Comprehension

What I want should not be confused with total inactivity.
Life is what it is about;  
I want no truck with death.  
If we were not so single-minded about keeping our lives moving.  
(Keeping Quiet)

Question: 1

Explain with reference to the given extract, "What I want should not be confused with total inactivity."

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It’s important to understand that peace doesn’t mean halting everything. Sometimes, it’s about slowing down to reflect and rejuvenate, not total inactivity.
Updated On: Jan 14, 2026
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Solution and Explanation

The poet clarifies that the longing for peace and quiet should not be interpreted as total idleness or passivity. Instead of abandoning life, the poet promotes introspection and present awareness. The aim is not to cease living but to achieve equilibrium, recognizing the value of tranquil periods while still cherishing life's core.
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Question: 2

What does the term single-mindedness not imply in the given extract?

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Single-mindedness often leads to a narrow view of life. It’s important to have flexibility and room for reflection rather than getting stuck in a single track.
Updated On: Jan 14, 2026
  • persistence
  • determination
  • narrow-mindedness
  • tenacity
    % Correct answer \textbf{Correct Answer:} (C) narrow-mindedness
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

The extract uses "single-mindedness" to describe an obsessive or excessive focus on a singular objective, like maintaining constant activity without introspection on life's actual meaning. This differs from positive traits like persistence, determination, or tenacity, and in this context, it aligns with narrow-mindedness.
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Question: 3

In the line 'Life is what it is about', the phrase 'it' refers to ............

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Life is about embracing the present moment. When we focus on "living" rather than just existing, we connect deeply with the essence of life.
Updated On: Jan 14, 2026
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Solution and Explanation

The pronoun 'it' in the statement "Life is what it is about" denotes life itself. The poet conveys that the fundamental nature of life involves living completely, embracing its experiences, and maintaining mindfulness.
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Question: 4

The poet has used the phrase 'total inactivity' to illustrate ........... in the perception that peace means doing nothing.

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Irony can highlight misconceptions about peace. True peace is not about doing nothing; it’s about being mindful and present, regardless of activity.
Updated On: Jan 14, 2026
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Solution and Explanation

The poet employs the term "total inactivity" to highlight irony. This phrase suggests a common misperception of peace as mere idleness, when in reality, true peace involves active reflection and mindfulness rather than complete inertia.
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Question: 5

Assertion: The poet values an active and meaningful life.
Reason: Inactivity is equated with leisure, which the poet rejects.

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An active life doesn’t mean constant busyness. It’s about meaningful engagement with life, while avoiding mindless activity.
Updated On: Jan 14, 2026
  • Both the assertion and the reason are true.
  • The assertion is true, but the reason is false.
  • Both the assertion and the reason are false.
  • Both the assertion and the reason are true, but the
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

The assertion holds true: the poet esteems an engaged and purposeful existence. However, the reason is inaccurate, as the poet does not shun leisure but rather rejects absolute inertia. The poet champions a life of equilibrium, not complete idleness.
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Question: 6

State in one sentence, what advice you would give to those engaged in ceaseless mechanized activity.

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Sometimes, stopping and reflecting can rejuvenate the mind and soul, helping us return to work with renewed clarity and purpose.
Updated On: Jan 14, 2026
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Solution and Explanation

It is advisable to pause, reflect, and engage with the present moment. Continuous, unthinking action without purpose or contemplation results in exhaustion and a deficit of genuine satisfaction.
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