Class 12 English Vistas Chapter 2 – The Tiger King Word meaning

 

NCERT Solutions For Class 12 English

Vistas

Chapter 2 – The Tiger King

Word meaning

 

 

Adorned: make more beautiful or attractive.

Ascertained: make sure of.

Astonishing: extremely surprising or impressive

Astrologers: a person who predicts future.

Babble: talk rapidly and continuously in a foolish, excited, or incomprehensible way.

Bafflement: to confuse, bewilder

Bare: not clothed or covered.

Boundless: unlimited or immense.

Brandishing: wave or flourish something as a threat or in anger or excitement.

Carcass: the dead body of an animal.

Carved: cut or engraved to produce an object, design, or inscription.

Catastrophic: involving or causing sudden great damage or suffering.

Compelled: forced to do something.

Confiscated: taken or seized with authority.

Crumpled: crushed to form creases and wrinkles.

Deliberations: long and careful consideration or discussion.

Demise: death

Dispelled: make a doubt, feeling, or belief disappear.

Drawled: speak in a slow, lazy way with prolonged vowel sounds.

Durai: Chief leader (English officer)

Elation: great happiness and exhilaration.

Enunciated: say or pronounce clearly

Erected: put together and set upright

Exemption: state of being free from an obligation  

Flared: having a shape that widens progressively towards the end or bottom. 

Fling: throw or hurl forcefully.

Flout: openly disregard a rule, law, or convention

Fonder: having an affection or liking for.

Forthwith: immediately; without delay.

Fury: wild or violent anger.

Growl: make a low guttural sound in the throat.

Harakiri: ritual suicide by disembowelment with a sword

Hastened: be quick to do something.

Haul: pull or drag with effort or force. 

Hindsight: understanding of a situation or event only after it has happened or developed.  

Imperative: vital importance

Incoherent:  expressed in an incomprehensible or confusing way

Indomitable: impossible to defeat.

Inhabiting:  live in or occupy a place or environment.

Intently: with earnest and eager attention. 

Leapt: jump or spring a long way, to a great height, or with great force.

Mounted: riding an animal

Nanny: a person, typically a woman, employed to look after a child in its own home.

Obstinacy: stubbornness.

Possessed: have as belonging to one

Proclamation: a public or official announcement dealing with a matter of great importance.

Prophets: proclaimer of the will of God.  

Quake: shake or tremble.

Quills: the hollow sharp spines of a porcupine, hedgehog, or other spiny mammal.

Relented: become less severe or intense.

Savage: fierce, violent, and uncontrolled.

Shoved: make one’s way by pushing someone or something.

Shuddering: tremble convulsively

Squeaky: having or making a high-pitched sound or cry.

Stuka bomber: German dive bomber and ground-attack aircraft.

Stupefaction: make someone unable to think or feel properly.

Supplication: the action of asking or begging for something earnestly or humbly.

Suppurating: undergo the formation of pus

Throne: a ceremonial chair for a sovereign

Tuft: a bunch or collection of threads, grass, hair, etc., held or growing together at the base.

Vital: essential.

Vowed: solemnly promise to do a specified thing.

Wandered: walk or move in a leisurely or aimless way.

Wantonly: in a deliberate and unprovoked way.

Wary: feeling or showing caution about possible dangers or problems.

Whizzing: move quickly through the air with a whistling or buzzing sound.

Class 12 English Vistas Chapter 1 – The Third Level Word meaning

 

NCERT Solutions For Class 12 English

Vistas

Chapter 1 – The Third Level

Word meaning

 

 

Arched- curved

Bumping- knock or run into something

Ducked- lower the head or body quickly

Fussing- show unnecessary or excessive concern about something

Gabardine- a smooth, durable, twill-woven worsted or cotton cloth

Snapped- break suddenly and completely

Spittoons- a metal or earthenware pot typically having a funnel-shaped top, used for spitting into 

Vest- a garment worn on the upper part of the body

Waking dream- an involuntary dream occuring while a person is awake

Wander- roam

Flamingo The Interview Long question answers

 

NCERT Solutions For Class 12 English

Flamingo

The Interview  

(Christopher Silvester)

Long question answers

 

Question 1) Why do you think Christopher Silvester describes the viewpoints of other writers and authors when discussing the concept of an interview? Support your opinion with reference to any one writer cited.

