PAUL MASIH
1 Jan 2025
Short Stories That Challenge Perceptions of Society and Self
Reference to the Context Questions CLASS X ICSE 224-25 [Marks 3 Each]
1. With the Photographer – Stephen Leacock
“The face is quite wrong,” he said.
What does the photographer mean by this statement, and how does the narrator react to it?
“Stop,” I said with emotion but, I think, with dignity.
Why does the narrator interrupt the photographer, and what does this reveal about his feelings?
“Is it me?” I asked.
How does the narrator react to the retouched photograph, and what does this suggest about the theme of authenticity in the story?
2. The Elevator – William Sleator
“The elevator was old and small and slow.”
How does this description of the elevator contribute to the atmosphere of the story?
“The fat lady stepped in after him, and the door closed.”
What role does the fat lady play in Martin’s growing sense of fear and claustrophobia?
“Martin tried to press the button, but his fingers were trembling too much.”
How does this moment of vulnerability reflect Martin's psychological state?
3. The Girl Who Can – Ama Ata Aidoo
“You are too young to understand.”
What does this statement reveal about the relationship between Adjoa and her grandmother?
“The legs were too thin to carry anything.”
How does Adjoa’s perception of her legs reflect the societal pressures and expectations placed upon her?
“You see, my legs can do something after all.”
How does this statement signify Adjoa’s sense of triumph and personal growth?
4. The Pedestrian – Ray Bradbury
“He was alone in this world of A.D. 2053.”
What does this statement tell us about the society depicted in the story?
“The car hesitated, or rather gave a faint whirring click, as if information somewhere was dropping card by punch-slotted card under electric eyes.”
How does the description of the police car reflect the theme of technology’s dominance over humanity?
“Your name?” asked the police car in a metallic voice.
How does this interaction between Leonard and the police car emphasize the loss of human connection in the story?
5. The Last Lesson – Alphonse Daudet
“This is your last lesson in French, my children.”
What emotions does M. Hamel convey in this statement, and why is it significant?
“Ah, how well I remember it, that last lesson!”
How does the narrator’s tone reflect the importance of the moment?
“Will they make them sing in German, even the pigeons?”
How does this rhetorical question highlight the impact of colonization on the cultural identity of the people?
Answers to the Reference to the Context Questions
1. With the Photographer – Stephen Leacock
“The face is quite wrong,” he said.
What does the photographer mean by this statement, and how does the narrator react to it?
The photographer means that the narrator's face is not ideal for photography and requires adjustments. The narrator reacts with quiet resignation, acknowledging his face’s imperfections but also feeling amused and self-aware about the photographer's bluntness.
“Stop,” I said with emotion but, I think, with dignity.
Why does the narrator interrupt the photographer, and what does this reveal about his feelings?
The narrator interrupts the photographer because he feels the continuous criticisms and attempts to manipulate his appearance are disrespectful. This reveals his frustration and his need to assert ownership of his identity and face, despite its flaws.
“Is it me?” I asked.
How does the narrator react to the retouched photograph, and what does this suggest about the theme of authenticity in the story?
The narrator reacts with disbelief and sarcasm to the heavily retouched photograph. This highlights the theme of authenticity, as he feels the photograph no longer represents his true self but instead an artificial construct.
2. The Elevator – William Sleator
“The elevator was old and small and slow.”
How does this description of the elevator contribute to the atmosphere of the story?
The description sets a claustrophobic and ominous atmosphere, foreshadowing the tension and fear Martin experiences throughout the story.
“The fat lady stepped in after him, and the door closed.”
What role does the fat lady play in Martin’s growing sense of fear and claustrophobia?
The fat lady becomes a symbol of Martin's growing anxiety. Her presence in the confined space amplifies his discomfort and fear, making the elevator a more threatening and inescapable environment.
“Martin tried to press the button, but his fingers were trembling too much.”
How does this moment of vulnerability reflect Martin's psychological state?
This moment reveals Martin's deep sense of helplessness and fear. His trembling fingers symbolize his inability to confront his escalating anxiety and his loss of control over the situation.
3. The Girl Who Can – Ama Ata Aidoo
“You are too young to understand.”
What does this statement reveal about the relationship between Adjoa and her grandmother?
