Question

Quelch’s character teaches us that with hard work one also needs to have social and emotional intelligence. Justify.

Answer 1

Private Quelch was hardworking, intelligent and eager to learn, but he lacked social and emotional intelligence. He constantly displayed his knowledge and corrected others, even when it was unnecessary. For example, he corrected Corporal Turnbull while he was giving a lesson on grenades. Instead of understanding that his behaviour might embarrass or annoy others, Quelch continued to show off his knowledge. His batch-mates therefore became irritated with him and played a trick on him at the end. The story teaches us that knowledge and hard work are valuable, but they should be accompanied by humility, sensitivity and an understanding of other people’s feelings.