Lesson Descriptions and Quick Review

Fiction

📖 Three Questions – Leo Tolstoy

This philosophical story explores a king’s search for wisdom on decision-making, relationships, and priorities. Through a life-changing experience with a wounded enemy, he learns that the present moment, the people around us, and acts of kindness are the most important things in life.

📖 Father’s Help – R.K. Narayan

A humorous yet insightful story about Swami, a lazy schoolboy, who falsely accuses his teacher to avoid school. His lies and exaggerations lead to unexpected consequences, teaching an important lesson about honesty and perception.

📖 The Luncheon – W. Somerset Maugham

A witty and ironic story about a young writer struggling with finances, who is tricked into an extravagant lunch by an old acquaintance. Through humor and sarcasm, the story highlights hypocrisy, self-indulgence, and poetic justice.

📖 The Case of the Sharp-Eyed Jeweller – Nicolas Bentley

A thrilling detective story where William Morris, an observant jeweller, prevents a robbery using his keen sense of observation. The story emphasizes the power of logic, attention to detail, and quick thinking in solving crimes.

📖 A Bad Dream – Donn Byrne (Play)

A thought-provoking play about Mr. Hill, a strict bank manager, who realizes the value of kindness and loyalty after experiencing a disturbing dream. The play teaches that power is temporary, and empathy is essential in leadership.

Poetry

📜 Granny’s Tree Climbing – Ruskin Bond

A heartwarming poem celebrating the adventurous spirit of a grandmother who refuses to let old age define her. With humor and warmth, the poem highlights freedom, joy, and living life to the fullest.

📜 My Mother – A.P.J. Abdul Kalam

A touching tribute to maternal love, sacrifice, and faith, this poem by India’s former President reflects on his childhood struggles and how his mother’s guidance and spirituality shaped his success.

📜 The Children’s Song – Rudyard Kipling

A patriotic and moralistic poem encouraging young minds to develop strength, wisdom, honesty, and self-discipline. Kipling’s verses inspire children to serve their country and uphold values of integrity and kindness.

📜 Bangle Sellers – Sarojini Naidu

A beautifully descriptive poem that symbolizes different stages of a woman’s life through the colors of bangles. It celebrates Indian culture, traditions, and the beauty of womanhood.

📜 Couplets – Alexander Pope

A collection of witty and insightful two-line verses that provide timeless wisdom on judgment, faith, moderation, and governance. Pope’s couplets encourage readers to think critically and live with balance and compassion.

Conclusion

Each of these literary masterpieces offers valuable lessons, whether through fascinating narratives, profound philosophies, or lyrical beauty. By studying these works, students can develop critical thinking skills, moral values, and a deeper appreciation for literature.

👉 Explore, analyze, and enjoy learning with these stories and poems! Let literature inspire and guide you in your academic and personal journey.

Here is the full-length answer key for English Literature Assessment Paper for DAV Public School, Haldia.

Answer Key: English Literature Assessment Paper

Class: ____ Maximum Marks: ____ Time: ____

Section A: Fiction (Prose and Play)

Three Questions (Leo Tolstoy)

a) What were the three questions that the king wanted to be answered? (3 marks, 60 words)

The king wanted answers to three fundamental questions that he believed would help him rule wisely. His questions were:

(1) What is the right time to do something?

(2) Who are the most important people to work with?

(3) What is the most important thing to do? 

He believed that knowing these answers would ensure his success and prevent failure in all his decisions.

b) Why did the king approach the hermit? How did the hermit respond to him initially? (3 marks, 60 words)

The king approached the hermit because he was known for his wisdom and lived a simple life in the forest. The hermit, however, did not answer the king’s questions directly. Instead, he continued digging the ground and ignored the king’s inquiries. This frustrated the king, but he remained patient and helped the hermit with his work, unknowingly setting himself up to learn the answers through experience.

c) How did the wounded man influence the king’s understanding of the three questions? (4 marks, 80 words)

The wounded man was actually an enemy of the king who had planned to kill him. However, when the king helped him recover from his injuries, he was deeply moved and became his loyal follower. This incident taught the king that the most important time is "now," the most important person is the one you are with at that moment, and the most important action is to do good. Through his kindness, the king unknowingly saved himself from harm and gained an ally, reinforcing the importance of compassion and living in the present.

