Felling of the Banyan Tree by Dilip Chitre Class 11 Woven Words Poem NCERT Solution

Class 11 Elective English Woven Words Poem 10 Dilip Chitre

Felling of the Banyan Tree poem summary, explanation, word meanings, theme, poetic devices, questions and answers, MCQ ideas, Hindi meaning, and PDF-style notes for Class 11 Elective English Woven Words by Dilip Chitre; includes simple line-by-line explanation, NCERT Q&A, and exam-ready points for students searching for “felling of the banyan tree poem”, “summary in English/Hindi”, “questions and answers MCQ”, “poetic devices”, “theme”, and “summary PDF”.

Table of Contents

1. About the Poet Dilip Chitre
2. Felling of The Banyan Tree Summary
3. Felling of The Banyan Tree Word Meaning
4. Felling of The Banyan Tree Theme
5. Felling of The Banyan Tree Explanation
6. Understanding the Poem (Q&A)
7. Try This Out

About the Poet Dilip Chitre

Dilip Chitre (1938–2009) was a noted bilingual writer from Baroda who wrote poetry in Marathi and English, besides short stories, essays, and impactful translations such as an anthology of Marathi poetry; he viewed poetry as an expression of the spirit and later lived and worked in Mumbai.

Felling of The Banyan Tree Summary

The poem recalls a family’s move from Baroda when the father clears tenants’ houses and orders many trees cut, though the grandmother called trees sacred; the sheoga, oudumber and neem fall first, but the vast banyan with roots “deeper than all our lives” resists.

Workers saw branches for seven days, birds and insects flee, and fifty men chop the massive trunk showing two hundred rings, a scene the speaker watches in terror and fascination as if a raw myth is revealed; soon they shift to Bombay where real trees seem absent except the one that grows and seethes in dreams.

Felling of The Banyan Tree Word Meaning

Word/Phrase	Meaning (easy English)
Tenants	People renting the nearby houses.
Demolished	Broken down completely.
Sacred	Holy; worthy of respect and care.
Felling	Cutting down trees.
Massacred	Killed in a brutal way; shows violence to nature.
Sheoga / Oudumber	Local trees mentioned with neem as being cut.
Scraggy	Rough and thin-looking; used for aerial roots.
Aerial roots	Roots hanging from branches towards the ground.
Circumference	Distance around the trunk.
Rings of two hundred years	Growth marks that show great age.
Raw mythology	Ancient, powerful feeling like a legend revealed.
Seethes	Boils with strong feeling; stirs in dreams.

Felling of The Banyan Tree Theme

Central idea: a clash between tradition that treats trees as sacred and modern development that clears land, showing loss of roots, memory, and environment; the banyan symbolises heritage and deep connections that are hard to cut.

Tone and message: the violent felling appears like a slaughter, making readers feel sorrow and awe; after moving to Bombay, the tree survives only in memory, warning about urban growth that forgets living nature.

Felling of The Banyan Tree Explanation

“My father told the tenants to leave… Only our own house remained and the trees.” — The speaker shows the father’s firm decisions before moving, as homes go down and nature stands as the last obstacle.

“Trees are sacred my grandmother used to say… But he massacred them all.” — Tradition calls trees holy, yet the father ignores this belief and clears them, showing conflict between faith and progress.

“But the huge banyan tree stood like a problem… Whose roots lay deeper than all our lives.” — The banyan is ancient and rooted, harder to remove than the rest; it represents long history and family ties.

“Its trunk had a circumference of fifty feet… Sawing them off for seven days.” — Vivid numbers show size and labour; cutting takes a week and drives birds and insects away.

“Fifty men with axes chopped and chopped… rings of two hundred years.” — Many men hack the trunk, exposing age rings that tell a long life, turning work into a shocking scene.

“We watched in terror and fascination… raw mythology revealed to us its age.” — The act feels like killing a legend; fear mixes with wonder as the tree’s history appears in front of them.

“Soon afterwards we left Baroda for Bombay… Which grows and seethes in one’s dreams.” — After the move, the living tree is gone; only a restless dream-tree remains, showing deep loss.

Understanding the Poem (Q&A)

Page numbers follow the Woven Words text; answers are concise for exams.

Page 133

1. Identify the lines that reveal the critical tone of the poet towards the felling of the tree.

Lines such as “he massacred them all,” “sawing them off for seven days,” “insects and birds began to leave,” “fifty men with axes chopped and chopped,” and “we watched in terror and fascination this slaughter” show a sharp, disapproving tone.

2. Identify the words that help you understand the nature of the poet’s father.

Expressions like “structures were demolished,” “massacred them all,” and “my father ordered it to be removed” present him as practical, forceful, and focused on action over sentiment.

3. ‘Trees are sacred my grandmother used to say’— what does the poet imply by this line?

It shows a traditional belief that trees deserve reverence and should not be harmed, suggesting a cultural and moral duty to protect them, which clashes with the father’s plan.

4. ‘No trees except the one which grows and seethes in one’s dreams’— why is the phrase ‘grows and seethes’ used?

The words suggest the banyan survives in memory with strong, restless feeling; though the real tree is gone, its image keeps stirring the mind with pain and life.

5. How does the banyan tree stand out as different from other trees? What details of the tree does the poet highlight in the poem?

It is three times taller than the house, fifty feet in girth, with long aerial roots and age rings of about two hundred years; its deep roots and grandeur make it unique.

6. What does the reference to raw mythology imply?

It means the tree’s great age and sacred aura feel like an ancient legend laid bare during the felling, turning labour into a ritual of loss.

7. ‘Whose roots lay deeper than our lives’— what aspect of human behaviour does this line reflect?

