Final SR Inter English 26-12-23

SECOND YEAR ENGLISH INSTANT ANSWERS (40 MARKS )
NON-DETAILED
Short Story – 1 : THE WOMAN ON PLATFORM NO – 8
Ruskin Bond
IPE Q.NO –5 : Paragraph answers
Answer the following in about 100 word each. 4M

1.* Describe the character of Arun, the boarding school boy.
(or)
2.* What did Satish’s mother advise him about strangers? How did Arun and Satish react
to her advice?
(or)
3. What made Arun call the strange Woman mother at the end? (Mar-2023, June-2023)
(or)
4. Give any four reasons to explain , why Arun developed instant liking for the strange
woman in a white sari on Platform no. 8 .
Answer:
About the Author: The heart-warming short story The Woman On Platform No – 8
was written by Ruskin Bond . He is an Indian author of British descent. He received
the Sahitya Akademi Award, the Padma Shri and the Padma Bhushan. He has written
several novels, short stories and books for children.
About the Story: The touching story is about love and affection that transcends all
barriers of kinship. It is narrated in the first person by a school boy named Arun.
Topic: Arun is a twelve -year old boy studying in a boarding school. He is confident
and independent and is not afraid to travel alone at midnight. He keenly observes
people and understands their feelings. He notices the sadness of a woman in a white
sari on platform No-8 . Her soft voice, kindness and concern make him trust her. He
relaxes and shares his details with her. She takes him station’s dining hall and orders
samosas, tea and jalebies. He responds to the care and affection showered on him.
Satish is a friend of Arun . Satish’s mother advises him not to believe the strangers.
Arun judges people not by their appearances but their behaviour. He respects elderly
people. Though he hates Satish’s mother, he doesn’t misbehave. Arun’s calling the
strange woman in a white sari mother at the time of parting is a sweet gesture of
recognition of a loving relationship.
Conclusion: The story shows the readers how to interact with strangers. It also
enables them to appreciate the beauty in simplicity, sincerity and true affection.
1|Page MUTHU RAMAN

Short Story – 2 : A GIFT FOR CHRISTMAS
O. Henry
1. “Love, Sacrifice and Generosity are the essential elements for happy living.” Explain
this statement with reference to the story A Gift for Christmas. (Mar-2023)
(or)
2. Analyse the character of Della.
(or)
3.* Sketch the character of Jim.
(or)
4. A Gift for Christmas’s is an execute of O Henry’s Comic irony. Justify. (June-2023)
Answer:
About the Author: The touching story A Gift For Christmas is written by
O. Henry. He is an American short story writer who is known for his wit and
storytelling technique. His stories are remarkable for their surprise twist in the
endings. He wrote nearly 600 stories about life in America.
About the Story: The present story is taken from O. Henry’s collection The Four
Million. The story highlights the valuable possessions of mankind.
Topic: Della and Jim, a young married couple, live in a small flat. Jim’s gold watch
and Della’s long beautiful hair are what they consider their treasures. It’s Christmas
time. Della has very little money to buy a present for Jim. She decides to have her hair
cut and sold. She buys a platinum watch-chain for Jim. And Jim sells his gold watch to
buy expensive combs for Della. Finally the couple discover that the gifts have no
value for a little while. They laugh heartily. So, both of them show the true meaning of
love, sacrifice and generosity for happy living.
Conclusion: Henry’s ironical story telling technique makes the narration interesting
and captivating. Though the story has an ironic end, Henry brings out the importance
of certain virtuous human elements.
2|Page MUTHU RAMAN

Short Story – 3 : THE DOCTOR’S WORD
R.K Naryan
1.* Sketch the character of Dr. Raman.
(or)
2. “People came to him (Dr. Raman) when the patient was on his last legs.” Why?
(or)
3.* Describe Gopal’s health condition and his anxiety about the will.
(or)
4. “If my word can save his life, he shall not die,” said Dr. Raman to himself. Explain the
situation what makes the doctor say so. (June-2023)
Answer:
About the Author: The short story The Doctor’s Word is written by R.K Naryan . He is
a leading writer of early Indian literature in English along with Mulk Raj Anand and Raja
Rao. He won many awards like the Padma Bhushan, the Padma Vibhushan, the Sahitya
Akademi, Fellowship and A.C. Benson Medal. More importantly, he continues to win the
hearts of readers all over the globe.
About the Story: The interesting story The Doctor’s Word has characters like our next door
neighbours. In this story also, the setting is Malgudi, more specifically, Lawley Extension.
The situation discussed is of a serious nature. Yet, details about characters and their nature
are full.
Topic: Dr. Raman is a practising medical doctor. He is an expert in his profession. His
patients hold him in high regard. He is more a man of deeds than of words. He maintains
high standard of ethics. He never believes in soothing lies. People come to him when the
patient is on his last legs. Because, his fee is heavy and he never hides the bitter facts. He
works hard for hours, days or weeks till he wrests his prize from Yama’s hands. He respects
human relations and values friendship most. He treats even his assistants well. He enjoys
great success as a person and a doctor. Dr. Raman’s best friend, Gopal is seriously ill. The
doctor thinks that there is little hope. He puts in his best efforts. Gopal wants to prepare the
will to save the family from the further disputes . He is very much anxious about Subbaiah
and his gang. Dr. Raman is in a moral dilemma. For the first time , he has lied to Gopal about
his health condition to save him from the clutches of death . He assures Gopal by saying that
his heart is perfectly fine. He chooses to use assuring (positive) words. Miraculously, Gopal
has survived the heart attack. The doctor is puzziled by the sea change. Thus, Dr. Raman has
realized that there is nothing wrong in saying a lie to save the life of a patient.
Conclusion: The reader is left with the rich experience of enjoying a memorable story.
Words can heal. Words can kill
3|Page MUTHU RAMAN

