GOLD FRAME - R.K Laxman

1.      How did Datta know that the photograph was very valuable to the customer? Why did he have treject many of the photographs from his collection while looking for a substitute the photograph?                                                                                           (or)

Datta found a solution for his problem.  Did it really work for him? Justify your answer.

            Rasipuram Krishnaswamy Iyer Laxman: (born 23^rd October, 1924) is an Indian cartoonist, illustrator and humorist.  He is widely regarded as India’s greatest-ever cartoonist and is best known for his creation ‘The Common Man.’  He is the brother of R.K. Narayan.

            Datta was the owner of a small shop called The Modern Frame Works.  He used to put pictures into frames.  One day a customer comes to Datta’s shop with a faded picture of an elderly person.  The man in the picture has whiskers and a huge turban.  It is a standard portrait taken in a by-gone era.  The customer speaks with reverence about the great qualities of the man.  He demands that the best frame be used and, after considerable discussion, settles on an imported German frame with an oval cut mount.

            Though the work is to be delivered after a fortnight, the customer shows up after just ten days and asks if it is ready.  He understands then that the customer is quite serious about getting the photo framed.  Obviously the photo is a cherished possession and the customer has immense regard for the person in the photo.

            Datta decides to begin work at once.  But then a terrible thing happens.  A tin of enamel paint accidentally spills over the photo.  Datta tries to rub the paint on the photo with a cloth but unfortunately half the face and the entire turban get erased. Datta is panic-stricken.  He does not know what to do as the photograph is completely spoilt.  As he looks around in dismay, an idea takes shape in Datta’s mind. He plans to substitute the damaged photo with another photo which is somewhat similar.  He finds a suitable photo for this purpose and puts it in a dazzling gold gold frame.  He hopes that his deception will go unnoticed.  Nonetheless, he is anxious and nervous.

            The customer arrives and asks if the work has been completed.  Datta slowly removes the cover and hands over the photo.  The customer eagerly looks at it.  Datta waits with bated breath.  Almost at once the customer shouts in anger, “What have you done?” Datta fears the worst.  He thinks that his deception has been noticed.  He had practiced several times how he would feign ignorance or deny it if he was occused of using a different photo. 

            But before Datta can open his mouth, the customer continues shouting that while he had asked for an oval frame, Datta had used a square one! Datta realizes then that the customer had not noticed that the photo itself was different.  He had merly objected to the frame.  He is relieved, as he knows that at the most, he might have to change the frame.

* * *

3. A SPIDER AND A FLY - Don Marquis

 

1.   i serve a great purpose

      in the word          

                     (or)

      i am a vessel of righteousness

      scattering seeds of justice

      and serving the noblest causes

      Poem & Poet : These lines are taken from the poem ‘A Spider and a Fly’ written by Don Marquis.  The poem is in the form of an argument between a spider and a fly.  It is a debate on the relevance of Beauty and Utility in life.

      Context & Meaning:  A spider is about to kill a fly.  The fly protests.  It tries to convince the spider that its life should be spared as it plays a very useful role in society.  It proudly boasts that it spreads the germs of various diseases like typhoid and influenza.  It is a holy instrument and carrier of divine justice.  Wicked people die in these epidemic while innocent people survive. Thus, it performs a noble duty and cleanses society of its sins.  The fly speaks the language of Evangelism, as though it is spreading the Word of God.    

      Critical Comment :  The poem is a satirical comment on the age-old debate about Art-whether Art should serve some purpose or whether it can exist for its own sake.  The fly personifies a practical man.  The fly is proud of his ability to ‘cleanse’ the world of wicked people.  He claims that this is his great purpose or duty in the word.  The fly hence considers himself noble as he rids as world of such sinful people.

3.   i am the artist

      a creator and a demi-god

                        (or)

      i serve the gods of beauty

      look at the gossamer webs

      i weave they float in the sum

      like filaments of song

      Poem & Poet : These lines are taken from the poem ‘A Spider and a Fly’ written by Don Marquis.  The poem is in the form of an argument between a spider and a fly.  It is a debate on the relevance of Beauty and Utility in life.

     

      Context & Meaning:  A spider and a fly have a debate about which of them leads a more meaningful existence.  The fly boasts about the useful role it plays.  It spreads diseases, whereby wicked people are punished for their sins. The spider, however, demeans the utility of the fly.  It boasts that it enjoys itself weaving silk webs all day.  The delicate, slender threads are an embodiment of beauty.  The web is an exquisite work of art.  It ca transport one to the land of magic and enchantment.  The spider claims, thereforce, that it is not a mere worker like the fly.  Rather, it is a creator and an artist whose work is invaluable.  The spider likens itself to a small god or deity.

      Critical Comment :  The spider admitted, condescendingly, that the greatness of the fly was restricted to his utility.  On the other hand, the spider was a demigod and a creator.  The spider was an artist spinning filaments and creating beautiful cobwebs with such ease.  Saying this, the spider pounced on the fly and began to eat him.  The poem ends with the poet’s judgment of the triumph of art over science of ‘utilitarian’ aspects.

