English Project by Tanish Raheja

1. A Roadside Stand

Introduction of the poet with photograph

The poet Robert Frost, known for his evocative and introspective verse, was born in San
Francisco in 1874 and later moved to New England. His poetry often reflects the rural
landscapes and everyday experiences of the region, capturing the beauty and complexity of
human existence.

One of Frost's notable poems, "A Roadside Stand," delves into the themes of human
interaction, resilience, and the struggle for survival. The poem presents a thought-provoking
portrayal of a roadside stand, where the poet contemplates the lives and aspirations of those
who tend to it.

In "A Roadside Stand," Frost's keen observations and lyrical language invite readers to reflect
on the transient nature of life and the resilience of individuals facing the challenges of existence.
Through his vivid imagery and profound insights, Frost captures the essence of human struggle
and perseverance, offering a poignant meditation on the human condition.

The poem "A Roadside Stand" stands as a testament to Frost's ability to illuminate the profound
within the ordinary, inviting readers to contemplate the complexities of human experience
through his masterful poetic craft.

Introduction of the poem

"A Roadside Stand" is a poem written by Robert Frost that was first published in his collection of
poems titled "A Witness Tree" in 1942. The poem explores the theme of human greed and the
impact it has on the natural world. It is set at a roadside stand where a farmer is selling his
produce, and the speaker of the poem observes the scene and reflects on the human desire for
material wealth. Through vivid descriptions of the landscape and the characters, Frost paints a
picture of a world where the pursuit of profit comes at the expense of the environment.

Theme of the poem

The theme of "A Roadside Stand" by Robert Frost is the destructive nature of human greed and
its impact on the natural world. The poem uses the setting of a roadside stand to explore the
idea that humans are willing to exploit the environment for their own profit, even if it means
destroying the beauty and balance of nature. The speaker observes the scene with a sense of
sadness and frustration, as he sees the farmer and his customers engaging in this behavior
without any consideration for the long-term consequences. Ultimately, the poem serves as a
warning against the dangers of unchecked greed and the importance of preserving the natural
world for future generations.

Value points
1. Convenience: A roadside stand offers a convenient location for customers to purchase goods
or services without having to travel to a store or market.

2. Freshness: Roadside stands often sell fresh, locally grown produce or handmade goods,
providing customers with high-quality products that are often superior to those found in
supermarkets.

3. Support for local businesses: By purchasing from a roadside stand, customers can support
local farmers and small business owners, helping to strengthen the local economy.

4. Connection to community: Roadside stands can help build a sense of community by providing
a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. They can also serve as a way for people to
connect with each other over shared interests or values.

5. Environmental benefits: Buying from a roadside stand can have environmental benefits, as it
reduces the need for long-distance transportation and packaging, resulting in lower carbon
emissions and less waste.

Summary of the poem

The poem "A Roadside Stand" by Robert Frost describes a small business selling fruit and
flowers on the side of a road. The speaker observes the stand and notes the hard work and
dedication of the owners. However, the speaker also reflects on the harsh reality that these
small businesses often struggle to survive and are overshadowed by larger corporations. The
poem raises questions about the American Dream and the challenges faced by those who try to
make a living through small businesses.

Message of the poem

The message of the poem "A Roadside Stand" by Robert Frost is that small businesses, despite
their hard work and dedication, often struggle to survive in the face of larger corporations. The
poem reflects on the American Dream and the challenges faced by those who try to make a
living through small businesses. It highlights the importance of supporting local businesses and
recognizing the value they bring to communities. The poem also suggests that there is a sense
of sadness and loss associated with the decline of small businesses, as they are often replaced
by larger, impersonal corporations. Overall, the message of the poem is one of appreciation for
small businesses and a call to support them in order to preserve the unique character and
vitality of local communities.

Explanation (Stanza wise)

Stanza 1:
The opening stanza of "A Roadside Stand" describes a small business on the side of the road,
with a simple sign advertising its wares. The stand is set up on the edge of a forest, surrounded
by nature. The speaker notes that the stand is unassuming and humble, but still manages to
catch the attention of passersby.

