, is witty and apparently
autobiographical. In the story, he discusses the narrator's experience of facing an interview
with the dean of a medical school. The narrator came to attend an interview with Dr. Lionel
Loftus. The dean of St. Swithin's Medical School. He sat nervously in the waiting area. He
was then encountered by an old man, the secretary of the medical school who scanned him
carefully and asked a few questions about himself. Unlike what's expected, the Dean didn't
ask any medical questions but asked only about his rugby experience, with which the Dean
seemed impressed. As a result, the narrator got admitted into St. Swithin's. Later, he got to
know that, all that was unnecessary. The Dean generally admitted students whom the
secretary approves of and rejected those whose looks the secretary didn't like.
Conclusion: - In this story, Gordon discusses the narrator's experience of facing an interview
with the Dean of a medical school. The style of the narration is simple and racy.