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

1)   The poem ‘A Spider and a Fly’ is a celebration of beauty rather than utility.  Justify your answer.

      The poem ‘A Spider and a Fly’ is written by Don Marquis.  The poem is in the form of an argument between a spider and a fly.  It is a debate on the relevance of Beauty and Utility in life.

     

      A spider and a fly have a debate about which of them leads a more meaningful existence.  The fly boasts about the useful role it plays.  It spreads diseases, whereby wicked people are punished for their sins. The spider, however, demeans the utility of the fly.  It boasts that it enjoys itself weaving silk webs all day.  The delicate, slender threads are an embodiment of beauty.  The web is an exquisite work of art.  It ca transport one to the land of magic and enchantment.  The spider claims, thereforce, that it is not a mere worker like the fly.  Rather, it is a creator and an artist whose work is invaluable.  The spider likens itself to a small god or deity.

     

      The spider with contempt, acknowledges that what the fly says is true.  It adds, however, that mere utility does not serve much purpose.  It boats that it enjoys itself weaving silk weds all day.  These webs are a work of beauty and transport one to the land of magic and enchantment.  The spider says that it is, therefore, not a mere worker like the fly.  Rather, it is a creator and an artist whose work is invaluable.  The spider declares that it is far superior to the fly and eats it.  The spider defeats the fly in the argument and this shows that the poem can be viewed as a celebration of beauty.

2)   Describe the use of the fly and the spider in the poem ‘A Spider and a Fly’.

      The poem ‘A Spider and a Fly’ is written by Don Marquis.  The poem is in the form of an argument between a spider and a fly.  It is a debate on the relevance of Beauty and Utility in life.

     

      A spider and a fly have a debate about which of them leads a more meaningful existence.  The fly boasts about the useful role it plays.  It spreads diseases, whereby wicked people are punished for their sins. The spider, however, demeans the utility of the fly.  It boasts that it enjoys itself weaving silk webs all day.  The delicate, slender threads are an embodiment of beauty.  The web is an exquisite work of art.  It ca transport one to the land of magic and enchantment.  The spider claims, thereforce, that it is not a mere worker like the fly.  Rather, it is a creator and an artist whose work is invaluable.  The spider likens itself to a small god or deity.

      The spider concedes that the fly is useful.  However, it asserts that it is far superior to the fly.  It boasts that it enjoys itself weaving silk webs all day.  These webs are a work of beauty and transport one to the land of magic and enchantment.  The spider claims, therefore, that it is not a mere worker like the fly.  Rather, it is a creator and an artist whose work is invaluable.  The spider likens itself to a demi-god.  Ending the argument, it pounces on the fly and eats it. Thus, Beauty seems to triumph over Utility.

* * *

THINKING OUT OF THE BOX: LATERAL THINKING - Edward De Bono

Annotations:

1.         It is thinking differently or doing something different, doing something that might be quite novel and unconventional in nature.

           

Lesson and Author:- These lines are taken from the essay “ Thinking out of the Box: Lateral Thinking.” The essay is adapted from an article on lateral thinking in the internet Edward de Bono is the main propagator of lateral thinking.

Context & Meaning: - The essay explains the importance of lateral thinking in solving problems that we encounter in our daily life. Lateral thinking is a way of thinking that is different from logical thinking. We generally think in a linear or logical fashion. However, this might not always provide solutions to our problems. In some cases, we might have to think differently or de something novel or unconventional in nature. Logical and analysis does not always work. Often we make assumption, which are wrong. We need to think in a creative and unconventional manner. This is called lateral thinking. It is this quality that distinguish the brilliant or extraordinary from the mediocre.

Critical comment:- The author points out the difference between logical thinking and lateral thinking. Lateral thinking is different from logical thinking or linear thinking. It implies the ability to think differently. The essay provides numerous situations where lateral thinking has been used. One such example from the world of cricket is the introduction of one – day matches and more recently, T20 matches. 

 

2.         In most real – life situations, the pieces are not given, we just assume they are there. We assume certain perceptions, concepts and boundaries.

           

Lesson and Author:- These lines are taken from the essay “ Thinking out of the Box: Lateral Thinking.” The essay is adapted from an article on lateral thinking in the internet Edward de Bono is the main propagator of lateral thinking.

Context & Meaning : - The essay explains the importance of lateral thinking in solving problems that we encounter in our daily life. Lateral thinking is a way of thinking that is different from logical thinking. Most of us try to solve problems in a particular way. We place the given data before us and make certain assumptions. We then decide our course of action. This structured approach can be compared to the manner in which we move pieces on the chess board when we play a game of chess. But sometimes this strategy does not work. The assumptions we make may be incorrect. We need to break free of preconceived ideas and limitations that we impose on ourselves unnecessarily. We need to thin in a new, creative way.

Critical comment:- The author points out the difference between logical thinking and lateral thinking. Lateral thinking is different from logical thinking or linear thinking. It implies the ability to think differently. The essay provides numerous situations where lateral thinking has been used. One such example from the world of cricket is the introduction of one – day matches and more recently, T20 matches. 

3.         When a person puts in a hat he or she plays the role that belongs to that hat. This makes it a game where individuals are encouraged to contribute all kinds of ideas under diverse hats.

