Question

Read the following extract and answer the questions:

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.

1. Comment upon the contrast that is reflected in the last two lines of the extract.
2. 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.
3. Comment on the poet’s use of language in these lines in about 40 words.
4. Which of the following best describes the theme of the poem?
   1. Bravery and heroism
   2. Humility leads to bravery
   3. Valour and diligence
   4. Crisis reveals character

Answer 1

1. The contrast in the last two lines reflects the disparity between the purported bravery of Mustard, likened to a tiger in a rage, and the reality of Custard's fear, expressing a wish for the safety of a cage. Despite Mustard's aggressive comparison, it's Custard's honest expression of fear that stands out.
2. While describing Ink and Blink, the speaker says that they could chase lions down the stairs.
   By saying so, he is revealing the imaginary characteristic of their personality.
3. The poet’s use of language is playful and uses hyperbole to humorously contrast the bravado of the characters with Custard's openly admitted fear. The vivid and exaggerated comparisons enhance the comedic tone of the poem.
4. Crisis reveals character