LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT
Unit 5. Life and Love
The Looking Glass
Ways with words
A. Match the words with their meanings.
a. exhausted vi.
tired
b. apparent vii.
clear
c. vista
i. vision
d. undulating ii.
wavy
e. destined iii.
predetermined
f. stuffy v
suffocating, airless
g. restrain iv.
prevent, hinder
B. Write the meaning and word class of the following words. Then
use them in sentences of your own.
implore
meaning :
beg, Call upon in supplication; entreat
word class : verb
sentence :
She implored him with tears in her eyes to forgive her.
despair
meaning : A
state in which all hope is lost or absent
word class : noun
sentence :
He was then depressed and in despair.
beseech
meaning : implore,
beg
word class : verb
sentence : She
continued to beseech him not to disturb her.
eloquent
meaning : able
to express a feeling
word class : adjective
sentence : She
turned her eloquent eyes upon him.
whirl
meaning : a
state of confusion
word class : noun
sentence : My
thoughts are in a whirl.
egoism
meaning : Concern
for your own interests and welfare
word class : noun
sentence : The egoism of
an artist sometimes seems natural.
agony
meaning : extreme
physical and mental pain
word class : noun
sentence : The
family agony makes her job look less and less desirable.
delirious
meaning : marked
by uncontrolled excitement or emotion
word class : adjective
sentence : He's
so delirious he doesn't know where he is
delusive
meaning : not
real or true
word class : adjective
sentence : He
harbored the delusive hope that she would return his love.
compensate
meaning : to
provide something good to balance
word class : verb
sentence : Everybody
should be fairly compensated for what they do in life.
mortgage
meaning : a
conditional conveyance of property as security for the repayment of a loan
word class : noun
sentence : We
are having difficulty keeping up our mortgage payments.
brood
meaning : the
young of an animal cared for at one time
word class : noun
sentence : He
grew up among a lively brood of brothers and sisters.
prelude
meaning : something
that serves as a preceding event or introduces what follows
word class : noun
sentence : The
telephone rings and this marks the prelude to an unforeseen series of
catastrophes.
C. In the story, you saw the
words like ‘exhausted’ and ‘smiling’. They are used as adjectives. Adjectives
ending in –ing describe what someone or something is like, whereas adjectives
ending in –ed describe how someone feels. Compare:
|
My job is |
boring. |
|
interesting. |
|
|
tiring. |
|
|
satisfying. |
|
|
pleasing. |
|
I'm |
bored with my job. |
|
interested in my job. |
|
|
tired of doing my job. |
|
|
satisfied with my job. |
|
|
pleased with my job |
D. Choose the correct word.
a. Sarita was shocking/shocked to hear about
earthquake.
Sarita was shocked to hear
about earthquake.
b. I think that rainy days in winter are
depressing/depressed.
I think that rainy days in winter are depressing.
c. The football match was very exciting/excited. I
enjoyed it.
The football match was very exciting.
I enjoyed it.
d. The meals at Delight Café are satisfying/satisfied.
The meals at Delight Café are satisfying.
e. I've got nothing to do. I'm boring/bored.
I've got nothing to do. I'm bored.
f. Tanka is very good at telling funny stories. He can be very amusing/amused.
Tanka is very good at telling funny stories. He can be
very amusing.
g. The teacher's explanation was confusing/confused. Most of the students
didn't understand it.
The teacher's explanation was confusing.
Most of the students didn't understand it.
h. He is such a boring/bored person. He never wants to go out.
He is such a boring person. He
never wants to go out.
i. I will be surprising/surprised if she does well in
her test.
I will be surprised if she
does well in her test.
j. Are you interesting/interested in politics?
Are you interested in
politics?
E. Write the correct form of the adjective in the blanks as in
the example.
Example - Grammar rules
frustrate me. They're not logical. They are so frustrating.
a. They frustrate me but they don't bore me. I never
get …… when I study grammar.
