The Field of the Embroidered Quilt

Question and Answers ::: 

1. What does the woman ask her mother to do with the quilt?   

The woman asks her mother to lay the quilt on her grave after her death. This was her last wish. 

2. What does the phrase “line by line expressed” suggest about the quilt? 

The joyful and sorrowful moments of Saju with Rupai are still vibrant in Saju’s heart. The phrase suggest that Saju stitched those moments in the quilt vividly.   

3. What does the phrase “many a joy and many a sorrow” mean? 

The phrase “many a joy and many a sorrow” means the joyful and sorrowful moments of the couple- Saju with Rupai. 

4. How does the poet describe women’s grief? 

The poet portrays the deepest agony of a village woman Saju, who has lost her beloved husband, Rupai. Saju uses embroidery as a means of expressing her grief and love. Through her hand-stitched quilt, she pours out her soul — each stitch holding memories, joys, and sorrows. This poem is a visual representation of a lonely, young, village wife. 

5. Why do you think the poet chose a quilt as a symbol of love and sorrow? 

Saju uses embroidery as a means of expressing her love and sorrow. Through her hand-stitched quilt, she pours out her soul — each stitch holding memories of love. In rural Bangladesh, quilt-making (Nakshi Kantha) is popular in our weal and woe. So, I think this poet has rightly chose quilt as a symbol of love and sorrow.

6. What is the significance of the title of the poem, “The Field of the Embroidered Quilt”? 

The title "The Field of the Embroidered Quilt" is significant because it directly reflects the poem's central theme and imagery. The “embroidered quilt” is the symbol of love and dedication of a woman to her husband. The term "field" adds a sense of vastness and connection to the surrounding pastoral life. The poem itself is a tribute to this love. 

7. What does Saju ask her mother to do with the quilt after her death? 

Saju asks her mother to spread the embroidered quilt she made over her grave after her death. It was her last request to her mother. 

The Wheel of Cyclone by Amitabh Ghosh

 

On the afternoon of March 17,1978. the weather took an odd turn in north Delhi. Mid-march is usually a nice time of year in that part of India: the chill of winter is gone and the blazing heat of summer is yet to come; die sky is clear and monsoon is faraway. But that day dark clouds appeared suddenly and there were squalls of rain. Then followed an even bigger surprise: a hailstorm.

I was then studying for an MA at Delhi University while also working as a part-time journalist. When the hailstorm broke, I was in a library. I had planned to stay late, but the unseasonal weather led to a change of mind and I decided to leave. I was on my way back to my room when, on an impulse, I changed direction and dropped in on a friend. But the weather continued to worsen as we were chatting, so after a few minutes. I decided to head straight back by a route that I rarely had occasion to take.

I had just passed a busy intersection called Maurice Nagar when I heard a rumbling sound somewhere above. Glancing over my shoulder I saw a gray, tube-like extrusion forming on the underside of a dark cloud: it grew rapidly as I watched, and then all of a sudden it turned and came whiplashing down to earth, heading in my direction.

Across the street lay a large administrative building. I sprinted over and headed toward what seemed to be an entrance. But the glass-fronted doors were shut, and a small crowd stood huddled outside, in the shelter of an overhang. There was no room for me there so I ran around to the front of the building. Spotting a small balcony, 1 jumped over the parapet and crouched on the floor.

The noise quickly rose to a frenzied pitch, and the wind began to tug fiercely at my clothes. Stealing a glance over the parapet. I saw, to my astonishment, that my surroundings had been darkened by a churning cloud or dust. In the dim glow that was shining down from above, I saw an extraordinary' panoply of objects flying past-bicycles, scooters, lampposts, sheets of corrugated iron, even entire tea stalls. In that instant, gravity itself seemed to have been transformed into a wheel spinning upon die fingertip of some unknown power.

I buried my head in my arms and lay still. Moments later the noise died down and was replaced by an eerie silence. When at last 1 climbed out of the balcony, I was confronted by a scene of devastation such as I had never before beheld. Buses lay overturned, scooters sat perched on treetops, walls had been ripped out of buildings, exposing interiors in which ceiling fans had been twisted into tulip-like spirals. The place where I had first thought to take shelter, the glass-fronted doorway had been reduced to a jumble of jagged debris. The panes had shattered and many people had been wounded by the shards. I realized that I too would have been among die injured had I remained there. I walked away in a daze.

Long afterward. I am not sure exactly when or where I hunted down the Times of India’s New Delhi edition of March 18,1 still have the photocopies, I made of it. “30 dead”, says the banner headline, “700 Hurt as Cyclone Hits North Delhi.”

Answer the following questions:

1. What do you mean by the title “The Great Derangement”? What reasons are there for our environment to be deranged?

Answer: "The Great Derangement" refers to the idea that our natural environment has been significantly disturbed or altered, often due to human activities. This could be through climate change, deforestation, or pollution, which leads to unpredictable and extreme weather events, such as the cyclone described in the excerpt. The environmental imbalance caused by human actions is what leads to such derangement or chaos in nature.

2. Describe the weather of 17th March 1978 in your own words.

Answer: The weather on 17th March 1978 was unusually violent and unexpected for that time of year. Typically, mid-March in north Delhi is a pleasant time, neither too cold nor too hot, with clear skies. However, on this day, dark clouds suddenly appeared, followed by squalls of rain. To everyone’s surprise, a hailstorm followed, and the weather continued to worsen, turning dangerous with the appearance of a cyclone.

3. What job did the author do while studying in Delhi?

Answer: While studying for his MA at Delhi University, the author also worked as a part-time journalist.

4. What steps did the author take to save himself when the cyclone hit North Delhi?

Answer: When the cyclone hit, the author first tried to take shelter inside a building but found the doors shut and no room for him with the crowd. He then ran around to the front of the building, spotted a small balcony, and jumped over the parapet to take shelter there. He crouched on the floor to protect himself from the fierce wind and flying debris.

5. Did you ever see any natural calamity around you? Describe what you saw in your own words.

Answer: Yes, I once witnessed a heavy flood in my area. The rain had been incessant for several hours, and the streets began to fill with water. Vehicles were stranded, and many homes near the riverbank were submerged. People were evacuating their homes with belongings in hand, and the sound of the rushing water was deafening. It was an overwhelming sight, as nature’s power felt uncontrollable.