It shows how people often ignore long-standing bonds with nature and heritage, cutting them for quick progress even when those roots outlast human lives.

8. Comment on the contemporary concern that the poem echoes.

The poem warns about urban growth that destroys ecosystems and cultural memory; it urges care for nature against blind development.

Try This Out

Page 134

1. Most of us have had this experience of seeing trees in our neighbourhood being mercilessly cut down in order to build a house or a public building or to widen a road. Describe any such experience you have had of the felling of a tree you were attached to, with reasons for your special attachment to the tree.

Sample answer: Near the lane, a neem was removed for a wider turn; it gave shade after school and held sparrows’ nests, so its loss felt like losing a friend; the empty spot stayed harsh and hot through summer.

2. Find out the equivalents for sheoga, oudumber and neem in your language and English and the equivalent of banyan in your language.

Example approach: Check a local botany list or dictionary and note regional names; for English, write “sheoga (regional), oudumber (cluster fig), neem (Indian lilac), banyan (Indian banyan).” Adapt names to the home language list.

3. The adjective ‘scraggy’ is used to describe ‘roots’ in the poem. Find out two other items which could be described as ‘scraggy’.

Possible choices: a scraggy beard; a scraggy fence with thin, uneven slats.

4. Use the following adjectives to describe suitable items: raw, aerial.

Examples: raw emotion after the tree fell; aerial walkway among tall trees.

Exam Pointers

• Quote ready: “We watched in terror and fascination this slaughter” to show tone.
• Numbers to mention: seven days, fifty men, fifty feet, two hundred rings for evidence.
• Keywords: sacred vs progress, deep roots, urban shift to Bombay, memory and loss.

Refugee Blues by Wystan Hugh Auden - Summary, Key Themes, Q&A Solved

"Refugee Blues" is a poignant poem written by W.H. Auden in 1939, which reflects the plight of Jewish refugees who fled Nazi Germany before World War II. The poem is known for its sombre tone and rhythm that echoes the sadness and desperation of displaced people. Auden uses the form of a blues song, traditionally a form of expression for hardship, to intensify the emotional impact.

Summary:

The poem is narrated by a Jewish refugee who speaks of the hardships and rejection they face while trying to seek asylum in various countries. The narrator describes their loss of identity, home, and citizenship, highlighting how bureaucratic systems have turned a blind eye to their suffering.

Each stanza reveals a new aspect of their hopelessness:

1. The first stanzas talk about the lack of a place they can call home and how the world seems indifferent to their situation.
2. The middle stanzas depict the endless attempts to find refuge and the cruelty of the bureaucracy, where they are denied visas and help.
3. The final stanzas describe the rising threat of violence against them and the coldness of the natural world, symbolizing the larger political indifference.

Key Themes:

1. Displacement and Exile: The refugees are homeless and stateless, cast out of their own country, with no place willing to accept them.
2. Inhumanity of Bureaucracy: The poem critiques how the cold, rigid nature of political systems fails to recognize the human cost of war and oppression.
3. Alienation and Loss of Identity: The refugees lose not only their home but also their sense of belonging and identity, becoming mere numbers in the eyes of officials.
4. Prejudice and Persecution: The poem highlights the antisemitism and prejudice that drive the refugees' plight.
5. Isolation: The narrator and their companion are isolated from the rest of the world, forced to fend for themselves in a hostile environment.

Structure and Style:

The poem uses a simple, repetitive structure, with three-line stanzas, each closing with a refrain-like line, mimicking the form of traditional blues songs. The simplicity of the structure contrasts with the deep emotional and political content, making the message even more striking.

Notable Imagery:

• The city of a million souls: Suggests how, despite being surrounded by people, the refugees are utterly alone.
• Ten million soldiers: Symbolizes the growing militarization and threat of war, which overshadows any sympathy for the refugees.
• A door standing open: Ironically contrasts the actual closed doors the refugees face when seeking asylum.
• The consul’s office: Represents bureaucratic indifference, where people’s lives are reduced to paperwork.

Conclusion:

"Refugee Blues" is a powerful commentary on the horrors faced by refugees during one of the darkest times in human history. Auden's use of the blues format amplifies the emotional depth, making it a timeless poem that resonates with displaced people and refugees even today.

UNDERSTANDING THE POEM (Q&A)

1. The title, ‘Refugee Blues’ encapsulates the theme of the poem. Comment.
   The title combines "Refugee," symbolizing displacement and statelessness, with "Blues," a musical form expressing sorrow. It reflects the refugees' deep despair and loneliness, emphasizing their suffering and rejection as they search for a home.

2. What is the poetic technique used by the poet to convey the plaintive theme of the poem?
   Auden uses the blues structure—short, repetitive stanzas with a mournful refrain—to evoke the emotional tone of loss and hopelessness. This rhythmic repetition amplifies the refugees' pain and isolation.

3. What do the references to the birds and animals made in the poem suggest?
   Birds and animals symbolize freedom and belonging in nature, contrasting sharply with the refugees' predicament. They suggest that even nature provides more acceptance and security than the political systems that deny asylum to the displaced.

4. How does the poet juxtapose the human condition with the behaviour of the political class?
   Auden contrasts the refugees' helplessness and suffering with the callous, indifferent bureaucracy of the political class. While the refugees yearn for safety, political systems focus on regulations and borders, ignoring their humanity.

5. How is the essence of the poem captured in the lines ‘two tickets to Happiness’?
   These lines reflect the irony that the refugees dream of a distant happiness, but it remains unattainable due to the barriers they face. Their longing for happiness is contrasted with the harsh realities of rejection and statelessness.

