Class 9 English - WEST-BENGAL
Poetry: The Duck and the Kangaroo
The chapter 'The Duck and the Kangaroo' is a delightful nonsense verse by the renowned poet Edward Lear, prescribed for Class 9 students under the West Bengal Board of Secondary Education (WBBSE). The poem humorously narrates a conversation between a restless Duck who is bored of living in a pond and a kind Kangaroo. The Duck admires the Kangaroo's ability to hop across land and land-scapes, wishing to travel the world. Through witty dialogue, the poem explores themes of friendship, mutual cooperation, and clever problem-solving. For WBBSE board exams, students must understand the central theme, poetic devices, stanza-wise summaries, and character traits.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Nonsense Verse
A humorous genre of poetry characterized by whimsical, silly elements and playful language, which is Edward Lear's signature writing style.
The Duck's Desire
The Duck feels confined in her 'nasty pond' and longs to see the wider world, showcasing the human desire for adventure and exploration.
The Kangaroo's Objection
The Kangaroo politely points out that the Duck's wet and cold feet might give him the 'roo-Matiz' (rheumatism), adding a touch of humor and practical concern.
The Solution
The Duck cleverly thinks ahead by buying four pairs of worsted socks and a cloak to keep warm, proving that every problem has a thoughtful solution.
Rhyme Scheme and Meter
The poem follows a steady, musical rhythm with structured rhyme schemes (such as AABB or AABBCC) that enhance its read-aloud appeal.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the WBBSE Class 9 English examination, this chapter typically carries around 5 to 8 marks. Common question types include multiple-choice questions (MCQs), short answer questions (SAQs) about the plot and characters, and descriptive questions focusing on the central theme of friendship and the clever preparations made by the Duck.
Frequently Asked Questions
What problem did the Kangaroo face regarding the Duck's request?
The Kangaroo worried that the Duck's wet and cold feet would give him rheumatism ('roo-Matiz').
How did the Duck overcome the Kangaroo's objection?
The Duck bought four pairs of worsted worsted-knit socks and a cloak to keep her feet warm and block the cold wind.
Who wrote the poem 'The Duck and the Kangaroo'?
The poem was written by the famous English poet and humorist Edward Lear, known for his literary nonsense.
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