           

Lesson and Author:- These lines are taken from the essay “ Thinking out of the Box: Lateral Thinking.” The essay is adapted from an article on lateral thinking in the internet Edward de Bono is the main propagator of lateral thinking.

Context & Meaning : - The essay explains the importance of lateral thinking in solving problems that we encounter in our daily life. Lateral thinking is a way of thinking that is different from logical thinking. De Bono says that we have to think in new, creative ways to solve problem. We may have to keep changing hats. We wear a white hat when we try to grasp facts, a red hat when we view the emotional aspects of a problem and a black one when we make a judgment. We wear a green hat when we study various alternatives and a yellow one when we look at the pros and cons of an issue. We wear a blue hat when we review our thinking process. Changing hats is interesting and challenging. We come up with different ideas and suggestions.

Critical comment:- The author points out the difference between logical thinking and lateral thinking. The different ways of approaching a problem can be compared to the wearing of different hats. He describes the six thinking hats of De Bono, the gather of lateral thinking. The essay provides numerous situations where lateral thinking has been used. One such example from the world of cricket is the introduction of one – day matches and more recently, T20 matches.

4.         With the six hats, instead of confrontation there is supportive scrutiny of an issue, which is useful where there are fierce arguments, bickering or obstinacy.

           

Lesson and Author:- These lines are taken from the essay “ Thinking out of the Box: Lateral Thinking.” The essay is adapted from an article on lateral thinking in the internet Edward de Bono is the main propagator of lateral thinking.

Context & Meaning : - To explain the concept of lateral thinking. De Bono used the technique of six thinking hats. These hats are of different colors. They have a symbolic significance. Each hat represents a particular style of thinking or approach to a problem. De Bono points out that the use of these hats is particularly useful in group discussions. Different members can wear different hats. There is more team work and less ill will an arguments. People are more ready to understand and appreciate each other’s point of view. They are less rigid and stubborn.      

Critical comment:- The author points out the difference between logical thinking and lateral thinking. The different ways of approaching a problem can be compared to the wearing of different hats. He describes the six thinking hats of De Bono, the father of lateral thinking. The essay provides numerous situations where lateral thinking has been used. One such example from the world of cricket is the introduction of one – day matches and more recently, T20 matches.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

1.         “Most complex problems do have a solution”. Explain how the girl in the story used lateral thinking to come up with a solution for her problem.

           

The essay “ Thinking out of the Box: Lateral Thinking” is adapted from an article on lateral thinking in the internet Edward de Bono is the main propagator of lateral thinking.  The essay explains the importance of lateral thinking in solving problems that we encounter in our daily life. Lateral thinking is a way of thinking that is different from logical thinking.

            Some times a problem is difficult and complicated. We are unable to find a solution. However, if we change the way we look at the problem we may be able to solve it. Logic and analysis does not always work. Often we make assumptions which are wrong. We need to think in a creative and unconventional manner. This is called lateral thinking.

            In the story the money – lender pretends to play a small game of chance. He says that there are two pebbles in a bag. If the girl picks the white pebble from the bag she will be set free. If she picks the black pebble she will have to marry him. The girl, thus has a fair chance of winning. But the girl notices that the money – lender has cheated in the game by putting two black pebbles in the bag. The girl displays presence of mind. She pretends to drop the pebble she has picked. She then points out that since the pebble left in the bag is black, she must have picked the white one. Therefore, she should be set free. The girl, thus uses her wits to escape.

2.         “Lateral thinking is creative or non – linear thinking”. Provide instances from the essay to support this statement.

            The essay “ Thinking out of the Box: Lateral Thinking” is adapted from an article on lateral thinking in the internet Edward de Bono is the main propagator of lateral thinking.  The essay explains the importance of lateral thinking in solving problems that we encounter in our daily life. Lateral thinking is a way of thinking that is different from logical thinking.

            Generally, we use logic and analytical skills to solve problems. We assume certain things about the situation and decide what we should do. But sometimes we may need to think in a totally different way. A fresh approach may help us to solve the problem. Some anecdotes in the essay illustrate how lateral thinking differs from linear thinking.

            The girl outwits the money – lender who tries to cheat her in a game. Knowing that both the pebbles in the bag are black, she pretends to drop the pebbles she has picked. She then states that since the one left in the bag is black, she must have picked up the white one. She wins her freedom. In another instance a millionaire takes a small loan of $5000 from a bank located in the heart of New York city. He leaves his car as collateral security. He later reveals that paying interest of $15 is far cheaper than paying the parking fee for his car for two weeks. I another incident two men come across a tiger. One man gets ready to run, the other man asks him how he expects to run faster than the tiger. The first man replies that he need not do so. It is enough if he outruns his partner. T20 and day/night matches in cricket are other examples of lateral thinking. Colourful balls and clothing were introduced. Australia recently experimented with two different captains for the Test and one-day crocket matches. 

3.         Explain the use of six thinking hats. How does it help in group discussions?

The essay “ Thinking out of the Box: Lateral Thinking” is adapted from an article on lateral thinking in the internet Edward de Bono is the main propagator of lateral thinking.  The essay explains the importance of lateral thinking in solving problems that we encounter in our daily life. Lateral thinking is a way of thinking that is different from logical thinking.

