Going Places | Lesson 8 | Prose | English 12th | Flamingo | Summary | Questions | Answers

 

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Going Places | Lesson 8 | Prose | English 12th | Flamingo | Summary | Questions | Answers

 

Short Summary

"Going Places" by A. R. Barton explores the dreams and fantasies of a young girl named Sophie, who lives in a lower-middle-class family. Sophie dreams of a glamorous and exciting future, far removed from her mundane life. She imagines herself as a fashion designer, an actress, or owning a boutique, despite her family's modest financial situation and her limited prospects.

Sophie’s friend, Jansie, is more realistic and practical, understanding the constraints of their socioeconomic background. However, Sophie often escapes into her fantasies, one of which involves meeting Danny Casey, a famous Irish footballer. She convinces herself that she had an encounter with him and even imagines a future meeting with him, fabricating stories to fuel her daydreams.

Sophie’s infatuation with Danny Casey and her vivid imagination highlights her longing for a better life. The story ends with Sophie waiting at a spot she believes Danny Casey promised to meet her, only to face disappointment when he does not show up.

The narrative underscore’s themes of escapism, the gap between dreams and reality, and the struggles of growing up in a working-class environment. Sophie’s fantasies reflect a universal human desire to transcend one's circumstances, but her eventual realization points to the need to balance aspirations with reality.

 

Think as you read

(Page No. 79)

1. Where was it most likely that the two girls would find work after school?

Answer: It was most likely that the two girls, Sophie and Jansie, would find work in a biscuit factory after finishing school.

2. What were the options that Sophie was dreaming of? Why does Jansie discourage her from having such dreams?

Answer: Sophie dreamed of opening her own boutique, becoming an actress, or even a fashion designer. Jansie discouraged her because she was practical and knew that their socioeconomic background did not support such ambitions. She wanted Sophie to face reality and avoid disappointment.

 

(Page No. 81)

1. Why did Sophie wriggle when Geoff told her father that she had met Danny Casey?

Answer: Sophie wriggled because she had fabricated the story about meeting Danny Casey and was nervous that her father might ask questions or disbelieve her, leading to her lie being exposed.

2. Does Geoff believe what Sophie says about her meeting with Danny Casey?

Answer: Geoff is sceptical but does not outright deny her claim. He appears unsure whether Sophie is telling the truth.

3. Does her father believe her story?

Answer: No, Sophie’s father does not believe her story. He dismisses it as another one of her wild and unrealistic tales.

4. How does Sophie include her brother Geoff in her fantasy of her future?

Answer: Sophie imagines her brother Geoff as someone who understands her dreams and aspirations. She fantasizes about him introducing her to the exciting world beyond their neighborhood, including introducing her to Danny Casey.

5. Which country did Danny Casey play for?

Answer: Danny Casey played for Ireland.

 

(Page No. 85)

1. Why didn’t Sophie want Jansie to know about her story with Danny?

Answer: Sophie didn’t want Jansie to know because she feared that Jansie, being a gossip, would spread the story around, and it would lose its charm or lead to her lie being discovered.

2. Did Sophie really meet Danny Casey?

Answer: No, Sophie did not really meet Danny Casey. Her story was a product of her imagination and wishful thinking.

3. Which was the only occasion when she got to see Danny Casey in person?

Answer: The only occasion when Sophie got to see Danny Casey in person was during a football match where she watched him play from a distance.

 

Understanding the text

1. Sophie and Jansie were class-mates and friends. What were the differences between them that show up in the story?

Answer: Sophie was a dreamer who lived in a world of fantasies and aspirations. She had ambitious dreams, such as becoming a boutique owner or meeting a famous footballer like Danny Casey. In contrast, Jansie was practical, grounded, and realistic. She understood their modest socio-economic background and focused on the probable future, such as working in a biscuit factory. Their contrasting personalities highlight Sophie’s escapism and Jansie’s pragmatism.

2. How would you describe the character and temperament of Sophie’s father?

Answer: Sophie’s father was a gruff, straightforward man with a no-nonsense attitude. He was practical and skeptical of Sophie’s fanciful stories, dismissing them as unrealistic. He enjoyed simple pleasures, like watching football matches and having his pint of beer. His character reflects the working-class lifestyle, where dreams were secondary to hard work and survival.

3. Why did Sophie like her brother Geoff more than any other person? From her perspective, what did he symbolise?

Answer: Sophie admired her brother Geoff because he was quiet, reserved, and seemed to live in a world of his own. She believed he had access to exciting places and experiences beyond her reach. To Sophie, Geoff symbolized adventure, mystery, and a connection to a world full of possibilities. She trusted him with her dreams, seeing him as a gateway to a better future.

4. What socio-economic background did Sophie belong to? What are the indicators of her family’s financial status?

Answer: Sophie belonged to a lower-middle-class, working-class family. Indicators of her family’s financial status include:

Her father’s job as a laborer and his gruff demeanor.

The modest setting of their home, with basic furnishings.

The mention of Sophie and Jansie likely working in a biscuit factory after school.

Her father’s simple pleasures, like beer and football matches, rather than indulgent hobbies or luxuries.
These elements underscore the family’s constrained financial circumstances and limited prospects.

 

Talking about the text

Discuss in pairs.

1. Sophie’s dreams and disappointments are all in her mind.

Answer: Sophie’s dreams are a product of her vivid imagination and desire to escape the mundane reality of her working-class life. She dreams of a glamorous future, meeting Danny Casey, and breaking free from her limited circumstances. However, these dreams are disconnected from her reality, leading to inevitable disappointment when they fail to materialize. Sophie’s aspirations provide temporary happiness but ultimately highlight the gap between her fantasy and the practical world. Her disappointments stem from the realization that her dreams are unattainable within her current circumstances.

