Sudhamurthy

1.) What did Sudha Murthy write in letter to JRD Tata?
Sudha Murthys shot to fame accidentally, every time. As a

fresh engineering graduate, she wrote a letter to JRD
Tata pointing out that barring women applicants from jobs at
Telco was injustice. ... I wrote the letter to point out that
denying a job to an able woman engineer on the basis of
gender was injustice.
2.) Where did the writer see Mr JRD Tata for the first time?
For the first time, she met JRD when she was transferred to

Bombay from Pune. She was very anxious and was frightened
that JRD would enquire about the letter she had written in his
name. After meeting him, she was very happy and admired
him for his professionalism.
3.)Describe sudha Murthy encounters with JRD tata
 Sudha Murthy is an efficient writer and the

chairperson of Infosys foundation who started her career as a
computer science engineer.
 As the Telco organization was not willing to select the
female employees she was terribly upset and sent a post card
to JRD tata to consider women employees on basis of their
skills and not on their physical abilities.
2. GENDER BIAS - Sudha Murthy
Annotations
1. Life was full of fun and joy. I did not know what helplessness
or injustice meant.
`
Lesson and Author: These lines are taken from the essay, GENDER BIAS
written by SUDHA MURTHY, a well-known social worker and author. The
essay ‘Gender Bias’ is taken from the collection titled ‘How I Taught my
Grandmother to Read’. Sudha Murthy is renowned for her noble mission of
providing computer and library facilities in all government schools of
Karnataka. She is the Chairperson of Infosys Foundation.
Context and meaning: Sudha Murthy was in the final year of her M. Tech in
1974, at the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore. One day she came
across an advertisement for a job in Telco. Candidates are required to be hard
working, besides having an excellent academic record. But it was clearly
stated that ladies were not eligible to apply. Sudha Murthy was shocked at
this open display of gender discrimination. As a student Sudha Murthy’s life
was full of happiness and bliss. She was not aware of any injustice or
discrimination against any one. But all this was shaken up when she saw the
advertisement for the post of an engineer in Telco.
Critical comment: In this essay Sudha Murthy narrates how she initially
faced gender discrimination but later succeeded in getting a job in
Telco. Sudha Murthy’s style of writing is simple and direct and communicates
her ideas clearly. The essay is both enjoyable and inspiring. It fills the reader
with hope.
`
2. Though I was not keen on taking up the job, I saw it as a

challenge.
`
this open display of gender discrimination. She was not particularly interested
in taking up the job. But she strongly decided to protest against the unjust
policy of the company. So she applied for the job. She also wrote a post card
to JRD Tata, expressing her dismay.
`
with hope.
`
3. “But I am surprised how a company such as Telco is

discriminating on the basis of gender”
Grandmother to Read’. Sudha Murthy is renowned for her
noble mission of providing computer and library facilities in all government
schools of Karnataka. She is the Chairperson of Infosys Foundation.
this open display of gender discrimination. As a mark of protest she wrote to
JRD Tata, the head of the Tata group of companies. She wrote that the Tatas
were the pioneers of Indian industry. They had also established reputed
institutions for higher education, such as the IISC, Bangalore. It was
surprising that such a renowned and respected company was displaying
gender bias by not hiring women.
`
with hope.
`
4. “ but you must start somewhere, otherwise no woman will

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

changed her mind. Why?
`
The essay, GENDER BIAS is written by SUDHA MURTHY, a well-known
social worker and author. It is taken from the collection titled ‘How I Taught
my Grandmother to Read’. Sudha Murthy is renowned for her noble mission of
Karnataka.
Sudha Murthy was in the final year of her M.Tech in 1974, and was the
`
only girl in her department in the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore. One

day she came across an advertisement for a job in Telco. Candidates are
required to be hard working, besides having an excellent academic record. But
it was clearly stated that ladies were not eligible to apply. Sudha Murthy was
shocked at this open display of gender discrimination. She was not particularly
interested in taking up the job. But she strongly decided to protest against the
unjust policy of the
company. So she applied for the job. She also wrote a post card to JRD Tata,
expressing her dismay.
`
2. Sudha Murthy was extremely determined and resolute. Justify

this statement.

Karnataka.
day she came across an advertisement for a job in Telco. But it was clearly
to JRD Tata, expressing her dismay. To her surprise she was called for the
interview. There she boldly expressed her views. She stressed that
somewhere a start should be made to hire women. She was able to convince
the panel and was hired. Sudha Murthy’s boldness and initiative paved the
way for the acceptance of women in various fields.
3. Why was Sudha Murthy not nervous at the interview? Explain.

Karnataka.
Sudha Murhy applied for a job in Telco though the advertisement

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

Murthy? Justify.

Karnataka.
day she came across an advertisement for a job in Telco. Sudha Murthy was
shocked to note that ladies were not eligible to apply. She decided to protest
against the open display of gender bias. She wrote a letter to JRD Tata. She
was called for an interview and hired.
Much later Sudha Murthy was introduced to JRD. JRD was informed
that Sudha Murthy was a brilliant post graduate and the first lady to work on
the Telco shop floor. JRD expressed happiness that women were choosing
engineering courses. She probably remembered her letter. He must have been
happy that the company policy of not hiring women had been changed.
1.) How do the palanquin bearers carry the bride?
The palanquin bearers are happy to carry the light

weight bride and they sing along. The bride within is
compared to a beautiful and precious pearl on a string.
The palanquin bearers further describe the delicate and
tender bride, saying that they carried her softly on their
shoulders.
2.) What are the feelings of the palanquin bearers as they

carry the princess inside the palanquin?
The palanquin bearers feel so happy when they carry the

bride. They sing a song while carrying light weighted bride.
They carry bride on their shoulder very softly. They
consider tender bride as a very precious stone.
3.) What does the phrase brow of the tide mean?
In the poem "palanquin bearers", the phrase brow of the

tide is used to describe the act of carrying the princess by her
palanquin bearers. The palanquin bearers were in the joy that
they did not feel her weight when they carry her in the
palanquin on their shoulders.
4.) How does the poet describe the bride?
Answer: The bride is very delicate, fragile and beautiful like a

flower that moves or sways in the air. ... The poet
describes the movements of the bride by using different
words of movement. These words are sways, skims, floats,
glide.
5.) What is the mood of the palanquin bearers?
the palanquin bearers are in a gay and cheerful mood and
are honored to be carrying the royal princess in
their palanquin. they are carrying the palanquin a very
gentle and soft manner so as not to hurt the lady.
6.) What is the refrain in the poem palanquin bearers?
The palanquin bearers in this beautifully woven string by

Sarojini Naidu are very careful not to make her uncomfortable
in any way. The refrain and similes are the precious factors
in this poem because they portray the responsibility and
journey of carrying the royal bride on their shoulders.
GOLD FRAME - R.K Laxman

1. How did Datta know that the photograph was very valuable to the
customer? Why did he have treject many of the photographs from his
collection while looking for a substitute the
photograph? (
or)
Datta found a solution for his problem. Did it really work for him? Justify your
answer.
Rasipuram Krishnaswamy Iyer Laxman: (born 23rd October,

1924) is an Indian cartoonist, illustrator and humorist. He is widely regarded
as India’s greatest-ever cartoonist and is best known for his creation ‘The
Common Man.’ He is the brother of R.K. Narayan.
Datta was the owner of a small shop called The Modern Frame
Works. He used to put pictures into frames. One day a customer comes to
Datta’s shop with a faded picture of an elderly person. The man in the picture
has whiskers and a huge turban. It is a standard portrait taken in a by-gone
era. The customer speaks with reverence about the great qualities of the
man. He demands that the best frame be used and, after considerable
discussion, settles on an imported German frame with an oval cut mount.
Though the work is to be delivered after a fortnight, the customer

shows up after just ten days and asks if it is ready. He understands then that
the customer is quite serious about getting the photo framed. Obviously the
photo is a cherished possession and the customer has immense regard for the
person in the photo.
Datta decides to begin work at once. But then a terrible thing

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

completed. Datta slowly removes the cover and hands over the photo. The
customer eagerly looks at it. Datta waits with bated breath. Almost at once
the customer shouts in anger, “What have you done?” Datta fears the
worst. He thinks that his deception has been noticed. He had practiced
several times how he would feign ignorance or deny it if he was occused of
using a different photo.
But before Datta can open his mouth, the customer continues
shouting that while he had asked for an oval frame, Datta had used a square
one! Datta realizes then that the customer had not noticed that the photo
itself was different. He had merly objected to the frame. He is relieved, as
he knows that at the most, he might have to change the frame.
3. A SPIDER AND A FLY - Don Marquis

1. i serve a great purpose

in the word
(or)
i am a vessel of righteousness
scattering seeds of justice
and serving the noblest causes
Poem & Poet : These lines are taken from the poem ‘A Spider and a Fly’
written by Don Marquis. The poem is in the form of an argument between a
spider and a fly. It is a debate on the relevance of Beauty and Utility in life.
Context & Meaning: A spider is about to kill a fly. The fly protests. It