They frustrate me but they don't bore me. I never
get bored when I study grammar.
b. If teachers want to interest the students, they
must use …… materials.
If teachers want to interest the students, they must
use interesting materials.
c. Certain stories interest almost everybody. For
example, most students are…in fairy tales.
Certain stories interest almost everybody. For
example, most students are interested in fairy tales.
d. Certain things frighten me, but I never get …… when I speak English.
Certain things frighten me, but I never get frightened when
I speak English.
e. If I get a good grade, that excites me. And if I get more than ninety
percent, I am really...
If I get a good grade, that excites me. And if I get
more than ninety percent, I am really excited.
Comprehension
Answer these questions.
a. Who was Nellie? What did she use to dream of?
Nellie was a young and pretty girl. She used to dream
of being married.
b. What was she doing with the looking glass?
She was gazing into the looking glass and dreamed her
pitiful future.
c. Why did she go to the doctor on one winter night?
She went to the doctor on one winter night because her
husband was sick.
d. What was Stepan Lukitch doing when she reached his bedroom?
Stepan Lukitch was lying on his bed when she reached
his bedroom.
e. Why was the doctor not ready to go to see her husband?
The doctor was not ready to go to see her husband
because he had been exhausted and ill.
f. Why did Stepan Lukitch suggest Nellie to go to the Zemstvo doctor?
Stepan Lukitch suggested Nellie to go to the Zemstvo
doctor because he was not feeling well.
g. Nellie said, “Come, perform that heroic deed! Have pity on us!" What
was that pity to be done?
It means the doctor's duty to treat Nellie’s husband.
h. When Nellie said, "I must have fallen asleep." What does it mean?
Nellie's saying means she is dreaming.
i. What is the main theme of the story?
The main theme of the story is loneliness.
Critical thinking
a. “The looking glass (mirror)” is used as a symbol in the
story. What does it symbolise?
In
the story, the looking glass symbolizes Nellie's imagination and her longing
for marriage, which serves as a pivotal element in unfolding the narrative. As
a single and unattached woman, Nellie yearns for love and happiness through
marriage, and the looking glass becomes her means of escape from the reality of
her current life. It represents her desire to see herself as a married woman,
fulfilling her romantic aspirations.
The
looking glass also acts as a window to Nellie's subconsciousness. Through her
dreams and reflections in the mirror, the story delves into her internal
conflicts and challenges in expressing her feelings to others. The mirror
becomes instrumental in bringing these hidden emotions to the surface, allowing
readers to understand her fears, helplessness, and yearning for a better life.
Furthermore,
the looking glass plays a significant role in the plot, as it reveals the
future. Nellie's dreams in the mirror take on a nightmarish quality, as she
grapples with the inability to find a solution to her problems. Chekhov
masterfully uses this object to add depth to the story, effectively showcasing
the inner turmoil that Nellie experiences.
The
looking glass acts as a metaphor for the larger theme of self-reflection and
self-discovery. Nellie uses it as a means to project her desires and hopes, but
it also forces her to confront her fears and anxieties. The mirror becomes a
powerful literary device that not only propels the narrative but also offers a
profound insight into Nellie's psyche.
Overall,
the looking glass is a crucial element in the story, contributing to its
success in engaging readers and conveying the complexity of Nellie's emotions
and aspirations. It embodies her dreams, fears, and inner conflicts, becoming a
vehicle for self-exploration and self-awareness. Chekhov's use of the looking
glass enhances the story's impact, making it a compelling portrayal of a
woman's internal struggles and desires.
b. Chekhov employs the magic trick in the story, using a very
elegant transition from reality to imagination to reality sequence. Discuss its
relevance to life of young people.
In
this captivating tale, the writer skillfully employs a magic trick, seamlessly
transitioning from reality to imagination and back again, creating a compelling
narrative that keeps readers engaged throughout. The story unfolds on New
Year's Eve, setting the stage for the transition that lies ahead.
