Class 12 Eng. Lesson “Poets and pancakes” Previous years’ Questions (PYQs) help a lot in preparing for any type of questions asked from the lesson or chapter. We are giving here important and selected questions for your help. Study them and prepare for Class 12 Board exams for highest possible scoring. Click here for more such resources.
PYQs, Sample Paper & Other CBSE Questions
SQP (Sample Question Papers)
Q1. What does the story of Subbu’s success in the film industry reveal about the importance of loyalty, creativity, and versatility in this field? [CBSE SQP 2023-24]
Answer: Subbu’s success in the film industry highlights the importance of loyalty, creativity, and versatility. His unwavering loyalty to the boss made him a trusted and reliable figure at Gemini Studios. His creativity allowed him to come up with ideas and solutions quickly, making the filmmaking process smoother and more efficient. Subbu’s versatility meant he could handle various roles and tasks, making him invaluable to the studio. Together, these qualities show that success in the film industry often depends on more than just talent—it also requires dedication, adaptability, and the ability to work well with others.
PYQs (Previous Years’ Questions)
- What caused the lack of communication between the Englishman and the people of Gemini Studio? (CBSE 2020)
- How was the make-up room in the Gemini Studios a fine example of national integration? (Delhi 2020)
Answers:
Q1. What caused the lack of communication between the Englishman and the people of Gemini Studio? (2020)
Answer: The lack of communication between the Englishman and the people of Gemini Studio was primarily due to a language barrier and cultural differences. The Englishman, who was likely unfamiliar with Tamil, the native language spoken by most at the studio, struggled to connect with the employees. Additionally, the people at the studio were not well-versed in English or Western literary culture, which further widened the gap. This lack of common linguistic and cultural ground led to confusion and a disconnect during the Englishman’s visit.
Q2. How was the make-up room in the Gemini Studios a fine example of national integration?
Answer: The make-up room at Gemini Studios exemplified national integration by bringing together individuals from various parts of India, each representing different languages, cultures, and backgrounds. The diverse team of make-up artists and technicians worked side by side, transcending regional and cultural differences. This melting pot of talent and culture within the studio reflects the broader ethos of unity in diversity that characterises India, showcasing how people from different backgrounds can collaborate and contribute to a common purpose in a harmonious environment.
CBSE Question Bank
- Discuss the significance of the make-up room in the chapter, ‘Poets and Pancakes’. (QB 2021)
- What kind of effect does Asokamitran’s style of writing have on the reader? (QB 2021)
- ‘In all instances of frustration, you will always find the anger directed towards a single person openly or covertly…’ Do you think it is right to direct our anger towards someone who is not responsible for the cause of anger? Justify. (QB 2021)
- The people left in ‘utter bafflement’ after the English poet’s speech. Mention two things the speaker could have kept in mind before addressing an audience to avoid such a reaction. Give your rationale for it. (QB 2021)
- Imagine Asokamitran witnesses a film shooting and visits a film set of present-day Bollywood. As Asokamitran write a diary entry penning down the transformation you notice between film making of yesteryears and today. (CBSE QB, 2021) LA
- After reading this story, you are impressed by the author’s use of gentle humour to point out human foibles. Evaluate whether using such humour contributes towards bringing about change in people’s attitude and accepting their foibles. (CBSE QB, 2021) LA
Answers:
Q1. Discuss the significance of the make-up room in the chapter, ‘Poets and Pancakes.’
Answer: The make-up room in the chapter ‘Poets and Pancakes’ serves as a microcosm of the diverse, chaotic, and hierarchical world of Gemini Studios. It’s a place where people from different backgrounds, regions, and social standings come together, reflecting the broader cultural integration of India. The room’s intense heat and cramped conditions symbolise the pressure and artificiality of the film industry. Moreover, the make-up room is a space where the distinction between reality and illusion blurs, highlighting the performative nature of both cinema and life.
Q2. What kind of effect does Asokamitran’s style of writing have on the reader?
Answer: Asokamitran’s writing style is characterised by its simplicity, humour, and irony, which together create an engaging and reflective effect on the reader. His straightforward language and subtle wit draw readers into the narrative, making complex issues like cultural differences and the absurdities of film industry life accessible and thought-provoking. The casual, anecdotal tone helps readers relate to the characters and situations, while the underlying irony prompts them to reflect on the deeper social and cultural commentary embedded in the narrative.
Q3. ‘In all instances of frustration, you will always find the anger directed towards a single person openly or covertly…’ Do you think it is right to direct our anger towards someone who is not responsible for the cause of anger? Justify.
Answer: It is generally not right to direct our anger towards someone who is not responsible for the cause of that anger. Doing so is unfair and can lead to misunderstandings, damaged relationships, and unnecessary stress for the innocent party. Misplaced anger does not resolve the original issue and can often exacerbate the problem. Instead, it’s more constructive to identify the true source of frustration and address it directly or find healthy ways to manage emotions, ensuring that anger is expressed appropriately and fairly.
Q4. The people left in ‘utter bafflement’ after the English poet’s speech. Mention two things the speaker could have kept in mind before addressing an audience to avoid such a reaction. Give your rationale for it.
