The Home-Coming: Part 2 Summary, Glossary & Question Answers Page 97 & 98,

The Home-Coming: Part 2 

By Rabindranath Tagore

Text

His mother took Makhan's side in a moment, and pulled Phatik away, beating him with her hands. When Phatik pushed her aside, she shouted out "What! you little villain! Would you hit your own mother?"

It was just at this critical juncture that the grey-haired stranger arrived. He asked what the matter was. Phatik looked sheepish and ashamed.

But when his mother stepped back and looked at the stranger, her anger was changed to surprise. For she recognised her brother, and cried: "Why, Dada! Where have you come from?" As she said these words, she bowed to the ground and touched his feet. Her brother had gone away soon after she had married, and he had started business in Bombay. His sister had lost her husband while he was in Bombay. Bishamber had now come back to Calcutta, and had at once made enquiries about his sister. He had then hastened to see her as soon as he found out where she was.

The next few days were full of rejoicing. The brother asked after the education of the two boys. He was told by his sister that Phatik was a perpetual nuisance. He was lazy, disobedient, and wild. But Makhan was as good as gold, as quiet as a lamb, and very fond of reading, Bishamber kindly offered to take Phatik off his sister's hands, and educate him with his own children in Calcutta. The widowed mother readily agreed. When his uncle asked Phatik if he would like to go to Calcutta with him, his joy knew no bounds, and he said, "Oh, yes, uncle!" In a way that made it quite clear that he meant it.

It was an immense relief to the mother to get rid of Phatik. She had a prejudice against the boy, and no love was lost between the two brothers. She was in daily fear that he would either drown Makhan some day in the river, or break his head in a fight, or run him into some danger or other. At the same time, she was somewhat distressed to see Phatik's extreme eagerness to get away.

Phatik, as soon as all was settled, kept asking his uncle every minute when they were to start. He was on pins and needles all day long with excitement, and lay awake most of the night. He bequeathed to Makhan, in perpetuity, his fishing-rod, his big kite and his marbles. Indeed, at this time of departure his generosity towards Makhan was unbounded.

When they reached Calcutta, Phatik made the acquaintance of his aunt for the first time. She was by no means pleased with this unnecessary addition to her family. She found her own three boys quite enough to manage without taking on anyone else. And to bring a village lad of fourteen into their midst was terribly upsetting. Bishamber should really have thought twice before committing such an indiscretion.

In this world of human affairs, there is no worse nuisance than a boy at the age of fourteen. He is neither ornamental, nor useful. It is impossible to shower affection on him as on a little boy; and he is always getting in the way. If he talks with a childish lisp, he is called a baby, and if he answers in a grown-up way, he is called impertinent. In fact, any talk at all from him is resented. Then he is at the unattractive, growing age. He grows out of his clothes with indecent haste; his voice grows hoarse and breaks and quavers, his face grows suddenly angular and unsightly. It is easy to excuse the shortcomings of early childhood, but it is hard to tolerate even unavoidable lapses in a boy of fourteen. The lad himself becomes painfully self-conscious. When he talks with elderly people, he is either unduly forward, or else so unduly shy that he appears ashamed of his very existence.

Yet it is at this very age when in his heart of hearts a young lad most craves for recognition and love, and he becomes the devoted slave of any one who shows him consideration. But none dare openly love him, for that would be regarded as undue indulgence, and therefore bad for the boy. So, what with scolding and chiding, he becomes very much like a stray dog that has lost his mother.

Glossary

sheepish–showing embarrassment or shame

recognised–identified someone or something seen before

bowed–bent the body as a sign of respect

enquiries–questions or investigations to get information

perpetual–never-ending; continuous

nuisance–someone or something causing annoyance or trouble

disobedient–not willing to obey rules or authority

fond–having affection or liking for someone or something

prejudice–unfair dislike or opinion formed without reason

distressed–upset or troubled

eagerness–keen interest or excitement

on pins and needles–very anxious or excited waiting for something

bequeathed–left something to someone after death or departure

perpetuity–lasting forever

acquaintance–someone you have met but do not know well

by no means–not at all

addition–something or someone added

terribly upsetting–causing great discomfort or trouble

indiscretion–lack of good judgment or care

ornamental–decorative but not useful

impertinent–rude or disrespectful

unattractive–not pleasing in appearance

indecent haste–too much speed without care

quavers–shakes or trembles

angular–having sharp corners or edges; not smooth

shortcomings–faults or failures

laps–small mistakes or errors

self-conscious–uncomfortably aware of oneself and how one appears

unduly–too much; excessively

forward–too bold or confident in manner

shy–nervous and uncomfortable with others

craves–strongly desires

recognition–acknowledgment or approval

consideration–kind and thoughtful regard for others

indulgence–too much leniency or kindness

chiding–scolding or rebuking gently

stray–wandering without home or owner

Paraphrase

Phatik’s mother instantly took Makhan’s side during their quarrel. She pulled Phatik away and started beating him. When Phatik pushed her aside, she shouted angrily, asking if he would dare to strike his own mother. At that very tense moment, a grey-haired stranger arrived and asked what was happening. Phatik felt ashamed and embarrassed. When his mother turned and saw the stranger, she was astonished—it was her brother, Bishamber. She immediately bowed and touched his feet with respect. After her marriage, her brother had gone to Bombay, where he had started a business. During his absence, she had lost her husband. Bishamber had recently returned to Calcutta, found her address, and come to visit her.