To explain the concept of lateral thinking. De Bono used the technique of six thinking hats. These hats are of different colors. They have a symbolic significance. Each hat represents a particular style of thinking or approach to a problem. De Bono points out that the use of these hats is particularly useful in group discussions. Different members can wear different hats. There is more team work and less ill will an arguments. People are more ready to understand and appreciate each other’s point of view. They are less rigid and stubborn.  De Bono says that we have to think in new, creative ways to solve problem. We may have to keep changing hats. We wear a white hat when we try to grasp facts, a red hat when we view the emotional aspects of a problem and a black one when we make a judgment. We wear a green hat when we study various alternatives and a yellow one when we look at the pros and cons of an issue. We wear a blue hat when we review our thinking process. Changing hats is interesting and challenging. We come up with different ideas and suggestions.

    

4.         Explain the difference between lateral and logical thinking.

            The essay “ Thinking out of the Box: Lateral Thinking” is adapted from an article on lateral thinking in the internet Edward de Bono is the main propagator of lateral thinking.  The essay explains the importance of lateral thinking in solving problems that we encounter in our daily life. Lateral thinking is a way of thinking that is different from logical thinking.

            We generally think in a linear or logical fashion. However, this might not always provide solutions to our problems. In some cases, we might have to think differently or de something novel or unconventional in nature. Logical and analysis does not always work. Often we make assumption, which are wrong. We need to think in a creative and unconventional manner. This is called lateral thinking. It is this quality that distinguish the brilliant or extraordinary from the mediocre.

Some times a problem is difficult and complicated. We are unable to find a solution. However, if we change the way we look at the problem we may be able to solve it. Logic and analysis does not always work. Often we make assumptions which are wrong. We need to think in a creative and unconventional manner. This is called lateral thinking.

                                                     *   *   *

                                                    

1. ON FRIENDSHIP - Kahlil Gibran

1.         He is your field which you sow with love and reap with thanks giving and he is your board and you fireside.

            Poem & Poet :- These lines are taken from the Poem ‘On Friendship’ by Lebanese – Arabic poet Kahlil Gibran. The poem is an extract from his book ‘The prophet’, written in 1923. The poem is a celebration of the joys of friendship.

            Context and Meaning : - When questioned by a student on the subject of friendship, the poet notes that a friend is God’s blessing. The most important ingredient in friendship is love. We shower friends with love and in return we earn their gratitude. It is his way of answering our needs. The poet makes interesting comparisons while describing the traints of a true friend. A friend is your board and fireside. Even when he is physically away he provides you with the comfort and warmth in winter, a friend is a source of comfort during times of distress.

            Critical Comment :- The poem uses lucid imagery to describe the relationship between friends. The most important ingredient in friendship is love. We shower friends with love and in return we earn their gratitude.

2.      For without words, in friendship, all thoughts, all desire, all explanations are born and shared, with joy that is un acclaimed.

Poem & Poet :- These lines are taken from the Poem ‘On Friendship’ by Lebanese – Arabic poet Kahlil Gibran. The poem is an extract from his book ‘The prophet’, written in 1923.The poem is a celebration of the joys of friendship.

            Context and Meaning : - When questioned by a student on the subject of friendship, the poet notes that a friend is God’s blessing. The poet makes interesting comparisons while describing the traits of a true friend. The most important ingredient in friendship is love. We shower friends with love and in return we earn their gratitude. A true friend is one with whom we can share our joys and sorrows. Communicating with him does not need any special effort. He is one who can understand not only our words but our silence too. We need not be afraid to speak out our mind in his ‘presence’ we can express our inner most feelings, hopes and fears.

            Critical Comment : -  A true friend is sure to understand and sympathies with us. We need not declare aloud the peace and contentment we feel in his company. For free friendship does not require publicity or elaborate explanations. Gibran focuses on the obility to understand each other, in silence as it is stronger than words and mole eloquent than speech.

3.         For that which you love most in him may be clearer in his absence, as the mountain to the climber is clearer from the plain.

Poem & Poet :- These lines are taken from the Poem ‘On Friendship’ by Lebanese – Arabic poet Kahlil Gibran.The poem is an extract from his book ‘The prophet’, written in 1923.The poem is a celebration of the joys of friendship.

            Context and Meaning : -  When questioned by a student on the subject of friendship, the poet notes that a friend is God’s blessing.  The poet makes interesting comparisons while describing the traits of a true friend. The most important ingredient in friendship is love. We shower friends with love and in return we earn their gratitude. A true friend is one with whom we can share on joys and sorrows. When we climb a mountain we cannot see it in a proper prospective. A mountain appears more clean when one is on the plain, at some distance away. In a similar manner we can appreciate fully the value of a friend only in his absorve .when he is in our midst, we fail to understand his good qualities. But once he is away, we miss him dearly and cherish the memories of our friendship.

            Critical Comment : The poet makes the use of words. His ideas are novel, philosophical and close to reality. The Imagery is apt and reveals his own clarity of perception in life in allits paradoxes.

