Q1. [5]
Belinda was as brave as a barrel full of bears,
And Ink and Blink chased lions down the stairs,
Mustard was as brave as a tiger in a rage,
But Custard cried for a nice safe cage.
Read the following extract and answer the questions.
- (i) Comment upon the contrast that is reflected in the last two lines of the extract. [1]
- (ii) Fill in the blank with one word.
While describing Ink and Blink, the speaker says that they could chase lions down the stairs. By saying so, he is revealing the _____________ characteristic of their personality. [1]
- (iii) Comment on the poet's use of language in these lines in about 40 words. [2]
- (iv) Which of the following best describes the theme of the poem? [1]
- (A) Bravery and heroism
- (B) Humility leads to bravery
- (C) Valour and diligence
- (D) Crisis reveals character
Previously asked in CBSE board exam
2024 2/4/1 Q7(b)
Generated by claude-sonnet-4-6 · 2026-06-15 07:16 · grounding stimulus+chapter
Model Answer
(i) While all others — Belinda, Ink, Blink, and Mustard — are portrayed as bold and fierce, Custard stands in sharp contrast as a coward who only longs for the safety of a cage.
(ii) Bold/brave/fearless
(iii) The poet uses vivid similes — "brave as a barrel full of bears" and "brave as a tiger in a rage" — to exaggerate the bravery of Belinda and Mustard. The imagery is humorous and child-friendly. The word "cried" for Custard sharply emphasises his cowardice against the others' boldness.
(iv) (D) Crisis reveals character
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Explanation
- (i) Focus on the contrast between Mustard's tiger-like bravery and Custard's desire for a safe cage — the "But" is the key word signalling contrast.
- (ii) Any synonym of brave/courageous is acceptable; "bold" or "brave" is safest.
- (iii) For 2 marks on language, name the device (simile/hyperbole), give an example from the extract, and comment on its effect. ~40 words needed.
- (iv) The poem shows that despite everyone boasting of bravery, it is the "cowardly" Custard who actually faces the pirate — crisis reveals true character. This is the central theme.
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