Father’s Help (R.K. Narayan)

a) Why did Swami not want to go to school on Monday morning? (2 marks, 40 words)

Swami did not want to go to school on Monday morning because he felt lazy and dreaded facing his teacher, Samuel, whom he considered strict and harsh. He even wished that an earthquake would destroy the school so that he could avoid attending classes.

b) How did Swami describe his teacher Samuel to his father? What impact did this description have on his father? (4 marks, 80 words)

Swami falsely described his teacher Samuel as a cruel and violent man who frequently punished students severely. He exaggerated stories, saying that Samuel caned students until their hands bled. Swami hoped that his father would allow him to stay home, but instead, his father became furious. He decided to write a complaint letter to the headmaster, instructing Swami to deliver it personally. This reaction made Swami feel guilty, as he had lied about Samuel’s character just to escape school.

c) How did Swami's opinion about Samuel change by the time he reached school? (4 marks, 80 words)

As Swami entered the school, he was surprised to see that Samuel was actually a kind and humorous teacher. Unlike the terrifying image Swami had described to his father, Samuel did not punish him for being late and treated him kindly. Swami started feeling guilty for lying, realizing that he had unfairly accused his teacher. By the end of the school day, he hesitated to hand over the complaint letter to the headmaster, fearing that it might unjustly cause trouble for Samuel.

The Luncheon (W. Somerset Maugham)

a) Why did the narrator agree to have lunch with the woman despite his financial limitations? (2 marks, 40 words)

The narrator agreed to have lunch with the woman because he was flattered by her invitation and did not want to refuse. He had only eighty francs to live on for the month but assumed that a simple lunch would not exceed his budget.

b) How did the woman contradict herself during the lunch? Give examples. (4 marks, 80 words)

The woman repeatedly claimed that she never ate much for lunch, yet she ordered caviar, salmon, asparagus, ice cream, and a peach, all expensive items. She also insisted that she never drank anything at lunch, but then ordered champagne, claiming it was for digestion. The narrator, who was on a strict budget, was forced to watch as she consumed costly dishes, contradicting her claim that she ate lightly. This irony highlights her hypocrisy and insensitivity to the narrator's financial struggles.

c) How did the narrator get his revenge in the end? (4 marks, 80 words)

Many years later, the narrator saw the woman again and noted that she had gained a lot of weight—she now weighed twenty-one stone (294 pounds). This irony amused him because, despite his earlier financial suffering due to her extravagant lunch, he had managed to remain fit, while she had become excessively overweight. This unintentional consequence served as his "revenge", as she had to live with the consequences of her overindulgence.

The Case of the Sharp-Eyed Jeweller (Nicolas Bentley)

a) What was William Morris’s hobby, and how did it help him in solving the case? (3 marks, 60 words)

William Morris’s hobby was studying crime and criminals. He observed people carefully, noticing small details that others ignored. His sharp observation skills helped him identify the suspicious behavior of the American man in the jewelry store, ultimately leading to the prevention of a robbery.

b) How did William Morris become suspicious of the American customer? (3 marks, 60 words)

Morris noticed that the American customer knew nothing about jewelry and was only concerned with the price. He was also left-handed, which made Morris suspect that he might try to steal something. His suspicions were confirmed when the customer attempted to switch rings.

c) Describe how the young woman’s presence outside the shop contributed to the resolution of the case. (4 marks, 80 words)

The young woman stood outside an undertaker’s shop for a long time, which seemed unusual. Morris realized that she was watching for police or potential witnesses while the American man attempted to steal a valuable ring inside the store. Her presence made Morris even more suspicious, and when he noticed the man trying to distract him, he took precautions. Eventually, Morris’s vigilance helped catch the thieves, preventing the robbery from succeeding.

