Answer any one of the following two questions, in 100-120 words: You have been chosen to address the student gathering from the nearby schools, to speak on "How to Deal with Loss – Personal or Material". Prepare the speech draft in not more than 120 words, with reference to the commonality of themes in John Benyman's 'The Ball Poem' and 'A Sermon at Benaras'. You may begin this way. Good Morning everyone. Today, I'd like to discuss two pieces of literature that offer a powerful insight into how we can learn to deal with loss. You may end in this way – To conclude, I'd like to say that – Thank you.
Generated by claude-sonnet-4-6 · 2026-06-15 07:17 · grounding rag
Model Answer
Good Morning everyone. Today, I'd like to discuss two pieces of literature that offer a powerful insight into how we can learn to deal with loss.
John Berryman's The Ball Poem shows a young boy losing his ball and learning that loss is an inevitable part of life. He must accept it and move on, understanding that material things cannot be recovered. Similarly, in A Sermon at Benares, the Buddha teaches Kisa Gotami — who has lost her child — that death and loss are universal. No household is untouched by grief.
Both texts share the theme that loss is common to all humanity. Grieving is natural, but clinging to what is lost only deepens suffering. The true lesson is acceptance — learning to let go and find strength within ourselves.
To conclude, I'd like to say that loss, whether personal or material, teaches us resilience. Accepting it as part of life helps us heal and grow stronger. — Thank you.
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Explanation
- The question asks for a speech, so opening and closing lines (given) must be included.
- Examiners look for: correct reference to both texts, identification of the common theme (universality/inevitability of loss + acceptance), and a coherent speech structure.
- Keep the tone formal but warm — it is a student speech.
- Word count should stay within 120 words; avoid padding.
- The key literary link: both texts teach that loss is universal and acceptance is the only healthy response.