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

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

a creator and a demi-god
(or)
i serve the gods of beauty
look at the gossamer webs
i weave they float in the sum
like filaments of song

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

greatness of the fly was restricted to his utility. On the other hand, the spider
was a demigod and a creator. The spider was an artist spinning filaments and
creating beautiful cobwebs with such ease. Saying this, the spider pounced
on the fly and began to eat him. The poem ends with the poet’s judgment of
the triumph of art over science of ‘utilitarian’ aspects.
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
1) The poem ‘A Spider and a Fly’ is a celebration of beauty rather than

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

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

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

The spider concedes that the fly is useful. However, it asserts that it is far
superior to the fly. It boasts that it enjoys itself weaving silk webs all
day. These webs are a work of beauty and transport one to the land of magic
and enchantment. The spider claims, therefore, that it is not a mere worker
like the fly. Rather, it is a creator and an artist whose work is invaluable. The
spider likens itself to a demi-god. Ending the argument, it pounces on the fly
and eats it. Thus, Beauty seems to triumph over Utility.
1. ON FRIENDSHIP - Kahlil Gibran
1. He is your field which you sow with love and reap with thanks giving and he
is your board and you fireside.
Poem & Poet :- These lines are taken from the Poem ‘On Friendship’ by
Lebanese – Arabic poet Kahlil Gibran. The poem is an extract from his book
‘The prophet’, written in 1923. The poem is a celebration of the joys of
friendship.
Context and Meaning : - When questioned by a student on the subject of

friendship, the poet notes that a friend is God’s blessing. The most important
ingredient in friendship is love. We shower friends with love and in return we
earn their gratitude. It is his way of answering our needs. The poet makes
interesting comparisons while describing the traints of a true friend. A friend
is your board and fireside. Even when he is physically away he provides you
with the comfort and warmth in winter, a friend is a source of comfort during
times of distress.
Critical Comment :- The poem uses lucid imagery to describe the relationship
between friends. The most important ingredient in friendship is love. We
shower friends with love and in return we earn their gratitude.
2. For without words, in friendship, all thoughts, all desire, all

explanations are born and shared, with joy that is un acclaimed.
‘The prophet’, written in 1923.The poem is a celebration of the joys of
friendship.

friendship, the poet notes that a friend is God’s blessing. The poet makes
interesting comparisons while describing the traits of a true friend. The most
important ingredient in friendship is love. We shower friends with love and in
return we earn their gratitude. A true friend is one with whom we can share
our joys and sorrows. Communicating with him does not need any special
effort. He is one who can understand not only our words but our silence too.
We need not be afraid to speak out our mind in his ‘presence’ we can express
our inner most feelings, hopes and fears.
Critical Comment : - A true friend is sure to understand and sympathies
with us. We need not declare aloud the peace and contentment we feel in his
company. For free friendship does not require publicity or elaborate
explanations. Gibran focuses on the obility to understand each other, in
silence as it is stronger than words and mole eloquent than speech.
3. For that which you love most in him may be clearer in his absence, as the
mountain to the climber is clearer from the plain.
Lebanese – Arabic poet Kahlil Gibran.The poem is an extract from his book
friendship.
on joys and sorrows. When we climb a mountain we cannot see it in a proper
prospective. A mountain appears more clean when one is on the plain, at
some distance away. In a similar manner we can appreciate fully the value of
a friend only in his absorve .when he is in our midst, we fail to understand his
good qualities. But once he is away, we miss him dearly and cherish the
memories of our friendship.
Critical Comment : The poet makes the use of words. His ideas are novel,
philosophical and close to reality. The Imagery is apt and reveals his own
clarity of perception in life in allits paradoxes.
4. For in the dew of little things the heart finds its morning and is
refreshed.
friendship.
return we earn their gratitude. A true friend is un with whom we can share on
joys and sorrows. We count on friends when our life is at an ebb and we feel
‘low.’ We should be equally ready to share with them the flood of joy in our
life. We should turn to friends not simply because we are bored and need
some recreation. We feel relaxed and refreshed in the presence of a friend.
He is like the morning dew which brings freshness and life. Thus, the
company of a friend can refresh and enliven us.
philosophical and close to reality. Gibran describes the qualities of a true
friend. A friend is a rock of support during times of grief. But the poet gently
reminds us at the end of the poem that we should share not only our troubles
but our joys too.

* * *
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
1. “Who finds a faithful friend finds a treasure.” Do you agree? Base your answer
on Kahlil Gibran’s ‘On Friendship’.
(or)
List all the qualities a true friend should have, according to Kahil Gibra.
The poem ‘On Friendship’ is written by Lebanese – Arabic poet Kahlil

Gibran. The Poem is an extract from his book ‘The Prophet’, written in 1923. The
poem is a celebration of the joys of friendship.
A true friend is one who supports us in a crisis. He is like a board which gives
support. He is like the fireside which keeps us ward in winter. He fulfills both material
and spiritual needs. He can understand not only our words but out silence too. We
need nit be afraid to speak freely in his presence. We can express our innermost
feelings, hopes and fears. A mountain appears more clear when one is on the plain, at
some distance away. In a similar manner we can appreciate the value of a friend even
more in his absence. True friendship is enjoyed and celebrated for its own sake. There
are no ulterior motives or expectations among friends.
However, a friend is not merely one to whom we turn in times of sorrow.

Gibran gently reminds us that we should share not only our troubles but our joys too
with friends. We count on friends when our life is at an ebb and when we feel “low”.
We should be equally ready to share with them the flood of joy in our life. We should
seek the company of friends not simply because we are bored and nee some
recreation. We feel relaxed and refreshed in the company of a friend as he is like the
morning dew. A friend, thus is an invaluable treasure.
1. How did Datta know that the photograph was very valuable to the
customer? Why did he have treject many of the photographs from his
collection while looking for a substitute the
photograph? (
or)
Datta found a solution for his problem. Did it really work for him? Justify your
answer.
Rasipuram Krishnaswamy Iyer Laxman: (born 23rd October,

1924) is an Indian cartoonist, illustrator and humorist. He is widely regarded
as India’s greatest-ever cartoonist and is best known for his creation ‘The
Common Man.’ He is the brother of R.K. Narayan.
Datta was the owner of a small shop called The Modern Frame
Works. He used to put pictures into frames. One day a customer comes to
Datta’s shop with a faded picture of an elderly person. The man in the picture
has whiskers and a huge turban. It is a standard portrait taken in a by-gone
era. The customer speaks with reverence about the great qualities of the
man. He demands that the best frame be used and, after considerable
discussion, settles on an imported German frame with an oval cut mount.
Though the work is to be delivered after a fortnight, the customer

shows up after just ten days and asks if it is ready. He understands then that
the customer is quite serious about getting the photo framed. Obviously the
photo is a cherished possession and the customer has immense regard for the
person in the photo.
Datta decides to begin work at once. But then a terrible thing
happens. A tin of enamel paint accidentally spills over the photo. Datta tries
to rub the paint on the photo with a cloth but unfortunately half the face and
the entire turban get erased. Datta is panic-stricken. He does not know what
to do as the photograph is completely spoilt. As he looks around in dismay,
an idea takes shape in Datta’s mind. He plans to substitute the damaged
photo with another photo which is somewhat similar. He finds a suitable
photo for this purpose and puts it in a dazzling gold gold frame. He hopes
that his deception will go unnoticed. Nonetheless, he is anxious and nervous.
The customer arrives and asks if the work has been

completed. Datta slowly removes the cover and hands over the photo. The
customer eagerly looks at it. Datta waits with bated breath. Almost at once
the customer shouts in anger, “What have you done?” Datta fears the
worst. He thinks that his deception has been noticed. He had practiced
several times how he would feign ignorance or deny it if he was occused of
using a different photo.
But before Datta can open his mouth, the customer continues
shouting that while he had asked for an oval frame, Datta had used a square
one! Datta realizes then that the customer had not noticed that the photo
itself was different. He had merly objected to the frame. He is relieved, as
he knows that at the most, he might have to change the frame.
***
Posted by Resonance at 11:25 PM 7 comments:
Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to FacebookShare to
Pinterest
Saturday, November 27, 2010

3. A SPIDER AND A FLY - Don Marquis

1. i serve a great purpose
in the word
(or)
i am a vessel of righteousness
scattering seeds of justice
and serving the noblest causes
Context & Meaning: A spider is about to kill a fly. The fly protests. It

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

debate about Art-whether Art should serve some purpose or whether it can
exist for its own sake. The fly personifies a practical man. The fly is proud of
his ability to ‘cleanse’ the world of wicked people. He claims that this is his
great purpose or duty in the word. The fly hence considers himself noble as
he rids as world of such sinful people.
3. i am the artist
a creator and a demi-god
(or)
i serve the gods of beauty
look at the gossamer webs
i weave they float in the sum
like filaments of song

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

greatness of the fly was restricted to his utility. On the other hand, the spider
was a demigod and a creator. The spider was an artist spinning filaments and
creating beautiful cobwebs with such ease. Saying this, the spider pounced
on the fly and began to eat him. The poem ends with the poet’s judgment of
the triumph of art over science of ‘utilitarian’ aspects.
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
1) The poem ‘A Spider and a Fly’ is a celebration of beauty rather than

utility. Justify your answer.


