Class 9 English - MAHARASHTRA
Supplementary: The Lost Child
Supplementary: The Lost Child by Mulk Raj Anand is a poignant tale about a small boy who visits a spring fair with his parents. Mesmerized by the sights, sounds, and toys, the child gets separated from his parents in the crowd. Panic-stricken, he rejects all the things he previously desired, wanting only his mother and father. For Maharashtra (MSBSHSE) Class 9 board exams, this chapter is crucial for testing reading comprehension, character analysis, and empathetic writing. Questions often focus on the psychological shift in the child's mind and moral values regarding parental love versus material possessions.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Allure of Material Things
The toys, balloons, sweets, and garland represent worldly attractions that easily distract a child at a fair.
The Bond of Parental Love
True security and happiness lie with one's parents, far outweighing any material wealth or toys.
Psychological Shift
Once the child is lost, his priorities instantly change; material desires vanish and he only yearns for his parents' safety.
Role of the Kind Man
The unidentified man who tries to comfort the lost child represents humanity, empathy, and kindness in society.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Maharashtra (MSBSHSE) Class 9 English paper, supplementary reader chapters usually carry around 3 to 5 marks. Common question types include factual comprehension, personal response questions based on the moral of the story, and character sketches of the child or the kind stranger.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the child lose interest in the things he wanted earlier?
Once the child was separated from his parents, panic set in and he realized that his parents were more important to him than any toys or sweets.
Who rescued the lost child at the fair?
A kind-hearted man rescued the child by lifting him up, soothing him, and offering him various treats to stop his crying.
What is the central theme of 'The Lost Child'?
The central theme highlights the unconditional love between a child and his parents, showing that material objects cannot replace the comfort of family.
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