6. Why did the author decide to leave the library earlier than planned?

The author decided to leave the library earlier than planned because of the sudden change in weather. The unseasonal hailstorm made him reconsider his plan, and he chose to go back to his room instead of staying in the library. 

7. Where did the author try to seek shelter initially, and what happened there?

The author first tried to take shelter at a large administrative building. He ran toward its glass-fronted entrance, where a small crowd was already waiting. However, there was no room for him there, so he had to find another place to hide.  

8. Why did he feel fortunate about his choice of shelter?

Ghosh felt lucky that he had not stayed near the glass-fronted doorway because if he had, he would have been badly injured like the others. Instead, he had chosen to crouch on a small balcony, which kept him safe from the flying glass and other dangerous debris. 

9. What did Ghosh witness after the cyclone ended?

After the cyclone ended, Ghosh saw a scene of complete destruction. Buses were overturned, scooters were stuck in treetops, and entire walls had been ripped off buildings. He noticed that ceiling fans inside the buildings had been twisted into strange, flower-like shapes due to the powerful winds.

10. What are the main themes found in this poem? 

The major themes of the story are the power of nature, human vulnerability, and the unpredictability of our life. It shows how nature can suddenly turn destructive, leaving people helpless. It also highlights the idea that no matter how advanced humans are, they cannot be prepared for a sudden natural disaster. 

Mr. Moti by Rahad Abir

Ameen is 17 when the war breaks out. One Monday evening after supper, he announces he will go to war. 

Sonavan shrieks in surprise. You want to leave me alone?

It won't take long, Ma, he assures her. I'll be back soon after training. 

That night Sonavan cannot sleep.  

After sun-up, she opens the duck coop. The flock streams out, stretches and quacks around her for their morning meal. She takes longer than usual. She mixes water with rice husks in an earthen bowl and puts it down. They gobble it up in five minutes and head for the pond. 

Ameen has let the chickens out by then. He lifts his 12-week-old cockerel, Moti, and sits on the veranda. During breakfast he doesn't strike up any conversation. Having noticed Sonavan's puffy eyes, he knows not to mention last night's subject. He casts his glance to the side, down at the cockerel eating rice in silence.  

Today is haat bar, market day. Sonavan has arranged the things Ameen will take to the bazaar to sell. Two dozen eggs, a sheaf of areca nuts, a bottle gourd. The bazaar is about a mile away. 

Ameen wears his short-sleeved floral shirt over his lungi. He whistles as he looks into the cloudy mirror to comb his hair. Placing the rattan basket on his head before setting off, he hollers: I'm off, Ma. 

Sonavan watches him go along the riverbank. For the first time it occurs to her that Ameen has grown up. He has reached the height of his dead father, has his long neck and straight shoulders. 

In that moment, Sonavan realizes it's not the war that fascinates Ameen, it's the fighting. Like his dead father, he is crazy about bullfighting, cockfighting, and boat racing. That same stubbornness runs in his blood. Once he decides on something, nothing can stop him. 

Her little son! Now a man. Even up to his 15th birthday barely a day passed without neighbours appearing with a slew of complaints. Sometimes one or two showed up from other villages. They peeked into the house and asked, Does Ameen live here?

Sonavan would sigh. What did he do?

Your son stole my date juice! Emptied the juice pots hanging on the date trees! 

Sonavan would sigh again. Then ask the visitor to pardon him. She hated saying that she'd raised her son alone. If she could spare them, she would bring half a dozen eggs and hand them to the visitor: please take these for your children. 

At night, Sonavan climbs out of her bed, clutches the hurricane lamp and tiptoes into Ameen's room. She stands by his bed and looks at her sleeping son. He snores like his father. He has her light skin tone and button nose. She touches his cheek. His broad forehead. She wishes she could lie beside him tonight. Like the old days, when she slept cuddling her baby.

A warning comes from old Chowkidar's young wife. Watch your rooster, she threatens. I don't want him in my house again.

If someone touches my boy, Sonavan responds, they'll see the consequences. 

She grounds Moti for an entire day. It makes him sad. His forlorn captivity crucifies her. She lets him loose the following morning.

Some boys come and ask Sonavan to lend them Moti for cockfighting at a fair. They are happy to pay.

Never, she tells them. He is my son. 

Monday dawns without Moti's crowing. His cold body is resting on its right side. Lying against the basket. Eyes closed. His kingly head down.  

With Moti's basket in her lap, Sonavan is motionless.  

She puts Moti to rest beside her husband's grave. She sighs, plods across the empty yard, steps onto an empty veranda, crawls into an empty home and sits on the edge of an empty bed. 

Another morning breaks… Noon and afternoon come and go... The birds in the coops quack and crow... No one lets them out. For the first time, Sonavan's doors do not open.

Answer the following questions:

1.        Why is the rooster called Mr. Moti?

The rooster is called Mr. Moti because Sonabhan loves him like her son. She does not see him as just a pet. To her, he is a family member. The name "Moti" means "pearl" in Bengali. Pearls are rare and valuable. The name shows how much she cares for him. She feeds him and protects him. She never lets anyone take him. Some boys want Moti for cockfighting. Sonabhan boldly rejects. She cannot let him get hurt or die.

2.       Is the writer trying to compare the son with the rooster? What are the reasons for doing so?

Yes, the writer compares Ameen with Moti. Both are strong and stubborn. Ameen loves fighting and adventure. Moti is also expected to fight. Sonabhan cares for both of them. She cannot stop them from facing dangers. Ameen is like his father, who also loved fights and challenges. Moti dies suddenly. Sonabhan fears Ameen may not return from war. The story shows her love and worries to his child – Ameen and Moti.

3.       Why is the story a Bangladeshi story? Which war is referred to in the story?

The story is a Bangladeshi one because it shows our traditional village life. It talks about markets or haats, farming, and cockfighting. It also shows a mother’s love for her son. The war in the story is the Liberation War of Bangladesh in 1971. Many young boys left home to fight. Ameen is one of them. Sonabhan does not want him to go. She knows she cannot stop him. The story shows the pain of many mothers during the war.