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TRY THIS OUT (Q&A)

1. Here is a list of devices used in poetry. Elaborate on their use in this poem.
   a. Refrain: The repeated lines enhance the sorrowful tone, reinforcing the hopelessness of the refugees' situation.
   b. Pathos: The poem evokes deep sympathy, as it humanizes the refugees' plight, emphasizing their pain and exclusion.
   c. Irony: The promise of freedom and happiness contrasts bitterly with the refugees’ actual experience of rejection and danger.
   d. Sarcasm: Auden’s portrayal of bureaucratic indifference, such as "the consul banged the table," highlights the cruelty disguised as formality.

2. What does the colour ‘blue’ suggest in the poem? Make a list of other colours and the emotions and moods they carry.
   Blue suggests sadness, hopelessness, and despair.
   Other colours:

• Red: Anger, danger.
• White: Purity, innocence.
• Black: Grief, death.
• Green: Hope, renewal.

What is a Good Book by John Ruskin - Critical Analysis, Summary, Q&A Solved

Summary/Critical Analysis of "What is a Good Book?" by John Ruskin

In "What is a Good Book?", John Ruskin differentiates between "books of the hour" and "books of all time." The former refers to temporary, often engaging but fleeting content, while the latter represents works of lasting significance. Ruskin believes that books should be written for permanence, not just for momentary communication. He asserts that a good book is the product of the author's deep understanding and insight, which stands the test of time. Ruskin emphasizes that reading a good book is not easy—it requires effort, as it often holds hidden wisdom that demands thoughtful reflection. He further underscores the importance of accuracy in language, advocating for a deep understanding of words down to their syllables and letters.

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UNDERSTANDING THE TEXT(Q&A)

Q. What, according to Ruskin, are the limitations of the good book of the hour?

A. According to Ruskin, the limitations of the "good book of the hour" are that it serves only immediate purposes, like casual conversation, and lacks lasting value. Such books may be informative or entertaining, but they do not contribute to permanent knowledge and should not replace true, timeless books.

Q. What are the criteria that Ruskin feels that readers should fulfil to make themselves fit for the company of the Dead?

A. Ruskin believes that readers must rise to the level of the great minds of the past by putting in effort to understand their thoughts. Readers should not approach books expecting to find their own ideas but should learn from the wisdom of the authors. This requires a deep desire to be taught and the willingness to work hard to understand the author's message.

Q. Why does Ruskin feel that reading the work of a good author is a painstaking task?

A. Ruskin feels that reading the work of a good author is a painstaking task because true wisdom is not easily given. The best authors embed their deeper thoughts in complex ways, requiring the reader to work diligently to uncover and understand them, much like a miner digging for gold.

Q. What is the emphasis placed by Ruskin on accuracy?

A. Ruskin places great emphasis on accuracy, stressing that a well-educated person should know the precise meaning and pronunciation of words. He believes that this attention to detail is essential for truly understanding a book and for effective communication. Inaccuracy in meaning, he argues, is far more detrimental than a mispronounced word.

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TALKING ABOUT THE TEXT(Q&A)

Q. Discuss Ruskin’s insistence on looking intensely at words, and assuring oneself of meaning, syllable by syllable—nay, letter by letter.

A. Ruskin insists that readers should study words with great care, examining their meanings at the most detailed level. He believes that true understanding requires dissecting words down to their syllables and even letters, as this accuracy is the foundation of education and comprehension.

Q. Choice of diction is very crucial to the communication of meaning.

A. Ruskin argues that the choice of words, or diction, is critical because each word carries specific meanings and connotations. An accurate and thoughtful selection of words ensures that the intended message is conveyed clearly and effectively. Misuse or careless selection of words can distort meaning and weaken communication.

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APPRECIATION

Q. The text is an excerpt from Sesame and Lilies, which consists of two essays, primarily, written for delivery as public lectures in 1864. Identify the features that fit the speech mode. Notice the sentence patterns.

A. The text exhibits several features of speech, including direct addresses to the audience ("you"), rhetorical questions, and a conversational tone. The sentence patterns are complex and balanced, often with a contrast between ideas. These features help convey the persuasive nature of the lecture, making it engaging for listeners.

Q. The lecture was delivered in 1864. What are the shifts in style and diction that make the language different from the way it is used today?

A. The language of Ruskin's time is more formal and elaborate than contemporary usage. Sentences are longer and more intricate, with multiple clauses and carefully balanced structures. Additionally, the diction includes archaic words and phrases that would not be commonly used today, reflecting the formal and public nature of the lecture.

Glory at Twilight by Bhabani Bhattacharya - Explanation - Summary - Q&A Solved

Table of Content

• Explanation and Analysis of 'Glory at Twilight'
• Summary of the Story Glory at Twilight
• Understanding the Expressions in the story Glory at Twilight
• UNDERSTANDING THE TEXT(Q&A)
• TALKING ABOUT THE TEXT(Q&A)
• APPRECIATION(short answers)
• APPRECIATION(long answers)
• Multiple Choice Questions on Glory at Twilight

Explanation and Analysis of 'Glory at Twilight'

Glory at Twilight by Bhabani Bhattacharya is a story that revolves around Satyajit, a man who faces a steep fall from wealth to ruin, revealing the fragility of human pride and the struggle to maintain dignity in the face of adversity. The story explores the complexities of human character, highlighting themes such as pride, sacrifice, social expectation, and the pursuit of meaning.

