THINK ABOUT IT

Page 6

Q1. What are the things the child sees on his way to the fair? Why does he lag behind?
Answer: On his way to the fair, the child sees many things that fascinate him. He is captivated by the toys in the shops, the flowering mustard field, the dragon-flies, the insects and worms on the footpath, a shower of young flowers, and cooing doves. He lags behind because he is constantly distracted and drawn to these beautiful sights.

Q2. In the fair he wants many things. What are they? Why does he move on without waiting for an answer?
Answer: In the fair, the child wants to buy a burfi from the sweetmeat seller, a garland of gulmohur from the flower seller, a rainbow-coloured balloon, and a ride on the roundabout. He moves on without waiting for an answer from his parents because he knows from their “old, cold stare of refusal” that they will say no. He anticipates their refusal and chooses to move on to avoid being disappointed or scolded.

Q3. When does he realise that he has lost his way? How have his anxiety and insecurity been described?
Answer: The child realizes he has lost his way when he makes a bold request to his parents for a ride on the roundabout and turns to find that they are not there. His anxiety and insecurity are described with a sudden, deep cry rising in his throat. He runs in all directions, “hither and thither,” crying “Mother, Father.” He is panic-stricken, his face is “convulsed with fear,” and tears roll down his eyes. His clothes become muddy, and his sobbing lingers even as he stands defeated.

Q4. Why does the lost child lose interest in the things that he had wanted earlier?
Answer: The lost child loses interest in the things he had wanted earlier because his fear and panic have completely taken over. His desire for sweets, flowers, balloons, and a ride on the roundabout is insignificant compared to his desperate need to be reunited with his parents. The presence of his parents is all that matters to him now, and all the attractions of the fair cannot soothe his immense distress.

Q5. What do you think happens in the end? Does the child find his parents?
Answer: The story leaves the ending open, but it is implied that the man who finds the child will likely help him find his parents. The man tries to calm the child and takes him to the different places he wanted to go, which shows he is kind and sympathetic. With the help of this stranger and possibly the authorities, the child will eventually be reunited with his parents. The story’s focus is on the child’s journey of wanting material things to realizing the immeasurable value of his parents’ presence.