Q: What is the significance of the "Third Level" in the story?
Answer:
The "Third Level" symbolizes an escape from reality into a world of peace and nostalgia.
Charley, the protagonist, finds himself in the Grand Central Station’s "Third Level," which
doesn’t exist in real life. It represents his desire to escape the stress of modern life and retreat
into a simpler, more peaceful past (1894). The story highlights themes of escapism, time travel,
and the psychological effects of stress.
Q: How does the story satire the concept of power and destiny?
Answer:
The story is a satire on arrogance and blind faith in fate. The Maharaja of Pratibandapuram tries
to defy a prophecy that he will be killed by the 100th tiger. His obsessive and ruthless hunt for
tigers ironically leads to his death—caused by a wooden toy tiger. This ironic twist emphasizes
the futility of human arrogance against fate. The author ridicules the abuse of power,
superstitions, and human folly.
Q: How does the Antarctic expedition help us understand climate change?
Answer:
The author, Tishani Doshi, describes her journey to Antarctica, a pristine land that holds clues to
Earth's climate history. Since Antarctica has remained largely unchanged for millions of years, it
provides vital data on how human activities impact glaciers, ocean currents, and ecosystems.
The expedition serves as a warning about global warming and environmental degradation.
Q: Why was Dr. Sadao in a dilemma when he found the wounded American soldier?
Answer:
Dr. Sadao, a Japanese surgeon, faced a moral and patriotic dilemma. As a doctor, his duty was
to save lives, but as a loyal Japanese citizen during World War II, he was expected to hand over
the enemy soldier. His eventual decision to save the American reflects the victory of humanity
over nationalism. The story explores morality, compassion, and professional ethics.
Q: How does Mr. Lamb influence Derry’s perception of himself?
Answer:
Derry, a burn victim, isolates himself due to societal rejection. Mr. Lamb, an optimistic old man,
teaches him to embrace life beyond his physical scars. He tells Derry that self-worth comes from
within and that his differences don’t define him. The story conveys a strong message about
self-acceptance, inner beauty, and overcoming fear.
Q: How do Bama’s and Zitkala-Sa’s experiences reflect social discrimination?
Answer:
Both women experience discrimination based on race and caste. Zitkala-Sa, a Native American,
is forced to cut her hair, symbolizing the loss of her identity. Bama, a Dalit girl, realizes caste
discrimination when she sees an elder being treated inferiorly. Both stories highlight the
deep-rooted oppression in society and the struggles of marginalized communities.
Q: Why was Franz reluctant to go to school that day?
Answer:
Franz was reluctant because he had not studied his French lessons and feared his teacher’s
scolding. However, he was shocked to learn that this was his last French lesson, as Alsace and
Lorraine had been taken over by the Prussians. This realization made him regret not learning
his mother tongue, emphasizing the theme of linguistic pride and the loss of cultural identity.
Q: How is the cycle of poverty depicted through Saheb and Mukesh?
Answer:
Saheb, a ragpicker, and Mukesh, a bangle-maker, represent child labor and generational
poverty. Saheb’s family migrates due to poverty, while Mukesh’s family is trapped in traditional
glass-blowing work in Firozabad. The story criticizes societal indifference towards child labor
and the lack of opportunities for the poor.
Q: What message does the story give about overcoming fear?
Answer:
The story teaches that fear is only as strong as we allow it to be. The author’s near-drowning
experience left him traumatized, but he eventually overcame it through persistence and
determination. It conveys the lesson that courage and resilience can help conquer even the
deepest fears.
Q: What does the rattrap symbolize in the story?
Answer:
The rattrap is a metaphor for human greed and materialistic temptations. The peddler initially
believes that the world is a trap, luring people with riches and comforts. However, Edla’s
kindness helps him realize that kindness and trust can transform even the worst individuals.
Q: How does the poet express her fear of losing her mother?
Answer:
The poet, Kamala Das, describes seeing her mother’s pale, aging face and feeling a sudden
fear of losing her. To distract herself, she looks at the young, vibrant outside world but ultimately
accepts the inevitability of death. The poem highlights the transient nature of life and the bond
between a mother and daughter.
Q: How does the poet use contrast to highlight the condition of slum children?
Answer:
The poet, Stephen Spender, contrasts the misery of slum children with the bright world of
opportunity. The children have pale faces and stunted growth, unlike those in privileged schools.
The poet urges society to provide them with quality education and break the cycle of poverty.
Q: What is the poet’s idea of peace and self-reflection?
Answer:
The poet, Pablo Neruda, believes that silence and introspection can lead to peace and unity. He
urges humans to pause their destructive actions, reflect on their lives, and embrace inner
peace. The poem promotes harmony, environmental awareness, and mindfulness.
Q: How does the poem reflect women’s oppression and struggle for freedom?
Answer:
Aunt Jennifer is oppressed by marriage and societal expectations, symbolized by her heavy
wedding ring. However, her embroidered tigers represent fearlessness and independence. The
contrast highlights women’s struggles and their yearning for freedom.