4. Do you know what cockfighting is?

Yes, I do. Cockfighting is a sport where two roosters fight. People bet money on the winner. Sometimes, the roosters have sharp blades on their legs. This makes the fight more dangerous. The fight continues until one rooster is too weak or dies. Some people enjoy watching. I have watched some cockfighting videos in YouTube and I think it is cruel. The birds get badly hurt after fighting. In many places, cockfighting is banned because it is too violent.

5. What do you think about the mother-son relationship?

Sonabhan and Ameen share a deep bond of mother and son. Sonabhan’s husband is no more and she raised Ameen alone. She protected and cared for him. When he was younger, Ameen was naughty and playful. He often got into trouble. Sonabhan always forgave him. Now, Ameen is growing up. He wants to join the war of liberation. Sonabhan cannot stop him. She feels proud but afraid. She already lost her husband. She does not want to lose Ameen too. The story shows a mother’s deep love and pain. 

6. What does Sonabhan do at night after Ameen goes to bed?

After Ameen goes to bed, Sonabhan quietly enters his room, carrying a hurricane lamp. She stands by his bed, looking at him with love and sadness. She touches his cheek and forehead, remembering how he was as a child. She wants to sleep beside him, but she stops herself.

7. Make a list of words from the story with Cultural Connotations:

Lungi – A traditional garment worn by men in rural areas of Bangladesh.

Bazar – A local market, where people buy and sell goods in a village or town. 

Moti – In Bengali, "Moti" means "pearl," which carries a cultural significance of something valuable.

Areca nuts – A common snack and trade item in rural Bangladesh, often sold in markets. 

Date juice – A traditional drink of Bangladesh made from the sap of date trees. 

Hurricane lamp – A type of oil lamp, often used in rural areas where electricity is not available.

Cockfighting – A traditional, although controversial, activity in rural Bangladesh. 

Chowkidar – A guard or watchman of rural area. 

8. What are the main themes of the story? 

The main themes of the story are war of liberation in 1971, loss of lives, the Bangladeshi motherhood, and emotional emptiness of a poor mother. 

9. Write some lines on the emotional emptiness of Sonabhan. 

At the end, Sonabhan does not open her door, does not feed the animals, and does not move. This shows how grief can make a person numb and lifeless. She has lost everything—her husband, her rooster, and soon, possibly, her son. The silence of her house is touching and reflects the emptiness in her heart. 

10. The story portrays the love and affection of a Bangladeshi mother. Do you agree? Why? 

Yes, I agree to this. Sonabhan loves her son Ameen deeply. She raised him alone and always protected him, Often, her neighbours come to Sonabhan with complain against him, nevertheless she saves her son by any means. She treats him as her little boy, but now he is a grown man making his own choices. He wants to go to fight for the country. Sonabhan is proud for her son but she is afraid at the same time. 

Solitude By Ella Wheeler Wilcox

Laugh, and the world laughs with you;

Weep, and you weep alone;

For the sad old earth must borrow its mirth,

But has trouble enough of its own.

Sing, and the hills will answer;

Sigh, it is lost on the air;

The echoes bound to a joyful sound,

But shrink from voicing care.

Rejoice, and men will seek you;

Grieve, and they turn and go;

They want full measure of all your pleasure,

But they do not need your woe.

Be glad, and your friends are many;

Be sad, and you lose them all, —

There are none to decline your nectared wine,

But alone you must drink life’s gall.

Feast, and your halls are crowded;

Fast, and the world goes by.

Succeed and give, and it helps you live,

But no man can help you die.

There is room in the halls of pleasure

For a large and lordly train,

But one by one we must all file on

Through 

the narrow aisles of pain.

1. Explain the following lines in your own words. 

(i) Laugh, and the world laughs with you;

Weep, and you weep alone; 

Ans: The poet has revealed the rude reality of life here. When we're happy, others will join us our happiness. Laughter is contagious, so when we laugh, others will also smile and feel joy with us. But when we are sad and crying, we often find ourself alone. People tend to avoid being around us when we are in despair. 

(ii) Succeed and give, and it helps you live,

But no man can help you die.

Ans: When we succeed and share our success with others, it makes them feel good. It is success and generosity that brings joy to our life and help us to connect with others. However, when we are endangered, hardly they come to assist us. Everyone has to face his own difficulties alone at the end of the day. 

2. Why do the mountains echo the songs that we sing but not our sighs? 

According to the analysis of the poet, echoes respond only to joyful sounds. The mountain or the natural world, only return happy sounds, such as singing. They avoid responding to sadness or sorrowfulness. The world reflects only to happiness and positivity but doesn’t react to our negative emotions.

3. When do you have many friends and when do they leave you? 

When we become successful, when we feast, when we laugh and glad, we have many friends around us. According to the poet, it is our happiness that attracts friends. Our friends like to get share of our joy. But they don’t like to get share of our woe. On the contrary, when we are sad, there is no one to listen and share our sorrows. The poem says that sadness makes people turn away from us, leaving us alone. 

4. Write a summary of the poem in your own words (100 words)

Solitude by Ella Wheeler Wilcox not merely a poem. It is a great satire on us, our thoughts, and our level of thinking. The poetess was famous for her constructing social criticism. In this poem, she unveiled the selfish nature of human being – the best creation of God. She clarifies that our friends are not a friend in need. They are friends of our good times. At the end of the day, everyone has to carry his or her own sorrow. This is the rude reality of life. We cannot decline what the Poetess says to us in this poem. We should think deeply about this poem. 

5. What happens when you rejoice, according to the poem?

When we rejoice, people seek us out. They become our friends and want to share our joy with themselves. According to the poet, they never say no to our hard-earned “wine”. People are drawn to those who are happy and cheerful because they want to get share of the joy.

6. What happens to a “sigh” in the poem?

A sigh is lost on the air. When we sigh, expressing sadness or frustration, it doesn't get noticed or acknowledged by the world around us. Nobody pays heed to our sighs and ultimately, they disappear into the air. 

7. What happens when you grieve in Solitude?

When we grieve, people turn away from us. They do not want to be around sorrow. They only want to get the share of joy and happiness. This is the rude reality of life. This reflects how our friends avoid us in difficulties, leaving us to deal with it alone.

