Deep Water | Lesson 3 | Prose | English 12th | Flamingo | Summary | Questions | Answers

 

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Deep Water | Lesson 3 | Prose | English 12th | Flamingo | Summary | Questions | Answers

Short Summary

"Deep Water" by William Douglas is a powerful autobiographical account of the author's struggle to overcome his fear of water. The story begins with an incident in Douglas’s childhood when he almost drowned in a swimming pool at the YMCA. This traumatic experience left him with a deep-seated fear of water that haunted him for years.

Determined to conquer his fear, Douglas hired a swimming instructor who helped him gradually gain confidence through systematic training. The instructor taught him techniques to stay afloat, swim, and control his breathing. Despite mastering the skills, Douglas still felt a lingering sense of dread when near water.

To completely rid himself of the fear, he tested his skills by swimming in lakes and rivers. These experiences helped him realize that fear is only a mental construct and can be defeated through courage and persistence. Douglas’s triumph over his phobia highlights the significance of determination, perseverance, and the will to overcome personal challenges.

The narrative serves as an inspiration to face one’s fears head-on, emphasizing that courage and effort can lead to self-discovery and growth.

 

Think as you read

(Page No. 27)

1. What is the “misadventure” that William Douglas speaks about?

Answer: The “misadventure” refers to an incident in Douglas’s childhood when an older boy pushed him into the deep end of a swimming pool at the YMCA. Douglas did not know how to swim and was nearly drowned. This traumatic experience left him with a deep fear of water.

2. What were the series of emotions and fears that Douglas experienced when he was thrown into the pool? What plans did he make to come to the surface?

Answer: When thrown into the pool, Douglas felt sheer panic and terror. Initially, he planned to let himself sink to the bottom and then make a big jump to the surface, hoping to float to safety. However, as he sank deeper, his attempts to execute this plan failed. He felt helpless, suffocated, and engulfed by a sense of impending doom as the water overwhelmed him.

3. How did this experience affect him?

Answer: The experience left Douglas with a lifelong fear of water. This phobia haunted him and limited his enjoyment of activities involving water. He was unable to participate in swimming, fishing, or canoeing, which deeply frustrated him and made him feel crippled by his fear.

 

(Page No. 29)

1. Why was Douglas determined to get over his fear of water?

Answer: Douglas was determined to overcome his fear of water because it restricted his life and filled him with frustration. He longed to enjoy water-related activities, like swimming and fishing, without being paralyzed by fear. His strong will and the desire to regain control over his life motivated him to conquer this phobia.

2. How did the instructor “build a swimmer” out of Douglas?

Answer: The instructor used a step-by-step approach to teach Douglas how to swim. He first used a rope and pulley system to let Douglas practice staying afloat in the pool. Gradually, he taught Douglas various strokes, like the crawl, breaststroke, and backstroke. Over time, the instructor trained Douglas to gain confidence in the water and build muscle memory for swimming, effectively helping him overcome his fear.

3. How did Douglas make sure that he conquered the old terror?

Answer: To ensure he had truly conquered his fear, Douglas tested himself by swimming in lakes and rivers. He deliberately plunged into deep waters and swam across them, challenging the old terror that had gripped him. His final test was a solo swim in the cold waters of Lake Wentworth, where he successfully faced and dismissed his fear, proving his triumph over it.

 

Understanding the text

1. How does Douglas make clear to the reader the sense of panic that gripped him as he almost drowned? Describe the details that have made the description vivid.

Answer: Douglas vividly describes the sense of panic and helplessness during his near-drowning experience in the YMCA pool. He recounts the initial shock of being tossed into the water and sinking uncontrollably. He uses sensory details like the “yellowish water” and the feeling of suffocation to convey his terror. His failed attempts to rise to the surface are described in gripping detail: the water closing over his head, his lungs aching for air, and his paralyzed limbs. The sense of hopelessness escalates as he feels his strength ebbing and succumbs to the thought of death. The detailed imagery and sequence of events effectively immerse the reader in his fear and desperation.

2. How did Douglas overcome his fear of water?

Answer: Douglas overcame his fear of water through determination and systematic effort. He hired a swimming instructor who taught him techniques step by step. The instructor used a belt and pulley system to help Douglas stay afloat while practicing, gradually building his confidence. Douglas learned to inhale and exhale properly and mastered various strokes. However, his fear persisted, so he challenged himself by swimming in lakes and rivers. Confronting his fear head-on, he proved to himself that he could swim without being overwhelmed by panic. Over time, persistence and repeated exposure helped him conquer his phobia entirely.

3. Why does Douglas as an adult recount a childhood experience of terror and his conquering of it? What larger meaning does he draw from this experience?

