STORY
4. The Wish
by Roald Dahl
SUMMARY
"The
Wish" by Roald Dahl is a delightful and imaginative short story that takes
readers on a journey through the mind of a young child. The story revolves
around an unnamed child who, while sitting on the front door stairs examining a
scab on his kneecap, gets distracted by a large red carpet laid out on the
floor inside the house.
As
the child looks at the red carpet, he begins to imagine an elaborate and
adventurous game. In his mind, the red spots on the carpet become burning coals
that can harm him, the black spots turn into poisonous snakes that can kill
him, and the yellow spots are the only safe zones where he can step without any
harm. The objective of the game is to cross the red carpet, stepping only on
the yellow spots, and reach the inside of the house, where he believes he will
be rewarded with a puppy on his birthday.
With
childlike innocence and enthusiasm, the young protagonist embarks on this
imaginative quest. He carefully and creatively navigates the carpet, making
sure to step only on the yellow spots, while avoiding the dangerous black spots
and the burning coals. The child's vivid imagination brings the story to life,
as he enacts this pretend journey, carefully planning his every step.
However,
as he reaches the halfway point, the child finds himself in a difficult
position. He needs to decide whether to continue on the left side, where the
path is more challenging but has fewer black spots, or to take the right side,
where there are more black spots but the path is easier. He chooses the left
side, narrowly avoiding touching a black spot, and continues on his journey.
With
every step, the child's excitement and apprehension grow, as he nears the final
stretch of the red carpet. But just as he takes a large step forward, his feet
land on wide spots, leaving him precariously balanced between the safe yellow
zones and the treacherous black spots. Struggling to maintain his balance, the
child tries to shift his weight and avoid touching the black spots, but he
eventually falls, crying out in fear.
At
this moment, the child's mother, who had been looking for him outside, calls
him back into the house. The child quickly gets up and runs to his mother,
leaving behind the red carpet and the imaginary game. His mother is unaware of
the daring adventure that her child had just undertaken, and the child keeps
the imaginative journey to himself.
"The
Wish" is a heartwarming tale that beautifully captures the innocence and
boundless imagination of children. Roald Dahl's masterful storytelling takes
readers on a charming and adventurous ride inside the mind of a young child,
where ordinary objects like a red carpet can transform into a thrilling and
magical world. Through this tale, Dahl reminds us of the joy and wonder that
lie within the realms of a child's imagination, as well as the pure and
innocent desires that shape their wishes.
Understanding the text
Answer the following questions.
a. What did the child do to the scab on his knee?
After
examining the scab on his knee, the child decided to remove it. With great
care, he used his fingernail to gently pick up the scab and then placed it on
his thigh. Curiously, he flipped the scab with his finger, perhaps out of sheer
curiosity or childlike wonder. This simple act of picking and flipping the scab
becomes the catalyst for the child's imaginative adventure as he becomes
enthralled by the colorful red carpet in front of him, setting the stage for
his playful and imaginative game of crossing the carpet to fulfill his wish of
getting a puppy on his birthday.
b. What kind of effect did the carpet have on the child?
The
red carpet had a mesmerizing effect on the child. Previously, he had never paid
much attention to it, but now he was captivated by its different colors. The
carpet seemed to come alive, dazzling him with its vibrant hues. The child's
imagination was sparked, and he found himself completely absorbed in the colors
and patterns of the carpet. Each color seemed to hold a different possibility,
leading him to create an imaginative game where he had to carefully navigate
the carpet's colors to reach his desired goal of getting a puppy for his
birthday. The red carpet transformed from an ordinary object into a magical
playground for the child's creativity and dreams.
c. What was he afraid of while walking across the carpet?
As
the child walked across the carpet, he was filled with fear and apprehension.
In his vivid imagination, he saw the red spots as burning coals that could scorch
him, and the black spots as poisonous snakes that could bite him. This made him
panic and hesitate as he carefully chose to step only on the yellow spots,
which he considered to be safe zones. The fear of being burnt or bitten added
an element of excitement and danger to his imaginative game, making the journey
across the carpet a challenging and nerve-wracking experience for the child. He
had to muster all his courage and wit to navigate through the imaginary perils
and reach his goal of getting a puppy for his birthday.
d. What motivated and encouraged the child to start and continue
on his journey?
