Question

To whom did Sophie tell her secrets out first?

• A. Her father
• B. Her brother-Geoff
• C. Dancy Casey
• D. Her friend-Jansie

Hint:

In "Going Places," Sophie first shares her dreams with her friend Jansie, who reacts with practical realism. This contrast between Sophie's fantasies and Jansie's grounded perspective highlights the story's central theme of dreams versus reality.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

This question refers to the short story "Going Places" by A. R. Barton, which is included in the Flamingo textbook for Class 12 English.

About the Story:
"Going Places" is about a teenage girl named Sophie who lives in a lower-middle-class family with big dreams and fantasies. She often escapes her mundane reality by imagining glamorous encounters and future successes.

Sophie's Secrets:
Sophie has wild, imaginative dreams — she wants to open a boutique, become an actress, or manage a shop.
She idolizes a football player named Danny Casey and fantasizes about meeting him.

Who She Tells First:

First Confidante:
Sophie first shares her secrets with her friend Jansie.
After school, as the two girls are walking home, Sophie excitedly tells Jansie about her plans for the future.
She talks about opening a boutique and becoming famous.

Jansie's Reaction:
Jansie is practical and realistic — she knows both girls come from poor families and such dreams are unrealistic.
She warns Sophie that such big dreams are "nothing but silly ideas."
She also cautions Sophie not to share such fantasies with others, especially at home, as they might worry.

Why Sophie Tells Jansie First:
Jansie is Sophie's closest friend and classmate, so she is the most accessible person to talk to after school.
Sophie is excited and needs someone to share her dreams with immediately.
Despite Jansie's practicality, Sophie trusts her enough to reveal her aspirations.

Why Other Options Are Incorrect:

(A) Her father:
Sophie's father is strict, practical, and dismissive of her dreams. She does not confide in him first.

(B) Her brother Geoff:
Sophie later shares her fantasy about meeting Danny Casey with Geoff, hoping he will believe her. However, this happens after she has already spoken to Jansie.

(C) Danny Casey:
Danny Casey is a famous footballer Sophie fantasizes about meeting. She never actually meets him (except in her imagination), so she cannot tell him anything.

Final Answer: Her friend Jansie