For the next few days, the family was very happy. Bishamber asked about his nephews’ education. His sister complained that Phatik was a constant source of trouble—lazy, disobedient, and wild—while Makhan was obedient, quiet, and fond of reading. Out of kindness, Bishamber offered to take Phatik to Calcutta and educate him with his own children. The widowed mother readily agreed. When Phatik was asked if he wanted to go, his joy was unbounded. The mother felt great relief at sending him away, as she had always been biased against him and feared he might harm Makhan or cause accidents. Yet she also felt uneasy seeing his great eagerness to leave.

Phatik could hardly contain his excitement. He repeatedly asked his uncle when they would depart, and he could not sleep that night. Before leaving, he generously gifted Makhan his fishing-rod, big kite, and marbles forever.

When they reached Calcutta, Phatik met his aunt for the first time. She was displeased at having him there, as she already had three sons to manage. Bringing a fourteen-year-old village boy into their city home felt like a great inconvenience. She thought Bishamber had acted foolishly by bringing him.

The narrator then comments that a boy of fourteen is often seen as the worst nuisance in society—neither attractive like a small child nor useful like a grown man. Whatever he says is misunderstood; if he speaks like a child, he is mocked as a baby; if he speaks maturely, he is called impudent. He grows awkwardly, with a breaking voice and angular face, and people find it hard to forgive his faults. Yet at that age, he most needs affection and understanding. But since people usually scold him instead, he becomes lonely and unloved—like a stray dog that has lost its mother.

यह रहा रवीन्द्रनाथ टैगोर की कहानी घर वापसी (The Home-Coming) के पृष्ठ 97 और 98, भाग 2 का हिंदी अनुवाद —

घर वापसी

रवीन्द्रनाथ टैगोर द्वारामाँ ने तुरंत माखन का पक्ष लिया, और फतिक को पकड़कर अपने हाथों से मारने लगी। जब फतिक ने उन्हें परे धकेला, तो वह चिल्लाईं, "क्या! तू छोटा दुष्ट! क्या अपनी ही माँ को मारेगा?

"इसी नाजुक मौके पर वह सफेद बालों वाला अनजान व्यक्ति वहाँ पहुँचा। उसने पूछा, "क्या बात है?" फतिक शर्मिंदा हो गया और सिर झुका लिया।

परंतु जब फतिक की माँ थोड़ी पीछे हटीं और उस व्यक्ति को ध्यान से देखा, तो उनके गुस्से की जगह विस्मय ने ले ली। उन्होंने उसे पहचान लिया और कहा, "अरे दादा! आप कहाँ से आए!" यह कहकर वह झुककर उसके पैर छूने लगीं। उनका भाई उनके विवाह के कुछ ही समय बाद बंबई चला गया था और वहीं अपना कारोबार शुरू किया था। जब वह बंबई में था, तब उसकी बहन ने अपना पति खो दिया था। अब बिषंबर कलकत्ता लौट आया था, और आते ही उसने अपनी बहन के बारे में पूछताछ की थी। जब उसे उसका पता मिला, तो वह तुरंत उससे मिलने चला आया।

अगले कुछ दिन खुशी और उत्सव से भरे रहे। भाई ने दोनों लड़कों की पढ़ाई-लिखाई के बारे में पूछा। बहन ने बताया कि फतिक हमेशा झंझट में पड़ा रहता है। वह आलसी, अवज्ञाकारी और उच्छृंखल है। लेकिन माखन बहुत अच्छा लड़का है—सीधा, शांत, और किताबें पढ़ने का शौकीन। बिषंबर ने स्नेहपूर्वक कहा कि वह फतिक को अपने साथ कलकत्ता ले जाएगा और अपने बच्चों के साथ उसे भी पढ़ाएगा। विधवा माँ तुरंत मान गईं।

जब मामा ने फतिक से पूछा कि क्या वह उनके साथ कलकत्ता जाना चाहेगा, तो उसकी खुशी का ठिकाना न रहा। वह बोला, "ओह हाँ, मामा!" ऐसी प्रसन्नता से जो बताती थी कि वह पूरे मन से जाना चाहता है।

माँ को फतिक से छुटकारा पाकर बहुत राहत मिली। उसे बेटे के प्रति एक प्रकार की पूर्वाग्रह था, और दोनों भाइयों में कभी प्रेम नहीं रहा। उसे रोज़ यह डर सताता कि कहीं फतिक माखन को नदी में डुबो न दे, या झगड़े में उसका सिर न फोड़ दे, या उसे किसी और मुसीबत में न डाल दे। फिर भी, जब उसने फतिक को कलकत्ता जाने के लिए इतने उत्साह से उतावला देखा, तो उसे थोड़ी कसक भी हुई।