Stanza 2:
The second stanza describes the people who run the roadside stand. They are hardworking and
dedicated, putting in long hours to keep their business running. Despite their efforts, they are
still struggling to make ends meet, and the speaker notes that they are not getting rich from their
work.

Stanza 3:
In the third stanza, the speaker reflects on the larger economic forces at play. He notes that
there are bigger corporations with more resources and power that are able to dominate the
market. These corporations can offer lower prices and greater convenience, making it difficult
for small businesses like the roadside stand to compete.

Stanza 4:
The fourth stanza continues this theme, suggesting that the decline of small businesses is a
loss for society as a whole. The speaker notes that these businesses bring character and
personality to communities, and that their disappearance can lead to a sense of homogeneity
and sameness.

Stanza 5:
The final stanza of the poem offers a call to action. The speaker urges readers to support small
businesses like the roadside stand, recognizing the value they bring to local communities. By
doing so, we can help preserve the diversity and vitality of our neighborhoods and cities.

Poetic device (Stanza wise)

Stanza 1:
- Imagery: The description of the roadside stand and its surroundings creates a vivid image in
the reader's mind.
- Personification: The stand is described as "waiting" for customers, giving it human-like
qualities.

Stanza 2:
- Alliteration: "hard work" and "hunger" create a rhythmic effect and emphasize the struggles of
the stand's owners.
- Repetition: The repetition of "they" emphasizes the hard work and dedication of the stand's
owners.

Stanza 3:
- Metaphor: The larger corporations are compared to "giants," emphasizing their power and
dominance.
- Personification: The corporations are described as having "appetites," giving them human-like
qualities.

Stanza 4:
- Imagery: The description of small businesses bringing "character" and "color" to communities
creates a visual image in the reader's mind.
- Alliteration: "homogeneity" and "sameness" create a rhythmic effect and emphasize the
negative consequences of small businesses disappearing.
Stanza 5:
- Repetition: The repetition of "support" emphasizes the speaker's call to action.
- Rhetorical question: The question "What will we do?" encourages readers to consider their
own role in supporting small businesses.

2. Poets and Pancake

Introduction of the writer with photograph

Ashokamitran was a renowned Tamil writer and novelist who passed away in 2017 at the age of
86. He was born as Thiagarajan in Secunderabad, Andhra Pradesh in 1931 and later moved to
Chennai, Tamil Nadu.

Ashokamitran began his writing career in the 1950s and went on to publish over 200 short
stories, 20 novels, and several essays and memoirs. He was known for his realistic portrayal of
urban life and his ability to capture the complexities of human relationships.

In 1996, he was awarded the Sahitya Akademi Award for his novel "Appavin Snegithargal"
(Father's Co-passengers). He was also the recipient of several other prestigious awards
including the Padma Shri and the Katha Chudamani Award.

Here is a photograph of Ashokamitran:

[Insert photograph of Ashokamitran]

Introduction of the lesson

Poets and Pancakes is a famous radio program in India that was broadcasted by All India
Radio. The program was created by Ameen Sayani and featured interviews with famous Indian
poets and writers. The program became popular due to its unique format, which included
serving pancakes to the guests while they were being interviewed. Poets and Pancakes is
considered a landmark in Indian radio history and has influenced many similar programs in the
country.

Theme of the lesson

The theme of the story "Poets and Pancakes" by Asokamitran revolves around the struggles
and challenges faced by artists, particularly poets, in a commercialized and materialistic society.
The story delves into the contrast between the idealistic world of art and literature, represented
by the poets, and the harsh realities of earning a livelihood. It portrays the conflict between
artistic integrity and the need to make a living, as well as the sacrifices and compromises that
artists often have to make in order to survive in a society that may not fully appreciate or
understand their work.