Satyajit was once the managing director of a bank, having risen from a humble position as a clerk. His life had been a tale of success, built upon determination and, ironically, a forged cheque that brought him recognition within the banking world. His sudden rise in fortune, however, was met with an equally rapid collapse when the bank went under, leaving Satyajit with nothing but memories of his once-glorious life. His wife, away in Delhi, was unaware of the extent of his financial ruin, and Satyajit struggled to adapt to his reduced circumstances, rationing luxuries such as cigarettes and travelling in a lower-class train compartment.

The story picks up when Satyajit decides to attend the wedding of Srinath's daughter, Beena, in the village of Shantipur. Srinath, an old acquaintance from the village, relies on Satyajit for support, unaware of his current financial situation. In his days of prosperity, Satyajit had been generous, and Srinath expected him to continue that generosity for Beena’s wedding. Satyajit returns to the village, experiencing a mix of nostalgia and helplessness as he is treated like a hero by the villagers, who are unaware of his downfall. The village’s adulation provides Satyajit with a bittersweet feeling—he knows he no longer has the means to live up to their expectations but craves the sense of worth it provides.

At the wedding, Satyajit is put in a difficult position. Srinath requests a substantial cash contribution to cover a dowry demand that, if unmet, threatens to cancel the marriage. Satyajit, already financially drained, initially tries to contribute a smaller amount but ultimately agrees to mortgage his only remaining possessions—his ancestral house and fishpond—to the moneylender, Harish, to meet Srinath's request. This sacrifice, though it highlights his sense of duty to the community and his desire to uphold the expectations placed upon him, also leaves Satyajit empty, knowing he has given up everything, including his last ties to the past and dreams of providing for his newborn son.

The story portrays Satyajit as a complex character. On the one hand, he demonstrates generosity and an ability to sacrifice for others; on the other hand, he is driven by pride and the fear of losing his dignity in the eyes of the community. His sacrifices are not purely selfless—they are also attempts to hold on to an identity that has already slipped away. The grandeur of his past life contrasts sharply with his present circumstances, making his efforts seem tragic rather than heroic. The "glory" he seeks is one that no longer exists, and his actions reflect a desperate bid to reclaim a sense of significance, even as he loses his last material assets.

Ultimately, Glory at Twilight reflects on the vulnerability of pride and the difficulty of navigating societal expectations, especially when one's fortunes change dramatically. Satyajit's journey is one of internal conflict, a struggle between accepting his new reality and trying to live up to the image of his past success. His sacrifices may seem noble, but they are also rooted in the inability to let go of a self-image shaped by wealth and respect, illustrating the often painful clash between human desires and harsh realities.

Summary of the Story Glory at Twilight

"Glory at Twilight" by Bhabani Bhattacharya is the story of Satyajit, a man who once enjoyed wealth and social standing but has fallen on hard times. Satyajit, travelling to attend a village wedding, reflects on his former success and the current financial ruin that has left him struggling. His life took a drastic turn after the collapse of the bank he managed, and he is burdened with guilt for the people he let down, including his wife and his uncle, Srinath. Satyajit's visit to the village is met with high expectations, as his relatives still believe he is a wealthy man. Throughout the visit, he battles with feelings of being an impostor and struggles to hide his financial difficulties from his family. The story captures Satyajit’s internal conflict as he faces the consequences of his downfall while longing for the days of his past glory.

Understanding the Expressions in the story Glory at Twilight

1. Brusquely: Quickly and abruptly.
2. Queer rhythmic frenzy: An odd, repetitive and intense movement or state of agitation.
3. Flush of prosperity: A period of sudden and abundant wealth.
4. Attuned himself: Adjusted or became accustomed to a situation.
5. Wrenching: Causing sudden and severe emotional pain.
6. Daze of bewilderment: A state of being confused and disoriented.
7. Wide-eyed wonder and eager homage: A look of amazement and admiration.
8. Talking animatedly: Speaking energetically and with enthusiasm.
9. Tremulous deliberation: Careful thought accompanied by nervousness.
10. On terms of a perpetual feud: Being in constant conflict.

UNDERSTANDING THE TEXT(Q&A)

1. Give reasons for the following:

   • a. Satyajit attending the village wedding:
     Satyajit attended the wedding to escape his struggles and find solace in the familiar environment of his village.
     
     
   • b. Satyajit’s recollection of the forger when he was on the train:
     He remembered the forger because it marked a turning point in his life, from a lowly clerk to a successful banker, contrasting with his present downfall.
     
     
   • c. Srinath and his family members’ eager expectation of Satyajit’s arrival:
     They expected him to continue his financial generosity, unaware of his current financial troubles.
     
     
   • d. Srinath’s disappointment with Satyajit:
     Srinath was disappointed because he expected Satyajit to provide a large sum of money for the wedding dowry, but Satyajit was unable to fulfil this expectation.
     
     
   • e. Satyajit’s feeling that he was an impostor:
     Satyajit felt like an impostor because his relatives still viewed him as a wealthy man, but in reality, he was bankrupt.
     
     
   • f. Satyajit not disclosing his present financial status to his uncle:
     He felt ashamed and did not want to disappoint his uncle, so he chose to keep his financial woes hidden.

2. Describe the cycle of events in Satyajit’s life that brought him back to where he began: Satyajit started from a humble background and worked his way up to becoming a successful banker. However, his rapid rise to success ended in failure when his bank collapsed, leaving him penniless and forced to return to the simplicity of village life, much like where he began.

TALKING ABOUT THE TEXT(Q&A)

1. It is difficult to adjust to a fall from glory: This can be discussed by highlighting how Satyajit struggles with his new reality and the expectations that others have of him, despite his financial ruin.
2. ‘Failure had a tempo faster than success’: Failure came suddenly and overwhelmed Satyajit, contrasting with the slower, more deliberate pace of his earlier success.
3. Satyajit should have revealed his predicament to his uncle: Honesty about his situation might have relieved some of Satyajit’s internal conflict and allowed his uncle to understand and support him.
4. The author’s comment on crime and punishment: The forger's story reflects on how Satyajit viewed crime, initially condemning it, but later understanding the desperation behind it, which parallels his own moral struggles.

