Class 8 English - WEST-BENGAL
Poetry: Somebody's Mother
Somebody's Mother by Mary Dow Brine is a touching poem prescribed for Class 8 students under the West Bengal Board of Secondary Education (WBBSE). It tells the story of an old, ragged woman struggling to cross a busy, snowy street. While many young people pass by without a care, a young schoolboy stops to help her safely to the other side. This poem teaches students the core values of empathy, kindness, and respect for elders. For board exams, questions often test comprehension of the boy's noble act and the emotional depth of the old woman's final prayer.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Theme of 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.
Contrast in Human Behavior
The poet contrasts the indifference of the careless schoolboys and pedestrians with the compassionate attitude of the helpful boy.
Poetic Devices
The poem uses a consistent rhyme scheme (AABB) and vivid imagery to paint a clear picture of the chilly winter street and the vulnerable old woman.
Character of the Schoolboy
The boy represents youthful nobility; without expecting any reward, he assists the elderly woman purely out of a sense of duty and care.
The Old Woman's Gratitude
At night, the old woman prays for the unknown boy, realizing that he is 'somebody's mother's son' who might someday need similar help.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the WBBSE Class 8 English exams, this chapter usually carries around 5 to 10 marks. Common question types include multiple-choice questions (MCQs), reference to context (extract-based questions), short descriptive answers about the boy's actions, and long-answer questions discussing the central theme of the poem.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the central message of 'Somebody's Mother'?
The central message is that we should always help those in need, especially the elderly, because everyone is someone's beloved family member.
Why did the old woman hesitate to cross the street?
The old woman hesitated because the street was crowded, icy, slippery, and she was old, weak, and afraid of being run over.
What did the boy say to the old woman when helping her?
The boy cheerfully said, 'Don't be afraid, old grand-mother,' and took her aged hand in his strong young arm to guide her safely across.
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