Short Story – 4 : LOST
Guy de Maupassant
IPE Q.NO –5 : Paragraph Answers
1. Attempt the character sketch of the lady in the story lost.
(or)
2.* Narrate the incident that led to the agreement between the lady and the baron.
(or)
3. What was the baron’s wish? Was it fulfilled? Explain. (Mar-2023)
(or)
4. Write the character of the baron.
Answer:
About the Author: The story Lost is written by Guy de Maupassant. He is a French
writer, remembered as the master of the short story form. He wrote 300 short stories
and 6 novels. His stories depict human lives, destinies and social forces in
disillusioned and often in pessimistic terms.
About the story: How a clever lady, who is annoyed by the unethical treatment of a
baron, takes revenge is the plot of the story.
Topic: A baron from the ghetto saw a beautiful, married lady in an exhibition and
developed immoral liking for her. He thought she would yield to him as she had
modest income. But she felt insulted when he expressed his desire and wanted to take
revenge on him. When the baron prepared to do anything to have her, she proposed
that she would listen to him if he was ready to receive twenty five lashes. The
agreement was made. On the scheduled day, she mercilessly beat him twenty-four
times with a whip. One more cut would have taken her to him. But the clever, little
lady intentionally skipped giving him the twenty – fifth cut. She mockingly laughed
and told the baron that she had witnesses, her husband and two other men. They came
from behind the curtain leaving the baron in shock and grief.
Conclusion: The short, interesting story contains the characteristic wit and humour of
Maupassant. It is at once amusing apart from giving a clear message that immoral love
leads to one’s downfall.
4|Page MUTHU RAMAN

Short Story – 5 : AN INTERVIEW
Richard Gordon
IPE Q.NO –5 : Paragraph Answers
1.* The narrator thought that his interview was superfluous. Why?
(or)
2. “The Dean began to look interested”. What was he interested in? Why?
(or)
3. Why do you think the old man visited the waiting room?
(or)
4. “His face suddenly lightened………” Do you think dean was really happy with the
narrator? Why?
Answer:
About the Author: The short and beautiful story An Interview was written by
Richard Gordon. He was an English Surgeon and an anesthetist. He wrote many
short write-ups mostly dealing with medicine. His Doctor Novels, eighteen comic
works in a series, were very successful in Britain during 1960s and 1970s.
About The story: In the short story, Richard Gordon discusses his experience of
facing an interview with the dean of a medical school.
Topic: In this story the narrator shares with us his experience of his interview with Dr.
Lionel Loftus, the dean of St. Swithin’s Medical School. He sits nervously in the
waiting area, pre-creating his interview with the dean, trying to answer his imaginary
questionnaire. He , then , is encountered by an older man, the secretary of the medical
school, who scans him carefully and asks a few question. Unlike what’s expected, the
dean doesn’t ask any medical questions but asks only about his rugby experience, with
which the dean seems impressed. The narrator gets admitted into St Swithin’s but later
knows that all this is unnecessary as the dean generally admits students whom the
secretary approves of and rejects those whose looks the secretary doesn’t like.
Conclusion: The short story by Richard Gordon is witty and apparently

autobiographical. It exposes the flaws in admission interviews. The style of the
narration is simple and racy.
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6|Page MUTHU RAMAN
POETRY
Poem – 1: GOOD BYE PARTY FOR MISS PUSPHA T S
Nissim Ezekiel
IPE Q.NO – 2 : Annotations
Annotate the following in about 100 word each. 4M
1. ** We are meeting today
To wish her bon voyage.
(or)
2.** I don’t mean only external sweetness
But internal sweetness.
(or)
3.** That is showing
Good spirit. I am always
Appreciating the good spirit.
(or)
4. Puspha Miss is never saying no
Whatever I or anybody is asking
She is always saying yes, (June-2023)
Answer:
Introduction: The given lines are taken from the poem “Good Bye Party For Miss Puspha
T S” written by Nissim Ezekiel. He is one of India’s foremost Indo - Anglian poets.
Context: The present poem is a farewell speech for Miss Puspha, who is leaving the country.
The speaker who is the organiser of the party describes the virtues of Miss Puspha.
Meaning: The speaker announces the purpose of the gathering as their friend is about to
leave. He treats Miss Puspha as his sister. He has all good intentions. He says that Miss
Puspha is a very sweet lady and she is very helpful. She is always cheerful and hails from a
noble family. Her father is a reputed advocate. The speaker appreciates her concern for her
friends. He invites other friends to speak about her. Thus the poem has all the qualities to be
described as a farewell address.
Critical comment: The poem is in free verse, with no specific rhyme scheme or meter. The
speaker’s presentation and the sentence structure are the causes of humour. The poet has used
a specific dialect in the poem. The poem touches upon the use of English by Indians(Babu
English) and the speaker’s attitude to comment on Post-Colonial India’s fascination to go
abroad.
7|Page MUTHU RAMAN

Poem – 1: GOOD BYE PARTY FOR MISS PUSPHA T S
Nissim Ezekiel
IPE Q.NO – 4 : Question and answers
Answer the following in about 100 word each.
1.** Do you agree that the poem “Goodbye party for Miss Puspha T S ” is a farewell
address? Justify your response.
(or)
2. How does the speaker describe Miss Puspha in the poem? (Mar/June-2023)
(or)
3. What is the central idea of the poem Goodbye Party for Miss Puspha T S ?
(or)
4.** Does the poem bring out the sweetness of Miss Puspha? Justify your answer.
Answer:
About the poet: The poem Good Bye Party For Miss Puspha T S was written by
Nissim Ezekiel. He is one of India’s foremost Indo - Anglian poets.
About the Poem : The present poem is a farewell speech for Miss Puspha, who is
leaving the country. The speaker who is the organiser of the party describes the virtues
of Miss Puspha.
Topic: The speaker announces the purpose of the gathering as their friend is about to
leave. He treats Miss Puspha as his sister. He has all good intentions. He says that
Miss Puspha is a very sweet lady and she is very helpful. She is always cheerful and
hails from a noble family. Her father is a reputed advocate. The speaker appreciates
her concern for her friends. He invites other friends to speak about her. Thus the poem
has all the qualities to be described as a farewell address.
Conclusion: The poem is in free verse, with no specific rhyme scheme or meter. The
speaker’s presentation and the sentence structure are the causes of humour. The poet
has used a specific dialect in the poem. The poem touches upon the use of English by
Indians(Babu English) and the speaker’s attitude to comment on Post-Colonial India’s
fascination to go abroad.
8|Page MUTHU RAMAN