APPRECIATION

1. How is Satyajit’s financial crash introduced to the reader?:
   It is introduced through Satyajit’s reflections while on the train, as he contemplates his rise to success and the sudden collapse of his bank, which left him financially devastated.
   
   
2. Comment on the way in which the story is narrated from Satyajit’s perspective:
   The story is presented from Satyajit’s internal point of view, allowing readers to empathise with his emotional struggles and see the world through his troubled eyes.
   
   
3. How has the author used the episode of the bank theft to comment on Satyajit’s success in his career?:
   The episode with the forger serves as the pivotal moment when Satyajit’s career took off, underscoring the irony that his success was built upon someone else’s failure.
   
   
4. How do these lines capture the essence of the story?
• ‘Glory was all overlaid with dark shame. Glory was dead.’: This line encapsulates the central theme of the story—how Satyajit’s former glory has been overshadowed by his shame and failure.
• ‘… let him be wrapped a while in the lingering twilight splendour of departed glory’.: Satyajit yearns to hold onto the remnants of his past success, even though it has slipped away.

APPRECIATION (Long Answers)

1. How is Satyajit’s financial crash introduced to the reader?

Satyajit’s financial downfall is introduced subtly and effectively through his inner reflections during a train journey. The reader is first made aware of his situation through his musings about the past and the abrupt shift in his fortunes. This technique allows the author to reveal the extent of Satyajit's financial ruin gradually, without an explicit announcement, creating a sense of impending doom. Satyajit recalls the events leading up to his downfall—the collapse of the bank he controlled, the loss of his private assets, and how all his wealth and status vanished almost overnight. The reader learns that Satyajit once lived a life of comfort, with a house, cars, and a sense of pride in his achievements, but the sudden crash left him penniless. The fact that Satyajit is rationing cigarettes and reflecting on selling his diamond ring to support his family further solidifies the depth of his financial despair. His predicament is contrasted with the expectations of those around him, who are still under the illusion that he remains a wealthy man. The crash is not just financial, but emotional, as Satyajit struggles to reconcile his past glory with his present shame.

2. Comment on the way in which the story is narrated from Satyajit’s perspective.

The story is told from a third-person limited point of view, deeply centred on Satyajit's internal experience, which gives the narrative a reflective and introspective tone. By narrating the story from Satyajit’s perspective, the reader is given access to his thoughts, memories, and inner conflicts. This narrative style enables the reader to journey with Satyajit as he grapples with the stark contrast between his past successes and his current financial ruin. His reflections are coloured by regret, guilt, and a desire to cling to the remnants of his former glory, even as he struggles with the reality of his situation. The reader becomes acutely aware of his mental turmoil as he relives moments of his rise to success and confronts the circumstances of his fall. The narrative technique allows the audience to sympathise with Satyajit’s vulnerability, making his experiences more intimate and poignant. His pride, humiliation, and attempts to hide his predicament are portrayed in a way that allows the reader to understand the psychological weight of his situation.

3. How has the author used the episode of the bank theft to comment on Satyajit’s success in his career?

The episode of the bank forgery serves as a symbolic turning point in Satyajit’s life, marking the moment when his rise to success truly began. Satyajit’s swift action in identifying and stopping the forger elevates him from an ordinary clerk to a figure of authority within the banking establishment. This moment, which involves Satyajit catching a forger trying to cash a fraudulent cheque, becomes the foundation of his career success. However, this episode also carries an underlying irony—Satyajit’s path to success was built upon someone else’s failure and desperation. The forger’s plight, driven by the need to save his wife, contrasts sharply with Satyajit’s later downfall, suggesting a cyclical nature to fortune and misfortune. The author uses this episode to highlight that success can sometimes be rooted in another's misfortune, and that Satyajit’s rise was as fragile as the forger’s desperate actions. In the end, Satyajit is left questioning the very foundation of his success, as his once-thriving banking empire collapses, leaving him to experience the failure that others, like the forger, once faced.

4. How do these lines capture the essence of the story?

   • ‘Glory was all overlaid with dark shame. Glory was dead.’

   This line encapsulates the central theme of the story, which revolves around the rise and fall of Satyajit’s fortune and status. Satyajit’s former glory—his wealth, his success, his elevated social position—has been obliterated by his financial ruin, leaving only shame and failure in its wake. His past accomplishments no longer matter because they have been overshadowed by his present downfall. This statement reflects the story’s exploration of how quickly and irreversibly success can be lost and how one's sense of self can be eroded by failure. The line also captures Satyajit’s internal struggle to reconcile his past self with his current state, as he realises that his former glory is now meaningless, replaced by the harsh reality of his situation.

   • ‘… let him be wrapped a while in the lingering twilight splendour of departed glory’.

   This line beautifully illustrates Satyajit’s desire to cling to the last remnants of his past success, even though he knows it has slipped away. The “twilight splendour” refers to the fading glow of his previous achievements, which he can no longer claim but still longs to experience, even if only for a short time. It represents his unwillingness to fully confront the reality of his failure and his need to take refuge in the memories of his former glory. The phrase “departed glory” indicates that his success is truly in the past, yet Satyajit allows himself to indulge in the illusion of it for a brief moment, knowing that once he leaves the village, he will be forced to face his harsh new reality. This captures the bittersweet nature of Satyajit’s predicament, where he vacillates between accepting his downfall and yearning for the life he once had.

