Frederic Ogden Nash (August , – May , ) was an American poet well known for his light verse, of which he wrote over pieces. With his unconventional rhyming schemes, he was declared the country’s best-known producer of humorous poetry. His light verse even earned him a place on a postage stamp. Glossary: jockey – horse rider prize ring – enclosed area in which boxing matches are fought tackle, center – playing positions in football gaudy pomp – showy dress maim – injure romp – play in a rough and noisy way limp – weak bashful – shy and reluctant lashes – beats with a whip steed – a large, strong horse swap – exchange zealous – enthusiastic prudence – wisdom gnarled – rough and twisted physique – body drink to you – drink to wish good luck or celebrate success gambol – run or jump happily .
Based on your understanding of the poem, answer the following questions in a sentence or two. a. Why does the poet feel glad that he does not play any game? b.
Do you think the narrator is heroic? Why? c. The poet is satisfied just watching the heroic deeds of others.
What could be the reason? d. The poet does not wish to exchange position with the runners. Why?
e. Are the athletes conscious of the feelings of others? Why do you say so? f.
Why would the referee ask whether there was a doctor in the stands? What stands is he referring to? g. Why does the poet prefer to buy tickets worth their weight in radium?
Bring out the significance of the metal referred to here. . Read the poem again and complete the summary using the words given in the box. In the poem ‘Confessions of a Born Spectator,’ Ogden Nash talks about how people choose different sports in their lives or decide to become athletes.
While admiring the talents of athletes and sportsmen, the poet (i) About the Author -B-Poem-Confessions of a Born - - :