This statement reflects the generational gap between Adjoa and her grandmother. It shows the grandmother's dismissive attitude, stemming from traditional beliefs, and her assumption that Adjoa cannot comprehend societal expectations yet.
“The legs were too thin to carry anything.”
How does Adjoa’s perception of her legs reflect the societal pressures and expectations placed upon her?
Adjoa’s self-consciousness about her thin legs reveals the societal pressure for women to have strong, well-formed bodies capable of bearing children, highlighting the cultural focus on physical attributes over individuality.
“You see, my legs can do something after all.”
How does this statement signify Adjoa’s sense of triumph and personal growth?
This statement signifies Adjoa’s realization that her worth is not limited to societal expectations. Her success at school and her ability to walk long distances demonstrate her abilities, leading to her empowerment and self-acceptance.
4. The Pedestrian – Ray Bradbury
“He was alone in this world of A.D. 2053.”
What does this statement tell us about the society depicted in the story?
This statement reflects the isolation and dehumanization in a technologically dominated society. It underscores the lack of personal connection and the societal shift away from human interaction.
“The car hesitated, or rather gave a faint whirring click, as if information somewhere was dropping card by punch-slotted card under electric eyes.”
How does the description of the police car reflect the theme of technology’s dominance over humanity?
The police car’s mechanical, impersonal actions illustrate how technology has replaced human judgment and presence, emphasizing the loss of human values and the subjugation of humanity to machines.
“Your name?” asked the police car in a metallic voice.
How does this interaction between Leonard and the police car emphasize the loss of human connection in the story?
The impersonal, automated interaction highlights the absence of human warmth and empathy in this dystopian world, where even law enforcement is devoid of humanity.
5. The Last Lesson – Alphonse Daudet
“This is your last lesson in French, my children.”
What emotions does M. Hamel convey in this statement, and why is it significant?
M. Hamel conveys sorrow, regret, and patriotism. The statement is significant as it marks the end of an era, symbolizing the loss of cultural identity under the Prussian rule.
“Ah, how well I remember it, that last lesson!”
How does the narrator’s tone reflect the importance of the moment?
The nostalgic and poignant tone reflects the deep impact of the moment on the narrator. It highlights his newfound appreciation for the language and the teacher’s dedication.
“Will they make them sing in German, even the pigeons?”
How does this rhetorical question highlight the impact of colonization on the cultural identity of the people?
This question sarcastically critiques the oppressive nature of colonization. It underscores the extent to which cultural erasure is imposed, affecting even the smallest elements of identity.
Here are the answers to all the reference-to-context questions you provided:
1. With the Photographer – Stephen Leacock
Extract: “Stop,” I said with emotion but, I think, with dignity. “This face is my face. It is not yours, it is mine. I've lived with it for forty years and I know its faults. I know it's out of drawing. I know it wasn't made for me, but it's my face, the only one I have. Such as it is, I've learned to love it.”
Questions and Answers:
(i) Who is speaking these lines, and to whom is he speaking? What emotions are conveyed in the statement?
The narrator is speaking to the photographer. The narrator is feeling a mixture of frustration and defensiveness. He is asserting his ownership of his face despite its flaws and wants to protect his personal identity from being altered by the photographer’s machine. The emotions conveyed are frustration, dignity, and a sense of self-acceptance.
(ii) Why is the narrator angry? What do you think caused his outburst? Was his anger justified?
The narrator is angry because the photographer is attempting to criticize or alter his face, which he feels has been a part of him for forty years. His anger is justified, as he feels that his physical appearance, despite its imperfections, is an integral part of who he is, and he wants to preserve his authenticity.
(iii) How does the photographer react to the narrator’s statement about his face? What does this reveal about their relationship?
The photographer responds with a dismissive attitude, continuing with his work without fully acknowledging the narrator’s concerns. This reveals a professional but somewhat detached relationship, with the photographer more focused on his craft than on understanding the narrator's feelings.
(iv) What does the narrator mean by “this face is my face”? What is he trying to assert?
The narrator is asserting ownership of his appearance and emphasizing that, despite its flaws, it is a part of his identity. He is trying to make a point that no one has the right to alter or judge his face, as it is a reflection of his personal history and character.
