. A. Interpret each of the following expressions used in the poem, in one or two lines. i.
laugh with their eyes ii. shake hands without hearts iii. like a fixed portrait smile iv. hands search my empty pockets v.
to unlearn all these muting things B. Read the lines given below and answer the questions that follow. i. ‘But now they only laugh with their teeth, While their ice-block-cold eyes…’ a) Who are ‘they’?
b) Explain: ice-block-cold eyes c) Identify the figure of speech used here. ii. ‘Most of all, I want to relearn How to laugh, for my laugh in the mirror Shows only my teeth like a snake’s bare fangs!’ a) Why does the poet want to relearn how to laugh? b) Whom does the poet want to relearn from?
c) Mention the figure of speech used here. C. Explain the following lines with reference to the context. i.
Once upon a time, son They used to laugh with their hearts: ii. There will be no thrice. iii. I have learned to wear my faces Like dresses … iv.
I want to be what I used to be. . Answer the following questions in about – words each. i.
Explain the things the poet has learnt when he grew into an adult. ii. This poem is nothing but a criticism of modern life. Justify this statement.
iii. ‘Face is the index of the mind.’ Does this adage concur with the views of the poet? . Listening Activity First read the questions given below.
Next, listen to an excerpt from a poem read out by your teacher or played in a recorder. Note how a child admires and praises the abilities of his/her father. Then tick the right answers from the options given. i) When the to be repaired, they have to hire a man.
a) heater b) furnace c) stove d) oven ii) Father knows no word . a) fail b) frail c) jail d) snail iii) It is certain that the father would restore the the family members. a) glory b) prosperity c) confidence d) happiness iv) The father will not be able to mend a . a) table b) bench c) chair d) stool v) The children expect their to guide them in action.
a) mother b) father c) teacher d) guardian -B-Poem-Once upon a - - :