What are Hari Singh’s reactions to the prospect of receiving an education? Do they change over time? (Hint: Compare, for example, the thought: “I knew that once I could write like an educated man there would be no limit to what I could achieve” with these later thoughts: “Whole sentences, I knew, could one day bring me more than a few hundred rupees. It was a simple matter to steal — and sometimes just as simple to be caught. But to be a really big man, a clever and respected man, was something else.”) What makes him return to Anil?

Question

There was a fifty rupee note between his fingers. My heart sank. I thought I had been discovered. ”I made some money yesterday,” he explained. ”Now you’ll be paid regularly.” My spirits rose. But when I took the note, I saw it was still wet from the night’s rain. ”Today we’ll start writing sentences,” he said. He knew. But neither his lips nor his eyes showed anything. (The Thief’s Story)

Answer 1

Initially, Hari viewed Anil's offer of education as a significant career opportunity. He believed literacy would enhance his skills in deception and enable him to become a more sophisticated cheat. However, Hari Singh's perspective on education evolved, leading to a change of heart, likely due to the tranquil environment of Anil's life. He began to desire respect and integration into civilized society. Despite both relying on inconsistent income, Anil appeared more content. This newfound motivation prompted Hari's return to Anil.

Solution and Explanation

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