The
narrative begins with the introduction of the protagonist, Nellie, a young
woman yearning for marriage, as she gazes into the mirror. The transition from
reality to imagination commences as her thoughts wander, and she delves into
her dreams and desires. The writer cleverly presents Nellie's imagination as a
separate realm, painting a vivid picture of her future, which initially appears
idealistic with love and a caring husband. However, the story takes a dramatic
turn as Nellie's vision takes a chilling twist, revealing a desperate attempt
to save her husband from the clutches of typhus.
As
the narrative progresses, the action becomes more distinct, and the readers are
skillfully led into the realm of Nellie's imagination. This elegant transition
enhances the story's allure, drawing readers deeper into Nellie's inner world
and fears. Chekhov's brilliant storytelling leaves readers captivated as they
follow Nellie's emotional journey.
The
writer's clever use of the looking glass as a metaphor for self-reflection and
introspection adds depth to the narrative. Nellie's dreams in the mirror
represent her hopes, aspirations, and anxieties about marriage and her future.
The abrupt end to her reverie, symbolized by the falling looking glass,
signifies her return to reality. This transition back to the real world is a
powerful moment, as Nellie awakens from her imagination, offering a
thought-provoking glimpse into the human psyche and the boundary between dreams
and reality.
The
story beautifully captures the essence of youthful dreams and aspirations, as
well as the disillusionment that often accompanies the realization of harsh
realities. Nellie's initial naivety and high expectations of an idyllic life
through romance and marriage give way to a more profound understanding of
life's complexities, including the fragility of happiness and the inevitability
of hardship and loss.
In
essence, Chekhov masterfully weaves a tale of youthful yearning and the
collision of dreams with reality. The artful use of the magic trick, the
transition from reality to imagination, and back to reality, ensures that
readers are emotionally invested in Nellie's journey of self-discovery. This
poignant portrayal of life's intricacies leaves a lasting impression,
resonating with readers long after the story's conclusion.
Writing
Write a couple of paragraphs about an interesting dream that you
have had.
Terrified,
I awoke with beads of sweat trickling down my forehead after a haunting
nightmare. My heart pounded loudly in my chest as the remnants of the bad dream
lingered in my mind. The darkness of the night seemed to amplify my fears, and
I clutched the blankets tightly, seeking comfort from the unsettling visions.
Slowly, I reassured myself that it was only a dream, but the lingering sense of
dread refused to fade completely. Taking deep breaths, I tried to calm my
racing heart, grateful for the solace of reality and the relief that it was all
just a product of my imagination, which is as follows:
Salman
Shekh, my brother's close friend, was a shining star in academics throughout
his school and college years. With an exceptional track record, he achieved the
highest marks in both the S.L.C. (School Leaving Certificate) and plus two
exams, competing with the most talented students in his class. His dedication
to studies and hard work earned him a place in the first division when he
passed his B. Ed. 1st year.
Salman
was not only known for his academic prowess but also for his exemplary
behavior. He was admired by his teachers and beloved by his fellow students for
his amiable nature and powerful speeches. His eloquence in public speaking led
him to be selected for a prestigious speech competition in Kathmandu.
However,
tragedy struck as Salman's dreams took an unexpected turn. On his journey to
Kathmandu, he met with a life-altering accident that left him severely
disabled, losing both his hands and one leg. Despite surviving the accident, he
could no longer pursue his ambition of becoming a perfect English lecturer.
This cruel twist of fate shattered his dreams, leaving him with a heart full of
sorrow and disappointment.
Salman's
physical disability could not dim the brilliance of his mind, but it did impose
significant limitations on his ability to carry out his aspirations. It was
heartbreaking to witness a talented individual with acute knowledge and
potential rendered unable to fulfill his dreams due to circumstances beyond his
control.