Poem – 2 : ON THE GRASSHOPPER AND CRICKET
John Keats
IPE Q.NO – 2 : Annotations:
1. The poetry of earth is never dead. (Mar-2023)
(or)
2.** He rests at ease beneath some pleasant weed.
(or)
3. On a lone winter evening, when the frost Has wrought a silence, from the stone there the
Cricket’s song, in warmth increasing ever. (June-2023)
(or)
4.** “And seems to one in drowsiness half lost, The Grasshopper’s among some grassy hills”
Answer:
Introduction: The given lines are taken from the sonnet On The Grasshopper And
Cricket written by John Keats . He was an English Romantic Poet. He devoted his
life to the perfection of poetry.
Context: The poem was written in 1816. It was inspired by Nature’s beauty, which
was a popular theme of the poetry of Romantic poets.
Meaning: The poem is about Nature. The poet says that the poetry of earth never
ceases. The Grasshopper and Cricket are used as the symbols. Seasons may come and
go but Nature never fails to inspire us with its songs. When birds stop singing in
extreme heat, the earth is filled with the songs of a grasshopper. He sings endlessly,
but when tired, rests under some pleasant weed. During winter birds stop singing.
There is a deathly silence. Frost spreads its blanket over Nature. Regardless, a shrill
sound comes from beneath stone, and it is the cricket singing. The cricket’s song
restores warmth.
Critical comment: Nature is the central focus of the poem with its unending delight
and constant presence. Nature , according to the poet, brings love and joy. Man should
live with Nature and enjoy all the seasons.
9|Page MUTHU RAMAN