जैसे ही सब तय हो गया, फतिक हर पल अपने मामा से पूछता रहा कि वे कब चलेंगे। वह पूरे दिन बेचैनी में रहा और रात को उत्साह से जागता रहा। उसने माखन को अपनी मछली पकड़ने की छड़ी, अपनी बड़ी पतंग और कंचों का पूरा संग्रह हमेशा के लिए दे दिया। उस वक्त विदाई के समय उसकी उदारता की कोई सीमा न रही।

जब वे कलकत्ता पहुँचे, तो फतिक पहली बार अपनी मामी से मिला। वह परिवार में इस अनावश्यक जोड़ से बिल्कुल प्रसन्न नहीं हुईं। उनके अपने तीन बच्चे ही संभालना उनके लिए पर्याप्त कठिन था; ऐसे में किसी और को जोड़ लेना उन्हें बहुत खलने लगा। उन्हें लगा कि बिषंबर को एक चौदह वर्षीय गाँव के लड़के को घर लाने से पहले दो बार सोचना चाहिए था।

मानव समाज में चौदह वर्ष की उम्र का लड़का सबसे बड़ी मुसीबत होता है। न तो वह देखने में शोभनीय होता है, न किसी काम का। न तो उस पर छोटे बच्चे की तरह स्नेह बरसाया जा सकता है, और न वह वयस्कों में गिना जा सकता है। वह सदा सबके रास्ते में आता है। यदि वह बालसुलभ ढंग से बात करे, तो उसे बच्चा कहा जाता है; और यदि समझदारी की बात करे, तो उसे उद्दंड कहा जाता है। सच तो यह है कि उसकी कोई भी बात लोगों को अखरती है।

फिर वह ऐसी बढ़ती उम्र में होता है जब उसका शरीर अनगढ़ लगता है। कपड़े तुरंत छोटे हो जाते हैं, आवाज़ भारी होकर टूटने लगती है, चेहरा अचानक कोणीय और बदसूरत हो जाता है। बचपन की भूलों को लोग आसानी से माफ कर देते हैं, पर चौदह वर्ष के लड़के की छोटी-सी गलती भी असह्य लगती है।

लड़का स्वयं भी असहज हो जाता है। बुजुर्ग लोगों से बात करते समय या तो वह जरूरत से ज़्यादा आगे बढ़ जाता है, या फिर इतना झिझकता है कि जैसे अपने अस्तित्व पर ही शर्म हो।

पर इसी उम्र में एक लड़के के दिल के सबसे अंदर यह तीव्र चाह रहती है कि किसी से उसे सच्चा अपनापन और प्रेम मिले। और जो भी उसके साथ थोड़ी भी दया और स्नेह दिखा देता है, वह उसका मुरीद बन जाता है। किंतु कोई भी इसे खुलकर नहीं दिखाता, क्योंकि लोग इसे लाड़-प्यार मानते हैं, जो लड़के के लिए हानिकारक माना जाता है। इस प्रकार डांट-फटकार और उपेक्षा के बीच वह ऐसा हो जाता है जैसे कोई आवारा कुत्ता जो अपनी माँ को खो चुका हो।

Q.1. MCQs

1. Who did Phatik’s mother side with during the quarrel?

A) Phatik B) Makhan C) Both sons D) The stranger

Ans: B) Makhan

2. What did Phatik’s mother do when she took Makhan’s side?

A) Hugged Phatik B) Scolded Makhan C) Pulled Phatik away and beat him D) Called her brother

Ans: C) Pulled Phatik away and beat him

3. What did Phatik do when his mother beat him?

A) Cried loudly B) Ran away C) Pushed her aside D) Hit Makhan

Ans: C) Pushed her aside

4. What did Phatik’s mother exclaim when he pushed her?

A) “Stop it!” B) “You rude boy!” C) “What! you little villain! Would you hit your own mother?” D) “How dare you!”

Ans: C) “What! you little villain! Would you hit your own mother?”

5. Who arrived at the scene during the quarrel?

A) The teacher B) The father C) A grey-haired stranger D) A neighbor

Ans: C) A grey-haired stranger

6. What did the stranger ask when he arrived?

A) “Who are you?” B) “What’s the matter?” C) “Why are you crying?” D) “Where is your mother?”

Ans: B) “What’s the matter?”