8. What do people want from you, according to the poet? 

According to the poetess, people want the full measure of our pleasure. They enjoy sharing our happiness and successes, but they do not want to be involved in our suffering or sorrow. If we succeed, if we feast, if we give, they are happy. But they are not interested about our sorrows and sufferings. 

9. What does the poem say about drinking life's "nectared wine" in the poem?

The poem says that when you're happy, people will be around to drink your "nectared wine" with you. This refers to how, in times of happiness, people are eager to share in your pleasures and good times. However, when you're sad, you are left to drink life's "gall" alone, symbolizing we must face our distress alone. 

10. What must you drink alone? 

We must drink life's "gall" alone. "Gall" symbolizes the hardships, pain, or suffering in life. The poem suggests that when you're facing difficulties, you will have to endure them alone, without the company or support of others. Our friends will come and take share of “nectared wine”, not of the “gall”.  

Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening By Robert Frost

Whose woods these are I think I know.

His house is in the village though;

He will not see me stopping here

To watch his woods, fill up with snow.

My little horse must think it queer

To stop without a farmhouse near

Between the woods and frozen lake

The darkest evening of the year.

He gives his harness bells a shake

To ask if there is some mistake.

The only other sound’s the sweep

Of easy wind and downy flake.

The woods are lovely, dark and deep,

But I have promises to keep,

And miles to go before I sleep,

And miles to go before I sleep.

1. Do you enjoy natural beauty like flowers, trees, woods, hills, etc.? 

Yes, I do. I am a nature lover. When I get enough time, I like to be in the midst of nature. Woods and hills are my favourite.  

2. Have you ever been to a place where you enjoyed such beauty? If yes, briefly describe it. 

Yes, I’ve been to Rangamati and Khagrachari with my family. The beautiful trees and hills of those places are really awesome! The largest Chittagong Hill tract areas consist of three districts - Rangamati, Bandarban and Khagrachari. Nature has adorned these sisters in a beautiful form with hills, rivers, green forests, Kaptai Lake and our Tribes living in around. 

3. Where do you think the poet is going? Why is he going there? 

I think the poet is going towards tomorrow, to the destination. He is going to fulfill his duties, and commitments. The poet wants to carry out his responsibilities properly so that he may feel satisfactory at the end. 

4. Why did the poet stop by the woods though it was dark and he was alone?  

The speaker stopped to watch the woods that were lovely, dark and deep. He was drawn to the peaceful and serene beauty of the snow-covered woods. Hence, he took a moment to enjoy the beauty of the nature before continuing on his journey. 

5. Guess what promises the poet had to keep before he would sleep. 

I think the poet has some commitments may be towards himself, or to his society and he is going ahead to fulfill those in time. 

6. Write an imaginary dialogue between the poet and the horse. 

Horse: Dear master, why did you stop me? Anything wrong? 

Poet: Not at all. Look! how beautiful the scenery is. 

Horse: Absolute beauty! But we cannot stop here for long. 

Poet: Well said, Dear, Lets go. 

7. What is the significance of the repeated line "And miles to go before I sleep”?

The repeated line emphasizes the speaker’s sense of responsibility and the long journey still ahead of him. It suggests that despite the allure and peaceful woods, the speaker cannot stay here for long time because he is bound to keep moving forward. The line also symbolizes the speaker's awareness of the journey of life and the need to fulfill duties before rest (death).

8. Why does the speaker ultimately decide to leave the woods? 

The speaker decides to leave the woods because he has responsibilities and commitments ("promises to keep") that he must fulfill before he can rest. The need to honor these promises outweighs the peaceful allure of the woods and he started moving again with new spirit. 

9. How does the speaker's horse add to the poem's narrative in the poem? 

The horse adds to the narrative by showing the contrast between the human desire for rest and the animal’s practicality. The horse’s questioning behavior, shaking its harness bells, suggests confusion about the stop in such a isolated place. It serves as a reminder that the speaker’s moment of peace is fleeting. 

10. What does the “snow” symbolize in the poem? 

The snow symbolizes purity, stillness, and the passage of time. It creates a serene and quiet atmosphere, representing the speaker's desire for peace and reflection. Snow also emphasizes the cold, isolation, and the finality of life.  

Time, You Old Gypsy Man by Ralph Hodgson

Will you not stay,

Put up your caravan

Just for one day?

All things I'll give you

Will you be my guest,

Bells for your jennet

Of silver the best,

Goldsmiths shall beat you

A great golden ring,

Peacocks shall bow to you,

Little boys sing.

Oh, and sweet girls will

Festoon you with may,

Time, you old gypsy,

Why hasten away?

Last week in Babylon,

Last night in Rome,

Morning, and in the crush

Under Paul's dome;

Under Pauls' dial

You tighten your rein -

Only a moment,

And off once again;

Off to some city

Now blind in the womb,

Off to another

Ere that's in the tomb.

Time, you old gypsy man,

Will you not stay,

Put up your caravan

Just for one day?

1. Have you ever seen a gipsy? If yes, where? 

Yes, I’ve seen a group of gypsies in my uncle’s village. I saw them on some peculiar boat floating on the river. They are called “River gypsies” or “Bedey”. These gypsies are basically snake charmers. 

2. Do gypsies live in our country? 

Yes, Gypsies, especially river gypsies are a small ethnic group in Bangladesh. They are known as “River gypsies” or “Bedey” to local people. They have their own lifestyles and culture. 

3. In what ways are they different from the general people? 

They are different from the general people in several ways. For example, their dress, food habit, language etc. are different from those of general people. Besides, they do not have any fixed living place like general people. They live in boats, tents etc. Besides, they are snake charmers. They also sell herbal medicines. 

4. Why do you think the poet calls time the ‘old gipsy man’?

The poet calls time the ‘old gipsy man’ because the gipsy man keeps on travelling in caravans. They never settle anywhere. Similarly, time also keeps on passing and does not stop anywhere.

5. Make a list of things of the poet will offer time if it stays just for a day. 

1. The poet will offer rich and beautiful gifts like silver bells for Time's donkey. 

2. A golden ring made by goldsmiths.

3. Peacocks and children singing

4. Finally, sweet girl’s welcome with flowers. 

These gifts symbolize the speaker's desire to entice time to stay and reward him for doing so.

