Question

“Kam long kaba suk ban pynmih kot ha kane ka ri, kham bun na kiba la pynmih mynshuwa ki la duh bun tyngka bad namar kata ki sheptieng ban thoh!” Mano ba ong ïa kine ki kyntien?

• A. Rev. Oliver Thomas
• B. Soso Tham
• C. R. T. Rymbai
• D. Owen Rowie

Hint:

Soso Tham’s writings reflect both the challenges and pride of Khasi literary heritage.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the quotation.
The given quotation reflects the struggles faced by early Khasi writers in publishing their works.
It highlights the financial, social, and infrastructural challenges of printing books in the Khasi language.
Step 2: About the author.
These words were expressed by Soso Tham, one of the greatest Khasi poets and writers of all time.
He is widely regarded as the pioneer of Khasi poetry, and his works often focused on knowledge, progress, and identity.
Step 3: Context of the statement.
During Soso Tham’s time, there were very few printing presses and limited readership among the Khasi community.
Writers often faced difficulties financing publications, leading to delays or abandonment of many literary works.
Step 4: Significance of the statement.
Tham’s quote reveals his deep concern for the survival and growth of Khasi literature.
He motivated writers to persist despite hardship, believing that written words could strengthen the cultural fabric of his people.
Step 5: Elimination of incorrect options.
- (1) Rev. Oliver Thomas — known for religious writings.
- (3) R. T. Rymbai — a later writer.
- (4) Owen Rowie — not associated with this quote.
Step 6: Conclusion.
Hence, the correct answer is Soso Tham, who voiced the struggles of Khasi authors.