Question

Read the following lines and mark your correct observation(s):
Take my shirt off
and go in there to do the puja
No thanks.
Not me.
But you go right ahead
if that’s what you want to do.
Give me the match box
before you go,
will you?
I will be out in the courtyard
where no one will mind it
if I smoke.
Which of the following statements is/are correct?

• A. The poem is written in the form of an ode.
• B. The poem is skeptic in nature.
• C. The poet uses surreal and astonishing images.
• D. The poem expresses a rebellious attitude.

Hint:

A skeptical attitude in poetry can often be recognized through the questioning of established norms, as seen in this poem where the speaker rejects traditional practices.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B, D

Step 1: Analyzing the tone of the poem.
The speaker in the poem exhibits a skeptical attitude toward the traditional practice of puja, rejecting the idea of taking part in it. There is also a clear rebellious tone when the speaker chooses to smoke in the courtyard instead of following the conventional practices.

Step 2: Evaluating the options.
- (A) Incorrect: The poem is not written in the form of an ode, which usually involves praise or admiration for a person, event, or concept.
- (B) Correct: The speaker is skeptical about the ritual of puja and questions the need to participate in it.
- (C) Incorrect: The poem does not use surreal or astonishing images; instead, it portrays a mundane, rebellious act.
- (D) Correct: The speaker’s decision to smoke in the courtyard and reject the puja reflects a rebellious attitude towards societal norms.