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

The spider concedes that the fly is useful. However, it asserts that it is far
superior to the fly. It boasts that it enjoys itself weaving silk webs all
day. These webs are a work of beauty and transport one to the land of magic
and enchantment. The spider claims, therefore, that it is not a mere worker
like the fly. Rather, it is a creator and an artist whose work is invaluable. The
spider likens itself to a demi-god. Ending the argument, it pounces on the fly
and eats it. Thus, Beauty seems to triumph over Utility.
***
Posted by Resonance at 5:02 AM 1 comment:
Pinterest
Saturday, November 20, 2010

THINKING OUT OF THE BOX: LATERAL THINKING -
Edward De Bono
Annotations:
1. It is thinking differently or doing something different, doing

something that might be quite novel and unconventional in nature.

Lesson and Author:- These lines are taken from the essay “ Thinking out of
the Box: Lateral Thinking.” The essay is adapted from an article on lateral
thinking in the internet Edward de Bono is the main propagator of lateral
thinking.
Context & Meaning: - The essay explains the importance of lateral thinking
in solving problems that we encounter in our daily life. Lateral thinking is a
way of thinking that is different from logical thinking. We generally think in a
linear or logical fashion. However, this might not always provide solutions to
our problems. In some cases, we might have to think differently or de
something novel or unconventional in nature. Logical and analysis does not
always work. Often we make assumption, which are wrong. We need to think
in a creative and unconventional manner. This is called lateral thinking. It is
this quality that distinguish the brilliant or extraordinary from the mediocre.
Critical comment:- The author points out the difference between logical
thinking and lateral thinking. Lateral thinking is different from logical thinking
or linear thinking. It implies the ability to think differently. The essay provides
numerous situations where lateral thinking has been used. One such example
from the world of cricket is the introduction of one – day matches and more
recently, T20 matches.
2. In most real – life situations, the pieces are not given, we just
assume they are there. We assume certain perceptions, concepts
and boundaries.

thinking.
Context & Meaning : - The essay explains the importance of lateral thinking
way of thinking that is different from logical thinking. Most of us try to solve
problems in a particular way. We place the given data before us and make
certain assumptions. We then decide our course of action. This structured
approach can be compared to the manner in which we move pieces on the
chess board when we play a game of chess. But sometimes this strategy does
not work. The assumptions we make may be incorrect. We need to break free
of preconceived ideas and limitations that we impose on ourselves
unnecessarily. We need to thin in a new, creative way.
3. When a person puts in a hat he or she plays the role that belongs
to that hat. This makes it a game where individuals are encouraged
to contribute all kinds of ideas under diverse hats.

thinking.
way of thinking that is different from logical thinking. De Bono says that we
have to think in new, creative ways to solve problem. We may have to keep
changing hats. We wear a white hat when we try to grasp facts, a red hat
when we view the emotional aspects of a problem and a black one when we
make a judgment. We wear a green hat when we study various alternatives
and a yellow one when we look at the pros and cons of an issue. We wear a
blue hat when we review our thinking process. Changing hats is interesting
and challenging. We come up with different ideas and suggestions.
thinking and lateral thinking. The different ways of approaching a problem can
be compared to the wearing of different hats. He describes the six thinking
hats of De Bono, the gather of lateral thinking. The essay provides numerous
situations where lateral thinking has been used. One such example from the
world of cricket is the introduction of one – day matches and more recently,
T20 matches.
4. With the six hats, instead of confrontation there is supportive

scrutiny of an issue, which is useful where there are fierce
arguments, bickering or obstinacy.

thinking.
Context & Meaning : - To explain the concept of lateral thinking. De Bono

used the technique of six thinking hats. These hats are of different colors.
They have a symbolic significance. Each hat represents a particular style of
thinking or approach to a problem. De Bono points out that the use of these
hats is particularly useful in group discussions. Different members can wear
different hats. There is more team work and less ill will an arguments. People
are more ready to understand and appreciate each other’s point of view. They
are less rigid and stubborn.
hats of De Bono, the father of lateral thinking. The essay provides numerous
T20 matches.
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
1. “Most complex problems do have a solution”. Explain how the girl

in the story used lateral thinking to come up with a solution for her
problem.

The essay “ Thinking out of the Box: Lateral Thinking” is adapted from an
article on lateral thinking in the internet Edward de Bono is the main
propagator of lateral thinking. The essay explains the importance of lateral
thinking in solving problems that we encounter in our daily life. Lateral
thinking is a way of thinking that is different from logical thinking.
Some times a problem is difficult and complicated. We are unable to find a

solution. However, if we change the way we look at the problem we may be
able to solve it. Logic and analysis does not always work. Often we make
assumptions which are wrong. We need to think in a creative and
unconventional manner. This is called lateral thinking.
In the story the money – lender pretends to play a small game of chance.
He says that there are two pebbles in a bag. If the girl picks the white pebble
from the bag she will be set free. If she picks the black pebble she will have
to marry him. The girl, thus has a fair chance of winning. But the girl notices
that the money – lender has cheated in the game by putting two black
pebbles in the bag. The girl displays presence of mind. She pretends to drop
the pebble she has picked. She then points out that since the pebble left in
the bag is black, she must have picked the white one. Therefore, she should
be set free. The girl, thus uses her wits to escape.
2. “Lateral thinking is creative or non – linear thinking”. Provide

instances from the essay to support this statement.
The essay “ Thinking out of the Box: Lateral Thinking” is adapted
from an article on lateral thinking in the internet Edward de Bono is the main
Generally, we use logic and analytical skills to solve problems. We assume

certain things about the situation and decide what we should do. But
sometimes we may need to think in a totally different way. A fresh approach
may help us to solve the problem. Some anecdotes in the essay illustrate how
lateral thinking differs from linear thinking.
The girl outwits the money – lender who tries to cheat her in a game.
Knowing that both the pebbles in the bag are black, she pretends to drop the
pebbles she has picked. She then states that since the one left in the bag is
black, she must have picked up the white one. She wins her freedom. In
another instance a millionaire takes a small loan of $5000 from a bank located
in the heart of New York city. He leaves his car as collateral security. He later
reveals that paying interest of $15 is far cheaper than paying the parking fee
for his car for two weeks. I another incident two men come across a tiger.
One man gets ready to run, the other man asks him how he expects to run
faster than the tiger. The first man replies that he need not do so. It is
enough if he outruns his partner. T20 and day/night matches in cricket are
other examples of lateral thinking. Colourful balls and clothing were
introduced. Australia recently experimented with two different captains for the
Test and one-day crocket matches.
3. Explain the use of six thinking hats. How does it help in group
discussions?
The essay “ Thinking out of the Box: Lateral Thinking” is adapted from
an article on lateral thinking in the internet Edward de Bono is the main
To explain the concept of lateral thinking. De Bono used the technique
of six thinking hats. These hats are of different colors. They have a symbolic
significance. Each hat represents a particular style of thinking or approach to
a problem. De Bono points out that the use of these hats is particularly useful
in group discussions. Different members can wear different hats. There is
more team work and less ill will an arguments. People are more ready to
understand and appreciate each other’s point of view. They are less rigid and
stubborn. De Bono says that we have to think in new, creative ways to solve
problem. We may have to keep changing hats. We wear a white hat when we
try to grasp facts, a red hat when we view the emotional aspects of a problem
and a black one when we make a judgment. We wear a green hat when we
study various alternatives and a yellow one when we look at the pros and
cons of an issue. We wear a blue hat when we review our thinking process.
Changing hats is interesting and challenging. We come up with different ideas
and suggestions.