Answer: To avoid leaving the audience in ‘utter bafflement,’ the English poet could have considered the following:
- (i) Audience Background: Understanding the linguistic and cultural background of the audience would have helped the poet tailor his speech to be more relatable and understandable. Given that the audience at Gemini Studios was not well-versed in English literature, simplifying the language and avoiding complex literary references would have been more effective.
- (ii) Purpose of the Visit: The poet could have clearly articulated the purpose of his visit and the relevance of his speech to the audience. This would have given context to his words, helping the listeners to connect with the content rather than being confused by its abstract nature.
By considering these factors, the poet could have bridged the gap between his literary world and the practical, everyday experiences of the studio employees.
Q.5. Imagine Asokamitran witnesses a film shooting and visits a film set of present-day Bollywood. As Asokamitran write a diary entry penning down the transformation you notice between film making of yesteryears and today. (CBSE QB, 2021)
Answer: Diary Entry: Transformation in Film Making
August 19, 2024
Today, I visited a present-day Bollywood film set, and the transformation is astonishing. In my days at Gemini Studios, filmmaking was a laborious process, with bulky equipment, limited technology, and a strong reliance on the creativity of individuals like Subbu. Now, everything is digital. The cameras are sleek, editing is done on powerful computers, and special effects are added effortlessly. The sets are grander, more elaborate, and yet, they lack the charm of the handcrafted backdrops we once had. Actors are surrounded by teams managing every detail, from makeup to lighting, leaving little room for spontaneity. While the efficiency and scale have improved, I can’t help but miss the simplicity and camaraderie of the old days. Filmmaking has become a well-oiled machine, but perhaps it has lost some of its soul.
Q.6. After reading this story, you are impressed by the author’s use of gentle humour to point out human foibles. Evaluate whether using such humour contributes towards bringing about change in people’s attitude and accepting their foibles. (CBSE QB, 2021)
Answer: Gentle Humour as a Tool for Change:
The use of gentle humour in Asokamitran’s writing effectively highlights human foibles, making readers reflect on their own behaviours without feeling attacked or defensive. By pointing out the absurdities and quirks of people in a light-hearted way, the author encourages self-awareness and self-improvement. This approach softens criticism, allowing readers to laugh at themselves while subtly nudging them toward change. It’s easier to accept one’s flaws when they are presented with a dose of humour rather than harsh judgement. Asokamitran’s style suggests that change doesn’t always require serious confrontation; sometimes, a gentle reminder of our shared imperfections can be just as effective in bringing about positive change in attitudes and behaviours.
CFPQs (Competency Focused Practice Questions)
- Contrast the character of Subbu and the lawyer from the story ‘Poets and Pancakes’ with any three points of differences. Do you think the qualities of both the characters are equally important on a movie set? Justify your opinion in 120– 150 words. [2024-25] 5 marks
- The narrator of ‘Poets and Pancakes’ writes the following line while describing the make‐up department.
(Even the make‐up department of the Gemini Studio had an ‘office boy’!)
What does the exclamation mark indicate?
What can you infer about the narrator’s attitude towards make‐up through this line? Answer in 40–50 words. [2024-25] 3 marks - In the story ‘Poets and Pancakes’, why do you think the story department had hired a legal advisor? [CBSE CFPQ]
- In the story ‘Poets and Pancakes’, why does the narrator say that film-making was very easy with a man like Subbu around? [CBSE CFPQ]
- Why does the narrator say that the Moral Re-Armament army’s only acquaintance with animals was at the dinner table? [CBSE CFPQ]
Answers:
Q.1. Contrast the character of Subbu and the lawyer from the story ‘Poets and Pancakes’ with any three points of differences. Do you think the qualities of both the characters are equally important on a movie set? Justify your opinion in 120– 150 words.
Ans: Contrast Between Subbu and the Lawyer:
- Creativity vs. Logic: Subbu is a creative mind, always coming up with new ideas for films, whereas the lawyer is logical, focusing on legalities and practical concerns.
- Popularity vs. Isolation: Subbu is popular, known for his charm and helpful nature, while the lawyer is more isolated due to his formal attire and detached attitude.
- Adaptability vs. Rigidity: Subbu is adaptable and flexible, ready to adjust to different situations, while the lawyer is rigid, sticking to his legal role and not mingling much with others.
Are Both Equally Important?
Both characters are crucial on a movie set. Subbu’s creativity is vital for generating engaging content and maintaining the studio’s artistic edge. Meanwhile, the lawyer’s logical and legal expertise ensures the studio operates within legal boundaries, preventing potential legal issues. Thus, both roles are essential, balancing creativity with practicality.
Q.2. The narrator of ‘Poets and Pancakes’ writes the following line while describing the make‐up department.
(Even the make‐up department of the Gemini Studio had an ‘office boy’!)
What does the exclamation mark indicate?
What can you infer about the narrator’s attitude towards make‐up through this line? Answer in 40–50 words.
Ans: The exclamation mark indicates the narrator’s surprise and mild amusement at the idea of an office boy being part of the make-up department, which is typically seen as a glamorous area. It suggests the narrator views the make-up department with a hint of irony, possibly finding its importance overrated or humorous.