Poem – 2 : ON THE GRASSHOPPER AND CRICKET
John Keats
1. What is the theme of the poem On the Grasshopper and Cricket? (Mar/June-2023)
(or)
2.** According to Keats, when does one hear a cricket’s song?
(or)
3. When does a Grasshopper sing?
(or)
4.** Discuss the common features between the grasshopper and cricket.
Answer:
About the Poet : The sonnet On The Grasshopper And Cricket was written by
John Keats . He was an English Romantic Poet. He devoted his life to the perfection
of poetry.
About the Poem: The poem was written in 1816. It was inspired by Nature’s beauty,
which was a popular theme of the poetry of Romantic poets.
Topic: The poem is about Nature. The poet says that the poetry of earth never ceases.
The Grasshopper and Cricket are used as the symbols. Seasons may come and go but
Nature never fails to inspire us with its songs. When birds stop singing in extreme
heat, the earth is filled with the songs of a grasshopper. He sings endlessly, but when
tired, rests under some pleasant weed. During winter birds stop singing. There is a
deathly silence. Frost spreads its blanket over Nature. Regardless, a shrill sound comes
from beneath stone, and it is the cricket singing. The cricket’s song restores warmth.
Conclusion: Nature is the central focus of the poem with its unending delight and
constant presence. Nature, according to the poet, brings love and joy. Man should live
with Nature and enjoy all the seasons.
10 | P a g e MUTHU RAMAN
Poem – 3 : HIROSHIMA CHILD
Nazim Hikmet
IPE Q.NO – 2 : Annotations
1.** I knock and yet remain unseen
(or)
2. I am seven now as I was then
When children die they do not grow.
(or)
3. I ask for nothing for myself
For I am dead for I am dead (Mar-2023)
(or)
4.** All that I need is that for peace
You fight today you fight today
Answer:
Introduction: The given lines are taken from the poem Hiroshima Child, written by
Nazim Hikmet . He was a Turkish poet, playwright and novelist. When he was
seventeen, his first poem was published. He was inspired by his artistic mother and
poets grand father. His poetry has been translated into more than fifty languages,
including English.
Context: The present poem is about a seven-year-old child who died in Hiroshima
bomb attack during the World War II. The little girl, who is no longer alive is the
speaker in the poem. She begs of the people to fight for peace. Let children grow
happily.
Meaning: The dead child knocks on every door. No one hears or sees the child as the
child died at seven in the Hiroshima bomb blast. Since then , she has felt neither
growth not hunger, nor any wants. The child continues to be in the same state. She
visits every home, seeks neither food nor things. The vehement plea is for peace. The
appeal to everyone is: Fight for Peace let every child grow, play and laugh. The war
against war touches our hearts.
Critical comment: The theme of the poem is to promote Peace. The poet uses a
character, a standpoint and language to drive home the theme. This technique serves
the desired purpose. The reader is made to plunge into thought first and action next.
Poem – 3 : HIROSHIMA CHILD
Nazim Hikmet
1. What is the theme of the poem Hiroshima Child?
(or)
2.*** Why does the poet appeal for peace through a dead child?
(or)
3.*** Describe the feelings of the child when she knew that she was dead at the age of seven.
(or)
4. ‘I ask for nothing for myself’
Why do you think the child asked nothing for herself?
Answer:
About the poet: The given lines are taken from the poem Hiroshima Child, written
by Nazim Hikmet . He was a Turkish poet, playwright and novelist. When he was
seventeen, his first poem was published. He was inspired by his artistic mother and
poets grand father. His poetry has been translated into more than fifty languages,
including English.
About the poem : The present poem is about a seven-year-old child who died in
Hiroshima bomb attack during the World War II. The little girl, who is no longer alive
is the speaker in the poem. She begs of the people to fight for peace. Let children grow
happily.
Topic: The dead child knocks on every door. No one hears or sees the child as the
child died at seven in the Hiroshima bomb blast. Since then , she has felt neither
growth not hunger, nor any wants. The child continues to be in the same state. She
visits every home, seeks neither food nor things. The vehement plea is for peace. The
appeal to everyone is: Fight for Peace let every child grow, play and laugh. The war
against war touches our hearts.
Conclusion: The theme of the poem is to promote Peace. The poet uses a character, a
standpoint and language to drive home the theme. This technique serves the desired
purpose. The reader is made to plunge into thought first and action next.
Poem – 4 : AWAKE
Sarojini Naidu
IPE Q.NO – 2 Annotations
1.*** Who kneel in thy presence to serve and adore thee.
(or)
2.*** Awaken and sever the woes that enthrall us
(or)
3. Never shall we fail thee, forsake thee or falter
Whose hearts are thy home and thy shield and thine alter.
(or)
4. _______ _______ _____ Hearken ,
O queen and O goddess, we hail thee!
Answer:
Introduction: The given lines are taken from the patriotic poem (lyric) Awake. It was
written by Sarojini Naidu, the Nightingale of India. She was the first woman to be the
Governor of a state in independent India.
Context: The soul-stirring poem is a fervent appeal for unity and action. Sarojini
Naidu recited this poem at meetings in Bombay and Lahore. It is an address to Mother
India.
Meaning: At the outset, the nation is personified as our mother. All Indians become
her children. The poet visualizes all children praying to mother. They entreat her to
give them a chance to serve her and admire her glory. The woes of bondage are to be
cut. Mother India should gain its glory again and grow and glow. One should
remember the pride and power India basked in once. People of all faiths pledge to
come together to defend and guard their mother, queen and goddess.
Critical comment: The poem is noteworthy for its magical quality and rhythm with a
lofty theme. So it is very much entitled to be applauded as a patriotic lyric. This lyric
of just eighteen lines is also remarkable for its many literary devices like
personification, imagery, rhetoric and rhythm. Thus, the poem is very impressive with
its theme and form.
Poem – 4 : AWAKE
Sarojini Naidu
1. Substantiate the critical comment that the poem Awake is a patriotic lyric.
(or)
2.*** What do the children implore the mother in the poem Awake?
(or)
3.*** How do Indians plan to set their mother again in the forefront of glory?
(or)
4. What do the children of all creeds promise their mother separately and collectively?
Answer:
About the Poet: The patriotic poem (lyric) Awake was written by Sarojini Naidu,
the Nightingale of India. She was the first woman to be the Governor of a state in
independent India.
About the Poem: The soul-stirring poem is a fervent appeal for unity and action.
Sarojini Naidu recited this poem at meetings in Bombay and Lahore. It is an address to
Mother India.
Topic: At the outset, the nation is personified as our mother. All Indians become her
children. The poet visualizes all children praying to mother. They entreat her to give
them a chance to serve her and admire her glory. The woes of bondage are to be cut.
Mother India should gain its glory again and grow and glow. One should remember
the pride and power India basked in once. People of all faiths pledge to come together
to defend and guard their mother, queen and goddess.
Conclusion: The poem is noteworthy for its magical quality and rhythm with a lofty
theme. So it is very much entitled to be applauded as a patriotic lyric. This lyric of just
eighteen lines is also remarkable for its many literary devices like personification,
imagery, rhetoric and rhythm. Thus, the poem is very impressive with its theme and
form.
Poem – 5 : FEAR
Kahlil Gibran
IPE Q.NO – 2 Annotations
1. It is said that before entering the sea a river trembles with fear (June-2023)
(or)
2. And in front of her, she sees an ocean.
So vast, that to enter there seems nothing more than to disappear forever.
(or)