7. How did Phatik feel when the stranger arrived?

A) Angry B) Proud C) Sheepish and ashamed D) Indifferent

Ans: C) Sheepish and ashamed

8. Who was the grey-haired stranger?

A) The teacher B) The father C) Bishamber, Phatik’s uncle D) A neighbour

Ans: C) Bishamber, Phatik’s uncle

9. How did Phatik’s mother react on recognizing the stranger?

A) She ignored him B) Her anger turned to surprise C) She shouted at him D) She wept loudly

Ans: B) Her anger turned to surprise

10. What did Phatik’s mother call the stranger?

A) Brother B) Uncle C) Dada D) Sir

Ans: C) Dada

11. What gesture did Phatik’s mother make to show respect?

A) Folded hands B) Touched his feet C) Saluted him D) Hugged him

Ans: B) Touched his feet

12. Where had Bishamber gone after his sister’s marriage?

A) Delhi B) Bombay C) Calcutta D) Madras

Ans: B) Bombay

13. What had Bishamber done in Bombay?

A) Worked as a clerk B) Started a business C) Became a teacher D) Joined the army

Ans: B) Started a business

14. What happened to Phatik’s mother while Bishamber was away?

A) She moved to Bombay B) She lost her husband C) She remarried D) She fell ill

Ans: B) She lost her husband

15. Where had Bishamber returned to before visiting his sister?

A) Delhi B) Bombay C) Calcutta D) Lucknow

Ans: C) Calcutta

16. How did Bishamber find his sister’s address?

A) From a letter B) By enquiring about her C) From her neighbour D) Through a friend

Ans: B) By enquiring about her

17. What were the next few days full of?

A) Quarrels B) Rejoicing C) Work D) Travel

Ans: B) Rejoicing

18. What did Bishamber ask his sister about?

A) Her health B) Her husband C) Her children’s education D) Her house

Ans: C) Her children’s education

19. How did the mother describe Phatik?

A) Gentle and kind B) Lazy, disobedient, and wild C) Intelligent and polite D) Quiet and obedient

Ans: B) Lazy, disobedient, and wild

20. How did the mother describe Makhan?

A) Mischievous B) Quiet and good as gold C) Lazy D) Disobedient

Ans: B) Quiet and good as gold

21. What offer did Bishamber make?

A) To take both boys B) To take Phatik to Calcutta and educate him C) To give money D) To build a school

Ans: B) To take Phatik to Calcutta and educate him

22. Did Phatik’s mother agree to the offer?

A) No B) Hesitatingly C) Yes, readily D) After thinking long

Ans: C) Yes, readily

23. How did Phatik react when invited to Calcutta?

A) Sad B) Angry C) Joyful D) Fearful

Ans: C) Joyful

24. What did Phatik say when asked if he wanted to go?

A) “No, mother.” B) “Let me stay.” C) “Oh, yes, uncle!” D) “I will think.”

Ans: C) “Oh, yes, uncle!”

25. How did the mother feel after agreeing?

A) Sad B) Relieved C) Guilty D) Proud

Ans: B) Relieved

26. Why was she relieved to send him away?

A) She didn’t love him B) She feared he might harm Makhan C) She wanted peace D) She was tired

Ans: B) She feared he might harm Makhan

27. What fear did the mother have?

A) He might drown or injure Makhan B) He might run away C) He might get lost D) He might steal

Ans: A) He might drown or injure Makhan

28. How did Phatik feel about leaving home?

A) Eager and excited B) Worried C) Angry D) Sad

Ans: A) Eager and excited

29. What did Phatik keep asking his uncle?

A) “What will I study?” B) “When will we go to Calcutta?” C) “Will Makhan come?” D) “Can I play?”

Ans: B) “When will we go to Calcutta?”

30. How did Phatik spend the night before departure?

A) Sleeping deeply B) Awake most of the night C) Reading D) Packing

Ans: B) Awake most of the night

31. What did Phatik give Makhan before leaving?

A) His toys B) His clothes C) His fishing-rod, kite, and marbles D) His books

Ans: C) His fishing-rod, kite, and marbles

32. What does “in perpetuity” mean?

A) For a while B) Forever C) Sometimes D) Temporarily

Ans: B) Forever

33. How was Phatik’s behaviour towards Makhan before leaving?

A) Angry B) Generous C) Rude D) Indifferent

Ans: B) Generous

34. Who did Phatik meet first in Calcutta?

A) His uncle B) His aunt C) His cousins D) His teacher

Ans: B) His aunt

35. How did the aunt feel about Phatik’s arrival?

A) Happy B) Sad C) Displeased D) Excited

Ans: C) Displeased

36. Why did the aunt dislike Phatik’s coming?

A) She didn’t like boys B) She had three boys already C) She wanted peace D) He was poor

Ans: B) She had three boys already

37. What kind of boy did she think Phatik was?

A) Polite city boy B) Wild village lad C) Studious D) Quiet

Ans: B) Wild village lad

38. What did the aunt think Bishamber should have done?

A) Refused him B) Thought twice before bringing Phatik C) Sent money D) Warned her

Ans: B) Thought twice before bringing Phatik

39. According to the narrator, what is the worst nuisance in human affairs?

A) A crying baby B) A boy of fourteen C) A lazy man D) A quarrelsome wife

Ans: B) A boy of fourteen

40. Why is a fourteen-year-old boy considered a nuisance?

A) He is neither ornamental nor useful B) He is too young C) He is noisy D) He is careless

Ans: A) He is neither ornamental nor useful

41. Why can’t people shower affection on him?

A) He disobeys them B) He is no longer a little child C) He argues too much D) He is lazy