6. What else can you offer time if it stays for a day? 

I can offer time a nice cup of coffee! 

A treat in Kachhi Dine! 

A walk beside the river! 

I can offer him a good music! 

7. Why does the speaker call time an " Old Gypsy Man"?

The speaker personifies time as a "gypsy" to emphasize its wandering, unpredictable, and transient nature. Just like a gypsy who moves from place to place without staying in one place for long, Time is always passing and never settle. The term suggests that time is like a free traveler, always on the move.

8. What does the speaker wish time would do? 

The speaker wishes that Time would stay for just one day, putting up its caravan and pausing its journey. The speaker hopes to slow Time down, even if just for a brief moment, to enjoy the present.

9. What is the speaker’s ultimate plea to time?

The speaker’s ultimate plea is for Time to stay for just one day, to take a break and rest. The speaker wants to hold onto the present moment and is desperate for Time to slow down, even if for a short period of time. 

10. Why does the speaker describe Time as hastening away in "Time, You Old Gypsy Man"?

The speaker describes Time as "hastening away" to convey its fleeting and unstoppable nature. Time is always moving forward, never pausing, which emphasizes the speaker’s desire to slow down Time, even for just one day. This creates a sense of urgency and longing to hold onto the present. 

The Sands of Dee

Charles Kingsley

"O Mary, go and call the cattle home,

And call the cattle home,

And call the cattle home

Across the sands of Dee!"

The western wind was wild and dank with foam,

And all alone went she.

The western tide crept up along the sand,

And o’er and o'er the sand,

And round and round the sand,

As far as eye could see.

The rolling mist came down and hid the land

And never home came she.

"Oh! Is it weed, or fish, or floating hair,

A tress of golden hair,

A drowned maiden's hair

Above the nets at sea?

Was never salmon yet that shone so fair

Among the stakes of Dee?

They rowed her in across the rolling foam,

The cruel crawling foam,

The cruel hungry foam,

To her grave beside the sea:

But still the boatman hear her call the cattle home

Across the sands of Dee.

1. What was the weather like when Mary went to bring the cattle home? 

When Mary went to bring the cattle home, the weather was very adverse, for example there were wild western wind, foam in the sea, mist in the air and above all a tide in the sea. 

2. Look at some words, phrases and sentences that have been repeated several times. Explain why the poet has done that. 

In the first stanza, the sentence, ‘and call the cattle home’ has been repeated to give us the idea that Mary was frequently told to bring the cattle home. In the second stanza, the words ‘o’er’ and ‘round’ have been repeated to make us visualize how the tide was coming on the ground slowly and slowly. In the fourth stanza the word ‘cruel’ has been repeated to express the destructive nature of the sea. The sentence, ‘Across the sands of Dee’ is used both in the first and last stanza to highlight the subject matter of the poem and to maintain the balance of rhythm. 

3. How has the poet described the sea? 

To describe the sea, the poet has personified it. He has used words like ‘cruel’, ‘crawling foam’, ‘hungry’ etc. to express the movement of the sea. 

4. Narrate the story of Mary in your own words. 

Mary was a girl who lived beside the sea. One day her parents told her to bring the cattle home, from the sands of Dee. Unfortunately, the weather was very adverse at that time. So, the sea tide came and took away Mary to the deep sea. Next day some local boatman saw something in the net. They thought it was sea weed, or salmon fish. But finally, they found that it was the trees of golden hair of a maiden. Thus, Mary faced a tragic death being drowned in the sea. Still the boatmen hear Mary calling the cattle home across the sands of Dee. 

5. Suppose you were walking on the shore with a couple of your friends while Mary was drowning. Describe what you would have done. 

Some of us who knew how to swim could rush to the sea to help her from drowning. Besides, we could shout, ‘help help’ to gather local people and boatmen to assist us. Finally, we could have saved her from drowning. 

6. Why does the boatman still hear Mary call the cattle home? 

The existence of Mary still persists in the subconscious mind of the boatmen. It was he who found the dead-body of Mary. He was used to hearing Mary call the cattle home every evening. I think this is why the boatmen can still hear her call the cattle home. 

7. What is the setting of the poem "The Sands of Dee"?

The poem happens by the sea near a place called Dee. The area is very empty and wild. The wind is cold and strong, and there is mist. It feels like a lonely, scary place. This setting makes it seem like something sad could happen here.

8. How is Mary’s hair described in "The Sands of Dee"?

Mary’s hair is described as golden, and it is imagined to be floating in the sea, tangled in the nets. This golden hair makes her seem even more beautiful and innocent, and it contrasts with the tragedy of her death. The description of her hair being golden emphasizes how lovely she was, and it makes her loss even sadder. Her hair, which once shone brightly, now floats in the dark and cruel sea. 

9. What happens to Mary’s body in "The Sands of Dee"?

Mary’s body is found later, after she drowns in the sea. She was brought in by the fishermen, but it was too late to save her. The cruel sea has taken her life, and her body is now a sad and final reminder of her tragic fate. This event is described with a sense of finality, as Mary is lost to the sea, and her body is returned only after her life has been claimed.

10. What does the rolling mist symbolize in "The Sands of Dee"?

The mist symbolizes mystery and the unknown. It hides what happened to Mary and makes her death even more tragic and unclear to all. 

Two Mothers Remembered by Joann Snow Duncanson

I had two mothers – two mothers I claim,

two different people, yet with the same name.

Two separate women, diverse by design,

but I loved them both because they were mine.

The first was the mother who carried me here,

gave birth and nurtured and launched my career.

She was the one whose features I bear,

complete with the facial expressions I wear.

She gave her love, which follows me yet,

along with examples in life that she set.

As I got older, she somehow younger grew,

and we’d laugh as just mothers and daughters do.

But then came the time that her mind clouded so,

and I sensed that the mother I knew would soon go.

So quickly she changed and turned into the other,

a stranger dressed in the clothes of my mother.

Oh, she looked the same, at least at arm’s length,

but now she was the child and I was her strength.