3.*** The river cannot go back. Nobody can go back. To go back is impossible in existence
(or)
4.*** It’s not disappearing into the ocean, but of becoming ocean.
Answer:
Introduction: The given lines are taken from the philosophical poem Fear written by
Kahlil Gibran. He was born in Lebanon and settled in the U.S.A. He became famous for his
book The Prophet.
Context: Gibran conveys his philosophical insight about overcoming fear in the poem. The
speaker imagines a river that flows into sea.
Meaning: The poet touches on a variety of themes of human life. “He blends spirituality and
practicality.” He enlightens his readers not to panic or feel terrified while accepting changes.
It may be a small or big change. One should learn to be bold. The poet gives the example of a
river. Just like a river, which over comes many hurdles in its journey, finally combines itself
into the vast ocean. The poet describes the feeling of a river very beautifully. He says a river
initially hesitates and fears before it culminates itself into the vast sea. It does not like to
merge into the sea for the fear of losing its identity. In this context the poet assures his
readers by saying that when we accept a change we become one with the mighty universe. In
the same way like a small river which becomes the mighty ocean as soon as it merges.
Critical comment: The Poem FEAR is written in free verse. There is no rhyme scheme or
meter in this poem. The poet sends a powerful message to those who fear losing their
identity, death, being forgotten in the universe and so on.
Poem – 5 : FEAR
Kahlil Gibran
1. What is the central idea of the poem Fear? (June-2023)
(or)
2. What does ‘nobody can go back’ mean in the poem fear? Explain from your point of
view?
(or)
3. How can one overcome fear, explain? (Mar-2023)
(or)
4.*** What does the line “the river needs to take the risk of entering the ocean” mean?
Discuss.
Answer:
About the Poet : The philosophical poem Fear was written by Kahlil Gibran. He
was born in Lebanon and settled in the U.S.A. He became famous for his book The
Prophet.
About the Poem: Gibran conveys his philosophical insight about overcoming fear in the
poem. The speaker imagines a river that flows into sea.
Topic : The poet touches on a variety of themes of human life. “He blends spirituality
and practicality.” He enlightens his readers not to panic or feel terrified while
accepting changes. It may be a small or big change. One should learn to be bold. The
poet gives the example of a river. Just like a river, which over comes many hurdles in
its journey, finally combines itself into the vast ocean. The poet describes the feeling
of a river very beautifully. He says a river initially hesitates and fears before it
culminates itself into the vast sea. It does not like to merge into the sea for the fear of
losing its identity. In this context the poet assures his readers by saying that when we
accept a change we become one with the mighty universe. In the same way like a
small river which becomes the mighty ocean as soon as it merges.
Conclusion: The Poem FEAR is written in free verse. There is no rhyme scheme or
meter in this poem. The poet sends a powerful message to those who fear losing their
identity, death, being forgotten in the universe and so on.
PROSE
Lesson – 1 : HOW TO AVOID FOOLISH OPINIONS
Bertrand Russell
IPE Q.NO – 1
Annotations
1. If someone maintains that two and two are five or that Iceland is on the equator, you
feel pity rather than anger…… (June-2023)
(or)
2.* Persecution is used in theology, not in arithmetic because in arithmetic, there is
knowledge, but in theology, there is only opinion
(or)
3.** I have frequently found myself growing less dogmatic and cock sure through realizing
the possible reasonableness of a hypothetical opponent
(or)
4. By very wary of opinions that flatter your self esteem. (Mar-2023)
Answer:
Introduction: The given lines are taken from the essay “How to Avoid Foolish opinions” written
by Bertrand Russell. He was born in the United Kingdom. He was a philosopher, logicians,
mathematician, historian, writer, social critic, political activist and Nobel laureate. He is the author of
Principia Mathematica, The Problems of Philosophy and many other influential works.
Context: In the essay, Russell gives us tips on how to avoid foolish opinions. He offers some
suggestions that will assist us in avoiding glaring errors to make our life more beautiful.
Meaning: Russel cautions us against comments that boost one’s ego. He advises us to first look at
things for ourselves. This problem is tough to solve because everyone is sure of his/her supremacy.
Russel advises as healthy dose of modesty and common sense. Our principles should not be
dogmatic. There are many ways to avoid being dogmatic. Making a keen observation where it can
settle the bias is the first way. Next, to know what other people think, one has to be aware of what
they think. This can be done by going on vacation and talking to people with different ideas. The
third is arguing with an imaginary character that has a different point of view. The fourth one is to
deal with one’s sense of self-worth, which is the hardest. To overcome conceit, we must remember
that we live for a short while on a small planet in a vast cosmos. Other’s standards and ideals should
equally be respected. He adds that dealing with a man’s self-esteem is challenging. The only solution
is to remind people of the episodic human life on a small planet.
Critical comment: The content is expressed in a highly intellectual and scholarly way. Russell’s
clarity of thought and fluency of expression lend beauty to his style. Despite the seriousness of the
topic dealt with one can find elements of cheerfulness and gentle humour.
Lesson – 1 : HOW TO AVOID FOOLISH OPINIONS
Bertrand Russell
1. How can we prevent developing a dogmatic attitude as per Russell’s suggestion? (Mar-2023)
(or)
2.* Travel is an excellent educator. Explain with reference to Russell’s essay How to Avoid
Foolish Opinions .
(or)
3. According to Russell, what is the only way to tackle self-pride? ( June-2023)
(or)
4. What does Bertrand Russell say about a person getting angry about a difference of
opinion?
Answer:
About the Author: The essay How to Avoid Foolish opinions was written by Bertrand Russell.
He was born in the United Kingdom. He was a philosopher, logicians, mathematician, historian,
writer, social critic, political activist and Nobel laureate. He is the author of Principia Mathematica,
The Problems of Philosophy and many other influential works.
About the Lesson: In the essay, Russell gives us tips on how to avoid foolish opinions. He offers
some suggestions that will assist us in avoiding glaring errors to make our life more beautiful.
Topic: Russel cautions us against comments that boost one’s ego. He advises us to first look at
things for ourselves. This problem is tough to solve because everyone is sure of his/her supremacy.
Russel advises as healthy dose of modesty and common sense. Our principles should not be
dogmatic. There are many ways to avoid being dogmatic. Making a keen observation where it can
settle the bias is the first way. Next, to know what other people think, one has to be aware of what
they think. This can be done by going on vacation and talking to people with different ideas. The
third is arguing with an imaginary character that has a different point of view. The fourth one is to
deal with one’s sense of self-worth, which is the hardest. To overcome conceit, we must remember
that we live for a short while on a small planet in a vast cosmos. The only solution is to remind
people of the episodic human life on a small planet. Other’s standards and ideals should equally be
respected. He adds that dealing with a man’s self-esteem is challenging. The only solution is to
remind people of the episodic human life on a small planet.
Conclusion: The content is expressed in a highly intellectual and scholarly way. Russell’s clarity of
thought and fluency of expression lend beauty to his style. Despite the seriousness of the topic dealt
with one can find elements of cheerfulness and gentle humour.