Answer. The term 'interview' originates from the French word "entrevue." It represents a dialogue between a journalist or broadcaster and a figure of public interest. It serves as an oral assessment, commonly used in job applications, involving structured questioning. However, its scope extends beyond mere conversation, encompassing screening, interaction, and self-reflection. In this process, both the interviewer and interviewee engage, with the interviewee often facing the daunting scrutiny of the interviewer.

The term 'interview' was introduced 130 years ago, marking its integration into the fabric of journalism. In contemporary society, interviews have become ubiquitous, a requisite experience for individuals across various domains. Daily, thousands undergo interviews for diverse purposes. The perception of interviews varies: some regard it as a conduit of truth in its highest form, while others view it as an art form in practice. H.G. Wells initially disdained the 'interview,' referring to it as an ordeal in 1894. However, forty years later, he found himself interviewing Joseph Stalin of Russia, showcasing a shift in perspective. It's commonly perceived that much of the information reaching us stems from the interviewer, who wields considerable power and influence in this process.

Question 2)  Mukund Padmanabhan was a reporter from ‘The Hindu’. In the context of the chapter, reveal his traits as an interviewer.
OR
How would you evaluate Mukund Padmanabhan as an interviewer? Mention at least two qualities he displays in his interview, supported by textual evidence.

Answer. Mukund Padmanabhan epitomized a successful and thoughtful reporter known for posing articulate and skillful questions to his interviewees. He meticulously strategized and readied himself before conducting interviews with celebrities, ensuring that his inquiries were never crude or discomforting. Remarkably, the celebrities he interviewed appeared at ease with his line of questioning. Beyond merely extracting information about the celebrities, these interviews offered readers insights into various facets of Mukund's own character.

He approached his interviewees with concise and high-quality questions, demonstrating a meticulous approach. Mukund allowed interviewees the freedom to express themselves authentically, refraining from interruptions or aggressive probing. Consequently, his interview subjects felt at liberty to be candid and open with him.

Mukund consistently exhibited preparedness, meticulously arranging information and profiling the personalities of his interviewees in advance. With thorough groundwork, he commenced his sessions fully equipped and organized. Overall, Mukund Padmanabhan exemplified a disciplined and devoted interviewer.

Question 3)  Several celebrities despise being interviewed. Is this justified? Why? Why not? (CBSE 2010)

Answer. In this chapter, various celebrities such as Rudyard Kipling, VS Naipaul, H.G. Wells, Saul Bellow, and others express strong aversion towards interviews. They consistently declined to participate, viewing interviews as an intrusive invasion into their private lives. Protecting the secrecy of their personal affairs remained a priority for them.

For some, interviews were seen not just as an unwanted intrusion but also as an unethical act or even likened to a crime or assault. These individuals believed that interviewers consumed their valuable time, time that could be better utilized for fostering creativity. Contrarily, the general public perceives interviews positively as they provide insights into the inner workings and concealed aspects of their revered figures. However, interviews are not without their drawbacks.

Celebrities often feel apprehensive and disheartened when approached for interviews, disregarding the fact that their fame and wealth often stem from successful interview engagements. Their admirers and followers expand as the general public gains more insight into their idols' lives. Indeed, some celebrities even attain a revered status. From this perspective, it can be argued that labeling interviews as inherently immoral might not hold true.

Question 4)  Give a character sketch of Umberto Eco on the basis of the chapter ‘The Interview’.
OR
What impression do you form about Umberto Eco as a scholar and writer on the basis of ‘The Interview’? (CBSE 2010)

Answer. Umberto Eco, a renowned professor at the University of Bologna in Italy, boasts a dual identity as both an academic and a celebrated novelist. Across numerous interviews, he divulges the keys to his life's success and maintains a positive rapport with interviewers. His writing prowess spans various genres, encompassing academic texts, fiction, nonfiction, literary essays, children’s literature, and newspaper articles.

Preferring the title of an academician over that of a novelist, Eco actively engaged in academic conferences while consciously avoiding writer gatherings and memberships like the Pen Club. His impressive repertoire comprises forty scholarly works and five novels, a creative endeavor he exclusively reserved for Sundays. He unearthed a remarkable method of productivity within the interstices of time.