We’d come full circle, we women three,

my mother the first, the second and me.

And if my own children should come to a day,

when a new mother comes and the old goes away,

I’d ask of them nothing that I didn’t do.

Love both of your mothers as both have loved you.

1. How are the two mothers different from each other? 

The two mothers of the poet are different from each other. Primarily, they are diverse by design. The first mother gave birth to the speaker, nurtured her and launched her career. On the other hand, the second mother depends on her daughter. The first mother is her biological mother whereas the second mother is her daughter. 

2. How are they the same? 

The two mothers are same in some cases. For example, they have the same name, same identity. Both are loved by their daughter, both have same dress, they look the same, at least at arm’s length. 

3. What did the first mother do to the speaker?

The first mother gave birth to the speaker, she nurtured her and launched her career. She is the biological mother of the speaker. 

4. Who was the speaker's second mother? Describe her briefly.

The speaker’s second mother was the first mother in her old age. This second mother’s mind is clouded, she looks like the first mother at arm’s length, yet she is different from her in many cases. This second mother depends on her daughter. 

5. What would be the speaker's advice to her own children?

The speaker’s advice to her own children was to love their both mothers in the same way. 

6. Who are the three women referred to in the poem? Briefly describe them.

The three women are the speaker’s mother in the young age and old age and the speaker herself. The first mother gave birth to the speaker, nurtured her and launched her career. The second mother depends on her daughter. And the daughter is the observer and narrator of these two mothers. 

7. What should children do to their mother and why?

They should love their mother in her both ages. They should do this because their mother gives birth to them, nurtures them and launches their career. If they do not love their mother in her old age, their children will do the same when they become old.

8. Do you like this poem? Why?

Yes, I like this poem as it increases our love for our mothers showing how they give birth to us, nurture us and launch our career. It also gives us advice to love them in their old age.

9. Do you think it is only the daughter who should obey the message of the poem? Justify your answer. 

No. I think a son also should equally realize the changes that come to their mothers in their old ages. Mothers become weak and feeble in their old ages and start depending on their children. Both the sons and the daughters should realize that mothers become children again in their old age. So, they have to take care of them the same way their mothers took care of them when they were children. 

10. How does the speaker’s role change in the poem? 

The speaker’s role changes from a care free child to a responsible caregiver. As her mother gets old and weak, the speaker take the responsibility to support and nursing her mother. This type of role reversal reflects the natural cycle of life. 

Books by Eleanor Farjeon

What worlds of wonder are our books!

As one opens them and looks,

New ideas and people rise

In our fancies and our eyes.

The room we sit in melts away,

And we find ourselves at play

With some one who, before the end,

May become our chosen friend.

Or we sail along the page

To some other land or age.

Here's our body in the chair,

But our mind is over there.

Each book is a magic box

Which with a touch a child unlocks.

In between their outside covers

Books hold all things for their lovers.

1. What does the poet say about the good things that reading a book can do to you? 

According to the poet, books can introduce us with new ideas and new people and new friends in our visualization. Books can take us away from our home to the farthest corner of the world. We can travel through ages by the bounty of the books. The pages of the books can unlock the hidden treasure of a learner’s brain. 

2. What other benefits do you think reading books can give you? 

Books are powerful and magical to all of us. They can take us on newer adventures, teach us newer things, and make our imagination power strong. Reading books makes life more exciting and meaningful. Books are not just pages with words—they are windows to new worlds.

3. What does the poem "Books" describe books as?

The poem describes books as something very special and magical. Books are not just paper and words. They have the power to take us to new places and show us new ideas. They enhance our power of thinking, creativity, and makes our imagination power stronger. The poem says that when we open a book, we enter a different world full of adventure, learning, and fun.

4. What happens when one opens a book according to the poem "Books"?

According to the poem, book is a magical box. So, when we open a book, many wonderful things happen within us. We meet new characters in the stories, we see different places and we feel emotions. A book can take us to a land from long ago or even to a future world. It can also teach us new ideas and help us understand different people. Even though we are in the same room, our mind travels far away.

5. What does the poet mean by "Here’s our body in the chair" in "Books"?

The poet means that when we read, our body stays in one place, but our mind goes far away. We are physically sitting in a chair, but in our imagination, we are in a completely different world. We might be climbing a mountain, exploring the ocean, or walking in a beautiful forest. Books make it possible for our minds to travel while our bodies remain still.

6. What do books hold between their covers, according to "Books"?

The poem says that books hold many wonderful things inside them. They contain stories, adventures, knowledge, and dreams. A book can take us to a new world, introduce us to new friends, and teach us important lessons. Even though a book looks small, it has endless insights inside it. Every time we read books; we discover something new.

7. What are books compared to in the poem "Books"?

The poet compares books to a "magic box." Just like a magic box holds surprises inside, similarly, books also hold amazing things. When we open them, we find exciting adventures, wonderful characters, and new knowledge. When we read an interesting book, our body stays in one place, but our mind goes far away. So, the poet has compared books to magic box. 

8. What does the poem "Books" say about time and place in books?

The poem says that books can make us travel to any time and any place. We can visit ancient Egypt, the future, or a land that does not exist in real life. When we read, we do not have to worry about distance or time. We can travel to a faraway kingdom, a different planet, or even back in time—all by reading a book. 

9. What kind of journey does the poet describe in the poem "Books"?

The poet indicates a journey of the imagination, not a physical one. This journey does not require a ticket or a passport, or a vehicle. We do not need to pack our bag and baggage. As soon as we open a book, we begin a journey to a new world. We can go anywhere—under the sea, into the sky, to a new country, or even back in time.

10. What kind of impact do books have on children, as per "Books"?

Books have a very strong effect on children. They help children to think in new ways and imagine new things. Books teach children about different countries, cultures, ideas, and lessons. They help children become smarter, more creative, and more curious about the world. Reading also helps children understand emotions and develop kindness in them.

O Me! O Life! By Walt Whitman

Oh me! Oh life! of the questions of these recurring,

Of the endless trains of the faithless, of cities fill’d with the foolish,

Of myself forever reproaching myself, (for who more foolish than I, and who more faithless?)