The
child's strong desire to receive a puppy as a birthday gift motivated and
encouraged him to embark on the imaginative journey across the carpet. The
prospect of getting a puppy was so alluring to him that he created an elaborate
game with the carpet, where stepping on the right colors would lead him to his
cherished wish. The thought of having a puppy as a reward kept him focused and
determined throughout the journey, even when faced with the fear of the
imaginary dangers on the carpet. The child's longing for the puppy fueled his
determination to carefully choose the right steps and continue the journey,
despite the challenges and uncertainties that lay ahead.
e. What did the child see as he looked down on the black
patterns of the carpet?
As
the child looked down on the black patterns of the carpet, he saw the colors
brightening mysteriously, captivating his imagination. He became completely
absorbed in the various colors and patterns before him. In his imaginative
game, he perceived the black spots as dangerous and poisonous snakes, with
their oily bodies slithering and ready to attack him. The child's vivid
imagination brought the black patterns to life, and he felt the fear and panic
as if the snakes were real. This perception of danger added to the intensity of
his journey, making him more cautious and anxious to avoid stepping on the
black spots.
Reference to the context
a. The writer creates two voices in the story. Who are they?
The
two voices in the story are the third-person narrator and the inner thoughts of
the unnamed child protagonist.
b. Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that
follow.
“…the black parts are snakes, poisonous
snakes, adders mostly, and cobras, thick like tree-trunks around the middle,
and if I touch one of them, I'll be bitten and I'll die before tea time. And if
I get across safely, without being burnt and without being bitten, I will be
given a puppy for my birthday tomorrow.”
i.
What does ‘the black part’ mean?
The
black path means the difficulty, challenges and suffering in the journey.
ii.
Who is the speaker?
The
speaker was a young boy i.e the child.
iii.
Why doesn’t the speaker want to be burnt?
The
speaker doesn't want to be burnt because he wants to get a birthday gift as a
puppy tomorrow.
c. Which images and metaphors are used in the story?
In
"The Wish," Roald Dahl uses several vivid images and metaphors to
convey the child's imaginative journey. The scab on the knee symbolizes
the boy's curiosity and desire to venture ahead. The black parts of the
carpet, representing snakes, portray the hardships and challenges he faces in
life. The red patches on the carpet are likened to fire, symbolizing
danger and potential harm. Conversely, the yellow patches signify
happiness, relief, hopefulness, and self-confidence. The carpet serves as a metaphor
for the conflict in the child's life. The choices he makes on the carpet
represent the decisions we encounter in life. The right choices lead to a
smooth path, while the wrong ones result in difficulties and suffering. Through
these images and metaphors, Dahl explores the themes of decision-making,
risk-taking, and the imaginative nature of a child's mind.
d. Summarise the short story “The Wish” in about 200 words.
"The
Wish" by Roald Dahl is a short story that follows an unnamed child's
imaginative journey on a red carpet. The child, with a scab on his knee, sits
on the front door stairs and becomes intrigued by the different colors on the
carpet. In his imagination, he envisions a game where he must navigate the
carpet, stepping only on the yellow spots, avoiding the red (burning coals) and
black (poisonous snakes) ones.
Motivated
by the wish of receiving a puppy for his birthday, he embarks on the journey,
carefully choosing his steps. However, as he reaches the halfway point, he
panics and becomes stuck between the yellow and black spots. Desperate to
continue, he must decide whether to go left or right, facing the possibility of
being bitten by the snakes. In his vivid imagination, he pleads with the snake
not to bite him and makes a cautious choice to move left. With determination,
he manages to escape the black spots and continues on his journey. However, he
faces yet another tough decision when he has to choose between two wide-spaced
yellow spots.
Despite
the challenges, the child's imaginative game keeps him enthralled in the
moment. Unfortunately, the story leaves the reader wondering whether the child
successfully completes his journey and receives his puppy, or if the carpet's
imaginary world proves too difficult to conquer. Dahl masterfully captures the
essence of a child's imagination and curiosity, leaving the reader with a sense
of wonder and intrigue.
e. The story shows the events through the eyes of the narrator
and the child. Comparing the two styles, who presents a more interesting or
effective view for the readers? Why?