Ans: B) He is no longer a little child

42. What happens if he talks with a childish lisp?

A) People laugh B) He is called cute C) He is called a baby D) He is ignored

Ans: C) He is called a baby

43. What happens if he speaks in a grown-up way?

A) He is praised B) He is called impertinent C) He is admired D) He is respected

Ans: B) He is called impertinent

44. Why is any talk from him resented?

A) He is rude B) He is at an awkward, growing age C) He talks too much D) He interrupts

Ans: B) He is at an awkward, growing age

45. How does the narrator describe his physical changes?

A) Fair and tall B) Voice breaks, face angular C) Handsome and mature D) Smart and cheerful

Ans: B) Voice breaks, face angular

46. Why are childhood lapses excused easily?

A) They are rare B) They are natural and innocent C) They are hidden D) They are unnoticed

Ans: B) They are natural and innocent

47. Why are lapses in a fourteen-year-old intolerable?

A) He is too old B) People expect maturity C) He hides mistakes D) He argues

Ans: B) People expect maturity

48. How does a fourteen-year-old feel among elders?

A) Equal B) Too forward or too shy C) Superior D) Relaxed

Ans: B) Too forward or too shy

49. What does a boy crave most at that age?

A) Toys B) Recognition and love C) Food D) Power

Ans: B) Recognition and love

50. What happens to a boy who gets only scolding?

A) He becomes quiet B) He becomes like a stray dog that lost his mother C) He becomes successful D) He studies more

Ans: B) He becomes like a stray dog that lost his mother

Q.2. One-Mark Questions

1. Who did Phatik’s mother take sides with during the quarrel?

Ans: She took Makhan’s side.

2. What did Phatik’s mother do to him when she took Makhan’s side?

Ans: She pulled him away and beat him with her hands.

3. What did Phatik do when his mother beat him?

Ans: He pushed her aside.

4. What did Phatik’s mother exclaim when he pushed her?

Ans: “What! you little villain! Would you hit your own mother?”

5. Who arrived at the scene during the quarrel?

Ans: A grey-haired stranger.

6. What did the stranger ask when he arrived?

Ans: He asked what the matter was.

7. How did Phatik feel when the stranger arrived?

Ans: He looked sheepish and ashamed.

8. Who was the grey-haired stranger?

Ans: He was Phatik’s maternal uncle, Bishamber.

9. How did Phatik’s mother react on recognizing the stranger?

Ans: Her anger turned to surprise.

10. What did Phatik’s mother call the stranger after recognizing him?

Ans: She called him “Dada.”

11. What gesture did Phatik’s mother make to show respect to her brother?

Ans: She bowed and touched his feet.

12. Where had Bishamber gone after his sister’s marriage?

Ans: He had gone to Bombay.

13. What had Bishamber done in Bombay?

Ans: He had started a business there.

14. What happened to Phatik’s mother while Bishamber was away?

Ans: She lost her husband.

15. Where had Bishamber returned to before visiting his sister?

Ans: He had returned to Calcutta.

16. How did Bishamber find his sister’s address?

Ans: He made enquiries about her.

17. What were the next few days full of?

Ans: They were full of rejoicing.

18. What did Bishamber ask his sister about?

Ans: The education of her two boys.

19. How did the mother describe Phatik to Bishamber?

Ans: As a perpetual nuisance—lazy, disobedient, and wild.

20. How did the mother describe Makhan?

Ans: As good as gold, quiet as a lamb, and fond of reading.

21. What offer did Bishamber make?

Ans: He offered to take Phatik to Calcutta and educate him.

22. Did Phatik’s mother agree to Bishamber’s offer?

Ans: Yes, she readily agreed.

23. How did Phatik react when his uncle invited him to Calcutta?

Ans: His joy knew no bounds.

24. What did Phatik say when asked if he wanted to go?

Ans: “Oh, yes, uncle!”

25. How did the mother feel after agreeing to send Phatik away?

Ans: She felt relieved.

26. Why was the mother relieved to send Phatik away?

Ans: She was prejudiced against him and feared he might harm Makhan.

27. What fear did the mother have about Phatik?

Ans: That he might drown or injure Makhan.

28. How did Phatik feel about leaving home?

Ans: Extremely eager and excited.

29. What did Phatik keep asking his uncle?

Ans: When they were going to start for Calcutta.

30. How did Phatik spend the night before departure?

Ans: He lay awake most of the night.

31. What did Phatik give Makhan before leaving?

Ans: His fishing-rod, big kite, and marbles.

32. What does “in perpetuity” mean in the text?

Ans: Forever or permanently.

33. How was Phatik’s behavior towards Makhan before leaving?

Ans: Very generous.

34. Who did Phatik meet for the first time in Calcutta?

Ans: His aunt.

35. How did the aunt feel about Phatik’s arrival?

Ans: She was displeased.

36. Why did the aunt dislike Phatik’s coming?

Ans: She already had three boys to manage.

37. What kind of boy did the aunt consider Phatik to be?

Ans: A troublesome village lad of fourteen.

38. What did the aunt think Bishamber should have done before bringing Phatik?

Ans: Thought twice before committing such an indiscretion.

39. According to the narrator, what is the worst nuisance in human affairs?

Ans: A boy of fourteen.

