The Lost Child by Mulk Raj Anand
Think about it ….
- What are the things the child sees on his way to the fair? Why does he lag behind?
Ans. For the innocent child, the walk to the fair was a unique experience. He saw folks heading towards the fair riding horses, boarding bullock carts, and on foot. First his eyes fall on the wayside toy shop. Then he sees the sprawling green fields having lush green mustard plants. A group of dragon flies hovered over the fields. They were hampering the flight of a bee, and a butterfly. He wanted to grab one of these insects, but they proved to be elusive for him. The child forayed into a grove when a shower of some petals fell on him. He saw a dove. Overwhelmed with joy, he gamboled around the place. As he neared the fair, he saw that many narrow lanes converged on the destination.
The young lad was too fascinated by the sights. He couldn’t take his eyes off them. This is why, he lagged behind all the way.
2. In the fair he wants many things. What are they? Why does he move on without waiting for an answer?
Ans: In the fair, there were many things that he yearned to enjoy. There was a sweets stall that dealt in popular items like Goolab -jamun, Rasgoolla, Burfi, Jalebi etc.
Then he saw a flower seller who was selling golmohurs. A balloon seller stood nearby. His multi-coloured balloons were fixed to a pole. His eyes were transfixed on the ballons. Moments later, he saw a snake charmer blaring out a harsh music. Then he approached a roundabout in full swing. He became thrilled. He wanted to ride it.
3. When does he realise that he has lost his way? How have his anxiety and insecurity been described?
Ans: Soon after he saw the roundabout, he begged his parents to pay for his ride. Sadly, they were not around. He was filled with panic. He uttered a full-throated cry to draw their attention. But, it proved futile. Fear, and anxiety gripped his mind. He began to sob relentlessly.
4. Why does the lost child lose interest in the things that he had wanted earlier?
Ans: For the innocent child no worldly attraction was worth his parent’s love. No eye-catching items in the fair could sway his mind. He couldn’t imagine being separated from his dear parents.
5. What do you think happens in the end? Does the child find his parents?
Ans: Till the story ended, there is no indication that the child was reunited with his parents, but it is safe to assume that it wouldn’t have taken long for him to get back to them.
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