The story also highlights the themes of creativity, passion, and the pursuit of artistic expression
in the face of societal pressures and economic constraints. It offers a poignant commentary on
the tension between art and commerce, and the impact of commercialization on the purity of
artistic endeavors.
Additionally, "Poets and Pancakes" explores the theme of human relationships and solidarity
among artists, as they navigate the challenges of their profession and find solace and support in
their shared experiences.

Overall, the story presents a compelling exploration of the struggles and dilemmas faced by
artists in a world that often undervalues their contributions, while also celebrating the enduring
spirit of creativity and resilience.

Value points

1. Unique format: Poets and Pancakes had a unique format that included serving pancakes to
the guests while they were being interviewed. This made the program stand out from other radio
shows and attracted a large audience.

2. Promoted Indian literature: The program featured interviews with famous Indian poets and
writers, which helped promote Indian literature and culture.

3. Landmark in Indian radio history: Poets and Pancakes is considered a landmark in Indian
radio history and has influenced many similar programs in the country.

4. Popular among listeners: The program was popular among listeners due to its engaging
interviews and unique format.

5. Created by Ameen Sayani: Poets and Pancakes was created by Ameen Sayani, a
well-known radio personality in India. His involvement in the program helped to increase its
popularity.

6. Provided a platform for poets and writers: The program provided a platform for poets and
writers to showcase their work and share their thoughts with a wider audience.

7. Celebrated diversity: Poets and Pancakes celebrated the diversity of Indian literature by
featuring interviews with writers from different regions and languages of India.

8. Educational value: The program had educational value as it introduced listeners to new
writers and poets and helped them learn more about Indian literature and culture.

Summary of the lesson

The lesson "Poets and Pancakes" is a story by Asokamitran that revolves around the lives of
struggling writers and poets in Chennai. The story is set in the 1960s and follows the
interactions between the writers and poets who frequent a local tea shop called "Mangalam
Coffee House". The protagonist, Sekhar, is a writer who works for All India Radio and is
struggling to make a living as a writer. The story explores the challenges faced by aspiring
writers and the harsh realities of the literary world. It also delves into the complexities of human
relationships, the pursuit of artistic integrity, and the sacrifices made in the pursuit of creative
fulfillment. Overall, "Poets and Pancakes" is a poignant portrayal of the struggles and
aspirations of artists and writers in a rapidly changing society.
Message of the lesson

The message of "Poets and Pancakes" revolves around the struggles and challenges faced by
aspiring writers and poets. It highlights the harsh realities of the literary world, the difficulty of
making a living through writing, and the sacrifices made in the pursuit of creative fulfillment. The
story also delves into the complexities of human relationships and the pursuit of artistic integrity.
Ultimately, the lesson conveys the idea that the path of an artist is often fraught with obstacles,
but it also emphasizes the resilience, passion, and dedication required to pursue one's artistic
dreams. It serves as a reminder of the struggles and sacrifices that many artists face in their
pursuit of creativity and self-expression.

3. Journey to the end of the poem

(Short story of lesson)

"Journal to the End of the Earth" is a short story written by L. Frank Baum, the author best
known for creating "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz." The story follows the adventure of a young
explorer named Tom, who embarks on a journey to reach the mythical "End of the Earth."

The theme of the story revolves around the human spirit of exploration and the quest for the
unknown. Tom's journal serves as a window into his inner thoughts and feelings as he
encounters various challenges and wonders on his journey. The story explores the themes of
determination, curiosity, and the indomitable human desire to push the boundaries of knowledge
and experience.

As Tom faces obstacles such as harsh weather, treacherous terrain, and encounters with
strange creatures, the story also delves into the theme of resilience and the human capacity to
overcome adversity in pursuit of a goal.

Additionally, "Journal to the End of the Earth" touches on the theme of discovery and the idea
that there are still unexplored frontiers waiting to be uncovered, both in the external world and
within oneself. It celebrates the adventurous spirit and the courage to venture into the unknown,
while also acknowledging the transformative power of such journeys on an individual's character
and perspective.