A Bad Dream (Donn Byrne) (Play)

a) What was Mr. Hill’s opinion about his cook, Annie? How did it change? (3 marks, 60 words)

Mr. Hill initially saw Annie as a poor cook and not very intelligent. However, after having a dream in which he lost his own job, he realized that just as he depended on the bank, Annie depended on them for her livelihood. His attitude softened, and he became more considerate.

b) Describe the dream that Mr. Hill had and how it affected his thoughts. (3 marks, 60 words)

In his dream, Mr. Hill was dismissed from his position as a bank manager, just as he had planned to dismiss Annie. This experience made him realize how easily positions of power can change. He woke up deeply disturbed and reconsidered his decision to fire Annie.

c) What lesson did Mr. Hill learn from his bad dream? (4 marks, 80 words)

Mr. Hill learned that people should be treated with kindness and respect, regardless of their social status. His dream made him realize that he had been too harsh and judgmental toward Annie. Just as he feared losing his job, Annie also feared unemployment. The experience changed his perspective, making him a more empathetic person.

 Section B: Poetry – Answer Key

6. Granny’s Tree Climbing (Ruskin Bond)

a) What made Granny different from other elderly people? (2 marks, 40 words)

Granny was different from other elderly people because, unlike most who preferred a quiet life, she had a youthful and adventurous spirit. She loved climbing trees, an activity usually associated with children, and continued doing so even at the age of sixty-two.

b) How did Granny’s love for trees impact her life in her old age? (4 marks, 80 words)

Granny’s love for trees remained unchanged even in her old age, bringing her immense joy and a sense of freedom. She climbed trees despite warnings from others, refusing to accept the limitations of age. However, one day, she got stuck in a tree and had to be rescued. Instead of feeling discouraged, she asked for a tree-top house so she could live among the trees. Her love for trees shaped her unique personality, making her an inspiring figure full of energy and enthusiasm.

c) What role did the narrator and his father play in fulfilling Granny’s wish? (4 marks, 80 words)

When Granny expressed her wish to live in a tree-top house, the narrator’s father immediately agreed and took up the responsibility of building one for her. The narrator helped him, and together they quickly built a house in the branches of a sturdy tree. This thoughtful act ensured Granny could continue enjoying her love for climbing trees. Their efforts showed respect and affection for Granny’s adventurous nature, allowing her to live happily in the tree-top home she had always dreamed of.

7. My Mother (A.P.J. Abdul Kalam)

a) What hardships did the poet face during his childhood? (3 marks, 60 words)

During his childhood, A.P.J. Abdul Kalam faced many hardships, including poverty and hard work. He had to walk long distances for education, wake up early to attend Arabic school, and deliver newspapers to support his family. Despite these struggles, his mother’s love, faith, and spiritual strength helped him endure these difficulties and shaped his future success.

b) How does the poet describe his mother’s role in his life? (3 marks, 60 words)

The poet describes his mother as a source of unconditional love, strength, and sacrifice. She provided him with guidance, faith, and warmth, ensuring he never felt alone in his struggles. Her prayers and devotion gave him inner strength, and he always remembered her as a symbol of selfless love and protection.

c) How does the poem reflect the theme of love and sacrifice? (4 marks, 80 words)

The poem beautifully captures a mother’s selfless love and sacrifices for her child. Despite hardships, she always ensured that her children never suffered. She shared whatever little she had and constantly prayed for their well-being. The poet recalls moments when she stayed up at night to care for him and how her presence gave him strength. Her unwavering support and sacrifices shaped his character, making her an eternal source of love and inspiration in his life.

8. The Children’s Song (Rudyard Kipling)

a) What does the poet mean by "An undefiled heritage"? (2 marks, 40 words)

The phrase "An undefiled heritage" refers to the pure and untainted legacy passed down by ancestors. The poet wishes that future generations preserve their nation’s values, traditions, and culture, remaining honest, disciplined, and loyal to their country without corruption or selfishness.

b) What are the values that the poet wants children to learn? (4 marks, 80 words)

The poet encourages children to learn discipline, self-control, honesty, and a strong work ethic. He urges them to bear responsibilities from a young age, always act truthfully, and make decisions based on justice rather than personal gain. He emphasizes the importance of helping the weak, showing kindness, and seeking joy in simple things. By following these values, the poet believes children will grow into strong, righteous, and compassionate citizens who can contribute positively to society.

c) How does the poem highlight patriotism and moral values? (4 marks, 80 words)

The poem emphasizes loyalty, love for one’s country, and moral responsibility. The poet encourages children to dedicate themselves to their nation’s progress, just as their ancestors did. He also stresses the importance of honesty, humility, and self-control, ensuring they remain morally upright and responsible citizens. The poet believes that a country’s strength lies not just in its wealth or power, but in the character and values of its people who uphold righteousness and integrity.

