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Question
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?
Solution
Writers always use such phrases and words that do not tell us directly about what they mean but always gives us an indication of the meaning. Such words or phrases are used to trigger our own imagination in painting the picture that they mean. Use of such images in the poem is the following: ‘mouth like a fireplace’, ‘chimney for a nose’, ‘brave as a barrel full of bears’, ‘brave as a tiger in a rage’, ‘went at the pirate like a robin at a worm’, etc.
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RELATED QUESTIONS
Why did Custard cry for a nice safe cage? Why is the dragon called “cowardly dragon”?
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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 Custard the dragon.
Why did the pirate 'gape' at Belinda's dragon?
How did Custard prove 'the cowardly dragon' tag to be untrue?
What did everyone laugh at the realio, trulio dragon?
How was Belinda's behaviour with the dragon?
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 how Custard the dragon fights with the Pirate.
Answer the following in about 40-50 words:
What character trait is revealed of Custard when he accepts that the other animals are braver than him.
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