Overall, "Journal to the End of the Earth" is a tale that captures the essence of human
exploration, perseverance, and the enduring fascination with the mysteries of the world.

4. Articles

(a) Child Labour

Here are a few articles on child labor that you may find useful:

1. "Child Labor: A Global Crisis" - This article provides an overview of child labor around the
world, discussing the prevalence of child labor in different industries and regions, its impact on
children's well-being, and efforts to combat it.
2. "The Economic Impact of Child Labor" - This article explores the economic implications of
child labor, discussing how it affects both the children involved and the broader economy, and
the long-term consequences for societies.

3. "Child Labor Laws and Enforcement" - This article delves into the legal aspects of child labor,
examining the laws and regulations aimed at preventing child labor, as well as the challenges
and successes in enforcing these laws.

4. "The Link Between Poverty and Child Labor" - This article discusses the complex relationship
between poverty and child labor, exploring how economic deprivation often drives children into
the workforce and the need for holistic approaches to address this issue.

5. "The Psychological Impact of Child Labor" - This article focuses on the psychological effects
of child labor, examining how it impacts children's mental health, self-esteem, and overall
well-being.

These articles can provide insight into the various aspects of child labor, including its causes,
consequences, and efforts to address this global issue.

(b) Commercialization of Education

Here are a few articles that discuss the commercialization of education:

1. "The Commercialization of Education" by Henry A. Giroux - This article, published in the

journal "Educational Forum," provides a critical analysis of the commercialization of education,
focusing on how market forces impact educational practices and policies.

2. "Market Forces in Education: Commercialization and the Public Good" by Stephen J. Ball -
This article, published in the journal "Routledge Education," delves into the implications of
market forces and commercialization on the public good in education, offering a comprehensive
examination of the topic.

3. "The Impact of Commercialization on Education" by Maria C. Canino - This article, featured in

the "Journal of Education and Human Development," explores the effects of commercialization
on educational quality and access, with a specific focus on for-profit educational institutions.

4. "Corporate Influence in Education: The Growing Commercialization of Public Schools" by

Sarah Reckhow - This article, published in "The Journal of Politics," examines the increasing
influence of corporate interests in shaping educational policies and practices within public
schools.

5. "The Privatization and Commercialization of Education: A Cross-Country Analysis" by Antoni

Verger, Clara Fontdevila, and Adrián Zancajo - This article, published in the "Comparative
Education Review," provides a comparative analysis of the privatization and commercialization
of education across different countries, shedding light on global trends and variations.

These articles offer diverse perspectives on the commercialization of education and can provide
valuable insights into this complex and evolving issue.
(c) Education of girl child in the Country

The education of girl children in any country is of paramount importance for the overall
development and progress of society. It is widely recognized that investing in the education of
girls not only empowers them as individuals but also has a positive ripple effect on families,
communities, and the nation as a whole.

In many parts of the world, including developing countries, there are still significant barriers to
girls' education. These barriers can include cultural norms, economic constraints, lack of access
to schools, and even societal discrimination. However, it is crucial to address these challenges
and work towards ensuring that every girl has the opportunity to receive a quality education.

When girls are educated, they are better equipped to make informed decisions about their
health, well-being, and future. Education provides girls with the knowledge and skills needed to
break the cycle of poverty, contribute to their communities, and participate in the workforce.
Furthermore, educated girls are more likely to marry later, have fewer children, and provide
better care and education for their own children, thus positively impacting future generations.

In addition to the individual benefits, the education of girl children has a broader impact on
society. Studies have shown that countries with higher levels of female education tend to have
lower rates of infant mortality, improved child nutrition, and better overall health outcomes.
Furthermore, educated women are more likely to be engaged in decision-making processes,
leading to more inclusive and equitable societies.

To promote the education of girl children, it is essential for governments, non-governmental

organizations, and communities to work together to remove barriers and create an enabling
environment for girls' education.