Multiple Choice Questions on Glory at Twilight

1. What was Satyajit's position before the collapse of the bank?
   a) Clerk
   b) Accountant
   c) Managing Director
   d) Supervisor

2. Why did Satyajit stop smoking?
   a) He wanted to lead a healthier lifestyle.
   b) He couldn't afford the luxury anymore.
   c) His wife asked him to stop.
   d) He ran out of cigarettes.

3. How did Satyajit initially rise in the bank?
   a) Through a family connection
   b) By detecting a forged cheque
   c) By bribing a senior official
   d) Through a promotion examination

4. What was Satyajit’s reaction when he detected the forged cheque?
   a) He ignored it.
   b) He informed the police.
   c) He showed pity on the forger.
   d) He took pride in his action.

5. What did Satyajit sell to send money for the name-giving ceremony of his child?
   a) His car
   b) His house
   c) His diamond ring
   d) His watch

6. How did the villagers receive Satyajit when he arrived at Shantipur?
   a) With indifference
   b) With contempt
   c) With great reverence
   d) With suspicion

7. Why did Satyajit attend Beena's wedding?
   a) He wanted to show off his wealth.
   b) He wanted to meet Srinath.
   c) He felt obligated, having attended the weddings of Srinath's other daughters.
   d) He wanted to donate a large sum of money.

8. What did Srinath ask Satyajit for during Beena’s wedding?
   a) To give a speech
   b) To give Rs. 2001/- for the dowry
   c) To mortgage his property
   d) To leave the wedding early

9. What did Satyajit think of his ancestral house when he visited it?
   a) It gave him a feeling of security.
   b) It made him feel ashamed.
   c) He found it too small and unimportant.
   d) He planned to sell it.

10. Why did Harish, the moneylender, agree to lend money for Beena's dowry?
    a) Out of respect for Satyajit
    b) He wanted to help the community
    c) He demanded Satyajit's house and fishpond as security
    d) Srinath promised to pay it back

11. What was Satyajit's emotional state during the wedding?
    a) Joyful and relaxed
    b) Nervous and restless
    c) Proud and satisfied
    d) Bitter and resentful

12. What was Satyajit's main motivation for agreeing to mortgage his property?
    a) To maintain his dignity in front of the villagers
    b) To show off his wealth
    c) To punish Harish
    d) To get rid of his house and fishpond

13. Which of the following best describes Beena?
    a) Arrogant and rude
    b) Shy and graceful
    c) Stubborn and headstrong
    d) Talkative and mischievous

14. What is the significance of the title Glory at Twilight?
    a) It suggests the fleeting nature of Satyajit’s past glory.
    b) It refers to the prosperity Satyajit still holds.
    c) It describes the beauty of the village at dusk.
    d) It symbolises a hopeful future for Satyajit.

15. How did Satyajit feel about the villagers’ admiration of him?
    a) He felt overwhelmed and refused their gestures.
    b) He enjoyed it but felt it was undeserved.
    c) He ignored them completely.
    d) He was annoyed by their attention.

16. What lesson does Satyajit learn by the end of the story?
    a) Wealth is the only thing that gives respect.
    b) Community and relationships are not important.
    c) Maintaining dignity is crucial even in difficult times.
    d) He should never have returned to Shantipur.

17. Which character represents the harshness of societal expectations?
    a) Beena
    b) Srinath
    c) Harish, the moneylender
    d) Satyajit

18. Why did Srinath think Satyajit could easily provide Rs. 2001/- for Beena's dowry?
    a) He believed Satyajit was still wealthy.
    b) Satyajit had promised it earlier.
    c) He had already mortgaged his house.
    d) The villagers pressured him.

19. What is ironic about Satyajit's initial rise to success?
    a) It was due to his family's influence.
    b) His success came from detecting a forgery, yet he ended up losing everything.
    c) He never wanted to be promoted.
    d) His wealth did not improve his life.

20. Which theme is most evident in the story?
    a) The pursuit of revenge
    b) The value of family traditions
    c) The tension between pride and sacrifice
    d) The futility of material wealth

Answer Key

1. c) Managing Director
2. b) He couldn't afford the luxury anymore.
3. b) By detecting a forged cheque
4. d) He took pride in his action.
5. c) His diamond ring
6. c) With great reverence
7. c) He felt obligated, having attended the weddings of Srinath's other daughters.
8. b) To give Rs. 2001/- for the dowry
9. a) It gave him a feeling of security.
10. c) He demanded Satyajit's house and fishpond as security
11. b) Nervous and restless
12. a) To maintain his dignity in front of the villagers
13. b) Shy and graceful
14. a) It suggests the fleeting nature of Satyajit’s past glory.
15. b) He enjoyed it but felt it was undeserved.
16. c) Maintaining dignity is crucial even in difficult times.
17. c) Harish, the moneylender
18. a) He believed Satyajit was still wealthy.
19. b) His success came from detecting a forgery, yet he ended up losing everything.
20. c) The tension between pride and sacrifice

Explore the symbolism used in "The Lament" and its significance.

In "The Lament" (also known as "The Misery" or "Agony") by Anton Chekhov, there are several symbols that enhance the story's themes and deepen its meaning. Here are some key symbols and their significance:

1. Iona's Horse: Iona's horse symbolizes both his connection to the outside world and his emotional outlet. The horse serves as a metaphor for Iona's grief and longing for human connection. As he talks to the horse, pouring out his heart and recounting his sorrow, it represents his desperate attempt to find solace and understanding.