The
child's perspective presents a more interesting and effective view for the
readers. Through the child's eyes, we are taken on an imaginative journey full
of challenges, fears, and determination. The child's vivid imagination and
innocent curiosity make the story engaging and relatable. We can empathize with
the child's desire for the puppy and feel the excitement and anxiety as he
navigates the red carpet. The child's perspective also adds a sense of suspense
and uncertainty to the story. We are left wondering whether he will
successfully complete the journey and receive his birthday wish. His struggles
and triumphs resonate with the readers, making the story more captivating and
memorable.
In
contrast, the narrator's perspective may provide a more objective view of the
events, but it lacks the emotional depth and connection that the child's
perspective offers. The child's voice allows us to experience the story on a
more personal level, making it a more interesting and effective narrative for
the readers.
f. Is “The Wish” a story about self-confidence overcoming fear
or about greed? Give your arguments.
"The
Wish" is indeed a story about self-confidence overcoming fear rather than
about greed. The child's journey across the red carpet is not driven by greed
but by his innocent wish for a birthday gift, a puppy. His self-confidence is
evident as he meticulously plans his path, avoiding the red and black spots,
and stepping only on the yellow safe zones. He faces his fears of the imaginary
snakes and coals with determination, showing courage and resilience in the face
of challenges.
Greed
would imply a selfish and excessive desire for something material, but the
child's wish for a puppy is innocent and heartfelt. It is more about his
longing for companionship and joy on his birthday. The story emphasizes the
child's imaginative and adventurous spirit, and his willingness to take risks
to achieve his goal, even though he eventually falls short. "The
Wish" teaches us about the power of self-confidence, determination, and
the importance of facing fears to accomplish our dreams. It highlights the
innocence and curiosity of childhood, making it a heartwarming tale of growth
and courage.
Reference beyond the text
a. Do you think our wish can be fulfilled? Why or why not?
Fulfilling
our wishes and desires is not always guaranteed. It requires effort,
determination, and sometimes even a stroke of luck. While some wishes may come
true with relative ease, others may demand hard work and perseverance. It's
crucial to make thoughtful decisions, as the right choices lead us to the path
that can fulfill our needs and desires.
Life
is a journey of aspirations and goals, but not all dreams are realized. Disappointment
may arise when we encounter unfulfilled wishes. However, it is essential to
remember that not everything is within our control. Despite our efforts,
external circumstances may influence the outcome.
Sometimes,
our wishes are driven by unrealistic expectations or impulsive desires, and
they may not align with our life's purpose or values. It's crucial to
differentiate between fleeting wants and deeper aspirations that truly resonate
with our hearts.
In
the pursuit of fulfillment, hard work and determination play a significant
role. Instead of being disheartened by unmet wishes, we should focus on
continuous growth and improvement. Every step we take towards our goals, even
if it's small, contributes to our progress.
Additionally,
it's vital to have gratitude for what we already have. Gratefulness brings
contentment and can lessen the impact of unfulfilled wishes. Embracing a
positive outlook helps us navigate the challenges and setbacks that may come
our way.
Moreover,
seeking support from loved ones and mentors can provide guidance and
encouragement during challenging times. Sharing our wishes and aspirations with
others fosters a sense of accountability and motivation to keep pushing
forward.
Above
all, having faith in a higher power or the universe can provide comfort and
solace. Sometimes, life takes unexpected turns that may lead to better outcomes
than we originally envisioned. Trusting in the process and believing that
everything happens for a reason can ease the burden of unfulfilled wishes.
In
conclusion, fulfilling our wishes is not guaranteed, but that does not mean we
should stop dreaming or trying. A balanced approach of hard work, gratitude,
and faith can empower us to pursue our desires and lead fulfilling lives,
regardless of whether all our wishes come true.
b. Why do you think some people might have a frightening nature?
What would you suggest to them to overcome it?
People
with a frightening nature often struggle with self-confidence, leading them to
feel anxious and afraid in various situations. This lack of self-assurance can
stem from past experiences, negative self-perceptions, or external influences.
Overcoming a frightening nature requires a proactive and gradual approach to
build confidence and resilience. Here are some suggestions to help individuals
address their fears and develop a more confident mindset:
a.
Self-Reflection: Understanding the root cause of fear is crucial. Engaging in
self-reflection and introspection can reveal the underlying beliefs and thought
patterns contributing to the frightening nature. Identifying triggers and
patterns helps individuals gain insight into their fears, allowing them to
challenge and reframe negative thoughts.
b.