Utilizing every fleeting moment, Eco capitalized on even the briefest seconds, employing these gaps for jotting down notes or drafting content. Proficient in Semiotics, the study of signs, he never succumbed to arrogance, openly acknowledging the accidental success of his novel 'The Name of the Rose,' attributing its triumph to favorable timing. Despite its readership surpassing 10 million, Eco never adopted a celebrity demeanor.

Flamingo The Interview ( Short question answer)

 NCERT Solutions For Class 12 English

Flamingo

The Interview  

(Christopher Silvester)

Short question answers

 

Question 1) How does Eco find the time to write so much?

Answer. Eco is a university lecturer who spends his week attending intellectual conferences. He finds so much time to write in the empty spaces in our life, just like the structure of atoms and the Universe does. These vacant areas are referred to as 'interstices' by him. He would rather compose an essay than remain idle while waiting for someone to come to his residence via the escalator. As a result, he regards himself as an academic who writes books on Sundays.

Question 2)  What was distinctive about Eco’s academic writing style?

Answer. Academic scholars typically write erroneous hypotheses, correct them, and then draw conclusions. Umberto, on the other hand, takes the readers on a tour through his research, referencing all of the tries and errors along the way. His narrative writing approach set him apart.

Question 3) . Did Umberto Eco consider himself a novelist first or an academic scholar?

Answer. Umberto Eco identifies as a member of the academic community. He describes himself as a university professor who attends intellectual conferences during the week and writes novels on Sundays.

Question 4) What is the reason for the huge success of the novel, The Name of the Rose?

Answer.The novel The Name of the Rose is difficult to read, which sets it apart from other novels. It's a detective novel with elements of metaphysics, religion, and medieval history. As a result, it addressed an audience that is not always interested in an easy reading experience. However, the novel's success remains a mystery. Umberto believes that if the work had been published ten years earlier or later, it would not have drawn the same proportion of the audience.

 Question 5)  How can we say that Umberto Eco had a wide range of writing?

Answer.Umberto Eco specialized in semiotics and began writing fiction, literary fiction, academic texts, essays, children's books, newspaper articles, and so on. As a result, his writing flexibility is clearly appreciated.

Question 6)  What is Umberto Eco’s theory of interstices?

Answer. Umberto Eco claims that removing the empty spaces from the universe would result in a universe the size of his fist. He emphasizes the significance of time's empty spaces.

Question 7) Umberto Eco does many things, but says, ‘I am always doing the same thing but that is more difficult to explain.’ What does he mean to say?

Answer. Umberto Eco claims to have philosophical interests that are reflected in all of his publications, both fiction and nonfiction. In this way, he performs the same thing, albeit he appears to engage in a variety of activities, such as writing notes for newspapers, teaching novels, writing essays, children's books, and so on.

Question 8)  Despite the drawbacks, the interview is a supremely serviceable medium of communication. Explain.

Answer.Though an interview involves an intrusion into the interviewee's personal life, it is always a highly effective medium of communication. Only through interviews do we receive a clear picture of today's celebs. We get a glimpse of their working style, as well as their personal life and experiences.

Question 9)  Why do most celebrity writers despise being interviewed? (CBSE 2003, 2005, 2010)

Answer.  Most celebrity writers detest being interviewed because they have experienced interview anxiety. The interview is seen as an intrusion into their privacy by many of them.

Question 10) What do you understand by the expression “thumbprints on his windpipe”?

Answer. Thumbprints on his windpipe represent a barrier to anyone's freedom and privacy. It is possible that the interviewees felt suffocated.

Question 11)  Do you think Umberto Eco likes being interviewed? Give reasons for your opinion.

Answer. Umberto Eco clearly enjoys being interviewed, as evidenced by the excerpt from his interview included in this chapter. He answers all of Mukund's questions and never irritates or criticizes the interview, as many other celebrity writers do

Flamingo The Interview (word meaning)

 

NCERT Solutions For Class 12 English

Flamingo

The Interview  

(Christopher Silvester)

Word meaning

Aesthetics: a branch of philosophy that deals with nature and appreciation of beauty

Assault: make a physical attack on

Condemnatory: expressing strong disapproval

Contemporaries: a person or thing living or existing at the same time as another.

