Class 8 English - RAJASTHAN
Poetry: Somebody's Mother
The chapter 'Somebody's Mother' is a touching poem by Mary Dow Brine prescribed for Class 8 students under the Rajasthan Board (RBSE). It tells the story of an old, ragged woman struggling to cross a busy, icy street. While many people pass her by without care, a young schoolboy stops and offers his help, guiding her safely across. This poem teaches students the core values of empathy, kindness, and respect for elders. For board exams, questions usually focus on comprehension, character analysis of the boy, central theme, and stanza-wise explanations to test students' moral understanding and English vocabulary.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Empathy and Kindness
The poem highlights how a small act of kindness towards a helpless stranger can bring immense joy and leave a lasting positive impact.
Respect for Elders
It teaches students to treat elderly people with care and compassion, viewing them as members of our own family ('somebody's mother').
Poetic Persona and Setting
The poem is set on a cold, winter afternoon on a crowded street, creating a contrast between the busy, indifferent crowd and the compassionate boy.
Moral Lesson
The central message revolves around the Golden Rule: treat others the way you want your own loved ones to be treated.
Poetic Devices
The poem uses simple rhyming schemes (AABB) and descriptive imagery to make the narrative engaging and emotional for readers.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Rajasthan Board Class 8 English examination, this chapter typically carries around 4 to 6 marks. Common question types include reference to context (RTC), short answer questions about the boy's actions, long-form questions on the central theme, and vocabulary-based questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the central theme of the poem 'Somebody's Mother'?
The central theme is kindness, empathy, and the responsibility we have to help those who are vulnerable, especially the elderly.
Why was the old woman hesitant to cross the street?
The old woman was frail, aged, and terrified of the fast-moving horses and the slippery, crowded winter street.
What did the boy say to the old woman before helping her?
The boy told her not to be afraid and offered to help her cross the street safely because she might get hurt.
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