Question

What is the "misadventure" that William Douglas speaks about?

Hint:

In literature questions, understand the context of the term used in the chapter. Words like “misadventure” often refer to a specific incident that shapes the character’s emotions or personality.

Answer 1

Concept: The lesson "Deep Water" by William Douglas narrates the author’s terrifying childhood experience that developed into a deep-rooted fear of water. The term "misadventure" refers to an unfortunate and dangerous incident that happens unexpectedly.
Explanation: The “misadventure” that William Douglas speaks about occurred when he was about ten or eleven years old. He had gone to the YMCA swimming pool in Yakima. While he was sitting alone at the edge of the pool, a big boy suddenly picked him up and threw him into the deep end of the pool.
Douglas did not know how to swim. He sank to the bottom of the pool and felt completely helpless. He tried to push himself upward but failed repeatedly. He inhaled water, became terrified, and thought he would drown. Although he was eventually saved, the incident left a lasting impact on him. It created an intense fear of water that stayed with him for many years.
Thus, the “misadventure” refers to this frightening experience of nearly drowning in the swimming pool.