Complete the following suitably. The word ‘paled’ implies that Belinda _____

Question

Belinda paled, and she cried Help! Help!

But Mustard fled with a terrified yelp,

Ink trickled down to the bottom of the household,

And little mouse Blink strategically mouseholed.

(The Tale of Custard the Dragon)

I. Examine the portrayal of Blink in the given lines.

II. Complete the following suitably. The word ‘paled’ implies that Belinda________.

III. What kind of picture is painted by the poet through the line, ‘Ink trickled down to the bottom of the household’?

IV. What kind of atmosphere is created through these lines? Select the correct option

1. Urgency

2. Apprehension

3. Uncertainty

4. mystery

5. Aggression

A. 1 and 4

B. Only 2

C. 1, 2 and 3

D. 4 and 5

Answer 1

I. Blink's retreat is portrayed as a calculated and swift movement to safety--the imagery of Blink ‘strategically’ mouse holing suggests a quick and calculated response to the perceived danger -- highlighting Blink's instinctual survival skills in the face of adversity.

II. The word ‘paled’ implies that Belinda recognised that she was in a threatening situation/ danger.

III. In this context, the picture painted is that of a slow and silent descent / a descent with Ink trying to avoid drawing attention to itself / Ink seeking safety in a cautious and inconspicuous manner

IV. (C) 1, 2 and 3

The atmosphere created through these lines is Urgency, Apprehension and Uncertainty