4. Explain the difference between lateral and logical thinking.

We generally think in a linear or logical fashion. However, this might

not always provide solutions to our problems. In some cases, we might have
to think differently or de something novel or unconventional in nature. Logical
and analysis does not always work. Often we make assumption, which are
wrong. We need to think in a creative and unconventional manner. This is
called lateral thinking. It is this quality that distinguish the brilliant or
extraordinary from the mediocre.
Some times a problem is difficult and complicated. We are unable to
find a solution. However, if we change the way we look at the problem we
may be able to solve it. Logic and analysis does not always work. Often we
make assumptions which are wrong. We need to think in a creative and
* * *

Posted by Resonance at 5:45 AM 2 comments:

Pinterest
Thursday, October 28, 2010

1. ON FRIENDSHIP - Kahlil Gibran
1. He is your field which you sow with love and reap with thanks giving and he
is your board and you fireside.
‘The prophet’, written in 1923. The poem is a celebration of the joys of
friendship.

friendship, the poet notes that a friend is God’s blessing. The most important
ingredient in friendship is love. We shower friends with love and in return we
earn their gratitude. It is his way of answering our needs. The poet makes
interesting comparisons while describing the traints of a true friend. A friend
is your board and fireside. Even when he is physically away he provides you
with the comfort and warmth in winter, a friend is a source of comfort during
times of distress.
Critical Comment :- The poem uses lucid imagery to describe the relationship
between friends. The most important ingredient in friendship is love. We
shower friends with love and in return we earn their gratitude.
2. For without words, in friendship, all thoughts, all desire, all

explanations are born and shared, with joy that is un acclaimed.
friendship.

our joys and sorrows. Communicating with him does not need any special
effort. He is one who can understand not only our words but our silence too.
We need not be afraid to speak out our mind in his ‘presence’ we can express
our inner most feelings, hopes and fears.
Critical Comment : - A true friend is sure to understand and sympathies

with us. We need not declare aloud the peace and contentment we feel in his
company. For free friendship does not require publicity or elaborate
explanations. Gibran focuses on the obility to understand each other, in
silence as it is stronger than words and mole eloquent than speech.
3. For that which you love most in him may be clearer in his absence, as the
mountain to the climber is clearer from the plain.
friendship.

on joys and sorrows. When we climb a mountain we cannot see it in a proper
prospective. A mountain appears more clean when one is on the plain, at
some distance away. In a similar manner we can appreciate fully the value of
a friend only in his absorve .when he is in our midst, we fail to understand his
good qualities. But once he is away, we miss him dearly and cherish the
memories of our friendship.
philosophical and close to reality. The Imagery is apt and reveals his own
clarity of perception in life in allits paradoxes.
4. For in the dew of little things the heart finds its morning and is
refreshed.
friendship.

return we earn their gratitude. A true friend is un with whom we can share on
joys and sorrows. We count on friends when our life is at an ebb and we feel
‘low.’ We should be equally ready to share with them the flood of joy in our
life. We should turn to friends not simply because we are bored and need
some recreation. We feel relaxed and refreshed in the presence of a friend.
He is like the morning dew which brings freshness and life. Thus, the
company of a friend can refresh and enliven us.
philosophical and close to reality. Gibran describes the qualities of a true
friend. A friend is a rock of support during times of grief. But the poet gently
reminds us at the end of the poem that we should share not only our troubles
but our joys too.

* * *
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

1. “Who finds a faithful friend finds a treasure.” Do you agree? Base your answer on
Kahlil Gibran’s ‘On Friendship’.
(or)
List all the qualities a true friend should have, according to Kahil Gibra.
The poem ‘On Friendship’ is written by Lebanese – Arabic poet Kahlil

Gibran. The Poem is an extract from his book ‘The Prophet’, written in 1923. The
poem is a celebration of the joys of friendship.
A true friend is one who supports us in a crisis. He is like a board which gives
support. He is like the fireside which keeps us ward in winter. He fulfills both material
and spiritual needs. He can understand not only our words but out silence too. We
need nit be afraid to speak freely in his presence. We can express our innermost
feelings, hopes and fears. A mountain appears more clear when one is on the plain,
at some distance away. In a similar manner we can appreciate the value of a friend
even more in his absence. True friendship is enjoyed and celebrated for its own sake.
There are no ulterior motives or expectations among friends.
However, a friend is not merely one to whom we turn in times of sorrow.

Gibran gently reminds us that we should share not only our troubles but our joys too
with friends. We count on friends when our life is at an ebb and when we feel “low”.
We should be equally ready to share with them the flood of joy in our life. We should
seek the company of friends not simply because we are bored and nee some
recreation. We feel relaxed and refreshed in the company of a friend as he is like the
morning dew. A friend, thus is an invaluable treasure.
Posted by Resonance at 6:18 AM 8 comments:

Pinterest
Tuesday, October 26, 2010

1. AFTER TWENTY YEARS (Non-Detailed Essay)
- O. Henry
Q1. Were Bob and Wells both successful men at the time of their second
meeting? Justify your answer.
O. Henry was a prolific American short – story writer, a master
of surprise endings, who wrote about the life of ordinary people in New York
City. A twist of plot, which turns on an ironic or coincidental circumstance, is
typical of O. Henry’s stories.
Bob and Jimmy were childhood friends who grew up in New
York. When Bob was eighteen years old, he decided to go to the ‘west’ as he
thought he could make a fortune there. He was ambitious by nature and
willing to take risks. Jimmy Wells, however, stayed on in the same place.
Before they parted, they met one last time at ‘Big Joe’ Brady’s restaurant. They
took a vow that they would meet in the same place exactly after twenty years.

Twenty years pass by and we find that Bob is waiting eagerly for
Jimmy at the appointed place. It is a cold night and there is hardly anyone on
the streets. A policeman on the beat appears and Bob narrates the strange
story of the pact he had made with his friend. It is clear that Bob has done
quite well for himself. He is wearing a watch that is studded with diamonds.
Bob readily concedes that he is now rich. He adds that he hopes Jimmy has
done at least half as well. The policeman goes away. A little latter a policeman
in plain clothes arrives there and arrests Bob. It turns out that Bob is a
notorious criminal wanted by the Chicago police. The first policeman was
none other than Jimmy, who had come there to keep the appointment.
Bob claims he is successful in life. He leads an extravagant life
and flaunts his riches. But at the end of the story we come to know that he is a
criminal. He is arrested and, thus, his life comes to a sorry end. Jimmy does
not reach dazzling heights in his career. In Bob’s words he was always “a kind
of plodder.” He is a Patrolman. He does his beat duty with utmost sincerity
even in the dead of winter. Like Bob, he values the bond of friendship.
Bob, who is now a wanted criminal, is aware that the Chicago
police are on the lookout for him. Yet he takes a calculated risk to keep the
appointment that was fixed two decades before. He is eager and anxious to
see his dear friend. Jimmy, like Bob, remembers the promise that was made.
He too turns up at the correct place and time after twenty years. But, being a
policeman, Jimmy at once realizes that his childhood friend, Bob, is a wanted
criminal.
He places duty above friendship. When he realizes that his friend is a wanted
criminal, he does not hesitate to do his duty.
Thus, Jimmy may not have become rich but his dedication and
discipline are exemplary. Bob may have become rich but he is a criminal and
finally lands behind bars.


Pinterest
2. TELEVISION - Roald Dahl
- Annotations
1. In almost every house we’ve been,

We’ve watched them gaping at the screen.
They loll and slop and lounge about,
And stare until their eyes pop out
Poem and Poet: These lines are taken from the poem TELEVISION, written
by ROALD DAHL, a British novelist, short story writer and a poet. It is taken
from his collection ‘Revolting Rhymes’. It is a stinging satire on Television.
Context and Meaning: In this poem Roald Dahl expresses concern over
what the modern invention the television set has done to children. He points
out that watching TV has become a craze in modern time. Children of today
spend hours together in front of the ‘idiot box’. They are unable to take the
eyes off the screen. They are fascinated and intoxicated by the meaningless
entertainment that is churned out on TV. They laze around in front of the
television and gape at the screen. They lose the capacity to think. It also
prevents them from using their imagination in a creative way.
Critical comment: The poet bemoans the fact and feels that parents should
encourage children to read books instead of watching TV. The poet uses
rhyming couplets. The use of verbs like ‘loll’, ‘pop’ and lounge aptly describe
the postures adopted by children while watching television.
2. they sit and stare and stare and sit
Until they’re hypnotized by it,
Until they’re absolutely drunk
With all that shocking ghastly junk.
from his collection ‘Revolting Rhymes’. It is a stinging satire on Television.
entertainment that is churned out on TV. They laze around in front of the
television and gape at the screen. They lose the capacity to think. It also
prevents them from using their imagination in a creative way. They behave
like zombies, and have no control over their minds.
Critical comment: Children sit in front of the TV for hours together. They

become dull. They don’t have any physical activity. TV hypnotized them.
They are I such a state that they would do what all that is telecasted on TV.
They watch horrid, repulsive, useless programmes on TV.
3. It rots the sense in the head!
It kills imagination dead!
It clogs and clutters up the mind!
from his collection ‘Revolting Rhymes’ It is a stinging satire on Television.
Context and Meaning: In this poem Roald Dahl expresses concern over what
the modern invention the television set has done to children. He points out
that watching TV has become a craze in modern time. Children of today
entertainment that is churned out on TV. They lose the capacity to think. It
also prevents them from using their imagination in a creative way. They
behave like zombies, and have no control over their minds. Their minds get
saturated with the nonsense that they see on the screen.
Critical comment: The poet repeatedly emphasizes the ill effects of

watching TV. Children slowly lose their innate intelligence and individuality.
Their brains get cluttered and rusted with junk. In the past children read
books and were instantly transported to a land of fantasy. Their imagination
would be stimulated and their mind would be active. But today TV has killed
the habit of reading books.
4. So please. Oh please, we beg, we pray,
Go throw your TV set away,
And in its place you can install
A lovely bookshelf on the wall.