Q3. Why do you think the story department hired a legal advisor?
Ans: The story department at Gemini Studios hired a legal advisor to handle any legal issues or disputes that might come up during the filmmaking process. Movies often involve many complex agreements, copyrights, and contracts. Having a legal advisor ensures that the studio is protected from legal problems, and they can manage any legal challenges that might arise from scripts, actors, or other elements of production.
Q4. Why does the narrator say that film-making was very easy with a man like Subbu around?
Ans: The narrator says that filmmaking was easy with Subbu around because Subbu was highly talented, creative, and resourceful. He had the ability to come up with solutions to any problem on the set and could make quick decisions. Subbu was known for his versatility, as he could write stories, direct films, and even act if needed. His presence made the entire process of filmmaking smooth and efficient.
Q5. Why does the narrator say that the Moral Re-Armament army’s only acquaintance with animals was at the dinner table?
Ans: The narrator humorously says that the Moral Re-Armament (MRA) army’s only acquaintance with animals was at the dinner table to highlight their lack of connection with real animals. The MRA army, which was a group promoting moral and spiritual values, was more familiar with eating meat rather than interacting with live animals. The statement suggests that their understanding of animals was limited to consuming them as food rather than having any real interaction with or knowledge of them in their natural state.
Extra Questions for Practice
Here are some critical, inferential, and deduction-based questions that students can use for practice. These questions require students to think beyond the surface meaning of the text and draw conclusions based on evidence and reasoning.
Question 1: In the text, Subbu is described as someone who “always had work for somebody” and “never aspired to the lead roles.” What does this suggest about Subbu’s personality and his approach to his work? How might these traits have contributed to his success at Gemini Studios?
Answer: This suggests that Subbu was a selfless, cooperative person who preferred working behind the scenes rather than seeking the spotlight. His willingness to help others and his contentment with supporting roles indicate humility and dedication. These traits likely contributed to his success, as he was seen as reliable, creative, and loyal, which would have made him invaluable to his colleagues and superiors.
Question 2: The text discusses the poet’s visit to Gemini Studios, where he struggled to connect with the audience. What theme does this event highlight about the relationship between art and audience? How does this reflect on the cultural gap between the poet and the studio staff?
Answer: This event highlights the theme of the disconnect between art and its intended audience, especially when there is a cultural or linguistic gap. The poet’s inability to engage the studio staff reflects a mismatch in cultural expectations and communication styles, demonstrating that art must resonate with the audience’s experiences and understanding to be impactful. The incident also underscores the idea that cultural barriers can hinder appreciation and understanding of art.
Question 3: The legal adviser in the story is described as “a man of cold logic in a crowd of dreamers.” What inference can you draw about the role of the legal adviser in Gemini Studios? How does this description set him apart from his colleagues?
Answer: The description suggests that the legal adviser’s role was to bring rationality and order to the creative and often chaotic environment of Gemini Studios. His logical, analytical nature sets him apart from his colleagues, who are depicted as more imaginative and idealistic. This contrast indicates that while his presence was necessary for practical decision-making, it also made him feel isolated and out of place in a group that valued creativity and artistic expression over logic and reason.
Question 4: In the passage where the author describes the audience’s reaction to the poet’s speech, he uses the word “baffled” multiple times. What does this repetition reveal about the author’s attitude towards the event? How does it shape the reader’s perception of the situation?
Answer: The repetition of the word “baffled” suggests that the author views the event as confusing and perhaps somewhat absurd. It reveals a sense of irony or bemusement towards the situation, emphasizing the mismatch between the poet’s expectations and the audience’s ability to comprehend his message. This choice of language shapes the reader’s perception by highlighting the futility of the interaction and the broader disconnect between the world of English poetry and the practical, film-focused environment of Gemini Studios.
Question 5: The text mentions that most people at Gemini Studios wore khadi and worshipped Gandhiji, yet they had “not the faintest appreciation for political thought of any kind.” What does this tell you about the cultural values at the studio? How does this reflect the broader societal context of the time?
Answer: This suggests that at Gemini Studios, there was a strong cultural identification with the symbols of the Indian independence movement (like khadi and Gandhiji), but this did not necessarily translate into a deep understanding or engagement with political ideas. It reflects a broader societal context where certain symbols and figures were revered, but the complex ideologies behind them were not widely understood or discussed. This indicates a cultural environment where appearance and conformity to societal norms were prioritized over intellectual or political engagement.
Question 6: The office boy in the makeup department is described as mixing paint in a giant vessel and “slapping it on the crowd players.” What symbolic meaning could this image have in the context of the film industry as depicted in the text?
Answer: This image could symbolize the impersonal and industrial nature of the film industry, where individual identities are often submerged or erased to serve the needs of the production. The act of “slapping” paint on the crowd players suggests a lack of care or attention to detail, implying that the crowd players are viewed as insignificant and interchangeable. It may also reflect the superficiality of the industry, where appearances are manipulated without regard for the underlying person, highlighting the industry’s focus on illusion over reality.