Lesson – 2 : THE AWAKENING OF WOMEN
K M Panikkar
IPE Q.NO – 1
Annotations
1. Undoubtedly women in ancient India enjoyed a much higher status than their
descendants in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. (Mar-2023)
(or)
2. From the first days of his movement Gandhiji realized that there was a source of
immense untapped power in the womanhood of India …….. (June-2023)
(or)
3.* It was a matter of surprise to the outside world that independent India should
have appointed women to the highest posts so freely, as members of the
Cabinet……
(or)
4.* The contribution of women to modern India may therefore be said to have led to
a reintegration of social relationships.
Answer:
Introduction: The given lines are taken from the essay The Awakening of women written
by K M Panikkar. He was a statesman, diplomat, journalist, historian and writer. Born in
Travancore, he was educated in Madras and at the University of Oxford.
Context: The present lesson is an interesting essay about the position of women in India
overtime. It traces the evaluation of their status.
Meaning: Women in ancient India enjoyed an enviable position. But their status in the
eighteenth and nineteenth centuries touched its lowest point. K M Panikkar enumerates the
factors that contributed to their fall. Women those days were isolated from the mainstream.
They were kept behind the ‘purdah’. They were denied education. Child marriages were the
order. Awakening of women from that pitiable position began with the Gandhian movement.
And it continues! Women’s advancement spread very soon to many fields of activity.
Women’s achievements and their role and contribution in various fields impacted legislation
and administration in a positive way. They were appointed as members of the cabinet, as
Governors of Provinces, as Ambassadors and as leaders of delegations to international
conferences. After Independence, their right to independent property, to freedom of marriage,
to education and employment were recognised by Law.
Critical comment: Thematically, the piece is historical; and it is expository in nature.
Explanation of the facts is clear. Supporting details are convincing. Lucid style and suitable
diction make this informative and insightful essay offer a rich reading experience.
Lesson – 2 : THE AWAKENING OF WOMEN
K M Panikkar
1. Why were Indian women in the nineteenth century the most backward of all women in
the world? (June-2023)
(or)
2.* But when the movement was actually started, women were everywhere at the forefront.
Elaborate.
(or)
3.* What is the true test of the changed position of women in India?
(or)
4.* Name some legislative reforms mentioned in the essay The Awakening of Women that
seek to establish the equality of women.
Answer:
About the Author: The essay The Awakening of women was written by K M Panikkar.
He was a statesmen, diplomat, journalist, historian and writer. Born in Travancore, he was
educated in Madras and at the University of Oxford.
About the poem : The present lesson is an interesting essay about the position of women in
India overtime. It traces the evaluation of their status.
Topic: Women in ancient India enjoyed an enviable position. But their status in the
eighteenth and nineteenth centuries touched its lowest point. K M Panikkar enumerates the
factors that contributed to their fall. Women those days were isolated from the mainstream.
They were kept behind the ‘purdah’. They were denied education. Child marriages were the
order. Awakening of women from that pitiable position began with the Gandhian movement.
And it continues! Women’s advancement spread very soon to many fields of activity.
Women’s achievements and their role and contribution in various fields impacted legislation
and administration in a positive way. They were appointed as members of the cabinet, as
Governors of Provinces, as Ambassadors and as leaders of delegations to international
conferences. After Independence, their right to independent property, to freedom of marriage,
to education and employment were recognised by Law.
Conclusion: Thematically, the piece is historical; and it is expository in nature. Explanation
of the facts is clear. Supporting details are convincing. Lucid style and suitable diction make
this informative and insightful essay offer a rich reading experience.
Lesson – 3 : SOLUTION TO PLASTIC POLLUTION
INTERNET
IPE Q.NO – 1
Annotations
1.* He could easily be mistaken for a Sanskrit pundit if you heard him quote the holy text
as a solution to any problem in the world
(or)
2. One day your test will become the convention (June-2023)
(or)
3.* “But I think it is my duty to serve my country first and therefore. I gave it free to the
Indian Government”
(or)
4. The plastic instantly melts and coats the gravel without releasing toxic gases into the
atmosphere.
Answer:
Introduction: The given lines are taken from the write-up Solution to Plastic
Pollution, an adopted article from the internet
Context: The write-up is about the research project of Dr. Vasudevan. He was
professor and Head, the Department of Chemistry in Thiagarajar College of
Engineering (TCE), Madurai. He gave a permanent solution to the plastic wastage. He
dedicated his research to the management of the waste.
Meaning: Though he was a Professor of Chemistry, his deportment exhibited that he
was a Sanskrit pundit. He always carried the Bhagavad Gita in his hands and quoted
many shlokas to his students while teaching. His thirst for research with chemicals and
a mission for Clean India made him find a solution to plastic waste. He was
successful in proving that dissolved plastic can be applied with tar and bitumen for
laying roads. While on his work, once A P J Kalam visited the college. Dr.
Vasudevan presented to Kalam his project and its potential use as a coating over the
pebbles for laying roads. Kalam told Dr. Vasudevan that one day his test would
become the convention. He encouraged him to continue his work without any
disappointment. Kalam said that the results of his research would make people
understand the reality. Kalam’s words proved prophetic and Dr. Vasudevan laid the
first 60 feet long plastic road within the college campus.
Critical comment: Dr. Vasudevan exhibited that technology, if used properly, is
advantageous in various waste to mankind.
Lesson – 3 : SOLUTION TO PLASTIC POLLUTION
INTERNET
1. Describe the deportment of Dr. Vasudevan as the Professor of TCE.
(or)
2. How did Dr. Vasudevan experiment with plastic waste and what has been the result?
(Mar-2023)
(or)
3. How did A P J Kalam encourage Dr. Vasudevan and what has been the outcome?
(or)
4. List the advantages of plastic roads as described by Dr. Vasudevan.
Answer:
About the author: The given lines are taken from the write-up Solution to Plastic
Pollution, an adopted article from the internet
About the write-up: The write-up is about the research project of Dr. Vasudevan. He
was professor and Head, the Department of Chemistry in Thiagarajar College of
Engineering (TCE), Madurai. He gave a permanent solution to the plastic wastage. He
dedicated his research to the management of the waste.
Topic: Though he was a Professor of Chemistry, his deportment exhibited that he was
a Sanskrit pundit. He always carried the Bhagavad Gita in his hands and quoted many
shlokas to his students while teaching. His thirst for research with chemicals and a
mission for Clean India made him find a solution to plastic waste. He was successful
in proving that dissolved plastic can be applied with tar and bitumen for laying roads.
While on his work, once A P J Kalam visited the college. Dr. Vasudevan presented to
Kalam his project and its potential use as a coating over the pebbles for laying roads.
Kalam told Dr. Vasudevan that one day his test would become the convention. He
encouraged him to continue his work without any disappointment. Kalam said that the
results of his research would make people understand the reality. Kalam’s words
proved prophetic and Dr. Vasudevan laid the first 60 feet long plastic road within the
college campus.
Conclusion: Dr. Vasudevan exhibited that technology, if used properly, is