2. The Passenger: The passenger who hires Iona's sledge symbolizes the emotional detachment and indifference prevalent in society. Despite Iona's attempts to share his pain, the passenger remains disconnected and unresponsive. This character symbolizes the lack of empathy and human connection that Iona experiences throughout the story.

3. The Storm: The storm that rages throughout the story symbolizes the chaos and turmoil within Iona's heart and mind. It mirrors his inner emotional state, reflecting his grief, anguish, and inner turmoil. The storm intensifies the sense of despair and adds to the overall atmosphere of the story.

4. The Unseen Son: Iona's deceased son, although not physically present in the story, is a powerful symbol. He represents the profound loss that Iona mourns and the void left in his life. The unseen son represents the memory and presence of a loved one who has passed away, adding to the depth of Iona's sorrow.

5. The Miscommunication: The overall miscommunication and inability of Iona to convey his grief and find understanding from others is a significant symbol. It reflects the disconnect and lack of empathy within society, highlighting the isolation and loneliness experienced by individuals who are grieving or suffering.

These symbols collectively contribute to the story's exploration of human suffering, isolation, and the struggle for empathy and connection. They add layers of depth and emotion, allowing readers to engage with the universal themes presented in the narrative. Through the use of symbolism, Chekhov captures the human condition and the complexities of grief and longing for understanding. 

Class XI - English - Woven Words - Poem - For Elkana

 Complete Text of the Poem

The warm April evening
tempts us to the breezes
sauntering across the lawn.
We drag our chairs down
the stone steps and plant them there.
Unevenly, to sit or rather sprawl
in silence till the words begin to come.
My wife, as is her way,
surveys the scene, comments
on a broken window-pane.
Suggests a thing or two
that every husband in the neighbourhood
knows exactly how to do
except of course the man she loves
who happened to be me.
Unwilling to dispute
the obvious fact
that she is always right,
I turn towards the more
attractive view that opens up
behind my eyes and shuts her out.
Her voice crawls up and down the lawn,
our son, who is seven,
hears it—and it reminds him of something.
He stands before us,
his small legs well apart,
crescent-moon-like chin uplifted
eyes hard and cold
to speak his truth
in masterly determination:
Mummy, I want my dinner, now.
Wife and husband in unusual rapport
state one unspoken thought:
Children Must be Disciplined.
She looks at me. I look away.
The son is waiting. In another second
he will repeat himself.
Wife wags a finger.
Firmly delivers verdict: Wait.
In five minutes I’ll serve you dinner.
No, says the little one,
not in five minutes, now.
I am hungry.
It occurs to me the boy is like his father.
I love him as I love myself.
Wait, darling, wait,
Mummy says, wait for five minutes
But, I am hungry now,
declaims the little bastard, in five minutes
I won’t be hungry any more.
This argument appeals to me.
Such a logician deserves his dinner straightaway.
My wife’s delightful laughter
holds the three of us together.
We rise and go into the house.

Explanation

The poem is a narrative of a family scene in April, where the warmth of the evening tempts the family to sit outside and enjoy the breeze. The husband and wife drag their chairs outside to sit in silence and enjoy each other's company until the words begin to flow. However, the wife breaks the silence by commenting on a broken window-pane and suggesting some fixes to it.

The husband, unwilling to dispute his wife's advice, turns his attention to the attractive view behind his eyes, shutting his wife out. Their seven-year-old son interrupts them, asking for dinner, to which the wife replies that he should wait for five minutes. The son insists that he is hungry and wants dinner now, but the wife tells him to wait.

The husband is amused by his son's logical argument that he won't be hungry in five minutes and decides to give him his dinner straight away. The wife's laughter brings the family together, and they all go inside the house.

The poem captures the everyday interactions and dynamics of a family, with the husband and wife having different personalities and approaches to parenting. The son's interruption serves as a reminder that children need discipline, and the family's laughter at the end signifies their ability to overcome their differences and come together.

Theme

The theme of the poem revolves around the complexities of family dynamics and the struggle for power between family members, particularly between parents and children. It also touches upon the theme of communication and the challenges that arise when family members struggle to understand and connect with each other. The poem ultimately suggests that despite these difficulties, families can find joy and togetherness through laughter and a shared sense of love and understanding.

Understanding the Poem

Question 1. Comment on the subtlety with which the poet captures the general pattern of communication within a family.

Answer:

The poet captures the general pattern of communication within a family with great subtlety and nuance. Through the dialogue and actions of the family members, the poem reveals the various power dynamics and conflicts that exist within the family unit, without explicitly stating them. For instance, the husband's desire to ignore his wife's suggestion and focus on his own desires suggests an underlying power imbalance in their relationship, while the son's demand for immediate satisfaction reflects a struggle for independence and autonomy.

Furthermore, the poem also captures the complexities of communication within a family, such as the unspoken tensions and emotions that can exist between family members. The husband's desire to shut his wife out and focus on his own thoughts, for instance, reveals a lack of communication and understanding between them.

Overall, the poem's subtlety and nuance in capturing the general pattern of communication within a family is what makes it such an effective and relatable portrayal of family life. The poem's realism and honesty in portraying the challenges and conflicts that can arise within a family unit make it a poignant and insightful reflection on the human experience.

Question 2. Poetic effect is achieved in the poem through understatement and asides. Discuss this with examples.

Answer:

The poem "The warm April evening" achieves poetic effect through the use of understatement and asides. Understatement is a literary technique where the speaker downplays the importance or severity of a situation, often to highlight the opposite effect. Asides, on the other hand, are remarks made by the speaker that are not intended for everyone to hear but serve to provide insight into their thoughts and feelings.

