This article provides a comprehensive set of questions and answers based on Ralph Waldo Emerson’s poem Fable. It includes multiple-choice questions, true/false statements with supporting evidence, and short-answer questions to enhance understanding of the poem’s key themes and meanings. Additionally, grammar exercises such as phrasal verbs and voice change are included to strengthen language skills. This resource is designed to help students grasp the deeper message of the poem while also improving their command of English grammar.
Fable by Ralph Waldo Emerson – Solved Textual Questions
1. Choose the correct alternative to complete the following sentences:
(a) The quarrel was between the mountain and the (i) rabbit (ii) rat (ii) cat (iv) squirrel
(b) Bun has no doubt that the mountain is (i) small (ii) big (iii) noble (iv) kind
(c) Unlike a mountain, a squirrel can crack a (i) nut (ii) joke (iii) stone (iv) lock
2. State whether the following statements are True or False. Provide sentences/ phrases/words in support of your answer:
(a) The mountain called the squirrel “Little Bun”.
Answer: False
Supporting statement: “And the former called the latter ‘Little Prig.’”
(b) The squirrel is sprier than the mountain.
Answer: True
Supporting statement: “And not half so spry.”
(c) The mountain can carry forests on its back.
Answer: True
Supporting statement: “If I cannot carry forests on my back.”
3. Answer the following questions:
(a) Who had a quarrel with the squirrel?
Answer: The mountain had a quarrel with the squirrel.
(b) What is not a disgrace to the squirrel?
Answer: It is not a disgrace for the squirrel to occupy its place in the world.
(c) What is it that the squirrel doesn’t deny?
Answer: The squirrel doesn’t deny that the mountain makes a very pretty squirrel track.
4. Replace the underlined words with suitable phrasal verbs from the list given below. Change the form of verbs where necessary. There is one extra phrasal verb in the list.
List: turn down, come over, put up with, come across
(a) Rabi met his friend in the park.
Answer: Rabi came across his friend in the park.
(b) Tanushree cannot tolerate cruel behaviour to animals.
Answer: Tanushree cannot put up with cruel behaviour to animals.
(c) His proposal was rejected.
Answer: His proposal was turned down.
5. Change the voice of the following sentences:
(a) Lock the door.
Answer: Let the door be locked. (Passive from Active)
(b) Ashim knows the solution to this problem.
Answer: The solution to this problem is known by Ashim. (Passive from Active)
(c) I had written a letter.
Answer: A letter had been written by me. (Passive from Active)
Through this set of questions and answers, we have explored the key ideas and literary elements of Fable by Ralph Waldo Emerson. The poem teaches an important lesson about individuality, self-worth, and the balance of different abilities in the world. Along with understanding the poem’s meaning, the grammar exercises help reinforce essential language skills. By engaging with these exercises, students can develop both their analytical thinking and their command of English. Hopefully, this article serves as a useful guide in appreciating the depth of the poem while enhancing overall learning.
6. Write a letter to your friend (within 100 words) advising her/him to visit the public library in her / his locality as frequently as possible.
7. Write a paragraph (within 100 words) on the benefits of early morning exercises using the following points:
good for health – fresh air – keeps one active throughout the day