Yet,
amid the trials and tribulations, Salman's spirit remained unbroken. He carries
with him the memories of the time when his life took an unexpected turn, when
all his plans went horribly wrong. Despite the challenges he faces, he remains
an inspiration to those who know him, proving that the human spirit can endure
even in the face of adversity.
Best of Luck
Extra Question
Read the PASSAGE
and answer the questions. [15]
Parsa wildlife reserve was established in 1984 with an area of 499 sq. km. It occupies parts of Chitwan, Makwanpur, Parsa and Bara districts in Central Nepal. The reserve headquarters is at Adhabar on the Hetauda-Birgunj highway (22 km. south of Hetauda and 20 km. north of Birgunj).
The reserve supports a good population of resident wild elephants, tigers, leopards, sloth bears, blue bulls, and wild dogs. Other common animals are sambar, chital, hog deer, barking deer, langur, striped hyena, palm civet, and jungle cat. There are nearly 300 species of birds in the reserve. The Giant Hornbill is one of the endangered species to be found in certain forest patches. Peafowl, red jungle fowl, flycatchers, and woodpeckers are a few of the other common birds found in the reserve.
The reserve is accessible by bus via the Kathmandu-Birgunj highway or the Mahendra Rajmarg. The reserve headquarters are an 8-hour drive from Kathmandu. Simara airport is 7 km. away from the reserve headquarters. It takes only 15 minutes to reach Simara from Kathmandu by Plane.
FORE MORE INFORMATION
CONTACT
Reserve Headquarters Adhabar or
Department of National a Parks,
Babar Mahal, Kathmandu
P.O.Box 860
Telephone: 220859, 220912, 227926
|
Fees
foreigners Nepali Entrance 650/- 10/- Camping 1 night, 1 person 300/- 20/- Elephants riders 1 hour, 1 person 650/- 100/- Children below 10 years free entrance. Flora and fauna of the reserve are fully protected and must not be disturbed. Rubbish must be buried or disposed of in a designated place. |
1. Answer the following questions:
a) Does
it have the entrance fee for the visitors?
b) How
big is Parsa Wildlife Reserve?
c) How
can you get more information about the reserve?
d) How
many kinds of birds are found in the reserve? Which one of them is rare?
e) In
which development region is the reserve situated?
f)
Mention three common and
three uncommon animals in the reserve?
g) What
do you mean by “Flora and fauna’?
h) What
is the area of the reserve?
i)
Where is Adhabar? What is
its importance?
j)
Where is its headquarter?
k) Which
animals are found in the reserve?
l)
Which is the nearest airport
from the reserve?
2. Write ‘T’ for true and ‘F’ for false for the following statements:
a) 300
species of animals are found in the reserve.
b) Adhabar
is 22 km. north of Birgunj.
c) Animals
and plants of the reserve must not be disturbed.
d) Camping
in the reserve is prohibited for foreigners.
e) It
is between Hetauda and Birgunj.
f)
It is only in Parsa
district.
g) It
is situated at central Nepal.
h) It
occupies parts of Chitwan, Makwanpur, Rautahat, Bara and Parsa.
i)
It was established more than
35 years ago.
j)
Rubbish must be thrown in to
a designated place.
k) The
Giant Hornbill is found everywhere in the forest.
l)
The reserve extends in more
than one district.
m) The
reserve’s headquarter is at Hetauda.
3. Find the words or phrases in the poem that are opposite to the following words:
a) domestic
b) exactly
c) footpath
d) hunting area
e) partially
f) rare
g) walk
4. Find out the similar words from the above passage of the following words:
a) about/almost
b) ordinary
c) wild animals
d) put
under ground
e) completely
f)
waste material
g) given trouble
h) through
i) sorts/kinds
j)
helps
k) main road
l)
set up/built up
m) small area of forest
n) protected
area for wild life
o) may soon no longer exist
p) place
that can be reached
q) numbered
of animals living together
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