40. Why is a fourteen-year-old boy considered a nuisance?

Ans: He is neither ornamental nor useful.

41. Why can’t people shower affection on a fourteen-year-old boy?

Ans: Because he is no longer a little child.

42. What happens if the boy talks with a childish lisp?

Ans: He is called a baby.

43. What happens if the boy speaks in a grown-up way?

Ans: He is called impertinent.

44. Why is any talk from him resented?

Ans: Because he is at an awkward, growing age.

45. How does the narrator describe a boy’s physical changes at fourteen?

Ans: His voice breaks, his face becomes angular and unsightly.

46. Why are childhood lapses excused easily?

Ans: Because they are seen as natural and innocent.

47. Why are lapses in a fourteen-year-old hard to tolerate?

Ans: Because people expect maturity from him.

48. How does a fourteen-year-old boy feel among elders?

Ans: Either too forward or too shy.

49. What does a boy crave most at that age?

Ans: Recognition and love.

50. What happens to a boy who receives only scolding and chiding?

Ans: He becomes like a stray dog that has lost his mother.

Q. 3. Reference To Context

RTC 1:

“His mother took Makhan's side in a moment, and pulled Phatik away, beating him with her hands.”

1. Who took Makhan’s side during the quarrel?

Ans: Phatik’s mother.

2. What did she do to Phatik?

Ans: She pulled him away and beat him with her hands.

3. Why was she angry with Phatik?

Ans: Because she thought Phatik was bullying Makhan.

4. What was Makhan doing before this incident?

Ans: He was sitting on the log and teasing Phatik.

5. What does this show about Phatik’s mother’s attitude?

Ans: She was partial toward Makhan.

6. What effect did her action have on Phatik?

Ans: It made him feel angry and misunderstood.

RTC 2:

“When Phatik pushed her aside, she shouted out ‘What! you little villain! Would you hit your own mother?’”

7. Why did Phatik push his mother aside?

Ans: Because she was beating him.

8. What was her reaction?

Ans: She shouted at him angrily.

9. What did she call Phatik?

Ans: A little villain.

10. What does this expression show?

Ans: Her shock and anger at Phatik’s reaction.

11. What emotion did Phatik feel after this?

Ans: Shame and guilt.

12. Who arrived at that moment?

Ans: A grey-haired stranger.

RTC 3:

“It was just at this critical juncture that the grey-haired stranger arrived. He asked what the matter was.”

13. Who was the grey-haired stranger?

Ans: Bishamber, Phatik’s maternal uncle.

14. When did he arrive?

Ans: During the quarrel between Phatik and his mother.

15. What did he ask?

Ans: He asked what the matter was.

16. How did Phatik react to his arrival?

Ans: He looked sheepish and ashamed.

17. How did the mother react upon recognizing him?

Ans: Her anger turned into surprise.

18. What did she call him?

Ans: Dada.

RTC 4:

“For she recognised her brother, and cried: ‘Why, Dada! Where have you come from?’”

19. Who recognised her brother?

Ans: Phatik’s mother.

20. What was her immediate reaction?

Ans: She cried out in surprise.

21. What does “Dada” mean here?

Ans: Elder brother.

22. Where had her brother come from?

Ans: He had returned from Bombay.

23. What gesture did she make to show respect?

Ans: She bowed and touched his feet.

24. What emotion replaced her anger?

Ans: Joy and affection.

RTC 5:

“The brother asked after the education of the two boys. He was told by his sister that Phatik was a perpetual nuisance.”

25. Who is “the brother” here?

Ans: Bishamber, Phatik’s uncle.

26. What did he enquire about?

Ans: The education of Phatik and Makhan.

27. How did the mother describe Phatik?

Ans: As a perpetual nuisance.

28. What qualities did she ascribe to him?

Ans: Lazy, disobedient, and wild.

29. How did she describe Makhan?

Ans: Good as gold and fond of reading.

30. What opinion did this give Bishamber about Phatik?

Ans: That he was troublesome and difficult.

RTC 6:

“Bishamber kindly offered to take Phatik off his sister's hands, and educate him with his own children in Calcutta.”

31. Who made this offer?

Ans: Bishamber.

32. What was his offer?

Ans: To take Phatik to Calcutta and educate him.

33. How did his sister react?

Ans: She readily agreed.

34. Why was she eager to send Phatik away?

Ans: Because she considered him troublesome.

35. How did Phatik react to the offer?

Ans: He was overjoyed.

36. What did this moment mean for Phatik?

Ans: A chance for a new beginning.

RTC 7:

“It was an immense relief to the mother to get rid of Phatik. She had a prejudice against the boy.”

37. Why did the mother feel relieved?

Ans: Because Phatik was leaving with his uncle.

38. What does “prejudice” here mean?

Ans: Unfair dislike or bias.

39. Why was she prejudiced against Phatik?

Ans: She thought he would harm Makhan or cause trouble.

40. What does this show about her feelings?

Ans: She lacked maternal warmth toward him.

41. How did Phatik feel about leaving?

Ans: Excited and eager.