Answer: Douglas recounts this childhood experience to emphasize the larger lesson he learned: fear is a mental construct that can be overcome with courage and persistence. By narrating his story, he illustrates how a life-threatening phobia can paralyze a person but can also be defeated through determination. The experience became a turning point in his life, teaching him resilience and self-confidence. Douglas draws a universal message: by facing fears directly, one can not only conquer them but also achieve personal growth and freedom. His story inspires readers to tackle their own fears and challenges with determination.

 

Talking about the text

1. “All we have to fear is fear itself”. Have you ever had a fear that you have now overcome? Share your experience with your partner.

Answer: I once had a deep fear of public speaking. In school, I would feel anxious and avoid situations where I had to speak in front of an audience. One day, I was selected to represent my class in a debate competition, and backing out wasn’t an option. I practiced diligently, rehearsing my speech multiple times in front of friends and family. On the competition day, I was still nervous, but I reminded myself that fear would only hold me back. As I started speaking, I focused on the topic and gradually gained confidence. The applause at the end was exhilarating. Since then, I’ve worked on my skills and no longer fear speaking in public. This experience taught me that facing your fears is the first step to overcoming them.

2. Find and narrate other stories about conquest of fear and what people have said about courage. For example, you can recall Nelson Mandela’s struggle for freedom, his perseverance to achieve his mission, to liberate the oppressed and the oppressor as depicted in his autobiography. The story We’re Not Afraid to Die, which you have read in Class XI, is an apt example of how courage and optimism helped a family survive under the direst stress.

Answer: Nelson Mandela’s Struggle for Freedom:
Mandela’s fight against apartheid in South Africa required immense courage. He spent 27 years in prison but never wavered in his belief in equality and justice. In his autobiography Long Walk to Freedom, Mandela writes about how courage is not the absence of fear but the triumph over it. His perseverance eventually led to the liberation of South Africa from racial segregation.

We’re Not Afraid to Die… If We Can All Be Together:
This story recounts a family’s harrowing journey across the sea, where they faced storms and life-threatening challenges. Their courage, optimism, and teamwork helped them survive against all odds. It’s a testament to how mental strength and determination can help overcome the direst situations.

J.K. Rowling’s Perseverance:
Before publishing Harry Potter, J.K. Rowling faced numerous rejections and financial struggles. Despite her fear of failure, she persisted and ultimately created one of the most beloved book series of all time. Her story is an example of how courage and determination can transform fear into success.

These narratives show that courage is not the absence of fear but the resolve to face and overcome it.

 

 

Thinking about language

If someone else had narrated Douglas’s experience, how would it have differed from this account? Write out a sample paragraph or paragraphs from this text from the point of view of a third person or observer, to find out which style of narration would you consider to be more effective? Why?

Answer: Third-Person Perspective: A Sample Paragraph

The young boy hesitated at the edge of the YMCA pool, his thin frame tense with apprehension. He had barely stepped into the shallow end when a stronger boy, without warning, grabbed him and tossed him into the deep water. Flailing wildly, the boy sank like a stone. His small body struggled against the suffocating grip of the water, but each desperate effort to rise seemed futile. Onlookers, oblivious to his plight, continued with their activities. Beneath the surface, the boy’s panic grew, and a paralyzing fear overtook him. In that moment, the vast, yellow-tinted pool felt like a monstrous abyss, indifferent to the child’s fight for air.

Comparison of Narration Styles

The first-person narration, as presented by William Douglas, is deeply personal and immersive. It captures the raw emotions, thoughts, and sensations he experienced during the incident. The reader feels as though they are living through the event with him, which creates a powerful connection to his fear and eventual triumph.

The third-person narration, on the other hand, provides a more detached, observational perspective. While it paints a vivid picture of the events, it lacks the emotional depth and introspection of the first-person account. This style might work well for an objective recounting but fails to convey the intensity of Douglas’s inner turmoil and fear.

Which is more effective?
The first-person narration is more effective for this story because it allows the reader to intimately understand Douglas’s fear and the process of overcoming it. The personal tone makes the narrative relatable and inspiring, which aligns with the story’s theme of resilience and courage.

 

Writing

1. Doing well in any activity, for example a sport, music, dance or painting, riding a motorcycle or a car, involves a great deal of struggle. Most of us are very nervous to begin with until gradually we overcome our fears and perform well.

Write an essay of about five paragraphs recounting such an experience. Try to recollect minute details of what caused the fear, your feelings, the encouragement you got from others or the criticism.

You could begin with the last sentence of the essay you have just read — “At last I felt released — free to walk the trails and climb the peaks and to brush aside fear.”

