HEAVEN LAKE

RTC 1
Extract:
"The public bus from Urumqi to Heaven Lake rolls out of the drab grid of the city, and we are soon
in open countryside, with fields of sunflowers as far as the eye can see, their heads all facing us.
Where there is no water, the land reverts to desert."

Questions:

What contrast does the author highlight between Urumqi and the countryside? (2 marks)

Why do the sunflowers seem to be facing the travelers? (2 marks)

What does the phrase "land reverts to desert" imply about the geographical conditions of the area?
(3 marks)

How does the description of the landscape contribute to the reader’s understanding of the journey?
(3 marks)

Answers:
The author contrasts the "drab grid" of Urumqi with the open countryside, emphasizing the
dullness of the city against the natural beauty of the sunflower fields.

Sunflowers naturally turn towards the sun, and since the travelers are moving in the same direction
as the sunlight, it appears as if the flowers are facing them.

The phrase "land reverts to desert" implies that without sufficient water, the fertile land cannot
sustain vegetation and returns to its natural arid state.

The description highlights the transition from an urban setting to a more picturesque and isolated
environment, setting the tone for the journey's adventure and discoveries.

RTC 2
Extract:
"Mr Cao, with great offhandedness, addresses the air. 'People have often drowned here,' he says.
After a pause, he continues. 'When was the last one?'"

Questions:
Who is Mr. Cao, and what is his role in the story? (2 marks)

What does Mr. Cao’s "offhandedness" suggest about his attitude? (2 marks)

What is the significance of his mention of drowning incidents? (3 marks)

Answers:
Mr. Cao is a relaxed and somewhat nonchalant man who runs the mess near Heaven Lake and helps
the travelers during their stay.

His "offhandedness" suggests that he speaks casually, without much concern, even about serious
matters like drowning.

By mentioning past drowning incidents, he indirectly warns the narrator about the lake’s dangers,
discouraging him from swimming.

The extract creates a sense of foreboding and suspense, making the reader question whether the
protagonist will take the risk of swimming in the lake.

RTC 3
Extract:
"‘Ah, Hindustan! Hindustan!’ This is followed by a smiling salvo of Uighur. He hands me three yuan
in change."

Questions:
Who is the speaker of these lines, and to whom is he speaking? (2 marks)

Why does the old man react so strongly to the word "Hindustan"? (2 marks)

What does this exchange reveal about cultural and linguistic connections? (3 marks)

How does this moment affect the narrator emotionally? (3 marks)

Answers:

The old Uighur shopkeeper exclaims these words upon realizing the narrator is from India. He is
speaking to the narrator.

The old man likely feels a deep connection to Hindustan due to historical or cultural reasons, and
the mention of it evokes a strong emotional response.

The exchange highlights how Urdu and Uighur share the Arabic script, emphasizing a linguistic and
cultural bond between people of different regions.

The narrator feels a mix of surprise, warmth, and gratitude at this unexpected moment of
recognition and camaraderie in a foreign land.
 RTC 4
Extract:
"I thank him and turn to leave. He calls out something more. I turn back. ‘If you swim, swim near the
shore.’"

Questions:
Who is speaking in this extract, and who is being addressed? (2 marks)

What is the speaker warning about, and why is it significant? (2 marks)

How does this moment contribute to the theme of adventure and risk in the story? (3 marks)

What can be inferred about the relationship between the speaker and the narrator? (3 marks)

Answers:
Mr. Cao is speaking to the narrator, Vikram Seth, as he prepares to leave.

He is warning the narrator about the dangers of swimming in Heaven Lake, implying that the
waters may be treacherous. This advice is significant because it foreshadows potential danger.

This moment highlights the balance between adventure and caution. The narrator is eager to
explore, but the warning suggests that nature can be unpredictable and risky.

Mr. Cao appears to be a casual yet concerned acquaintance. While he does not stop the narrator
outright, his warning shows that he cares for his safety.

RTC 5
Extract:
"I could almost believe that I am the first person to see this place."

Questions:
What place is the narrator referring to, and why does it feel untouched? (2 marks)

What literary device is used in "I could almost believe"? (2 marks)

How does this line reflect the narrator's emotions and experience in the journey? (3 marks)

What theme does this line emphasize in the context of travel and exploration? (3 marks)

Answers:

The narrator is referring to Heaven Lake, a remote and pristine location that appears undisturbed
by human presence.
The phrase "I could almost believe" is an example of hyperbole or imagery, as it exaggerates the
sense of isolation and wonder.

This line conveys a deep sense of awe, solitude, and personal discovery. The narrator feels like an
explorer encountering a hidden paradise.

The theme of wilderness and untouched nature is emphasized here, illustrating the beauty of places
far from civilization and the transformative power of travel.

RTC 6
Extract:
"A flock of wild ducks rises suddenly from the water, their wings shimmering in the sun."

Questions:
What effect does the movement of the ducks have on the scene? (2 marks)

What does the phrase "shimmering in the sun" suggest? (2 marks)

How does this image contribute to the overall tone of the passage? (3 marks)

What role does nature play in shaping the narrator’s experience at Heaven Lake? (3 marks)

Answers:
The sudden movement of the ducks adds a dynamic element to the peaceful scenery, momentarily
breaking the tranquility.

The phrase "shimmering in the sun" suggests a beautiful, almost magical visual effect, highlighting
the elegance of nature.

This image contributes to a tone of serenity and admiration, reinforcing the narrator’s appreciation
of the natural beauty surrounding him.

Nature plays a central role by offering both visual splendor and moments of reflection, enhancing
the narrator’s personal journey and connection to the landscape.

RTC 7
Extract:
"With my bag hoisted high on my back, I start walking along the shore."

Questions:
What does the narrator’s action suggest about his attitude? (2 marks)
What does the word "hoisted" imply about the narrator’s journey? (2 marks)

How does this moment symbolize independence and self-discovery? (3 marks)

What does this line reveal about the narrator’s relationship with nature? (3 marks)

Answers:
The narrator’s action suggests determination and enthusiasm, as he takes on the journey with a
sense of purpose.

The word "hoisted" implies that his bag is heavy, signifying that he is well-prepared for a long and
possibly challenging journey.

This moment symbolizes independence and self-discovery, as the narrator embarks on an

The line reveals that the narrator embraces nature as both a challenge and a source of wonder,
willingly immersing himself in the wild landscape.