42. What emotion did the mother feel besides relief?

Ans: A little distress at his eagerness to go.

RTC 8:

“He bequeathed to Makhan, in perpetuity, his fishing-rod, his big kite and his marbles.”

43. What does “bequeathed” mean?

Ans: Gave away as a gift before leaving.

44. What things did Phatik give to Makhan?

Ans: His fishing-rod, big kite, and marbles.

45. What does “in perpetuity” mean?

Ans: Forever.

46. What does this gesture show about Phatik’s nature?

Ans: His generosity and affection.

47. When did he give these things?

Ans: Before leaving for Calcutta.

48. How did his behaviour contrast with before?

Ans: Earlier he fought Makhan; now he showed kindness.

RTC 9:

“She was by no means pleased with this unnecessary addition to her family.”

49. Who is “she” in this line?

Ans: Bishamber’s wife, Phatik’s aunt.

50. Whom did she consider an unnecessary addition?

Ans: Phatik.

51. Why did she dislike his coming?

Ans: She already had three boys to look after.

52. How old was Phatik?

Ans: Fourteen.

53. What kind of boy did she think he was?

Ans: A troublesome village lad.

54. What should Bishamber have done according to her?

Ans: Thought twice before bringing Phatik home.

RTC 10:

“In this world of human affairs, there is no worse nuisance than a boy at the age of fourteen.”

55. Who makes this remark?

Ans: The narrator.

56. What age is described as a nuisance?

Ans: Fourteen.

57. Why is a fourteen-year-old considered troublesome?

Ans: Because he is neither ornamental nor useful.

58. How does society treat such a boy?

Ans: With irritation and impatience.

59. What does the boy crave most at that age?

Ans: Recognition and love.

60. What happens when he receives only scolding?

Ans: He becomes like a stray dog that has lost its mother.

Q. 4. 2 Mark Questions

1. Why did Phatik’s mother beat him and call him a villain?

Phatik’s mother beat him because she thought he was bullying his younger brother Makhan. When she took Makhan’s side and struck Phatik, he tried to free himself, and she angrily shouted, “Would you hit your own mother?” misunderstanding his intention and worsening the situation.

2. Who arrived at the scene when Phatik’s mother was scolding him, and what happened then?

At that critical moment, a grey-haired stranger arrived and asked about the commotion. Phatik felt embarrassed but soon brightened when he saw a gentleman. His mother recognized the man as her brother, Bishamber, and respectfully greeted him by bowing and touching his feet.

3. Who was Bishamber, and what was his background?

Bishamber was Phatik’s maternal uncle, who had gone to Bombay after his sister’s marriage to start a business. During his absence, his sister became a widow. Bishamber later returned to Calcutta, searched for his sister, and decided to visit her after learning about her condition.

4. How did Phatik’s mother describe her sons to her brother?

Phatik’s mother told Bishamber that Phatik was troublesome, lazy, and disobedient, always creating mischief. In contrast, she praised Makhan as well-behaved, quiet, and fond of reading. Her bias against Phatik reflected her frustration and inability to manage his lively and rebellious nature.

5. What offer did Bishamber make regarding Phatik’s future?

Bishamber offered to take Phatik with him to Calcutta and educate him with his own children. He wanted to relieve his sister of her troubles and help the boy by providing better schooling and discipline in the city. His sister gladly agreed to this arrangement.

6. How did Phatik react to his uncle’s proposal to take him to Calcutta?

Phatik was overjoyed when his uncle offered to take him to Calcutta. His happiness was boundless, and he eagerly accepted, saying, “Oh, yes, uncle!” His excitement showed his longing for a new life, away from his mother’s scolding and the village restrictions.

7. Why did Phatik’s mother feel relieved yet uneasy after agreeing to send him away?

Phatik’s mother felt relieved because she thought she would finally get rid of her troublesome son. However, she was also uneasy when she saw how happy he was to leave. Her prejudice against him made her harsh, but she felt a mother’s hidden sorrow.

8. How did Phatik behave after the plan to leave was confirmed?

Once everything was settled, Phatik grew restless with excitement. He constantly asked his uncle when they would depart, could hardly sleep, and remained eager all day. He even generously gifted Makhan his marbles, kite, and fishing rod, showing his joy and affection before leaving.

9. How did Phatik’s aunt react to his arrival in Calcutta?

Phatik’s aunt was displeased and found it troublesome to manage another child. She already had three sons and considered bringing a village boy of fourteen into the house a mistake. She felt her husband, Bishamber, had been thoughtless to make such a decision.

10. What general comment does Tagore make about boys of fourteen?

Tagore observes that boys of fourteen are a nuisance—neither children nor adults. They are awkward, restless, and difficult to handle. They crave love and recognition, yet elders often misunderstand them. Their changing bodies and uncertain manners make them self-conscious and emotionally vulnerable.

11. Why is a fourteen-year-old boy described as “neither ornamental nor useful”?

Tagore means that a fourteen-year-old boy doesn’t fit neatly anywhere. He is too old to be pampered like a child but not mature enough to be valued like an adult. His awkward behaviour and immaturity make others impatient, and his presence often causes irritation.