4.         For in the dew of little things the heart finds its morning and is refreshed.

Poem & Poet :- These lines are taken from the Poem ‘On Friendship’ by Lebanese – Arabic poet Kahlil Gibran.The poem is an extract from his book ‘The prophet’, written in 1923.The poem is a celebration of the joys of friendship.

            Context and Meaning : -  When questioned by a student on the subject of friendship, the poet notes that a friend is God’s blessing.  The poet makes interesting comparisons while describing the traits of a true friend. The most important ingredient in friendship is love. We shower friends with love and in return we earn their gratitude. A true friend is un with whom we can share on joys and sorrows. We count on friends when our life is at an ebb and we feel ‘low.’  We should be equally ready to share with them the flood of joy in our life.  We should turn to friends not simply because we are bored and need some recreation.  We feel relaxed and refreshed in the presence of a friend.  He is like the morning dew which brings freshness and life.  Thus, the company of a friend can refresh and enliven us.

            Critical Comment : The poet makes the use of words. His ideas are novel, philosophical and close to reality.  Gibran describes the qualities of a true friend.  A friend is a rock of support during times of grief.  But the poet gently reminds us at the end of the poem that we should share not only our troubles but our joys too.

                                                                                                  
                                                                     *    *    *

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

1.     “Who finds a faithful friend finds a treasure.” Do you agree? Base your answer on Kahlil Gibran’s ‘On Friendship’.

(or)

                List all the qualities a true friend should have, according to Kahil Gibra.

                     The poem ‘On Friendship’ is written by Lebanese – Arabic poet Kahlil Gibran.  The Poem is an extract from his book ‘The Prophet’, written in 1923. The poem is a celebration of the joys of friendship.

                        A true friend is one who supports us in a crisis. He is like a board which gives support. He is like the fireside which keeps us ward in winter. He fulfills both material and spiritual needs. He can understand not only our words but out silence too. We need nit be afraid to speak freely in his presence. We can express our innermost feelings, hopes and fears. A mountain appears more clear when one is on the plain, at some distance away. In a similar manner we can appreciate the value of a friend even more in his absence. True friendship is enjoyed and celebrated for its own sake. There are no ulterior motives or expectations among friends.

                        However, a friend is not merely one to whom we turn in times of sorrow. Gibran gently reminds us that we should share not only our troubles but our joys too with friends. We count on friends when our life is at an ebb and when we feel “low”. We should be equally ready to share with them the flood of joy in our life. We should seek the company of friends not simply because we are bored and nee some recreation. We feel relaxed and refreshed in the company of a friend as he is like the morning dew. A friend, thus is an invaluable treasure.

1. AFTER TWENTY YEARS (Non-Detailed Essay)

- O. Henry

Q1.      Were Bob and Wells both successful men at the time of their second meeting? Justify your answer.

                        O. Henry was a prolific American short – story writer, a master of surprise endings, who wrote about the life of ordinary people in New York City. A twist of plot, which turns on an ironic or coincidental circumstance, is typical of O. Henry’s stories.

            Bob and Jimmy were childhood friends who grew up in New York. When Bob was eighteen years old, he decided to go to the ‘west’ as he thought he could make a fortune there. He was ambitious by nature and willing to take risks. Jimmy Wells, however, stayed on in the same place. Before they parted, they met one last time at ‘Big Joe’ Brady’s restaurant. They took a vow that they would meet in the same place exactly after twenty years.

                       

                        Twenty years pass by and we find that Bob is waiting eagerly for Jimmy at the appointed place. It is a cold night and there is hardly anyone on the streets. A policeman on the beat appears and Bob narrates the strange story of the pact he had made with his friend. It is clear that Bob has done quite well for himself. He is wearing a watch that is studded with diamonds. Bob readily concedes that he is now rich. He adds that he hopes Jimmy has done at least half as well. The policeman goes away. A little latter a policeman in plain clothes arrives there and arrests Bob. It turns out that Bob is a notorious criminal wanted by the Chicago police. The first policeman was none other than Jimmy, who had come there to keep the appointment.

                        Bob claims he is successful in life. He leads an extravagant life and flaunts his riches. But at the end of the story we come to know that he is a criminal. He is arrested and, thus, his life comes to a sorry end. Jimmy does not reach dazzling heights in his career. In Bob’s words he was always “a kind of plodder.” He is a Patrolman. He does his beat duty with utmost sincerity even in the dead of winter. Like Bob, he values the bond of friendship.

                        Bob, who is now a wanted criminal, is aware that the Chicago police are on the lookout for him. Yet he takes a calculated risk to keep the appointment that was fixed two decades before. He is eager and anxious to see his dear friend. Jimmy, like Bob, remembers the promise that was made. He too turns up at the correct place and time after twenty years. But, being a policeman, Jimmy at once realizes that his childhood friend, Bob, is a wanted criminal.

He places duty above friendship. When he realizes that his friend is a wanted criminal, he does not hesitate to do his duty.

            Thus, Jimmy may not have become rich but his dedication and discipline are exemplary. Bob may have become rich but he is a criminal and finally lands behind bars.