from his collection ‘Revolting Rhymes’ It is a stinging satire on Television.
entertainment that is churned out on TV. They lose the capacity to think. It
also prevents them from using their imagination in a creative way. They
behave like zombies, and have no control over their minds. Their minds get
saturated with the nonsense that they see on the screen.
Critical comment: At the end of the poem, therefore, the poet exhorts
parents to throw away their TV sets at once. He begs them to replace the TV
stand with a bookshelf. The habit of reading books should be inculcated once
more in children. Children may initially protest but soon they will discover the
joys of reading.
*****
Question

s & Answers
1. Describe how children spent their leisure time in the past and how
they spend it now.
The poem TELEVISION is written by ROALD DAHL, a British novelist, short

story writer and a poet. It is taken from his collection ‘Revolting Rhymes’ It is
a stinging satire on Television. In this poem Roald Dahl points out how TV
crushes the creativity and spontaneity of children. He laments that children do
not read books any more. He reflects with nostalgia on olden days when
children eagerly immersed themselves in books.
In the past reading was the main activity and hobby of children books would
lie scattered in every nook and corner of the house. Children read books with
enthusiasm and keen interest. They would be transported at once to a land of
fantasy. Their imagination would be stimulated and their mind would be
active.
With the advent of TV, however, a marked change can be seen in children.
The child of today spends hours together in front of the ‘idiot box’. He does
nothing else all day. He is fascinated by the meaningless entertainment that is
churned out on TV. He loses the capacity to think. He behaves like a zombie,
as though he no longer has control over his mind. Stuck to the sofa all day,
the child does not participate in games or physical activities. He slowly loses
the ability to understand and respond to the environment around him. His
brain gets cluttered and rusted with the junk he sees on TV.
2. How television kill one’s imagination?
The poem TELEVISION is written by ROALD DAHL, a British novelist, short

story writer and a poet. It is taken from his collection ‘Revolting Rhymes’ It is
a stinging satire on Television. In this poem Roald Dahl points out how TV
crushes the creativity and spontaneity of children. He laments that children do
not read books any more. He reflects with nostalgia on olden days when
children eagerly immersed themselves in books.
The child of today spends hours together in front of the ‘idiot box’. He does
nothing else all day. He is fascinated and intoxicated by the meaningless
entertainment that is churned out on TV. He loses the capacity to think. He
behaves like a zombie, as though he no longer has control over his mind. The
child does not participate in games or physical activities. He slowly loses the
ability to understand and respond to the environment around him. His brain
gets cluttered and rusted with the junk he sees on TV. In the past children
read books and were instantly transported to a land of fantasy. Their
imagination would be stimulated and their mind would be active. But today TV
has killed the habit of reading books. As a result, the child has lost his
individuality and creativity.
* * * * * * * *

Pinterest
2. GENDER BIAS - Sudha Murthy
Annotations
1. Life was full of fun and joy. I did not know what helplessness
or injustice meant.
`
this open display of gender discrimination. As a student Sudha Murthy’s life
was full of happiness and bliss. She was not aware of any injustice or
discrimination against any one. But all this was shaken up when she saw the
advertisement for the post of an engineer in Telco.
with hope.
2. Though I was not keen on taking up the job, I saw it as a

challenge.
`
to JRD Tata, expressing her dismay.
with hope.
3. “But I am surprised how a company such as Telco is

discriminating on the basis of gender”
Grandmother to Read’. Sudha Murthy is renowned for her
noble mission of providing computer and library facilities in all government

schools of Karnataka. She is the Chairperson of Infosys Foundation.
this open display of gender discrimination. As a mark of protest she wrote to
JRD Tata, the head of the Tata group of companies. She wrote that the Tatas
were the pioneers of Indian industry. They had also established reputed
institutions for higher education, such as the IISC, Bangalore. It was
surprising that such a renowned and respected company was displaying
gender bias by not hiring women.
with hope.
4. “ but you must start somewhere, otherwise no woman will

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

changed her mind. Why?

Karnataka.
`

day she came across an advertisement for a job in Telco. Candidates are
required to be hard working, besides having an excellent academic record. But
it was clearly stated that ladies were not eligible to apply. Sudha Murthy was
shocked at this open display of gender discrimination. She was not particularly
interested in taking up the job. But she strongly decided to protest against the
unjust policy of the
company. So she applied for the job. She also wrote a post card to JRD Tata,
expressing her dismay.
`
2. Sudha Murthy was extremely determined and resolute. Justify
this statement.

Karnataka.
day she came across an advertisement for a job in Telco. But it was clearly
to JRD Tata, expressing her dismay. To her surprise she was called for the
interview. There she boldly expressed her views. She stressed that
somewhere a start should be made to hire women. She was able to convince
the panel and was hired. Sudha Murthy’s boldness and initiative paved the
way for the acceptance of women in various fields.
3. Why was Sudha Murthy not nervous at the interview? Explain.

Karnataka.
Sudha Murhy applied for a job in Telco though the advertisement

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

Murthy? Justify.

Karnataka.
day she came across an advertisement for a job in Telco. Sudha Murthy was
shocked to note that ladies were not eligible to apply. She decided to protest
against the open display of gender bias. She wrote a letter to JRD Tata. She
was called for an interview and hired.
Much later Sudha Murthy was introduced to JRD. JRD was informed
that Sudha Murthy was a brilliant post graduate and the first lady to work on
the Telco shop floor. JRD expressed happiness that women were choosing
engineering courses. She probably remembered her letter. He must have been
happy that the company policy of not hiring women had been changed.
InterNET - 1 PROSE
1. THINKING OUT OF THE BOX: LATERAL THINKING
1. It is thinking differently or doing something different, doing

something that might be quite novel and unconventional in nature.

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

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

thinking.
way of thinking that is different from logical thinking. Most of us try to solve
problems in a particular way. We place the given data before us and make
certain assumptions. We then decide our course of action. This structured
approach can be compared to the manner in which we move pieces on the
chess board when we play a game of chess. But sometimes this strategy does
not work. The assumptions we make may be incorrect. We need to break free
of preconceived ideas and limitations that we impose on ourselves
unnecessarily. We need to thin in a new, creative way.
3. When a person puts in a hat he or she plays the role that belongs
to that hat. This makes it a game where individuals are encouraged
to contribute all kinds of ideas under diverse hats.

thinking.
way of thinking that is different from logical thinking. De Bono says that we
have to think in new, creative ways to solve problem. We may have to keep
changing hats. We wear a white hat when we try to grasp facts, a red hat
when we view the emotional aspects of a problem and a black one when we
make a judgment. We wear a green hat when we study various alternatives
and a yellow one when we look at the pros and cons of an issue. We wear a
blue hat when we review our thinking process. Changing hats is interesting
and challenging. We come up with different ideas and suggestions.
hats of De Bono, the gather of lateral thinking. The essay provides numerous
T20 matches.
4. With the six hats, instead of confrontation there is supportive

scrutiny of an issue, which is useful where there are fierce
arguments, bickering or obstinacy.

thinking.
Context & Meaning : - To explain the concept of lateral thinking. De Bono

used the technique of six thinking hats. These hats are of different colors.
They have a symbolic significance. Each hat represents a particular style of
thinking or approach to a problem. De Bono points out that the use of these
hats is particularly useful in group discussions. Different members can wear
different hats. There is more team work and less ill will an arguments. People
are more ready to understand and appreciate each other’s point of view. They
are less rigid and stubborn.
hats of De Bono, the father of lateral thinking. The essay provides numerous
T20 matches.
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

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

The essay “ Thinking out of the Box: Lateral Thinking” is adapted from an
article on lateral thinking in the internet Edward de Bono is the main
Some times a problem is difficult and complicated. We are unable to find a

solution. However, if we change the way we look at the problem we may be
able to solve it. Logic and analysis does not always work. Often we make
assumptions which are wrong. We need to think in a creative and
In the story the money – lender pretends to play a small game of chance.
He says that there are two pebbles in a bag. If the girl picks the white pebble
from the bag she will be set free. If she picks the black pebble she will have
to marry him. The girl, thus has a fair chance of winning. But the girl notices
that the money – lender has cheated in the game by putting two black
pebbles in the bag. The girl displays presence of mind. She pretends to drop
the pebble she has picked. She then points out that since the pebble left in
the bag is black, she must have picked the white one. Therefore, she should
be set free. The girl, thus uses her wits to escape.
2. “Lateral thinking is creative or non – linear thinking”. Provide

instances from the essay to support this statement.
Generally, we use logic and analytical skills to solve problems. We assume

certain things about the situation and decide what we should do. But
sometimes we may need to think in a totally different way. A fresh approach
may help us to solve the problem. Some anecdotes in the essay illustrate how
lateral thinking differs from linear thinking.
The girl outwits the money – lender who tries to cheat her in a game.
Knowing that both the pebbles in the bag are black, she pretends to drop the
pebbles she has picked. She then states that since the one left in the bag is
black, she must have picked up the white one. She wins her freedom. In
another instance a millionaire takes a small loan of $5000 from a bank located
in the heart of New York city. He leaves his car as collateral security. He later
reveals that paying interest of $15 is far cheaper than paying the parking fee
for his car for two weeks. I another incident two men come across a tiger.
One man gets ready to run, the other man asks him how he expects to run
faster than the tiger. The first man replies that he need not do so. It is
enough if he outruns his partner. T20 and day/night matches in cricket are
other examples of lateral thinking. Colourful balls and clothing were
introduced. Australia recently experimented with two different captains for the
Test and one-day crocket matches.
3. Explain the use of six thinking hats. How does it help in group
discussions?
The essay “ Thinking out of the Box: Lateral Thinking” is adapted from
an article on lateral thinking in the internet Edward de Bono is the main
To explain the concept of lateral thinking. De Bono used the technique