9. Bangle Sellers (Sarojini Naidu)

a) What do the different colours of bangles symbolize? (3 marks, 60 words)

The different colours of bangles symbolize the various stages of a woman’s life. Silver and blue represent maidenhood, golden and red signify marriage and love, while purple and grey with gold flecks symbolize maturity and motherhood. The poet uses bangles as a metaphor for a woman’s journey from youth to adulthood.

b) How does the poet associate the bangles with different stages of a woman’s life? (3 marks, 60 words)

The poet links silver and blue bangles to young maidens, golden and red bangles to brides, and purple and grey bangles to older women who have dedicated their lives to family and prayer. Each colour represents emotions and responsibilities at different stages, celebrating womanhood in its entirety.

c) How does the poem reflect Indian culture and traditions? (4 marks, 80 words)

The poem beautifully reflects Indian customs, traditions, and societal values. It highlights the significance of bangles in a woman’s life, from childhood to marriage and motherhood. The setting of the bangle sellers at a temple fair showcases traditional Indian markets, while the poet’s celebration of women’s roles emphasizes respect for Indian culture. Through her imagery and descriptions, Sarojini Naidu presents India’s deep-rooted traditions and the connection between adornment and womanhood.

10. Couplets by Alexander Pope

a) What does Pope say about personal judgment in the couplet, “’Tis with our judgments as our watches, none / Go just alike, yet each believes his own.”? (3 marks, 60 words)

Pope compares human judgment to watches, saying that just as watches show different times but each owner believes theirs is correct, people’s opinions and perspectives vary, yet everyone thinks their judgment is right. He warns against blindly trusting personal opinions and encourages open-mindedness.

b) How does the couplet “For modes of faith let graceless zealots fight; / His can't be wrong whose life is in the right” promote religious tolerance? (3 marks, 60 words)

Pope suggests that people should not fight over different religious beliefs, as actions define a person’s righteousness, not religious affiliations. He promotes tolerance, stating that someone who lives morally and righteously is always in the right, regardless of their religious beliefs.

c) Discuss how Pope’s couplets reflect wisdom about human nature and morality. (4 marks, 80 words)

Pope’s couplets provide timeless lessons on judgment, moderation, and morality. He emphasizes that people often overestimate their own opinions, blindly follow traditions, or engage in meaningless disputes over faith. Through wit and brevity, Pope highlights the importance of balance, critical thinking, and ethical behavior. His words encourage readers to stay humble, avoid extremes, and focus on righteous actions rather than rigid beliefs, making his wisdom relevant even today.

Section C: Value-Based and Long Answer Questions – Answer Key

(i) “The Three Questions” teaches us the importance of living in the present and doing good for others. Discuss how this lesson is applicable in our daily lives.

Leo Tolstoy’s The Three Questions conveys a profound lesson about living in the present, valuing the people around us, and doing good. In the story, a king seeks wisdom on when to act, whom to prioritize, and what is most important in life. Through his experiences with the wounded man and the hermit, he realizes that the most crucial time is the present moment, the most important people are those around us, and the most essential act is helping others.

This lesson is highly applicable in our daily lives. Many people spend too much time worrying about the future or dwelling on the past, often missing opportunities to make a difference in the present. Instead of postponing important actions or waiting for the "perfect moment," it is essential to focus on what we can do right now. Whether it is pursuing goals, helping someone in need, or simply showing kindness, the present moment is all we truly have.

Furthermore, the story teaches that the most important people are those we interact with at any given time. In today’s fast-paced world, individuals often get distracted by social media, work, or personal ambitions, failing to give full attention to their loved ones. By being present and mindful, we can nurture meaningful relationships and ensure that we truly connect with the people who matter.

