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Question
Why did Custard cry for a nice safe cage? Why is the dragon called “cowardly dragon”?
Solution
Custard cried for a nice safe cage because it was a coward and was scared very easily. It is called “cowardly dragon” because everyone else in the house is very brave while the dragon is the only one, who fears a lot and looks for a nice safe cage for himself. Belinda is as brave as a barrel full of bears, Ink and Blink can chase lions and Mustard is as brave as an angry tiger.
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RELATED QUESTIONS
Who are the characters in this poem? List them with their pet names.
“Belinda tickled him, she tickled him unmerciful…” Why?
The poet has employed many poetic devices in the poem. For example: “Clashed his tail like iron in a dungeon” — the poetic device here is a simile. Can you, with your partner, list some more such poetic devices used in the poem?
Read stanza three again to know how the poet describes the appearance of the dragon.
Writers use words to give us a picture or image without actually saying what they mean. Can you trace some images used in the poem?
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This poem, in ballad form, tells a story. Have you come across any such modern song or lyric that tells a story? If you know one, tell it to the class. Collect such songs as a project.
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Describe the pirate in the 'Tale of Custard the Dragon.'
Why did the pirate 'gape' at Belinda's dragon?
How did Custard prove 'the cowardly dragon' tag to be untrue?
How does Ogden Nash's The Tale of Custard the Dragon challenge the notion that individuals should conform to societal expectations?
Answer the following in about 40-50 words:
Describe the pirate who comes through the window.
Read the following extract and answer the questions:
| Belinda was as brave as a barrel full of bears, And Ink and Blink chased lions down the stairs, Mustard was as brave as a tiger in a rage, But Custard cried for a nice safe cage. |
- Comment upon the contrast that is reflected in the last two lines of the extract.
- Fill in the blank with one word.
While describing Ink and Blink, the speaker says that they could chase lions down the stairs.
By saying so, he is revealing the _______ characteristic of their personality. - Comment on the poet’s use of language in these lines in about 40 words.
- Which of the following best describes the theme of the poem?
- Bravery and heroism
- Humility leads to bravery
- Valour and diligence
- Crisis reveals character