(v) Do you think the narrator was seeking the photographer's approval throughout the session? Why or why not?
No, the narrator was not seeking the photographer’s approval. His outburst suggests that he was more concerned with maintaining his sense of self and rejecting the photographer's attempt to change his image. He values authenticity over the photographer’s professional standards.
2. The Elevator – William Sleator
Extract: “The elevator was old and small and slow. The thin walls seemed to shrink around him as the elevator made its slow ascent. Martin’s fingers trembled as he pressed the button to stop the elevator, but he couldn’t make his hand steady.”
Questions and Answers:
(i) How does the description of the elevator set the tone for the story? What emotions are conveyed by the narrator in this part?
The description of the elevator as “old, small, and slow” sets a tense and claustrophobic tone for the story. The small, slow movement of the elevator adds to the growing sense of anxiety and fear that Martin is experiencing, and the narrator conveys a sense of discomfort and unease.
(ii) Why is Martin feeling uneasy in the elevator? What do you think is contributing to his fear?
Martin feels uneasy because the confined space of the elevator triggers his claustrophobia. His inability to control the elevator’s movement and his trembling hands suggest that his fear is heightened by the small, isolated space and perhaps his growing sense of vulnerability.
(iii) What role does the setting play in building the atmosphere of the story? How does the description of the elevator contribute to this?
The setting of the elevator contributes to the suffocating atmosphere of the story. The cramped, slow-moving elevator mirrors Martin’s growing sense of entrapment and helplessness. The slow ascent of the elevator amplifies the tension, making the reader feel as though something ominous is about to happen.
(iv) What does the trembling of Martin’s hand symbolize in the context of the story?
The trembling of Martin’s hand symbolizes his fear and lack of control in the situation. It reflects his vulnerability and the psychological impact of his environment, signalling that he is experiencing more than just physical discomfort but also a deep mental unease.
(v) Do you think Martin's fear is justified? Why do you think the author portrays his vulnerability in this way?
Martin’s fear is justified, as the author builds tension by describing the claustrophobic atmosphere of the elevator. The portrayal of Martin’s vulnerability adds to the sense of suspense in the story, making his fear more relatable and emphasizing how small, controlled spaces can cause intense psychological distress.
3. The Girl Who Can – Ama Ata Aidoo
Extract: “Adjoa was told by her grandmother that her legs were too thin to carry anything, but she was determined to prove everyone wrong. One day, as she walked across the fields, she felt a sense of strength in her legs. She realized her legs could carry not only herself but her dreams too.”
Questions and Answers:
(i) Who is the narrator referring to, and what did her grandmother tell her about her legs? What does this statement reveal about the grandmother’s views?
The narrator is referring to Adjoa, the main character, who is told by her grandmother that her legs are “too thin to carry anything.” This statement reflects the grandmother’s concern for Adjoa’s physical strength, but it also reveals a traditional belief in physical appearance and capabilities, which Adjoa later challenges.
(ii) How does Adjoa feel about her legs, and why does she feel the need to prove her grandmother wrong?
Adjoa feels insecure about her legs because of her grandmother’s criticism, but she is determined to prove her wrong. Her desire to show that her legs can carry more than just her body reflects her inner strength and defiance against societal expectations of beauty and capability.
(iii) What is the significance of Adjoa’s realization about her legs? How does this moment contribute to her character development?
Adjoa’s realization is significant because it marks her personal growth and empowerment. She recognizes that her legs, though physically small and weak, symbolize her inner strength and potential. This moment shows that she is beginning to see herself as capable and worthy, not defined by external judgments.
(iv) What do you think Adjoa’s legs symbolize in the story? How does the symbolism evolve throughout the narrative?
Adjoa’s legs symbolize her potential and determination. Initially, they represent weakness and inadequacy as seen through her grandmother’s eyes. As the story progresses, they evolve into a symbol of her strength and resilience, reflecting her personal growth and refusal to be defined by societal standards.
(v) Do you think Adjoa’s determination was inspired by societal pressure or by personal ambition? Explain your answer with examples from the extract.
Adjoa’s determination is driven by a mix of personal ambition and a desire to prove herself against societal standards. She is motivated by her grandmother’s criticism, but her eventual realization that her legs can carry her dreams indicates a deep personal desire to achieve more and defy limitations imposed by others.
