Class 9 English - PUNJAB
Supplementary: The Lost Child
Supplementary: The Lost Child by Mulk Raj Anand is a touching story about a young boy who visits a spring fair with his parents. Fascinated by the toys, balloons, sweets, and snake charmer, he gets distracted and eventually gets separated from his parents in the bustling crowd. Despite all the attractions that previously drew his attention, he refuses them when offered by a stranger, crying inconsolably only for his mother and father. For Punjab (PSEB) Class 9 board exams, this chapter is crucial for testing reading comprehension, character analysis, and understanding the emotional depth of parent-child relationships.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Innocence of Childhood
The child is easily fascinated by simple things at the fair like toys, balloons, and nature, showing the pure and uncorrupted nature of a child's mind.
Parental Bond vs. Material Desires
When lost, the child realizes that material possessions hold no value without his parents, highlighting that security and love matter more than toys or sweets.
Psychology of a Crowd
The chapter realistically depicts how a child feels overwhelmed, panicked, and helpless when separated from his guardians in a dense, pushing crowd.
Role of the Kind Man
The stranger who tries to comfort the crying child represents human empathy and kindness, contrasting with the indifference of the massive crowd.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Punjab (PSEB) Class 9 English board exams, this chapter typically carries 4 to 6 marks. Questions usually include short answer questions testing the plot, character motives, and long answer questions focusing on the central theme of the story.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the child lose interest in the things he wanted earlier?
Once he got lost, panic set in and he realized his parents were missing. Without their safety and presence, toys, sweets, and rides lost all their appeal.
What message does the story convey?
The story conveys that parental love and security are far more precious than any material wealth or worldly pleasures.
Why did the child refuse the things offered by the kind man?
He refused them because his mind and heart were solely focused on finding his mother and father, and nothing else could console him.
Learn Supplementary: The Lost Child with Your AI Tutor
10 different ways to study this chapter. Free for 3 chapters per day.
Lecture
Key Points
Interactive
Quiz
Flashcards