           

           

2. TELEVISION - Roald Dahl

- Annotations

1.      In almost every house we’ve been,

We’ve watched them gaping at the screen.

They loll and slop and lounge about,

And stare until their eyes pop out

Poem and Poet: These lines are taken from the poem TELEVISION, written by ROALD DAHL, a British novelist, short story writer and a poet. It is taken from his collection ‘Revolting Rhymes’. It is a stinging satire on Television.

Context and Meaning: In this poem Roald Dahl expresses concern over what the modern invention the television set has done to children. He points out that watching TV has become a craze in modern time. Children of today spend hours together in front of the ‘idiot box’. They are unable to take the eyes off the screen. They are fascinated and intoxicated by the meaningless entertainment that is churned out on TV.  They laze around in front of the television and gape at the screen. They lose the capacity to think. It also prevents them from using their imagination in a creative way.

Critical comment: The poet bemoans the fact and feels that parents should encourage children to read books instead of watching TV. The poet uses rhyming couplets. The use of verbs like ‘loll’, ‘pop’ and lounge aptly describe the postures adopted by children while watching television.

2.      they sit and stare and stare and sit

Until they’re hypnotized by it,

Until they’re absolutely drunk

With all that shocking ghastly junk.

Poem and Poet: These lines are taken from the poem TELEVISION, written by ROALD DAHL, a British novelist, short story writer and a poet. It is taken from his collection ‘Revolting Rhymes’. It is a stinging satire on Television.

Context and Meaning: In this poem Roald Dahl expresses concern over what the modern invention the television set has done to children. He points out that watching TV has become a craze in modern time.  Children of today spend hours together in front of the ‘idiot box’. They are unable to take the eyes off the screen. They are fascinated and intoxicated by the meaningless entertainment that is churned out on TV.  They laze around in front of the television and gape at the screen. They lose the capacity to think. It also prevents them from using their imagination in a creative way. They behave like zombies, and have no control over their minds.

Critical comment: Children sit in front of the TV for hours together. They become dull. They don’t have any physical activity.  TV hypnotized them. They are I such a state that they would do what all that is telecasted on TV. They watch horrid, repulsive, useless programmes on TV.

3.      It rots the sense in  the head!

It kills imagination dead!

It clogs and clutters up the mind!

Poem and Poet: These lines are taken from the poem TELEVISION, written by ROALD DAHL, a British novelist, short story writer and a poet. It is taken from his collection ‘Revolting Rhymes’ It is a stinging satire on Television.

Context and Meaning: In this poem Roald Dahl expresses concern over what the modern invention the television set has done to children. He points out that watching TV has become a craze in modern time.  Children of today spend hours together in front of the ‘idiot box’. They are unable to take the eyes off the screen. They are fascinated and intoxicated by the meaningless entertainment that is churned out on TV.  They lose the capacity to think. It also prevents them from using their imagination in a creative way. They behave like zombies, and have no control over their minds. Their minds get saturated with the nonsense that they see on the screen.

Critical comment: The poet repeatedly emphasizes the ill effects of watching TV. Children slowly lose their innate intelligence and individuality. Their brains get cluttered and rusted with junk. In the past children read books and were instantly transported to a land of fantasy. Their imagination would be stimulated and their mind would be active. But today TV has killed the habit of reading books.

4.      So please. Oh please, we beg, we pray,

Go throw your TV set away,

And in its place you can install

A lovely bookshelf on the wall.

Poem and Poet: These lines are taken from the poem TELEVISION, written by ROALD DAHL, a British novelist, short story writer and a poet. It is taken from his collection ‘Revolting Rhymes’ It is a stinging satire on Television.

Context and Meaning: In this poem Roald Dahl expresses concern over what the modern invention the television set has done to children. He points out that watching TV has become a craze in modern time.  Children of today spend hours together in front of the ‘idiot box’. They are unable to take the eyes off the screen. They are fascinated and intoxicated by the meaningless entertainment that is churned out on TV. They lose the capacity to think. It also prevents them from using their imagination in a creative way. They behave like zombies, and have no control over their minds. Their minds get saturated with the nonsense that they see on the screen.

Critical comment: At the end of the poem, therefore, the poet exhorts parents to throw away their TV sets at once. He begs them to replace the TV stand with a bookshelf. The habit of reading books should be inculcated once more in children. Children may initially protest but soon they will discover the joys of reading.

* * * * *

                                                                                        Questions & Answers

1.      Describe how children spent their leisure time in the past and how they spend it now.

The poem TELEVISION is written by ROALD DAHL, a British novelist, short story writer and a poet. It is taken from his collection ‘Revolting Rhymes’ It is a stinging satire on Television. In this poem Roald Dahl points out how TV crushes the creativity and spontaneity of children. He laments that children do not read books any more. He reflects with nostalgia on olden days when children eagerly immersed themselves in books.

In the past reading was the main activity and hobby of children books would lie scattered in every nook and corner of the house. Children read books with enthusiasm and keen interest. They would be transported at once to a land of fantasy. Their imagination would be stimulated and their mind would be active.