Lastly, the story emphasizes selfless service and kindness. Helping others not only benefits them but also brings fulfillment and meaning to our own lives. Simple acts of kindness, generosity, and understanding can create a positive impact. For example, volunteering, assisting a struggling friend, or even showing patience towards others in difficult situations reflect the values presented in The Three Questions.

In conclusion, Tolstoy’s story reminds us that time is fleeting, and we should live in the moment, appreciate those around us, and do good whenever possible. Applying this lesson in our daily lives leads to a more fulfilling and compassionate existence, strengthening our bonds with others and bringing inner peace.

(ii) The narrator in The Luncheon experiences irony throughout the story. Explain the use of irony in the story and how it contributes to its humour.

W. Somerset Maugham’s The Luncheon is a brilliant example of situational irony, where events unfold in a way that is completely different from what is expected. The story revolves around a young, financially struggling writer who accepts an invitation to lunch from a woman who claims to eat very little. However, throughout the meal, she orders the most expensive dishes on the menu, while the narrator watches helplessly, knowing that he can barely afford the bill.

One of the key forms of irony in the story is verbal irony, where the woman continuously contradicts herself. She repeatedly insists that she "never eats more than one thing for lunch," yet proceeds to order caviar, salmon, asparagus, ice cream, and a peach, each more expensive than the last. Her claim that she avoids heavy meals also proves ironic when she drinks champagne, which the narrator cannot afford.

Another instance of irony is the narrator’s polite helplessness. He initially assumes that the meal will be modest, but as the woman keeps ordering expensive food, he becomes trapped in an embarrassing situation. The contrast between his internal panic and his outward politeness adds to the humor of the situation. He cannot express his distress, nor can he stop her from ordering, making his suffering even more exaggerated.

The ultimate irony comes at the end of the story when the narrator realizes that he will have to starve for the rest of the month due to this extravagant lunch. However, years later, he sees the woman again and notes that she has gained excessive weight, which he takes as his poetic revenge. This unexpected turn of events adds humor and a sense of justice to the narrative.

The irony in The Luncheon makes the story highly entertaining, while also conveying a subtle message about hypocrisy and human nature. The woman’s lack of self-awareness, the narrator’s trapped politeness, and the unexpected ending make the story both humorous and thought-provoking. Through clever use of irony, Maugham successfully creates a story that remains relatable and amusing even today.

(iii) My Mother by A.P.J. Abdul Kalam expresses deep emotions and gratitude towards his mother. Write a personal reflection on the role of mothers in shaping a child’s future.

A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s poem My Mother is a heartfelt tribute to a mother’s love, sacrifice, and guidance. Throughout the poem, Kalam reflects on the hardships of his childhood and acknowledges how his mother’s strength and faith shaped his character. This theme is universal, as a mother plays an irreplaceable role in shaping a child’s future, values, and aspirations.

Mothers are often the first teachers in a child’s life. From an early age, they instill important values such as honesty, kindness, and perseverance. Like Kalam’s mother, who prayed for him and supported him through tough times, many mothers act as pillars of strength, ensuring their children grow up with confidence and resilience.

Beyond emotional support, a mother’s selfless sacrifices allow her children to pursue their dreams. Many mothers put their own needs aside, working tirelessly to provide the best for their families. Whether it is waking up early to prepare meals, helping with studies, or simply offering a comforting presence, their contributions often go unnoticed but have a lasting impact.

A mother’s influence is also seen in the way she guides a child through life’s challenges. When children face failures or disappointments, mothers encourage them to rise again, reminding them that hard work and faith can overcome any obstacle. For instance, in Kalam’s poem, his mother’s prayers and wisdom helped him develop spiritual strength and discipline, which later played a key role in his success.

Personally, I believe that a mother’s love is one of the most powerful forces in shaping an individual. She is the first person who believes in us, even when we doubt ourselves. Her unconditional love provides the foundation for confidence and moral integrity, influencing the choices we make throughout life.

In conclusion, My Mother by A.P.J. Abdul Kalam beautifully captures the deep connection between a mother and child. A mother’s love is unparalleled, selfless, and enduring, guiding her children through life’s struggles and triumphs. Her role in shaping a child’s future, character, and success is invaluable, making motherhood one of the most profound influences in a person’s life.