Positive Visualization: Encouraging individuals to use their imagination in
positive ways can be empowering. Engaging in guided visualizations where they
envision themselves handling challenging situations with confidence and success
can build self-assurance and reduce fear.
c.
Cognitive Reframing: Encouraging individuals to challenge their negative
thought patterns and replace them with more positive and realistic beliefs is
essential. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques can be helpful in
changing fearful thinking into constructive thoughts.
d.
Breathing and Mindfulness: Practicing deep breathing and mindfulness techniques
can help individuals manage anxiety and fear. Deep breathing exercises activate
the body's relaxation response, reducing stress and promoting a sense of
calmness.
e.
Exposure Therapy: Gradual exposure to fear-inducing situations in a controlled
and supportive environment can desensitize individuals to their fears. This
approach helps build resilience and confidence as they experience success in
facing their fears.
f.
Seek Support: Encourage individuals to seek support from friends, family, or
professionals. Talking openly about fears can alleviate the burden and provide
valuable insights and encouragement.
g.
Embrace Nature: Spending time in nature can have a calming effect on the mind
and body. Nature walks, meditation, or engaging in outdoor activities can
reduce stress and anxiety, contributing to a more relaxed and confident
mindset.
h.
Set Realistic Goals: Encourage individuals to set achievable goals and
celebrate their accomplishments, no matter how small. Success breeds
confidence, and achieving even minor goals can boost self-esteem.
i.
Seek Professional Help: For severe or persistent frightening nature, seeking
professional help from a therapist or counselor trained in anxiety management
can be highly beneficial. A mental health professional can provide personalized
strategies and support.
A
frightening nature can be attributed to a lack of self-confidence, but with
determination and the right approach, it is possible to overcome it.
Encouraging self-reflection, positive visualization, cognitive reframing,
mindfulness, gradual exposure, seeking support, embracing nature, and setting
realistic goals are effective strategies to develop self-confidence and face
fears with courage and strength.
c. Write a folktale that you have heard or read.
Once
upon a time in a small village, there lived a young boy named Kalu. Kalu was
known for his mischievous and lying nature. He had a small herd of sheep and
goats that he tended to every day. However, Kalu was lazy and often neglected
his duties, leaving his flock unattended while he played games with his
friends.
One
day, Kalu decided to play a trick on his fellow villagers. He went to the
village square and shouted, "Help! Help! A tiger is attacking my sheep and
goats!" The villagers rushed to Kalu's aid, only to find him laughing
mischievously. "It was just a prank," he said, enjoying the
attention.
The
villagers were annoyed with Kalu's lying nature, but they decided to give him
one more chance. They warned him not to lie again and to take his
responsibilities seriously. Kalu promised to change his ways and took his sheep
and goats back to the grazing fields.
However,
Kalu couldn't resist the temptation to lie again. A few days later, he shouted,
"Help! Help! A group of wolves is attacking my flock!" The villagers
rushed to his aid, only to find Kalu laughing once more. This time, they were
furious with him for wasting their time and resources.
One
wise farmer, who had been observing Kalu's behavior, decided to teach him a
lesson. He approached Kalu and said, "If you keep lying, no one will
believe you when you are in real trouble. Lying is a dangerous habit that can
lead to serious consequences."
Kalu
realized the gravity of his actions and felt guilty for deceiving the
villagers. He decided to mend his ways and promised never to lie again. From
that day on, Kalu became responsible and attentive towards his flock. He worked
hard to ensure their safety and well-being.
Unfortunately,
Kalu's past actions came back to haunt him. One fateful day, while he was
grazing his sheep and goats in the forest, a real tiger appeared. Kalu was
terrified and screamed for help, but this time, no one believed him. The
villagers thought it was just another prank and ignored his cries.
Tragically,
the tiger attacked Kalu's flock, killing all his sheep and goats. Kalu was
devastated, realizing the consequences of his lying nature. He regretted not
learning his lesson earlier and wished he had been truthful from the beginning.
The
moral of the story is that lying can have serious consequences and can lead to
loss of trust and credibility. Kalu's lying nature cost him dearly, and he
learned the importance of honesty and responsibility the hard way. It is
essential always to speak the truth and be honest in our actions, as honesty is
a virtue that earns respect and trust from others.
Best of Luck
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