With the advent of TV, however, a marked change can be seen in children. The child of today spends hours together in front of the ‘idiot box’. He does nothing else all day. He is fascinated by the meaningless entertainment that is churned out on TV. He loses the capacity to think. He behaves like a zombie, as though he no longer has control over his mind. Stuck to the sofa all day, the child does not participate in games or physical activities. He slowly loses the ability to understand and respond to the environment around him. His brain gets cluttered and rusted with the junk he sees on TV.

2.      How television kill one’s imagination?

The poem TELEVISION is written by ROALD DAHL, a British novelist, short story writer and a poet. It is taken from his collection ‘Revolting Rhymes’ It is a stinging satire on Television. In this poem Roald Dahl points out how TV crushes the creativity and spontaneity of children. He laments that children do not read books any more. He reflects with nostalgia on olden days when children eagerly immersed themselves in books.

The child of today spends hours together in front of the ‘idiot box’. He does nothing else all day. He is fascinated and intoxicated by the meaningless entertainment that is churned out on TV. He loses the capacity to think. He behaves like a zombie, as though he no longer has control over his mind. The child does not participate in games or physical activities. He slowly loses the ability to understand and respond to the environment around him. His brain gets cluttered and rusted with the junk he sees on TV. In the past children read books and were instantly transported to a land of fantasy. Their imagination would be stimulated and their mind would be active. But today TV has killed the habit of reading books. As a result, the child has lost his individuality and creativity.

* * * * * * * *  

2. GENDER BIAS - Sudha Murthy

Annotations

1. Life was full of fun and joy. I did not know what helplessness or injustice meant.

`

Lesson and Author:  These lines are taken from the essay, GENDER BIAS written by SUDHA MURTHY, a well-known social worker and author. The essay ‘Gender Bias’ is taken from the collection titled ‘How I Taught my Grandmother to Read’. Sudha Murthy is renowned for her noble mission of providing computer and library facilities in all government schools of Karnataka. She is the Chairperson of Infosys Foundation.

Context and meaning: Sudha Murthy was in the final year of her M. Tech in 1974, at the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore.  One day she came across an advertisement for a job in Telco. Candidates are required to be hard working, besides having an excellent academic record. But it was clearly stated that ladies were not eligible to apply. Sudha Murthy was shocked at this open display of gender discrimination. As a student Sudha Murthy’s life was full of happiness and bliss. She was not aware of any injustice or discrimination against any one. But all this was shaken up when she saw the advertisement for the post of an engineer in Telco.

Critical comment: In this essay Sudha Murthy narrates how she initially faced gender discrimination but later succeeded in getting a job in Telco. Sudha Murthy’s style of writing is simple and direct and communicates her ideas clearly. The essay is both enjoyable and inspiring. It fills the reader with hope.

`

2. Though I was not keen on taking up the job, I saw it as a challenge.

`

Lesson and Author:  These lines are taken from the essay, GENDER BIAS written by SUDHA MURTHY, a well-known social worker and author. The essay ‘Gender Bias’ is taken from the collection titled ‘How I Taught my Grandmother to Read’. Sudha Murthy is renowned for her noble mission of providing computer and library facilities in all government schools of Karnataka. She is the Chairperson of Infosys Foundation.

`

Context and meaning: Sudha Murthy was in the final year of her M. Tech in 1974, at the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore.  One day she came across an advertisement for a job in Telco. Candidates are required to be hard working, besides having an excellent academic record. But it was clearly stated that ladies were not eligible to apply. Sudha Murthy was shocked at this open display of gender discrimination. She was not particularly interested in taking up the job. But she strongly decided to protest against the unjust policy of the company. So she applied for the job. She also wrote a post card to JRD Tata, expressing her dismay.

`

Critical comment: In this essay Sudha Murthy narrates how she initially faced gender discrimination but later succeeded in getting a job in Telco. Sudha Murthy’s style of writing is simple and direct and communicates her ideas clearly. The essay is both enjoyable and inspiring. It fills the reader with hope.

`

3.  “But I am surprised how a company such as Telco is discriminating on the basis of gender”

Lesson and Author:  These lines are taken from the essay, GENDER BIAS written by SUDHA MURTHY, a well-known social worker and author. The essay ‘Gender Bias’ is taken from the collection titled ‘How I Taught my Grandmother to Read’. Sudha Murthy is renowned for her

noble mission of providing computer and library facilities in all government schools of Karnataka. She is the Chairperson of Infosys Foundation.

Context and meaning: Sudha Murthy was in the final year of her M. Tech in 1974, at the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore.  One day she came across an advertisement for a job in Telco. Candidates are required to be hard working, besides having an excellent academic record. But it was clearly stated that ladies were not eligible to apply. Sudha Murthy was shocked at this open display of gender discrimination. As a mark of protest she wrote to JRD Tata, the head of the Tata group of companies. She wrote that the Tatas were the pioneers of Indian industry. They had also established reputed institutions for higher education, such as the IISC, Bangalore. It was surprising that such a renowned and respected company was displaying gender bias by not hiring women.