Despise: hate, dislike

Dissertation: a long essay on a particular subject, especially one written for a university degree or diploma

Extravagant: excessive or elaborate

Formidable: inspiring fear or respect through being impressively large, powerful, intense or capable

Hypotheses: theory

Interstices: space, gap

Intrusion: the action of intruding; intervention

Lionized: give a lot of public attention and approval

Medieval: relating to the Middle Ages

Ordeal: a very unpleasant and prolonged experience

Perpetrated: commited; performed

Persistent: continuous

Petitioners: a person who asks for something

Philosophical: relating or devoted to the study of the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality, and existence.

Primitive: ancient, olden

Repel: drive or force back

Seminal: influential

Staggeringly: to an astonishing or shocking degree

Unprecedented: never done or known before

Vile: extremely unpleasant

Vivid: producing powerful feelings or strong, clear images in the mind.

Wrecked: destroyed or severely damaged

Class 12 English Flamingo The Interview (Summary)

 

NCERT Solutions For Class 12 English

Flamingo

The Interview  

(Christopher Silvester)

Summary

 

The lesson commences by discussing the historical origins of interviews in journalism, dating back over 130 years. The author notes the wide spectrum of opinions on interviews—some view it as the pinnacle of communication, while others despise being subjected to them. Interviews hold significant impact, often altering perceptions to the extent that the essence of one's true self seems to be stolen, as per an old adage. Notably, renowned figures such as celebrities, writers, and artists have openly criticized the interview process. For instance, Rudyard Kipling expressed his disdain, considering interviews an assault and a transgression deserving of punishment. He firmly believed that a person of dignity would never engage in or grant an interview.

An excerpt from an interview between Mukund of The Hindu newspaper and Umberto Eco, a distinguished professor at the University of Bologna, focuses on his acclaimed novel, "The Name of the Rose," which sold over ten million copies. Eco, renowned for his contributions to semiotics, literary interpretation, and medieval aesthetics, elaborates on his diverse pursuits. When asked about managing multiple endeavors, Eco suggests that he's essentially engaged in the same pursuit, illustrating how his works about children inherently advocate peace and non-violence, reflecting his philosophical interests. Identifying himself primarily as an academic scholar participating in conferences during the week and indulging in novel writing on Sundays, Eco remains unperturbed by being primarily recognized as a novelist instead of a scholar. He acknowledges the challenge in reaching a vast audience with scholarly work, likening life's gaps to the interstices found in atoms and the cosmos—spaces where he accomplishes much of his productive work.

Regarding his novel, Eco notes its complexity, combining detective elements with metaphysics, theology, and medieval history. Additionally, he suggests that the novel's timing played a pivotal role in its massive success, positing that had it been published a decade earlier or later, its acclaim might not have been as significant. Hence, the enigma behind its success persists.

Class 12 English Flamingo The Interview (Theme)

 

NCERT Solutions For Class 12 English

Flamingo

The Interview  

(Christopher Silvester)

Theme

The interview comprises two distinct narratives. In the first story, the narrator explores the reactions and perspectives of celebrities towards interviews. Many renowned individuals perceive interviews as intrusive into their personal lives, with some even having never granted an interview. This story delves into the theme of how press freedom can potentially encroach upon an individual's privacy.

The second story features an excerpt from an interview with the esteemed writer and academic, Umberto Eco. Within this narrative, Eco shares insights into his effective time management practices, which have allowed him to achieve great success in various endeavors. He highlights the various factors that contribute to an individual's accomplishments.

Class 12 English Flamingo Poets and Pancakes (Long question answers)

 

NCERT Solutions For Class 12 English

Flamingo

Poets and Pancakes 

(Asokamitran)

Long question answers

Question 1)  Why is Subbu described as a many-sided genius? Give a reasoned answer. (2013 Comptt. Outside Delhi)

Answer The author portrays Kothamangalam Subbu as a representation of individuals known as 'go-getters', who lack genuine talent but manage to create an illusion of talent around themselves. Despite being officially associated with the Story Department at Gemini Studios, Subbu is always by his boss's side. He dedicates all his energy and creativity to benefit his boss. Subbu successfully explores various aspects of filmmaking, presenting himself as an exceptional storyteller, a skilled actor, and a problem-solver. He effortlessly makes filmmaking seem effortless for his boss. Thus, Subbu's cunning nature allows him to exploit his boss's naivety and present himself as a multi-talented genius.