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

4. Explain the difference between lateral and logical thinking.

We generally think in a linear or logical fashion. However, this might

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

find a solution. However, if we change the way we look at the problem we
may be able to solve it. Logic and analysis does not always work. Often we
make assumptions which are wrong. We need to think in a creative and
Summary of Palanquin Bearers

There is a custom of carrying a bride in a palanquin by
the palanquin bearers and the poem ‘The Palanquin
Bearers’ is so finely woven around this custom, which
expresses the joy and pride of the palanquin bearers in
carrying the newlywed princess to her in-law’s house
and while walking they are singing along happily.
According to the palanquin bearers, the bride is so

light that it feels like the princess is swaying, like a
flower sways in the wind. She is sitting in the
palanquin and is hearing their song.
They consider the royal princess as a privilege instead

of a burden to them since she is sitting and thinking
about her future after marriage. Like a flower in the
wind, the bride is moving from side to side.
Ad
They say that ‘she is like the bird that skims on

the foam of a stream’ which means that a bird passes
a stream skipping through the foam of the stream and
the bride resembles of that bird because she is so
delicate to carry.
She carries a mixed feeling as she is leaving her
parents behind and moving onto a new phase of her
life. She is happy and contented to live and start a new
inning with her beloved.
They are carrying her like a pearl on a string since she

is precious and delicate like a jewel. In the dew of
their song, the princess is hanging like a star. Like a
ray of light is seen on the top of a tide, she appears to
be jumping just like that.
A tear roll down the eyes of a bride, in the same way,
she falls. The bearers are carrying the princess as if
she is dew or a teardrop. They are delighted to carry
the bride and could not feel her weight because she is
very tender.
Ad
Summary
The palanquin bearers are carrying a royal bride in a

palanquin. They are singing a song while moving. There song
is related to the situation of the bride. They say that they are
bearing the bride lightly. The bride is swaying like a flower in
the wind. She is gliding like a bird on the froth of a stream.
She is floating quietly like a laugh from the lips of dream.
They are singing and carrying her happily. They are carrying
her like a pearl on a string. They are moving gently and
cheerfully. She is hanging like a star in the dew of their song.
She rises like a ray of light seen on the top of a tide. She falls
like a tear from the eyes of bride.
Analysis
In ancient days the royal brides in India were carried in ornate

palanquins. The men who carried them were called palanquin
bearers. The palanquin bearers considered it a privilege to
carry the bride.
Palanquin Bearers is a musical poem. The vivid description of

the journey makes us experience the soft and gentle swaying
movements of the palanquin.
The palanquin bearers carry the palanquin gently. The
swaying movements of the palanquin are compared to a
flower moving in the wind. The palanquin bearers carry the
bride so softly and delicately as if she were something very
delicate, soft, and precious. They carry her like a pearl on a
string.
The bearers do not feel the burden and move with quick
steps like the birds that skim across the river without touching
the water. The palanquin bearers are aware of the presence of
the beautiful bride they are carrying in the palanquin.
The poet uses two images deliberately to convey the

contradictory feeling of joy and sadness. In the first stanza the
poet says that ‘she floats like a laugh’. This conveys the joy of
anticipation as she is going to her husband’s house. Her heart
is full of excitement as the palanquin moves towards the
house of her soul mate. In the second stanza the poet
compares the bride to a tear falling from the eyes of a bride
to lend a touch of sadness to the description. This aptly
describes the state of bride’s mind as she is sad at separation
from her parents and family.
The poet has used variety of literary devices. The poem is full
of descriptive similes. She is compared to objects known for
their beauty, delicacy, worth and brightness. The variety of
similes used lend modesty and beauty to the sweet occasion
when the brides being carried to her husband’s house. The
poet used repetition to give musicality and sweetness to the
poem. The rhythm of the poem is even but swift. The close
rhyme scheme adds to the lyricism. Alliteration, pictorial
quality, and imagery are some of the other devices used in
the poems to create a mesmerizing effect on the reader.
The Solitary Reaper by William Wordsworth

Behold her, single in the field,
Yon solitary Highland Lass!
Reaping and singing by herself;
Stop here, or gently pass!
Alone she cuts and binds the grain,
And sings a melancholy strain;
O listen! for the Vale profound
Is overflowing with the sound.
No Nightingale did ever chaunt

More welcome notes to weary bands
Of travellers in some shady haunt,
Among Arabian sands:
A voice so thrilling ne’er was heard
In spring-time from the Cuckoo-bird,
Breaking the silence of the seas
Among the farthest Hebrides.
Will no one tell me what she sings?—

Perhaps the plaintive numbers flow
For old, unhappy, far-off things,
And battles long ago:
Or is it some more humble lay,
Familiar matter of to-day?
Some natural sorrow, loss, or pain,
That has been, and may be again?
Whate’er the theme, the Maiden sang
As if her song could have no ending;
I saw her singing at her work,
And o’er the sickle bending;—
I listened, motionless and still;
And, as I mounted up the hill,
The music in my heart I bore,
Long after it was heard no more.
Stanza Explanation
Stanza 1
The poet sees a Highland girl in the field. This girl is reaping
the crop and singing to herself. The poet likes this scene. He
says to the passers-by either to stop there quietly or to pass
from there without making the least noise. The girl is cutting
and binding the crop alone and also singing a song. This song
is of sad nature. But the poet likes it very much and wants
everybody to listen to it. The song is also echoing in the
valley.
Stanza 2
The poet thinks that even the nightingale famous for its
singing to the tired travellers in the Arabian desert when they
take rest at an Oasis, cannot sing better than this girl.The
singing of the girl is also better and more thrilling than the
Cuckoo-bird which sings in the spring season and then breaks
the silence of the seas among the faraway Hebrides.
Stanza 3
The poet is unable to understand the language in which the
girl is singing. He does not know the theme of the song and
wants somebody to tell him the theme. He thinks that the
song is about old, unhappy incidents or of some battles in the
past. The song can also be about some familiar matter related
to the life of the girl. The song may also be about some
natural sorrow, pain or loss which has happened to her.
Stanza 4
The poet does not think too much about the theme of the
song. He is enjoying the song heartily. The poet thinks that
there is no end to the girl’s singing as if she will never stop
singing. He watches her singing and using the sickle to do her
work at the same time in the field. The poet says that he
listened to her song without making any kind of movement
and noise. When the poet went up the hill he says that, he still
remembered the music of the song which that highland girl
sang. The poet also says that he will always remember her
singing.
Summary
The poet saw a highland girl. This young girl was in a field.
She was all alone. She was reaping the crop and binding it
into sheaves. She was also singing a sad song. The sound of
her song was echoing in the whole valley. It could be heard
even beyond the valley. The poet did not want to disturb her.
He stood silently to listen to her song. He did not make any
noise lest she should stop singing.
The song of the girl was really very sweet and charming. It
was sweeter than the song of a nightingale. Tired travelers
resting under a tree in an oasis, after their long journey in the
deserts of Arabia, find the nightingale’s song very sweet and
charming. These songs provide them comfort. But no
nightingale could have sung so sweetly as the solitary reaper
sang.
The cuckoo heralds the onset of the spring. Cuckoo birds sing
welcome songs in the Hebrides islands in the north-east. They
welcome the sailors. Their songs break the silence of the seas
in spring season. Their songs are very sweet. To the poet the
song of the solitary reaper seemed sweeter than the songs of
the cuckoo-birds.
The solitary reaper was a highland (Scottish) girl. She was

singing in a hilly dialect. The poet couldn’t understand what
she was singing. There was no one around to assist him. So
he started making guesses. Perhaps she was singing of some
old, sorrowful things of the past or battles fought long ago.
She might be singing about some unusual, unpleasant things
or known problems of day-to-day life. It might also be about
some natural sorrow, loss or pain that might recur.
The poet couldn’t understand what she was singing. But