advantageous in various waste to mankind.
Lesson – 4 : THE RELIGION OF THE FOREST
Rabindranath Tagore
IPE Q.NO – 1
Annotations
1.* The ideal of perfection preached by the forest -dwellers of ancient India runs through
the heart, of our classical literature and still dominates our mind.
(or)
2.* The view of this world which India has taken is summed up in one compound Sanskrit
word, Sacchidananda.
(or)
3. Nature stands on her own right, proving that she has her great function to impart the
place of the eternal to human emotions.
(or)
4. The poems contain the voice of warnings against the gorgeous unreality of that age,
which like a HIMALAYAN avalanche, was slowly gliding down to an abyss of
catastrophe.
Answer:
Introduction: The given lines are taken from the thought provoking essay The
Religion of the Forest written by Rabindranath Tagore. He is fondly remembered
as a Viswakavi and Gurudev. He is the composer of our National Anthem. He is the
first Indian to win the Nobel Prize in 1913 for his Gitanjali.
Context: The write-up is taken from Tagore’s book Creative Unity. It explains the
great Indian classics and the importance given to Nature in the ancient times.
Meaning: The main theme of this essay deals with the relation between man and
Nature as mentioned by the ancient Indian forest dwellers. Tagore also takes various
references from the Indian classics like Kalidasa Shakuntala and Kumara Sam Bhava.
He emphasizes the hidden truth that man is not different from Nature, as Nature
provides tranquility and solace. The view of the ancient Indians about our life and
universe is well explained in the word, “Sachitananda” Tagore points out that every
man should realize the value of this concept and lead a peaceful life. On the other hand
if he tries to violate any of these values he will surely meet a devastating downfall.
Finally, Tagore leaves the message to all his readers that they should maintain
harmony with Nature as it is the religion of forest.
Critical comment: The theme of write-up is profound; the thoughts are clear; the
expression is effective and the examples and illustrations are ample.
Lesson – 4 : THE RELIGION OF THE FOREST
Rabindranath Tagore
1. To make the spirit of the religion of the forest clear to readers, TAGORE presents some
sets of contrasts – explain them? (Mar-2023)
(or)
2. This aspect of truth cannot be ignored; it has to be known and mastered. What is the
aspect of truth, according to Tagore? Who has mastered it?
(or)
3. The hermitage shines out in all our ancient Literature as the place where the chasm
between man and the rest of the creation has been bridged. Explain this statement of
Tagore? (June-2023)
(or)
4.* Explain how the old simplicity of Hindu life had broken up in Kalidasa’s time.
Answer:
About the author: The given lines are taken from the thought provoking essay The
Religion of the Forest written by Rabindranath Tagore. He is fondly remembered
as a Viswakavi and Gurudev. He is the composer of our National Anthem. He is the
first Indian to win the Nobel Prize in 1913 for his Gitanjali.
About the lesson: The write-up is taken from Tagore’s book Creative Unity. It
explains the great Indian classics and the importance given to Nature in the ancient
times.
Topic : The main theme of this essay deals with the relation between man and Nature
as mentioned by the ancient Indian forest dwellers. Tagore also takes various
references from the Indian classics like Kalidasa Shakuntala and Kumara Sam Bhava.
He emphasizes the hidden truth that man is not different from Nature, as Nature
provides tranquility and solace. The view of the ancient Indians about our life and
universe is well explained in the word “Sachitananda” Tagore points out that every
man should realize the value of this concept and lead a peaceful life. On the other hand
if he tries to violate any of these values, he will surely meet a devastating downfall.
Finally, Tagore leaves the message to all his readers that they should maintain
harmony with Nature as it is the religion of forest.
Conclusion: The theme of write-up is profound; the thoughts are clear; the expression
is effective and the examples and illustrations are ample.
Lesson – 5 : GUILTY (ONE-ACT PLAY)
Horace Gardiner and Bonneviere Arnaud
IPE Q.NO – 1
Annotations
1. May be world needs good watchmen as much as it does engineers.
(or)
2. He is a fine, good boy and a hard worker. (Mar-2023)
(or)
3.* Ma, you’re talking like someone in a fog, without any sense.
(or)
4.* You have put what you think is two and two together and made four out of it, haven’t
you?
Answer:
Introduction: These lines are taken from the delightful and humorous One-Act Play Guilty written
by Horace Gardiner and Bonneviere Arnaud.
Context: Guilty is a delightful One Act Play . The play is so sweet that readers (viewers) are left
with the feeling that the play is too short! And they comfort themselves with the saying: Small is
beautiful!
Meaning: The main character in the play is Jim Ryan, a young engineering graduate. Jim works as a
night watchman at the Van king Warehouse. Very soon after his joining at Van king Warehouse, the
information about the theft of a diamond comes in the news paper. Then Mrs. Moore, their neighbour
visits their house and shares the information with Jim’s mother. At the same time Jim Ryan’s mother
finds the robbed diamond pendant in the pocket of Jim’s sweater. She starts worrying that her dear
Jim is mixed up with robbery. Flustered, she still wants to ask her son. She is filled with despair and
doesn’t know what to do. To protect her son, she tries to hide the diamond. In the meantime her son
and a stranger walk into the house. Jim starts searching for his sweater while the stranger offers
money to Jim. Immediately Ma Rayan puts two and two together to make four.
She later learns that in their hurry the thieves had dropped the diamond and Jim, who was
nearby sees it. He runs after them to give the diamond but they had already left. Finding that it was
the missing diamond he had informed Van King. The stranger was none other than the owner of the
diamond.
Appearances can be often deceptive. The golden rule, however, is that there is no golden rule!
She puts two and two together. But very soon she discovers her mistake and feels guilty. And All is
well that ends well.
Critical comment: The comedy meets all the qualities of a One-Act Play. The characters are just a
few and the three unities of time, place and theme are meticulously observed.
Lesson – 5 : GUILTY (ONE-ACT PLAY)
Horace Gardiner and Bonneviere Arnaud
1.* Describe the importance of Mrs. Moore’s role in ‘Guilty’.
(or)
2. Ma Aryan puts what she thinks is two and two together and makes four of it. Discuss
the development that lead (or, rather mislead) Ma Ryan into making this mistake.
(or)
3.* Sketch the character of Jim in the light of Ma Ryan’s comments like: It is the same! But
how did it get into Jim’s pocket?
(or)
4. “Ma you are talking like someone in a fog, without any sense.” Are these words from
Jim an order or exception? Explain.
Answer:
About the authors: The delightful and humorous One – Act Play ‘Guilty’ was written by
Horace Gardiner and Bonneviere Arnaud.
About the Play : Guilty is a delightful One Act Play . The play is so sweet that readers (viewers)
are left with the feeling that the play is too short! And they comfort themselves with the saying:
Small is beautiful!
Topic: The main character in the play is Jim Ryan, a young engineering graduate. Jim works as a
night watchman at the Van king Warehouse. Very soon after his joining at Van king Warehouse, the
information about the theft of a diamond comes in the news paper. Then Mrs. Moore, their neighbour
visits their house and shares the information with Jim’s mother. At the same time Jim Ryan’s mother
finds the robbed diamond pendant in the pocket of Jim’s sweater. She starts worrying that her dear
Jim is mixed up with robbery. Flustered, she still wants to ask her son. She is filled with despair and
doesn’t know what to do. To protect her son, she tries to hide the diamond. In the meantime her son
and a stranger walk into the house. Jim starts searching for his sweater while the stranger offers
money to Jim. Immediately Ma Rayan puts two and two together to make four.
She later learns that in their hurry the thieves had dropped the diamond and Jim, who was
nearby sees it. He runs after them to give the diamond but they had already left. Finding that it was
the missing diamond he had informed Van King. The stranger was none other than the owner of the
diamond.
Appearances can be often deceptive. The golden rule, however, is that there is no golden rule!
She puts two and two together. But very soon she discovers her mistake and feels guilty. And All is
well that ends well.
Conclusion: The comedy meets all the qualities of a One-Act Play. The characters are just a few and
the three unities of time, place and theme are meticulously observed.
*******************All The Best*******************

