Long Answer Type Questions
Question-1. “In the face of adversity, the human spirit can rise and overcome.” The
childhood experience of terror of Douglas made him stronger and more determined.
Elucidate the above statement supporting it with evidence from the text.
Ans. Deep Water by William Douglas is a poignant narrative that exemplifies the triumph of the
human spirit over adversity. The author’s near-death experience at the YMCA pool left him
traumatized and fearful of water.It is true; if the childhood mishaps had not occurred, Douglas
would never have become stronger and more determined. The terrifying incident at the YMCA
pool, in which he nearly drowned, instilled in him a deep fear of water. All of his outings with his
friends were ruined by his fear. Whenever he went to Cascades, Tieton, or Warm Lake with his
friends, he was overcome with fear of water, his legs paralysed, and icy horror gripped his heart.
Finally, in October, he hired a swimming instructor. The instructor fastened a belt around his
waist. He wrapped the belt around himself. He fastened the belt to an overhead cable.
He clung to the rope as the author attempted to swim back and forth across the pool for hours,
days, and weeks. It took the author three months to learn the fundamentals. The instructor then
showed him how to exhale underwater and inhale by raising his nose. He then showed him how
to kick water with his legs.
He asked the author to swim the length of the pool after teaching and perfecting the basics. The
author swam the length of the pool by himself starting the next day. There was no turning back
after that. He swam across Wentworth and Warmlake Lakes. That is how the author overcame
his apprehension.He emerged stronger and more determined.
2. How do “Deep Water” and “Lost Spring” reflect the idea that childhood experiences
shape a person's life?
Answer: Deep Water by William Douglas and Lost Spring by Anees Jung both explore how
childhood experiences leave lasting imprints on a person’s psyche. In Deep Water, a traumatic
incident at a swimming pool instills a deep fear of water in Douglas. The memory of
helplessness becomes a psychological barrier, but with determination, guidance, and effort, he
transforms his fear into strength. His journey reflects how trauma, when met with support and
opportunity, can lead to personal growth.
In contrast, Lost Spring sheds light on children like Saheb, whose childhoods are consumed by
poverty and labor. Deprived of education and basic rights, their dreams fade in the face of harsh
realities. Unlike Douglas, Saheb lacks the means or support to overcome his circumstances. His
life shows how poverty can trap individuals, leaving little room for change or hope.
Together, these texts highlight the enduring impact of childhood. While Douglas’s experience
becomes a challenge he overcomes, Saheb’s situation reflects a cycle that defines his fate. The
contrast underscores how socio-economic conditions shape whether early experiences become
obstacles to rise above—or limitations that persist throughout life.
