Question

Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow.

The eight other runners pulled up on their heels The ones who had trained for so long to compete One by one they all turned round and went back to help him And brought the young boy to his feet.

(i) Select the correct option to complete the sentence.

The phrase ‘pulled up on their heels’ means that the runners ______.

1. moved aside
2. stopped running
3. tried to run faster
4. jumped ahead

(ii) Mention one character trait common to all the eight other runners.

(iii) What is the tone of the poet in these lines?

(iv) How might the young athlete have felt on being helped by the others?

(v) Would you consider this incident as a turning point in the poem? If yes, why? If no, why not?

Answer 1

(i) The phrase ‘pulled up on their heels’ means that the runners stopped running.

(ii) One character trait common to all eight runners is compassion. They put aside the competition to help the fallen runner.

(iii) The tone of the poet is warm, compassionate, and inspiring. The poet appreciates the runners’ kindness and sportsmanship.

(iv) The young athlete might have felt grateful, relieved, and encouraged when the other runners helped him.

(v) Yes, this is a turning point in the poem because the runners stop competing and turn back to help the fallen athlete. This changes the focus from winning the race to showing humanity, kindness, and true sportsmanship.