Of eyes that vainly crave the light, of the objects mean, of the struggle ever renew’d,

Of the poor results of all, of the plodding and sordid crowds I see around me,

Of the empty and useless years of the rest, with the rest me intertwined,

The question, O me! so sad, recurring—What good amid these, O me, O life?

Answer.

That you are here—that life exists and identity,

That the powerful play goes on, and you may contribute a verse.

Short Questions: 

i. What is the main theme of the poem?

The main theme of the poem is finding out a positive meaning of life even it is full of struggles, uncertainties, and disappointments. In the first long stanza, the poet goes on questioning the purpose and value of human life amidst despair. At the last short stanza, he emphasizes on finding the beauty and the responsibility of life. 

ii. What recurring questions does the poet mention?

The poet keeps asking what the purpose of life is and whether anything good can come from it. We, the human being, have to go through so many hardships, The poet expresses his doubt that whether anything good can come from these challenges. Specifically, he asks: "What good amid these, O me, O life?"

iii. What does the poet mean by 'useless years'?

The poet refers to 'useless years' as the unsuccessful part of his life that seem to have no purpose or meaningfulness. This also indicates the time when a person might feel disconnected, stagnant, and alone in the way of life. 

iv. Is age an identity marker? What are the attributes of old age?

Yes. Age can definitely be an identity marker, as it often determines a person's experiences, wisdom, and social roles and responsibility. Attributes of old age may also include physical weakness, the weight of experience, and a deeper understanding of life. 

v. What do 'sordid' and 'plodding' mean?

'Sordid' means dirty, immoral or dishonorable actions.

'Plodding' means slow and unglamorous donkeywork. 

vi. What 'faith' does the poet mention here?

The poet refers to faith in humanity, trust in life itself. According to the poet, many people live without a clear sense of purpose of life. However, by questioning the faithlessness, he indirectly points to the importance of having some form of faith in life for fulfilling one’s responsibilities. 

vii. Is there a symbolic meaning of 'contribute a verse' in the last line?

Yes, 'contribute a verse' symbolically means that despite the struggles and seemingly futile nature of life, each individual can still have a role in the stage. It suggests that every person, through their actions or expression, can contribute to the continuous story of life.

viii. Do you find the answer section of the poem convincing?

The answer section is quite convincing as it offers a sense of hope and purpose in response to the poet's previous questioning. To me, the answer section is highly inspiring. It offers a refreshing perspective on the value of life and encourages active participation in the grand “play” of existence. 

ix. What is the poet searching for in the poem? 

The poet is searching for the purpose and meaningfulness of human life. The same questions arise in all of us in the time of despair. The poet wanted us to find a positive solution to these as he shows in the last verse of the poem. 

x. What does the “powerful play” refer to? 

By the term “powerful play” the poet denotes the continuous drama of life where every human being has his own part to play. We, the human being, can not alter the course of the drama, but we can perform the best we can.    

Landing on the Moon

There are some events which stir a whole community with joy. There are some other events which stir an entire nation. But there are a few events which stir the whole world. Landing on the Moon is such a big event in the history of mankind. 

It is the story of cold war period of world war two. The Soviet Union was always ahead of the Americans regarding to space travel. They sent "Laika", the first dog to the space in Sputnik. On May 1961, John F. Kennedy, the contemporary President of the United States gave a declaration. He said in an important speech that America would bring a man on the moon and safely back.  

The name of the mission was Gemini 8. The Apollo 11 was that very prestigious spacecraft which landed on the moon for the first time. The Apollo 11 spacecraft was launched from Cape Kennedy Space Centre on July 16, 1969. The three astronauts were Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin and Mike Collins. Neil Armstrong commanded the whole mission. 

Four days later, Apollo 11 entered into sky of moon. Armstrong and Aldrin landed their Lunar Module Eagle on the moons surface. The history got a new and unique achievement. First Armstrong and then Aldrin stepped onto the surface of the moon and became the first humans to leave their footprints in the lunar dust. 

Armstrong said, "That's one small step for man... one giant leap for mankind." 

To walk on the moon's surface, the astronauts needed to wear a space suit with a back mounted, portable life support system. This controlled the oxygen, temperature and pressure inside the suit. Beside this, the astronauts had to get used to the reduced gravity there. They could jump very high compared to on Earth.

A camera in the Lunar Module provided live television coverage when Neil Armstrong climbed down the ladder to the surface of the moon. They witnessed the pure tranquility of the moon. An American flag was left on the moon's surface as a reminder of the accomplishment. They explored the surface and gathered moon rocks for over two hours. They collected soil and rock samples to return to Earth. Then they fired off the surface and rejoined Collins in the orbiting mother ship. 

After re-entering the Earth's atmosphere, the astronauts got down safely from their ship on Pacific Ocean with the help of parachutes. After landing in the Ocean, the crew were retrieved by a helicopter and taken to the recovery ship, the "USS Hornet." Thus they added one more new chapter in the long history of mankind. 

My Favourite Poet

The rebel poet Kazi Nazrul Islam is my favorite poet. He is one of the most outstanding poets of indo-Pakistan-sub continent. He is the national poet of our country. I become fully one with him when he says, 

"I belong to all nations, all times."

Nazrul was born in 1899 in the village of Churulia in west bangal. His father, Kazi Fakir Ahmed, was the Imam of a mosque and the caretaker of a mausoleum. He got his boyhood education in his village Maktob. After his fathers death, Nazrul took up his fathers job and also served as Muazzin of the mosque to support his family. Due to his sorrowful life he was called as Dukhu Mia by the people. 

Nazrul possessed a deep passion for folk theatre, poetry, song and dance. After his father's death, he left his duties at the mosque, and joined a "leto" group. This was the beginning of Nazruls life as a poet and artist. Though he had great regard and admiration for the older poets and writers, he did not imitate any poet or writer, even not Rabindranath, though it was a fashion of the day.

From his early life, he had an indomitable spirit to see the unseen and explore the unexplored. When he was only twelve years old, he fled away to Asansol. There he worked in a bakery-shop for taka five a month. Then a sub-inspector of police took him to Mymensingh. Later on, he got admitted into a high school. Then the first-world war broke out. He gave up his studies and joined the war. He showed a great bravery in the war and won the position of a Habilder. 

