Comprehension
Read the following extracts and answer the questions

It is in the news that all these pitiful kin
Are to be bought out and mercifully gathered in
To live in villages, next to the theatre and the store.
Where they won't have to think for themselves anymore,
While greedy good-doers, beneficent beasts of prey,
Swarm over their lives enforcing benefits
That are calculated to soothe them out of their wits,
And by teaching them how to sleep they sleep all day
Destroy their sleeping at night the ancient way.
(A Roadside Stand)
Question: 1

The expression "It is in the news" suggests:

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When analyzing poetry, focus on context clues like tone, word choice, and references to external events to understand implied meanings.
Updated On: Jan 14, 2026
  • It is good news for the roadside stand owners.
  • An important decision has been taken by the government.
  • The roadside stand owners have protested against the government.
  • That the news was not there in the newspaper.
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

The phrase "It is in the news" signifies a notable event or governmental action. Within the poem, this decision influences the roadside stand proprietors. The mention of ‘news’ implies a significant policy or governmental ruling affecting them.
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Question: 2

Read the Assertion and the Reason below, with reference to the given extract. Assertion: The poet complains that the rural people are exploited by the people in power.
Reason: The rural people reposed blind faith in the false promises of the people in power.
Choose the correct option regarding their relationship.

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When dealing with Assertion-Reason questions, identify whether the Reason directly explains why the Assertion is true.
Updated On: Jan 14, 2026
  • Both the Assertion and the Reason are true and the Reason is the correct explanation.
  • Both the Assertion and the Reason are true, but the Reason is not the correct explanation.
  • The Assertion is true, but the Reason is false.
  • The Assertion is false, but the Reason is true.
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

The poet argues that rural populations are harmed by false promises made by those in authority. These promises, which lead to manipulation and exploitation, are trusted by the rural populace. The provided explanation supports the stated claim.
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Question: 3

In the line "that are calculated to soothe them out of their wits", the phrase "soothe them out of their wits" refers to:

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Pay attention to figurative language in poetry; phrases like "soothe them out of their wits" often symbolize deeper meanings.
Updated On: Jan 14, 2026
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Solution and Explanation

The expression "soothe them out of their wits" describes how controlling leaders use deception to create a false sense of safety, thus hindering critical thinking and opposition. This tactic is used to mentally subdue rural populations.
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Question: 4

Bring out the irony in the expression "they won’t have to think for themselves".

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Irony often involves a contradiction between appearance and reality. Identifying this contrast is key to understanding deeper meanings in poetry.
Updated On: Jan 14, 2026
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Solution and Explanation

Authorities' "help" paradoxically hinders independent thought. This deceptive act, disguised as compassion, undermines self-reliance.
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Question: 5

Select the correct option from those given in brackets, to fill in the blank.
The poet uses the expression 'greedy good-doers' to ________ (criticize / appreciate) the intention of the powerful people.

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Sarcasm is often used in literature to criticize societal flaws. Words like "good-doers" may have underlying negative implications.
Updated On: Jan 14, 2026
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Solution and Explanation

The phrase "greedy good-doers" reveals the poet's sarcasm. These people, despite appearing helpful, actually use others for personal gain. Their actions, though seemingly beneficial, are driven by self-interest.
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Question: 6

The tone of the poet in the above extract is:

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Identifying the poet’s tone can help reveal the underlying emotions and social commentary within a poem.
Updated On: Jan 14, 2026
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Solution and Explanation

The poet criticizes those in power, satirizing their misleading methods. Sarcasm emphasizes the abuse suffered by rural areas.
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