Question 2) Asokamitran has used humour and satire effectively in ‘Poets and Pancakes’. Discuss. (2001 Delhi)
Or
How does humour and satire enliven the account of the events and personalities at Gemini Studios as portrayed by Asokamitran in ‘Poets and Pancakes’? (2013 Outside Delhi)

Answer: In the chapter titled 'Poets and Pancakes', Asokamitran skillfully employs subtle humor and satire to shed light on human weaknesses. He cleverly portrays petty professional and inconsequential differences that not only occupy our minds but also elicit spontaneous and meaningful humor. The depiction of characters like the office boy Subbu and the legal advisor is laced with subtle touches of wit. Asokamitran's conversational writing style seamlessly transitions from one thought to another, allowing him to poke fun at the excessive makeup worn by artists, which can transform them into comically hideous figures. These humorous references evoke laughter. The perplexing purpose behind the visits of the Moral Rearmament Army and the English poet also adds to the satirical tone of the chapter. Furthermore, Asokamitran's satire extends to those who vehemently oppose communism, showcasing their extreme measures to combat it. Remarkably, the author's tone of ridicule remains devoid of any trace of mockery, which is truly commendable.

Question 3) Subbu was ‘tailor-made for films’. How did he use his genius in various activities in the Gemini Studios? (2008 Outside Delhi)

Answer The author presents Subbu as a remarkably skilled individual with a wide range of abilities in the realm of film-making. Subbu possesses expertise in various aspects, including story-writing, poetry, and character development, making him perfectly suited for the world of cinema. With Subbu's profound understanding of the intricacies and technicalities of film-making, the process appears effortless. During the golden years of Gemini Studios, Subbu played a pivotal role in revolutionizing and redefining its direction. He wholeheartedly dedicated his energy and creativity to benefit his boss, Mr. Vasan. Whenever his boss expressed dissatisfaction with a scene, Subbu would provide numerous alternative solutions. His comprehensive understanding of the complexities of film-making allowed him to showcase his talent across multiple artistic domains.

Question 4).
Why and how was the Moral Re-Armament Army welcomed at the Gemini Studios? (2008 Outside Delhi)

Answer: In 1952, Frank Buchman's Moral Re-Armament Army, consisting of two hundred individuals from twenty different nationalities, made a visit to Madras. The MRA was perceived as a counter-movement against international communism, which was not held in high regard by the people at Gemini Studios. However, Mr. Vasan, the boss of Gemini Studios, was captivated by the MRA, making the studio an ideal and welcoming host in India. During their visit, the MRA presented two plays, namely 'Jotham Valley' and 'The Forgotten Factor', with utmost professionalism. These plays, while conveying simple messages, boasted exceptional sets and costumes that left a lasting impression on both the Tamil drama community and Gemini Studios. The striking sunrise and sunset scenes from 'Jotham Valley' even served as inspiration for future productions in the years to come.

Question 5) ‘Subbu was a troubleshooter.’ Do you agree with this statement? Give an account of Subbu’s qualities of head and heart. (2012 Outside Delhi)

Answer: Subbu, a cunning and self-serving individual, skillfully ingratiated himself with his boss, eventually rising to the second position at Gemini Studios. Despite lacking talent and deserving the position, he manipulated his boss's gullibility and presented himself as competent and capable. Remarkably, Subbu maintained a cheerful disposition and remained resilient, unaffected by any setbacks. He possessed the ability to speak positively about others, always finding something good to say. With Subbu's presence, film-making seemed effortless, benefiting his boss as he devoted all his energy and creativity to his advantage. Additionally, Subbu displayed remarkable talent as a poet and actor. He penned original poems that resonated with the masses and excelled in secondary roles, outshining the main actors. However, his sycophantic behavior toward his boss earned him enemies and angered those who believed they were more deserving of success.

Question 6) What political significance does Gemini Studios’ invitation to Moral Re-Armament army and Stephen Spender show? (2012 Outside Delhi)

Answer: The Moral Re-Armament army served as a counter movement to Communism, and the individuals at Gemini Studios harbored a natural aversion towards Communists and their ideology. They believed that Communists aimed to provoke unrest and violence. Therefore, by warmly hosting the Moral Re-Armament army, the people at Gemini Studios effectively expressed their opposition to Communist ideas. Inviting Stephen Spender, a renowned English poet who had once been attracted to Communism but later became disillusioned, was another way for Gemini Studios to emphasize their stance. This served to reinforce their aversion to Communism and allowed them to publicly demonstrate their disapproval.