For example, in the poem, the husband's desire to ignore his wife's suggestion to fix the broken window pane is an example of understatement. Instead of acknowledging her suggestion, he turns his attention to the view in front of him, which suggests a lack of interest or investment in their conversation. This understated response highlights the power imbalance in their relationship, which is further emphasized by the wife's suggestion that every husband in the neighborhood knows how to fix the window except for him.

Asides are also used to great effect in the poem, particularly in the husband's internal dialogue. For instance, when his wife is speaking, he thinks to himself about the more attractive view that opens up behind his eyes and shuts her out. This aside highlights the disconnection between the husband and wife and adds depth to his character by revealing his inner thoughts and motivations.

Overall, the use of understatement and asides in the poem enhances the subtle and nuanced portrayal of family dynamics and communication, adding depth and complexity to the characters and their relationships.

Question 3. How is the idyllic juxtaposed with the pedestrian in the poem?

Answer:

In the poem "The warm April evening," the idyllic is juxtaposed with the pedestrian through the contrast between the peaceful setting of the warm April evening and the mundane, everyday tasks and conflicts that arise within the family.

On one hand, the setting of the warm April evening is described in an idyllic way, tempting the family to spend time outdoors and enjoy the breezes across the lawn. The image of the family sitting in chairs on the stone steps, surrounded by nature, creates a peaceful and serene atmosphere.

On the other hand, the poem portrays the pedestrian reality of family life, with the wife commenting on the broken window-pane and suggesting that it be fixed. The husband's response to her suggestion, focusing on the attractive view that opens up behind his eyes and shutting her out, suggests a lack of engagement and investment in their relationship.

The son's demand for immediate satisfaction, regardless of his parents' plans, adds to the contrast between the idyllic and the pedestrian. The family's decision to go inside and have dinner together is a mundane, everyday task, but the wife's delightful laughter at the end of the poem suggests that, despite the conflicts and challenges that arise within the family, they are able to find joy and togetherness in simple moments like this.

Overall, the juxtaposition of the idyllic with the pedestrian in the poem highlights the complexities of family life and the struggle to balance everyday tasks and conflicts with the desire for peace, love, and togetherness.

Question 4. Explain the undertones in the statement: ‘Wife and husband in unusual rapport
State one unspoken thought’:

Answer:

In the poem "The Warm April Evening," the line "Wife and husband in unusual rapport state one unspoken thought" suggests that the couple is connected in a way that goes beyond spoken communication. This line has undertones of shared understanding, nonverbal communication, and unspoken agreement.

Throughout the poem, the husband and wife have different perspectives and approaches to various situations, such as the broken window-pane and their son's demand for dinner. Despite their differences, they are able to come together and present a united front in their response to their son's demand. The fact that they are in "unusual rapport" suggests that this type of agreement is not common in their relationship, but is something special that happens in this particular moment.

The line also suggests that the couple is able to communicate without words, as they are able to convey their agreement without speaking it out loud. This is reinforced by the fact that the thought they share is unspoken. This type of communication is further emphasized by the husband's internal dialogue throughout the poem, which reveals his thoughts and feelings about his wife and their relationship.

Overall, the undertones in the line "Wife and husband in unusual rapport state one unspoken thought" suggest a deeper level of connection between the couple that goes beyond verbal communication. It highlights the importance of nonverbal communication, shared understanding, and unspoken agreement in relationships.

Question 5. Comment on the capitalisation of all the words in the line: ‘Children Must be Disciplined’.

Answer:

In the poem "The Warm April Evening," the capitalisation of all the words in the line "Children Must be Disciplined" serves to emphasize the importance and authority of the statement. The capitalisation of every word in the phrase draws attention to it and gives it a sense of gravity and importance.

By capitalising every word, the poet creates a sense of formality and seriousness around the idea of discipline for children. It suggests that this is not just a casual suggestion, but rather a rule that must be followed. This is reinforced by the fact that the phrase is presented as an unspoken thought between the husband and wife, which further emphasises the weight and authority of the statement.

The capitalisation also reflects the idea that discipline is a universal truth that applies to all children, regardless of their individual circumstances or personalities. It suggests that the need for discipline is a fundamental part of parenting and that it is not something that can be ignored or taken lightly.

Question 6. What makes the urgency of the child’s demand seem logical?

Answer:

In the poem "The Warm April Evening," the urgency of the child's demand for dinner seems logical because it is based on a simple and logical argument. The child argues that he is hungry now and therefore needs to eat now, rather than waiting for five minutes.

This argument is logical because hunger is a basic need that requires immediate attention. The child's demand for dinner is not based on a whim or a desire for something frivolous, but rather on a basic need that must be met in order for him to function properly. Therefore, his demand for dinner seems urgent and reasonable.

Additionally, the child's argument is presented in a simple and straightforward way that is easy to understand. He does not use complex reasoning or try to manipulate his parents in any way. Instead, he presents a simple and clear argument that is based on his immediate needs.

TRY THIS OUT

PARAPHRASE OF THE POEM

On a warm April evening, the gentle breeze entices a couple to sit outside and relax. They take their chairs down the stone steps and sit in silence, waiting for the words to come. The wife takes in their surroundings, commenting on a broken window pane and making suggestions about what needs to be done. The husband does not argue, as he knows she is always right. Instead, he focuses on the view in his mind's eye and shuts her out.

Their seven-year-old son hears his mother's voice and comes outside, standing before them with his chin up and his eyes hard and cold. He demands his dinner, insisting that he is hungry and cannot wait. The wife and husband are in agreement that children must be disciplined, but the husband sees himself in his son's argument and agrees that it is logical.

After a moment of laughter, they go inside to have dinner together.