4. The Pedestrian – Ray Bradbury
Extract: “Leonard Mead was walking alone, as he did every evening. In the society of 2053, people no longer walked; they stayed indoors and watched their ‘television screens.’ Leonard felt the streets were empty, except for the silent, still houses.”
Questions and Answers:
(i) Who is Leonard Mead, and how does he contrast with the rest of society in the story?Leonard Mead is an individual who enjoys walking alone in the evenings, which contrasts sharply with the rest of society in the year 2053, where people are confined indoors, glued to their television screens. Leonard is depicted as a non-conformist, valuing human connection and nature over technological entertainment.
(ii) What does Leonard’s habit of walking symbolize in the context of the story? How does it reflect the state of the society around him?
Leonard’s habit of walking symbolizes freedom, individuality, and a connection to the world outside. In contrast, the society around him reflects isolation, passivity, and a dependence on technology. Leonard’s walks highlight the societal shift away from real-world engagement toward artificial, screen-based experiences.
(iii) How does the description of the society in 2053 contribute to the theme of isolation?The description of society in 2053, where people no longer walk and are instead consumed by their television screens, contributes to the theme of isolation by illustrating how technology has alienated individuals from one another. The emptiness of the streets emphasizes the loneliness of the people, who are disconnected from the real world.
(iv) What is Leonard’s attitude towards the empty streets and the still houses? How does this reflect his sense of alienation?
Leonard’s attitude towards the empty streets and still houses is one of quiet reflection. He perceives the world around him as lifeless, and this reflects his alienation from a society that has abandoned human interaction and connection. His walks symbolize a desire for something more meaningful in a world that has become stagnant.
(v) What do you think the author is trying to convey about the dangers of overreliance on technology? How is this warning relevant in today’s world?
The author is warning against the dangers of overreliance on technology, which can lead to isolation, loss of individuality, and a detachment from reality. This warning is highly relevant in today’s world, where many people are increasingly absorbed in digital experiences at the cost of personal relationships and authentic engagement with the world around them.
5. The Last Lesson – Alphonse Daudet
Extract: “It was the last lesson of French, and M. Hamel spoke with deep emotion. He told the students that they should always value their language, as it was the key to their identity. 'But, children,' he said, 'it is the last lesson I will give in French.' The classroom fell silent, and the teacher's words seemed to echo in the hearts of the students.”
Questions and Answers:
(i) What is M. Hamel’s emotional state during the last lesson, and how is this conveyed to the students?
M. Hamel is deeply emotional during the last lesson, as he knows that it is the final time he will teach French. His emotion is conveyed through his speech and the somber tone of his words, which cause the students to feel the weight of the moment. His sadness is palpable as he speaks about the loss of the language.
(ii) Why does M. Hamel emphasize the importance of the French language? How does this relate to the theme of cultural identity?
M. Hamel emphasizes the importance of the French language because it represents the cultural identity of the people. The language is not just a tool for communication but a part of their heritage and history. The theme of cultural identity is reflected in the loss of language due to foreign control, highlighting how language shapes and preserves a community’s values and traditions.
(iii) How do the students react to M. Hamel’s final lesson? What does this reveal about their feelings towards their language and teacher?
The students react with a mix of sadness, regret, and reflection. They realize too late how valuable their language and education were. This shows that they had not fully appreciated their culture and teacher until it was almost taken away from them, revealing their deep emotional connection to both.
(iv) What role does M. Hamel’s announcement of “the last lesson” play in the emotional atmosphere of the story?
M. Hamel’s announcement of the “last lesson” heightens the emotional atmosphere by introducing a sense of finality and loss. The realization that this is their last opportunity to learn French makes the students and teacher reflect on the value of their language and culture, deepening the emotional impact of the story.
(v) Do you think the students fully understood the significance of the last lesson at that moment? How do you think they would feel about it in hindsight?
At the moment, the students may not fully understand the significance of the last lesson, as they are filled with regret and sorrow. However, in hindsight, they would likely feel a deeper sense of loss and appreciation for their language and education, recognizing that they had taken it for granted until it was too late.