whatever was the theme of her song, it affected him deeply.
Like her work, her song seemed endless. He saw her singing
and reaping in the field. He listened to it while standing
quietly for a long time Then he climbed up the hill. He carried
the music in his heart though he could no longer hear it.
Analysis
Williarn Wordsworth through his unmatchable expressions

and beautiful ideas has made The solitary Reaper a real figure.
The spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings arising from
emotions recollected in tranquillity makes us feel that we
have all met William Wordsworth’s solitary reaper somewhere
in our life, or are waiting to meet her.
In the poem ‘The Solitary Reaper‘ the poet describes the
melodious and mellifluous voice of a highland lass who is
cutting and binding the grain all by herself. The poet finds her
song to be sweeter than the song of the nightingale. The
song of the nightingale and the cuckoo is the sweetest, most
pleasant, and most refreshing. By comparing it, the poet
wants to establish a fact that the song of the solitary reaper is
simply incomparable in its music melody and sweetness.
The poet cannot understand the words but can feel them. Its
plaintive tone and melancholy sound touches him deeply. The
fascination of the unfamiliar prompts him to let his
imagination roan freely. He imagines all possible matters –
romantic ancient occurrences to dull, everyday incidents- as
the subject of the song. Perhaps it is about a disaster or
calamity in the past or it is of loved one or it is any common
routine event.
The incident described in the poem is quite simple. The poet

comes across a highland lass reaping and singling all alone in
her field. There is nothing unusual or extraordinary as it is a
common practice among hilly girls. It is the description of the
impact of her song on the poet’s mind and heart that makes
the incident a memorable one. It leaves him spellbound. He
stands still, motionless listening to her song and carries it in
his heart. The song stays with him as a pleasant memory and
can be heard after it is heard no more. It is a source of joy for
him for ever.
Critical Appreciation
In this poem Wordsworth has beautifully described the life in

a countryside, a girl cutting the crop while singing. He has
used the language of the common man to describe the
country life. The poet sees a highland girl working alone in
the field, reaping the crop and singing a melancholy song to
herself. The poet immediately feels attracted towards this
beautiful song. Although he is unable to understand the
language of the song but even then he is enjoying the music
of the song. The poet loves the girl’s singing so much that he
compares it with that of a nightingale and a cuckoo bird. Both
these birds are well known for their singing abilities but the
poet thinks that the girl was singing sweeter and better than
these two birds. He does not want to disturb the girl in her
singing. He says to the passers – by either to stop there or to
pass away from there without making any kind of
disturbance. He himself is listening to the song silently while
standing still. As the poet is not sure of the theme of the
song, he imagines that the song could be about some old,
unhappy incidents or about the battles of the past. The song
could also be about some familiar matter related to the girl’s
life, or it could also be related to some natural sorrow, loss or
pain which must have happened to the girl before. This shows
the love of past which is a characteristics feature of the
romantic poetry. For the poet to enjoy the music of the song
is more important than knowing the theme of the song. He is
not concerned about the theme. It seems to him that there is
no end of the girl’s singing and she will continue to sing
forever. At the end of the poem, the poet says that he knows
he will not get a chance to listen to this song again. But even
then he will remember her singing. It is impossible for him to
forget that singing. He will always remember it.
I. Answer the following in one or two sentences each:

Question 1.
Pick out the words from the poem which describe the
movement of the bride.
Answer:
Sway, skim, float, spring, glide.
Question 2.
How do the palanquin bearers carry the bride?
Answer:
The palanquin bearers carry the bride in a light and
smooth manner.
Question 3.
Why do you think the palanquin bearers are carrying the
palanquin lightly?
Answer:
They do not want to hurt the bride by moving the
palanquin roughly. They carry her along with a lot of care.
Question 4.
What are the emotions that the bearers feel as they carry
the palanquin?
Answer:
The bearers are happy. They sing songs and move along.
Question 5.
Why is the bride compared to a flower and a bird?
Answer:
The bride is as beautiful as a flower and as light as a.
bird. She is very delicate,
Question 6.
Explain the image in ‘She sways like a flower’.
Answer:
The bride in the palanquin moves from one side to the
other as the bearers walk. It looks as if a flower is
swinging from side to side in the gentle breeze.
Question 7.
Why is the bride referred to as ‘a pearl on a string’?
Answer:
The bride is as precious as a pearl on a string.
Question 8.
Why has she been compared to a star?
Answer:
The bride is as bright as a star. Like a bright star she is
also the centre of attraction.
Question 9.
Why do you think the poetess has used two contradictory
feelings of ‘laugh’ in the fourth line of the first stanza and
‘tear’ in the second line of the third stanza?
Answer:
The two words express the feelings of the bride. At the
beginning she is happy as she is on her way to her
husband’s house. She feels sad to leave her father’s
house.
Question 10.
Why do the palanquin bearers sing while carrying the
bride? What do you think this song is about?
Answer:
They are very happy to carry the bride from her parental
house to her husband’s house. They sing happily as they
move along. The song may be an encouragement to the
bearers.
Question 11.
The poem is full of similes. Why do you think the poet has
used so many similes in the poem?
Answer:
The poet uses so many similes to emphasise the beauty
and the emotions of the bride.
Question 12.
Pick out the rhyming words from the poem and mention
the rhyme scheme.
Answer:
along – song
stream – dream
sing – string
tide – bride
The rhyme scheme is :
aabb
ccaa
ddcc
Question 13.
Pick out the examples of alliteration from the poem.
a) She sways like a flower in the mind of our song.
b) She skims like a bird on the foam of a stream.
c) She floats like a laugh from the lips of a dream.
d) Gaily, O gaily we glide and sing.
e) She hangs like a star in the dew of our song.
Question 14.
Some words and lines are repeated in the poem. Work in
pairs and list the words and lines that are repeated. Why
do you think the words are repeated?
a) Lightly, O lightly we bear her along.
b) Gaily, O gaily we glide and sing.
c) Softly, O softly we bear her along.
d) We bear her along like a pearl on a string.
The lines and words are repeated to emphasize a point
and increase the effect.
Additional Questions:
B. Read the extract and answer the questions that follow:
1. Lightly, O lightly we bear her along.
She sways like a flower in the wind of our song,
She skims like a bird on the foam of a stream,
She floats like a laugh from the lips of a dream.
Question a.
Why do the palanquin bearers carry the bride ‘lightly’?
The palanquin bearers carry the bride ‘lightly’ because
Answer:
she is very precious and also it is the most auspicious
occasion for her.
Question b.
How does the poet describe the bride?
Answer:
The poet draws a very vivid description of the bride. She
states that the bride is “like a flower”, “a bird” and “a
laugh”.
Question c.
Explain the comparison “She sways like a flower”.
Answer:
The bride is very delicate, fragile and beautiful like a
flower that moves or sways in the air.
2. “She skims like a bird on the foam of a stream,

Gaily, 0 gaily we glide and we sing,
We bear her along like a pearl on a string”
Question a.
How does the poet describe the movements of the bride?
Answer:
The poet describes the movements of the bride by using
different words of movement. These words are sways,
skims, floats, glide.
Question b.
What do the palanquin bearers do while carrying the
bride?
Answer:
The palanquin bearers sing as they carry the bride.
Question c.
What figure of speech is used in the above line? Name
and pick the line.
Answer:
Simile We bear her along like a pearl on a string.
3. Softly, O softly we bear her along,
She hangs like a star in the dew of our song
She springs like a beam on the brow of the tide,
She falls like a tear from the eyes of a bride,
Lightly, O lightly we glide and we sing,
We bear her along like a pearl on a string.
Question a.
Why do the palanquin bearers carry the bride singing?
What is this song about?
Answer:
The palanquin bearers carry the bride singing because it
is an auspicious and a joyous occasion. The bride is
going to her husband’s house with many expectations.
The song is all about her in which she is described very
gloriously.
Question b.
What is the bride compared to in the above stanza?
Answer:
The bride is compared to a star, a beam, a tear and
finally, a pearl on a string. In doing so, the poet is
heightening the effect of the glory being given to the bride
on the momentous occasion in her life.
Question c.
What contradiction is there in the poem? Why has the
poet used it?
Answer:
The contradiction is when the poet describes the bride as
“she floats like a laugh” and then she writes “she falls like
a tear”. It is deliberate because the bride is in tears at her
separation from her family. But, she laughs because she
is going to be united with the love of her life and begin a
new and exciting life.
Multiple Choice Questions:

Four alternatives are given for each of the following
questions/ incomplete statements. Choose the most
appropriate alternative.
Question 1.
The word that does not describe the movement of the
bride is
A) glide
B) slide
C) float
D) skim
Answer:
B) slide
Question 2.
The palanquin bearers carry the bride
A) like a flower
B) like a bird
C) lightly
D) like a star
Answer:
C) lightly
Question 3.
The bride is compared to a bird because
A) she can float like a bird
B) she can skim like a bird
C) she can fly like a bird
D) she is as light as a bird
Answer:
D) she is as light as a bird
Question 4.
The bride is referred to as ‘a pearl on a string’ because
A) she is precious as a pearl on a string
B) she is wearing a string of pearls
C) she is carrying pearls with her
D) none of the above
Answer:
A) she is precious as a pearl on a string
Question 5.
The palanquin bearers sing while carrying the bride
A) as the palanquin is heavy
B) the bride loves their singing
C) because it is an auspicious and a joyous occasion
D) because the bride is swaying like a flower and
skimming like a bird
Answer:
C) because it is an auspicious and a joyous occasion
Question 6.
Which of the following lines is not an example of a simile?
A) sways like a flower
B) lightly we bear her along
C) skims like a bird
D) springs like a beam
Answer:
B) lightly we bear her along
II. Appreciation:
a) Rhyming words:
The use of words in a poem that have the same sound,
especially at the end of the lines:
Rhyme scheme: A rhyme scheme is the pattern of

rhyming lines in a poem or song. It is usually referred to
by using letters to indicate which lines rhyme. In other
words, it is the pattern of end rhymes. Lines which rhyme
with each other are denoted by the same letter.
Eg:
1) “O haste thee haste! the lady cries.
Though tempests round us gather:
I’ll meet the raging of the skies
But not an angry father”.
Rhyming words are:
cries – a
gather – b
skies – a
father – b.
Therefore, the rhyme scheme is a b a b.
2) Lightly, O lightly we bear her along (a)

She sways like a flower in the wind of our song (a)
She skims like a bird on the foam of a stream, (b)
She floats like a laugh from the lips of a dream, (b)
Gaily, O gaily we glide and we sing, (c)
We bear her along like a pearl on a string, (c)
Rhyming words are:

along (a), song (a), stream (b), dream (b), sing (c) and
string (c) Rhyme scheme is aa bb cc.
i) Pick out the rhyming words and mention the rhyme

scheme of this poem:
Two roads diverged in a yellow wood
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveller, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth.
Rhyming words:
wood – a; both – b; stood-a; could-a; undergrowth – b.
Rhyme scheme: a b a a b.
b) Simile:
Similes are a way to compare two things using Tike’ or
‘as’. In a simile, one person or thing is compared to
another.
Eg: If I want to say that somebody swims well, I can say
that they swim like a fish because fish swims well.
There are two basic patterns.
Pattern – 1:
Like : verb + like + noun
Eg: She looks like an angel.
He walks like a duck.
She acts like a fool.
Pattern – 2:
As: as + adjective + as + noun
Eg: He is as tall as a giant.
He is as fast as a rocket.
She is as graceful as a swan.
Fill in the blanks with appropriate similes from those given

in brackets:
[air, ice, night, snail, coal, rose, ox, lightning, butter, lamb,
mouse, ditch-water, ocean, snow]
a) As white as …………….. .
b) As wide as the ………..
c) As Light as …………..
d) As slow as a …………… .
e) As cold as …………… .
f) As timid as a ……….. .
g) As smooth as …………. .
h) As dark as the ……………. .
i) As black as ………… .
j) As strong as an …………. .
k) As quick as ………….. .
l) As beautiful as a ……………… .
m) As dull as ………………… .
n) As meek as a ………….. .
Answer:
a – snow
b – ocean
c – air
d – snail
e – ice
f – mouse
g – butter
h – night
i – coal
j – ox
k – lightning
l – rose
m – ditch-water
n – lamb.
ii. Complete these lines with similes using your

imagination. One has been done as an example:
Eg: When I am happy, I am as beautiful as a flower.
a) ………………. sad, ………………… .
b) ………………. lonely, …………….. .
c) ……………….. angry, …………….. .
d) ………………… tired, ………………. .
e) ………………..embarassed, …………. .
f) When I am, …………… I am …………….. .
g) When I am, …………… I am …………….. .
Answer:
a) When I am sad, I am as gloomy as the evening.
b) When I am lonely, i am as lonely as a star.
c) When I am angry, I am as angry as a demon.
d) When I am tired, I am as sleepy as a baby.
e) When I am embarassed, I am as cool as a cucumber.
f) When i am attacked, I am as aggressive as a lion.
g) When I am praised, I am as proud as a peacock.
Memorisation:
Lightly, O lightly we bear her along,
She sways like a flower in the wind of our song;
She skims like a bird on the foam of a stream,
Gaily, O gaily we glide and we sing,
Softly, O softly we bear her along
She hangs like a star in the dew of our song;
She springs like a beam on the brow of the tide
She falls like a tear from the eyes of a bride,
Lightly, O lightly we glide and we sing,
Palanquin Bearers Summary In English

Palanquin, a humble means of transportation, was used in
olden days but here the one that is being talked about is
the one carrying a bride. The new bride is transitioning
from one phase of her life to another and umpteen
thoughts cross her mind as she is securely seated inside
the palanquin. She has tears in her eyes for leaving her
loved ones while at the same time she has twinkling stars
in her eyes awaiting beginning of a new life full of hope
and fervour.
The bearers who are carrying the palanquin on their

shoulders are conscientious about their duty. They are
bearing the palanquin gently and carefully, joyfully and
happily, smoothly and lightly while singing songs as they
progress towards their destination.
They sing that they are bearing the bride lightly and softly.
The bride is moving from side to side like a flower in the
wind. She glides like a bird on the froth or bubbles of a
stream. She is floating like a laugh from the lips of a
dream. They carry her like a pearl on a string like she is
precious and delicate. She seems to be like a star
sparkling on the dew drops. She appears to be jumping
like a ray of light seen on the top of a tide. She falls like a
tear from the eye of a bride.
Lightly and gently, they glide and they sing and they bear
the palanquin along like a pearl on a string. moving from
one side to the other glide smoothly over something small
bubbles happily condensed drops of water ray of light
eyebrow, top of the water (here) move.
Glossary:
sway – moving from one side to the other
skim – glide smoothly over something
foam – smaLl bubbles
gaily – happily
dew – condensed drops of water
beam – ray of light
brow – eyebrow, top of the water (here)

Sudhamurthy

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Sudhamurthy

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

1.) What did Sudha Murthy write in letter to JRD Tata?

Sudha Murthys shot to fame accidentally, every time. As a

For the first time, she met JRD when she was transferred to

3.)Describe sudha Murthy encounters with JRD tata

 Sudha Murthy is an efficient writer and the

2. GENDER BIAS - Sudha Murthy

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

3. “But I am surprised how a company such as Telco is

4. “ but you must start somewhere, otherwise no woman will

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS :

1. Sudha Murthy was planning to complete a doctorate abroad but

only girl in her department in the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore. One

2. Sudha Murthy was extremely determined and resolute. Justify

The essay, GENDER BIAS is written by SUDHA MURTHY, a well-known

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

The essay, GENDER BIAS is written by SUDHA MURTHY, a well-known

Sudha Murhy applied for a job in Telco though the advertisement

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

The essay, GENDER BIAS is written by SUDHA MURTHY, a well-known

1.) How do the palanquin bearers carry the bride?

The palanquin bearers are happy to carry the light

2.) What are the feelings of the palanquin bearers as they

The palanquin bearers feel so happy when they carry the

3.) What does the phrase brow of the tide mean?

In the poem "palanquin bearers", the phrase brow of the

4.) How does the poet describe the bride?

Answer: The bride is very delicate, fragile and beautiful like a

6.) What is the refrain in the poem palanquin bearers?

The palanquin bearers in this beautifully woven string by

GOLD FRAME - R.K Laxman

Rasipuram Krishnaswamy Iyer Laxman: (born 23rd October,

Though the work is to be delivered after a fortnight, the customer

Datta decides to begin work at once. But then a terrible thing

The customer arrives and asks if the work has been

3. A SPIDER AND A FLY - Don Marquis

1. i serve a great purpose

Context & Meaning: A spider is about to kill a fly. The fly protests. It

Critical Comment : The poem is a satirical comment on the age-old

3. i am the artist

Critical Comment : The spider admitted, condescendingly, that the

1) The poem ‘A Spider and a Fly’ is a celebration of beauty rather than

1. ON FRIENDSHIP - Kahlil Gibran

Context and Meaning : - When questioned by a student on the subject of

2. For without words, in friendship, all thoughts, all desire, all

Context and Meaning : - When questioned by a student on the subject of

The poem ‘On Friendship’ is written by Lebanese – Arabic poet Kahlil

However, a friend is not merely one to whom we turn in times of sorrow.

Rasipuram Krishnaswamy Iyer Laxman: (born 23rd October,

Though the work is to be delivered after a fortnight, the customer

The customer arrives and asks if the work has been

Saturday, November 27, 2010

in the word

i am a vessel of righteousness

scattering seeds of justice

and serving the noblest causes

Context & Meaning: A spider is about to kill a fly. The fly protests. It

Critical Comment : The poem is a satirical comment on the age-old

3. i am the artist

a creator and a demi-god

look at the gossamer webs

i weave they float in the sum

like filaments of song