12. How does Tagore describe the physical changes in a boy of fourteen?

Tagore says the boy’s clothes soon become too small, his voice cracks and trembles, and his face grows angular and unattractive. These natural changes make people intolerant toward him, and even minor mistakes seem unforgivable because of his awkward appearance and behaviour.

13. Why do people hesitate to show affection to a boy of fourteen?

People avoid openly showing affection to a fourteen-year-old because they fear it will spoil him. Society views tenderness towards teenagers as weakness or indulgence. As a result, the boy feels unloved and neglected, though in reality, that is when he needs affection most.

14. What effect do constant scolding and neglect have on such boys?

Constant scolding and lack of love make a fourteen-year-old boy feel lost and lonely. He becomes like a stray dog without a mother—wandering, confused, and craving affection. This emotional neglect deeply hurts his self-esteem and leads to feelings of rejection.

15. Why does Tagore compare the unloved boy to a stray dog?

Tagore uses this comparison to show the boy’s loneliness and helplessness. Like a motherless dog, he has no one to care for him, though he longs for warmth and love. The image powerfully reflects the emotional isolation of growing boys in a harsh society.

Q. 5. Three-Mark Questions

1. Describe the reunion between Phatik’s mother and her brother Bishamber.

When the grey-haired stranger intervened in Phatik’s quarrel, his mother looked up and was astonished to recognize her brother. Overcome with emotion, she cried, “Why, Dada! Where have you come from?” and bowed to touch his feet. Bishamber, who had gone to Bombay after her marriage, had returned to Calcutta, found her widowed, and visited immediately. Their meeting brought both surprise and affection, briefly lighting up the gloomy household.

2. What was Bishamber’s impression of Phatik and his brother after talking to his sister?

After his arrival, Bishamber inquired about his nephews’ education and behavior. His sister complained bitterly that Phatik was a nuisance—idle, disobedient, and troublesome—while praising Makhan as quiet, obedient, and studious. Bishamber, seeing his sister’s distress, compassionately offered to take Phatik to Calcutta to educate him, hoping to reform the boy and ease her burden.

3. How did Phatik’s mother’s attitude reveal her misunderstanding of her son?

Phatik’s mother viewed her son as troublesome and disobedient, failing to understand his energetic, sensitive nature. Her prejudice blinded her to his need for love and attention. When Bishamber offered to take him away, she gladly consented, more out of relief than concern. Her later uneasiness revealed suppressed affection and regret.

4. How did Phatik’s excitement show his innocent hopes about Calcutta?

Phatik’s excitement at going to Calcutta revealed his innocent dreams of adventure and freedom. He imagined a grand city life and felt proud to live with his uncle. He was restless, constantly asking when they would leave, and even gave away his belongings to Makhan in joy, showing his generous and childlike heart.

5. How does Tagore contrast Phatik’s mother’s and uncle’s feelings toward him?

Phatik’s mother saw him as a nuisance and wanted peace by sending him away. Bishamber, however, saw potential in the boy and took him with affection and responsibility. This contrast highlights how misunderstanding and neglect in the home can drive a sensitive child to seek love elsewhere.

6. How does Tagore describe the difficulties faced by boys of fourteen?

Tagore portrays boys of fourteen as awkward, insecure, and misunderstood. They are in an in-between stage—no longer children yet not adults. Society finds them irritating and ungraceful. Their craving for affection goes unfulfilled, leaving them lonely. Tagore sympathetically presents this as a universal struggle of adolescence.

7. Explain Tagore’s view of society’s unfair expectations from adolescent boys.

Tagore criticizes society for judging adolescents harshly. A fourteen-year-old’s speech is mocked whether childish or mature, and his behavior always seems wrong. Adults neither forgive his mistakes nor show affection, leaving him

emotionally stranded. Tagore shows how social rigidity deepens a boy’s confusion and isolation during growth.

8. Why does Tagore call a fourteen-year-old boy a “nuisance in human affairs”?

Tagore calls such boys nuisances because they occupy a misunderstood age. They are physically awkward, emotionally unstable, and socially clumsy. Their desire for love clashes with society’s indifference. He criticizes this attitude, implying that what society calls nuisance is actually a cry for understanding and tenderness.

9. How does Tagore blend narrative and reflection in this section?

In this section, Tagore skillfully mixes story and reflection. He narrates Phatik’s journey from his mother’s anger to his uncle’s care, then pauses to reflect on adolescence in general. This blend makes the story both emotional and philosophical, turning Phatik’s experience into a universal portrait of growing youth.

10. What human truth about growing up does Tagore reveal through Phatik’s story?

Tagore reveals that adolescence is a period of loneliness and misunderstood emotions. Boys like Phatik need love and guidance most at this stage, yet they often receive criticism instead. Through Phatik’s eagerness to find affection elsewhere, Tagore exposes society’s failure to nurture young hearts sensitively.

COURTESY: Perplexity, Meta AI & ChatGPT

Compiled by Dr. Shankar D Mishra

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