I like Nazrul Islam most for his rebel voice of Bengal. Then Indian sub-continent was ruled by the British colonial government. They ruled with iron hand. They tortured and oppressed people barbarously. Nazrul stood up against those tortures and oppressions. The white rulers threw him into the jail, but they could not dominate his undaunted spirit. He called upon his fellow prisoners to rise up and revolt, 

"Kick and break of the prison lock. Set fire on all the prison cells, Set fire and root out everything."

Nazrul Islam wrote an overwhelming number of poems and prose pieces. The number of his songs exceeded even that of Rabindranath Tagore. Agni-Beena, Badanhara, Sarbohara, Chakrobak, Mrittu-Khudha, Fonimanosha, Rickter Bedon, Sesh Shaogat are his most outstanding works. All his works are full of spirits and rebellious thoughts. He was put into the jail for writing a fiery poem called 'Anandamoyeer Agomone. But the poet went on composing verses and prose pieces one after another. 

Nazrul Islam was one of the greatest patriots of the world. He made a clarion call to his countrymen to shatter the chains of slavery. He wielded his mighty pen against the atrocities of the ruling class. Most of his poems are full of patriotic feelings. This great patriot breathed his last on the 29th august, 1976.

Nazrul made a fine blending of words from different languages and cultures. This has made his poems appealing to the people of all castes, colors and creeds. He will live within millions of hearts forever.

The Person You Like Best (Mother)

 

When an infant learn to speak, its first word is "Mother". The person I like the most is my dear mother. She is one of the most kind and affectionate person I have ever seen. She is pious woman too. But what I like most about her is her helpful nature.

We all grow up in the arms of our mothers with heavenly love. No one loves us like our mothers. No one is willing to sacrifice everything for us like our mothers. If people are asked Who is the best person in your life? A good number of people will answer like me "Mother". 

The name of my mother is Mrs. Sufia Islam. She is 37 years old. She is an M.A. She had the opportunity to join prestigious governmental job. But she never wished to do that. Her only job was to take care of me and of the whole family.  

Every day, she is the first person in my family, who wakes up very early. Then, she prepares breakfast for my family. When my father goes to work, I go to school; my mother stays home and does all the daily chores. When my father and I come home, there is always a delicious dinner, which is waiting for us. Sometimes, I ask her to help, but she says: It is fine; you should go upstairs and do your homework. 

My mother not only wakes up first; she is the last person who takes breath after a busy day. When a member of our family falls sick, my mother passes sleepless nights by the side of the sick bed. Her anxiety and her fear disappear only after the recovery from illness. 

She never speaks harshly to anyone. I am seventeen years old now. She has hardly rebuked me ever for my faults. I like her unique way of convincing in stead of rebuking anyone. I have never seen her quarrelling with my father. I love the way she solves the problems of our family. 

My mother loves me more than her soul. Her love for me is great like the ocean, the universe and nothing can replace it. She is not only my mother; she is also a good friend, whom I can share all my problems with. When I am sad, happy or stressful, my mother is always by my side to comfort me. Sometimes, I get angry with my mom because she reminds me too much things, though they are all known to me. 

In school, my grade was going down once. I used to play games in my pc everyday. Sometimes I used to play till midnight. Sometimes I played until I was tired and slept on my desk. My mother knew it and she always told me to stop playing and focus on studying. One day, I saw tears from her eyes, she cried for me. I felt so sorry and guilty at this. I wasn't brave enough to look at her. Since then, I quit that bad habit. 

In every affair of my life, I depend on my mother's help and guidance. Her blessings are always with me. Now I can understand so many things about which I was in the dark in my childhood. But to my mother, I will always be her little doll as I was.

Essay on My Likings and Dislikings

We are rational being. So we have feelings towards things. We have our own way to justify everything. We also have our own reasons. By nature, we usually like the liked things and dislike the disliked things. 

A persons likes and dislikes shape his or her life. Sometimes, people like what other people like and they dislike what other people dislike. In fact, they imitate others. We must have reasonable, ethical reasons behind our liking and disliking. As a student, I also have liking and disliking.

I like playing the guitar at my leisure. Still I am not very good at playing guitar. I can play several tunes only. I spend quite a good time playing the guitar. Sometimes my mother scolds me for this. I dislike this because I never play guitar without completing my study.  I dislike watching cartoon on television for hours.

I like to get up late in the morning occasionally. During schooldays I have to get up early. On Saturdays, and holidays, it is so pleasurable to just lie in bed in the morning without any hurry to school. It is very annoying to me when my younger sister wake me up early even on the holidays. 

I like evening walks around my neighborhood. In the evening, the air is cool and refreshing. Often I enjoy this time with my friends especially on holidays. I do not like to spoil my evenings by sticking to computer games or internet. 

I like to enjoy attending my classes sitting on the first bench. It helps me to listen to the teachers clearly which is must for a student. But I dislike when some of my mates start chaos in the classroom. 

I have several personal diaries. I like to write my daily activities on my diaries. But I feel annoyed when my younger sister tries to read those in absence of mine.

Our liking and disliking shapes ourselves from our boyhood. Sometimes, these feelings may be very silly, but pleasurable. But we need to be careful so that our feeling may not attack others feelings.

Write a Letter to your Friend describing the Extra-curricular activities of your School

10^th April, 2015

42/1, Shantinagar,

Dhaka-1217

Dear Sumi,

I was glad to have your letter. What about your younger sister Tania? How is she? We all are well by the grace of almighty.

In your writing, you have wanted to know about the extra-curricular activities of our school. I am happy to know that you are interested to our school. However, now I am telling you about the extra-curricular activities of my school. You know that my school is one of the most famous schools for result and other achievements. We have different academic clubs such as debating club, science club, sports club, drama association, art club, BNCC and Rover Scout. Our debating club is indomitable in the city. It consists of 5 brilliant students of our school. Recently the members of our science club have participated in a foreign technology fair at China and won rewards. Our sports club is also best to show their competence.  The other clubs are also skilled and praiseworthy. I am an active member of the art club of our school.

No more, today. If you want to know more about our school, you are cordially invited to its campus. Convey my regards to your parents.

Yours Ever

Nilufar Yasmeen