Final SR Inter English 26-12-23

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SECOND YEAR ENGLISH INSTANT ANSWERS (40 MARKS )

Short Story – 1 : THE WOMAN ON PLATFORM NO – 8

Answer the following in about 100 word each. 4M

1|Page MUTHU RAMAN

Answer the following in about 100 word each. 4M

2. Analyse the character of Della.

3.* Sketch the character of Jim.

4. A Gift for Christmas’s is an execute of O Henry’s Comic irony. Justify. (June-2023)

2|Page MUTHU RAMAN

3|Page MUTHU RAMAN

Answer the following in about 100 word each. 4M

1. Attempt the character sketch of the lady in the story lost.

3. What was the baron’s wish? Was it fulfilled? Explain. (Mar-2023)

4. Write the character of the baron.

4|Page MUTHU RAMAN

Answer the following in about 100 word each. 4M

Conclusion: The short story by Richard Gordon is witty and apparently

5|Page MUTHU RAMAN

Poem – 1: GOOD BYE PARTY FOR MISS PUSPHA T S

7|Page MUTHU RAMAN

Answer the following in about 100 word each.

8|Page MUTHU RAMAN

Annotate the following in about 100 word each. 4M

1. The poetry of earth is never dead. (Mar-2023)

2.** He rests at ease beneath some pleasant weed.

9|Page MUTHU RAMAN

Answer the following in about 100 word each.

2.** According to Keats, when does one hear a cricket’s song?

3. When does a Grasshopper sing?

Annotate the following in about 100 word each. 4M

1.** I knock and yet remain unseen

2. I am seven now as I was then

When children die they do not grow.

3. I ask for nothing for myself

For I am dead for I am dead (Mar-2023)

4.** All that I need is that for peace

You fight today you fight today

Answer the following in about 100 word each. 4M

1. What is the theme of the poem Hiroshima Child?

4. ‘I ask for nothing for myself’

Why do you think the child asked nothing for herself?

Annotate the following in about 100 word each. 4M

1.*** Who kneel in thy presence to serve and adore thee.

2.*** Awaken and sever the woes that enthrall us

3. Never shall we fail thee, forsake thee or falter

4. _______ _______ _____ Hearken ,

O queen and O goddess, we hail thee!

Answer the following in about 100 word each. 4M

Annotate the following in about 100 word each. 4M

2. And in front of her, she sees an ocean.

Answer the following in about 100 word each. 4M

1. What is the central idea of the poem Fear? (June-2023)

3. How can one overcome fear, explain? (Mar-2023)

Lesson – 1 : HOW TO AVOID FOOLISH OPINIONS

IPE Q.NO – 3 : Question and answers

Answer the following in about 100 word each.

3. According to Russell, what is the only way to tackle self-pride? ( June-2023)

Answer the following in about 100 word each. 4M

Annotate the following in about 100 word each. 4M

2. One day your test will become the convention (June-2023)

Answer the following in about 100 word each. 4M

1. Describe the deportment of Dr. Vasudevan as the Professor of TCE.

4. List the advantages of plastic roads as described by Dr. Vasudevan.

4. ___ _ ___ Hearken ,

All The Best