`

Critical comment: In this essay Sudha Murthy narrates how she initially faced gender discrimination but later succeeded in getting a job in Telco. Sudha Murthy’s style of writing is simple and direct and communicates her ideas clearly. The essay is both enjoyable and inspiring. It fills the reader with hope.

`

4.  “ but you must start somewhere, otherwise no woman will ever be able to work in your factories”

`

Lesson and Author:  These lines are taken from the essay, GENDER BIAS written by SUDHA MURTHY, a well-known social worker and author. The essay ‘Gender Bias’ is taken from the collection titled ‘How I Taught my Grandmother to Read’. Sudha Murthy is renowned for her noble mission of providing computer and library facilities in all government schools of Karnataka. She is the Chairperson of Infosys Foundation.

`

Context and meaning: Sudha Murhy applied for a job in Telco though the advertisement clearly stated that ladies were not eligible to apply. She was surprised to be called for an interview at Pune.  The gentlemen in the interview panel told her politely that it would be difficult for women to work  on the shop floor. Therefore as a policy, the company did not hire women. Sudha Murthy then told them that times were changing. Women must be given a chance to prove their worth as they were as capable as men.

`

Critical comment: In this essay Sudha Murthy narrates how she initially faced gender discrimination but later succeeded in getting a job in Telco. Sudha Murthy’s style of writing is simple and direct and communicates her ideas clearly. The essay is both enjoyable and inspiring. It fills the reader with hope.

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS :

1.      Sudha Murthy was planning to complete a doctorate abroad but changed her mind. Why?

`

The essay, GENDER BIAS is written by SUDHA MURTHY, a well-known social worker and author. It is taken from the collection titled ‘How I Taught my Grandmother to Read’. Sudha Murthy is renowned for her noble mission of providing computer and library facilities in all government schools of Karnataka.

`                       Sudha Murthy was in the final year of her M.Tech in 1974, and was the only girl in her department in the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore. One day she came across an advertisement for a job in Telco. Candidates are required to be hard working, besides having an excellent academic record. But it was clearly stated that ladies were not eligible to apply. Sudha Murthy was shocked at this open display of gender discrimination. She was not particularly interested in taking up the job. But she strongly decided to protest against the unjust policy of the

  company. So she applied for the job. She also wrote a post card to JRD Tata, expressing her dismay.

`

2. Sudha Murthy was extremely determined and resolute. Justify this statement.

The essay, GENDER BIAS is written by SUDHA MURTHY, a well-known social worker and author. It is taken from the collection titled ‘How I Taught my Grandmother to Read’. Sudha Murthy is renowned for her noble mission of providing computer and library facilities in all government schools of Karnataka.

Sudha Murthy was in the final year of her M.Tech in 1974, and was the only girl in her department in the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore. One day she came across an advertisement for a job in Telco. But it was clearly stated that ladies were not eligible to apply. Sudha Murthy was shocked at this open display of gender discrimination. She was not particularly interested in taking up the job. But she strongly decided to protest against the unjust policy of the company. So she applied for the job. She also wrote a post card to JRD Tata, expressing her dismay. To her surprise she was called for the interview. There she boldly expressed her views. She stressed that somewhere a start should be made to hire women. She was able to convince the panel and was hired. Sudha Murthy’s boldness and initiative paved the way for the acceptance of women in various fields.

3. Why was Sudha Murthy not nervous at the interview? Explain.

The essay, GENDER BIAS is written by SUDHA MURTHY, a well-known social worker and author. It is taken from the collection titled ‘How I Taught my Grandmother to Read’. Sudha Murthy is renowned for her noble mission of providing computer and library facilities in all government schools of Karnataka.

            Sudha Murhy applied for a job in Telco though the advertisement clearly stated that ladies were not eligible to apply. Though she was not particularly interested in taking up the job, she strongly decided to protest against the unjust policy of the company. So she applied for the job. She also wrote a post card to JRD Tata, expressing her dismay.  She was surprised when she was called for the interview at Pune. She decided to attend the interview mainly because the company was bearing the expenses. She was sure that she would not be selected. So she was not nervous. She spoke frankly and fearlessly. She pointed out the unfairness of the company policy. She talked about the need to give women a chance to prove their worth. Later she was surprised to know that she had been selected for the job.

4. Do you think JRD Tata was happy to be introduced to Sudha Murthy? Justify.

The essay, GENDER BIAS is written by SUDHA MURTHY, a well-known social worker and author. It is taken from the collection titled ‘How I Taught my Grandmother to Read’. Sudha Murthy is renowned for her noble mission of providing computer and library facilities in all government schools of Karnataka.

Sudha Murthy was in the final year of her M.Tech in 1974, and was the only girl in her department in the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore. One day she came across an advertisement for a job in Telco. Sudha Murthy was shocked to note that ladies were not eligible to apply.  She decided to protest against the open display of gender bias. She wrote a letter to JRD Tata. She was called for an interview and hired.

Much later Sudha Murthy was introduced to JRD. JRD was informed that Sudha Murthy was a brilliant post graduate and the first lady to work on the Telco shop floor. JRD expressed happiness that women were choosing engineering courses. She probably remembered her letter. He must have been happy that the company policy of not hiring women had been changed.

·        * *