Class 12 English - MAHARASHTRA
Prose: Deep Water
Deep Water is an autobiographical excerpt from William Douglas's book 'Of Men and Mountains'. It narrates his lifelong fear of water, stemming from two near-drowning incidents at the ages of three and ten, and his ultimate triumph over this crippling phobia through sheer determination, grit, and the guidance of a swimming instructor. For Maharashtra Board (MSBSHSE) Class 12 students, this chapter is crucial as it tests reading comprehension, thematic understanding of perseverance, and English writing skills. Board exams frequently feature questions on Douglas's psychological journey, the symbolism of water, and extracts for unseen comprehension.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Childhood Trauma at California Beach
Douglas's early fear of water began when a massive wave knocked him down and swept over him at a California beach, filling him with terror.
The Y.M.C.A. Pool Incident
A misadventure where a big bully tossed Douglas into the deep end of the Y.M.C.A. pool, creating a near-death experience that cemented his water phobia.
Psychological Impact
The fear of water ruined Douglas's fishing trips, canoeing, and boating joys, haunting him wherever he went and dominating his adult life.
Hiring an Instructor
Determined to overcome his handicap, Douglas hired a professional instructor who systematically trained him piece by piece to swim, breathe, and conquer panic.
Conquering the Fear
To ensure no vestige of terror remained, Douglas swam across Lake Wentworth and Warm Lake, realizing that 'all we have to fear is fear itself'.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Maharashtra (MSBSHSE) Class 12 English Yuvakbharati board exam, this prose chapter typically contributes to questions worth around 4 to 6 marks. Common question types include factual comprehension, personal response questions based on overcoming fear, appreciation of themes, and vocabulary exercises from board-approved extracts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What message does William Douglas want to convey through 'Deep Water'?
Douglas conveys that fear is psychological and can be conquered through unwavering determination, courage, and systematic training. Once we face our fears, they lose their power over us.
Why did Douglas choose the Y.M.C.A. pool to learn swimming?
He chose the Y.M.C.A. pool because it was safe compared to the Yakima River, which was treacherous and known for many drowning cases. The Y.M.C.A. pool was only two or three feet shallow at the deep end and had a gradual drop.
How did the instructor help Douglas overcome his fear?
The instructor built Douglas a piece at a time. He tied Douglas to a rope through a pulley, taught him how to exhale underwater, inhale above water, and finally coordinated his arm and leg movements over months of rigorous practice.
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