Answer: Essay: Overcoming the Fear of Learning to Ride a Bicycle

At last, I felt released — free to walk the trails and climb the peaks and to brush aside fear. This feeling came to me when I finally learned to ride a bicycle, an experience that began with trepidation but ended in triumph. As a child, I had always been fascinated by the effortless way others glided down the streets on their bicycles. Yet, the thought of balancing on two wheels terrified me.

I vividly remember the first day I attempted to ride. My father held the seat as I nervously pedalled. The ground felt unstable beneath me, and every wobble sent a jolt of fear through my body. My heart raced as I imagined falling and injuring myself. My initial attempts ended in frustration as I tumbled repeatedly, scraping my knees and bruising my confidence. I wanted to give up.

Encouragement from my father kept me going. He told me that falling was part of learning and shared stories of his own struggles when he first learned to ride. His calm reassurance and steady presence gave me the courage to try again. Over time, I learned to balance better, and the wobbles became less frequent. My first successful ride, although brief, felt exhilarating, like a taste of freedom.

Criticism from peers added pressure, but it also motivated me to persevere. Their teasing fueled my determination to prove them wrong. Each attempt brought me closer to mastery, and eventually, I could ride confidently, unassisted. The sense of achievement was incredible; it felt like breaking free from the chains of fear.

Today, riding a bicycle is second nature to me, but the memory of those initial struggles remains. It taught me an invaluable lesson: fear is only a stepping stone to growth, and persistence can turn even the most daunting challenges into joyful accomplishments.

2. Write a short letter to someone you know about your having learnt to do something new.

Answer: Letter to a Friend

Dear [Friend’s Name],

I hope this letter finds you well! I’m writing to share an exciting achievement — I’ve recently learned to [mention activity, e.g., “play the guitar”]. It wasn’t easy at first, and I struggled with [describe challenge, e.g., “getting my fingers to press the strings correctly”], but I’m thrilled to say that I’ve made great progress.

Initially, I was nervous and doubted my ability. However, with patience and encouragement from [mention who helped, e.g., “my teacher and family”], I stuck with it. I practiced daily, and gradually, it started to feel natural. Now, I can [mention accomplishment, e.g., “play a full song”], and it’s such a rewarding experience.

Learning something new has been an incredible journey, and I’ve realized that persistence truly pays off. I’d love to hear about any new skills or hobbies you’ve taken up lately. Write back soon and share your experiences!

Take care,
[JANDKNCERT]

 

Things to do

Are there any water sports in India? Find out about the areas or places which are known for water sports.

Answer: Yes, India offers a variety of water sports across its vast coastline, rivers, lakes, and backwaters. Here are some popular water sports in India and the places where they are famous:

1. Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

Andaman and Nicobar Islands: Havelock Island, Neil Island.

Lakshadweep: Bangaram and Agatti Islands.

Goa: Grande Island.

2. River Rafting

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand: River Ganga is renowned for white-water rafting.

Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir: Zanskar River offers thrilling rapids.

Sikkim: Teesta River is ideal for rafting enthusiasts.

3. Kayaking

Kerala: Backwaters of Alleppey and Kumarakom.

Goa: Backwaters and rivers like Mandovi and Zuari.

Andaman Islands: Mangrove kayaking in Baratang Island.

4. Parasailing

Goa: Popular at beaches like Calangute, Baga, and Anjuna.

Kerala: Kovalam and Varkala beaches.

Maharashtra: Tarkarli.

5. Jet Skiing

Goa: Famous at Candolim and Baga beaches.

Andaman Islands: Corbyn's Cove.

Kerala: Varkala and Kovalam.

6. Surfing

Tamil Nadu: Kovalam and Mahabalipuram.

Karnataka: Mulki near Mangalore.

Goa: Ashwem and Palolem beaches.

7. Sailing and Windsurfing

Mumbai, Maharashtra: Gateway of India for sailing expeditions.

Goa: Dona Paula beach for windsurfing.

Chennai, Tamil Nadu: Marina Beach.

8. Water Skiing and Wakeboarding

Goa: Beaches like Calangute and Baga.

Andaman Islands: Havelock Island.

9. Underwater Sea Walking

Andaman Islands: North Bay Island and Havelock.

Goa: Grande Island.

10. Houseboat Cruises and Canoeing

Kerala: Alleppey and Kumarakom backwaters.

Jammu & Kashmir: Dal Lake and Nigeen Lake.

11. Snuba Diving (Combination of snorkeling and scuba diving)

Goa: Grande Island.

Andaman Islands: Elephant Beach.

India’s rich natural resources and diverse aquatic ecosystems make it an ideal destination for water sports enthusiasts. These activities not only provide adventure but also highlight the beauty of India's coastal and inland water bodies.