2. It is natural for teenagers to have unrealistic dreams. What would you say are the benefits and disadvantages of such fantasising?

Answer: Benefits:

Encourages creativity: Unrealistic dreams allow teenagers to think beyond the ordinary, stimulating creativity and imagination.

Provides motivation: Fantasizing about a better future can inspire hard work and determination to achieve personal goals.

Emotional escape: Dreams can offer a temporary respite from the challenges of everyday life, giving teenagers a sense of hope and possibility.

Fosters ambition: Unrealistic dreams may help teenagers develop a vision for their future, even if it requires adjustments over time.

Disadvantages:

Leads to disappointment: When dreams are too far from reality, the failure to achieve them can result in frustration and sadness.

Promotes escapism: Excessive fantasizing may prevent teenagers from addressing real-life challenges and responsibilities.

Creates unrealistic expectations: Teenagers may set impractical goals, leading to a lack of preparation for the realities of adult life.

Strains relationships: Unrealistic dreams might alienate them from those who are more pragmatic, as seen with Sophie and Jansie.

Finding a balance between dreaming big and staying grounded is essential for teenagers to channel their aspirations productively.

 

Working with words

Notice the following expressions. The highlighted words are not used in a literal sense. Explain what they mean.

• Words had to be prized out of him like stones out of a ground.

• Sophie felt a tightening in her throat.

If he keeps his head on his shoulders.

• On Saturday they made their weekly pilgrimage to the United.

• She saw… him ghost past the lumbering defenders.

Answer: Explanation of Expressions

Words had to be prized out of him like stones out of a ground.
This metaphor suggests that Geoff was very reserved and spoke very little. Getting him to share his thoughts or feelings was as difficult as extracting stones from hard soil—it required effort and persistence.

Sophie felt a tightening in her throat.
This expression conveys Sophie’s emotional response, likely a mix of anxiety, excitement, or nervousness. It reflects a physical sensation caused by her heightened emotional state.

If he keeps his head on his shoulders.
This phrase means staying calm, sensible, and composed, particularly under pressure or in difficult situations. It suggests having good judgment and being rational.

On Saturday they made their weekly pilgrimage to the United.
This metaphor likens their weekly visit to watch their favorite football team, United, to a religious pilgrimage. It emphasizes their devotion and passion for the sport and the team.

She saw… him ghost past the lumbering defenders.
This phrase vividly describes Danny Casey’s agility and skill on the football field. "Ghost past" suggests that he moved so swiftly and effortlessly that he seemed almost invisible or unreal, while "lumbering defenders" contrasts his grace with their clumsy and heavy movements.

 

Thinking about language

Notice these words in the story.

• “chuffed”, meaning delighted or very pleased

• “nosey”, meaning inquisitive

• “gawky”, meaning awkward, ungainly.

These are words that are used in an informal way in colloquial speech.

Make a list of ten other words of this kind.

Answer: Here’s a list of ten colloquial and informal words similar to “chuffed,” “nosey,” and “gawky”:

Bloke – meaning a man or guy.

Dodgy – meaning suspicious or unreliable.

Cheeky – meaning impudent or playfully disrespectful.

Knackered – meaning very tired or exhausted.

Nifty – meaning clever, stylish, or skillful.

Scruffy – meaning untidy or shabby.

Gobsmacked – meaning astonished or amazed.

Quirky – meaning unusual or peculiar in a charming way.

Banter – meaning playful or teasing conversation.

Whiz – meaning someone who is very skilled or talented at something.

These words are often used in casual conversation and can convey personality, emotion, or mood in an engaging and relatable manner.

 

Writing

– Think of a person who you would like to have as your role model.

Answer: Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, the former President of India and renowned scientist, is my role model. His humility, dedication to science and education, and commitment to the development of the nation inspire me. He exemplifies the values of perseverance, simplicity, and the power of dreaming big.

– Write down the points to be discussed or questions to be asked, if you were asked to interview that person on a television show.

Answer: Points to be Discussed/Questions for the Interview:

1.               Early Life and Inspiration:

Could you share some memories of your childhood and the challenges you faced growing up?

What or who inspired you to pursue a career in science and technology?

2.               Journey as a Scientist:

What were some of the most significant moments during your tenure in ISRO and DRDO?

How did you overcome obstacles in developing India’s space and missile programs?

3.               Vision for Youth:

You often spoke about the power of dreams. What advice would you give to young people who face doubts about their abilities?

How can today’s youth contribute to building a developed and self-reliant nation?

4.               Leadership and Values:

What qualities do you think are essential for effective leadership?

How did you manage to remain humble despite achieving so much?

5.               Books and Philosophy:

What motivated you to write books like Wings of Fire and Ignited Minds?

Could you elaborate on your philosophy of “righteousness” in thought, action, and character?

6.               Role as the President:

How was your experience as the President of India different from your scientific career?

What are the key lessons you learned during your presidency?

7.               Personal Interests and Legacy:

What were your favorite hobbies or activities outside of work?

How would you like to be remembered by future generations?

8.               Message to Viewers:

What final message would you like to share with viewers about pursuing dreams and serving the nation?

This structure allows for an engaging and inspiring discussion, covering both personal and professional aspects of the role model’s life.

 

Things to do

Look for other stories or movies where this theme of hero worship and fantasising about film or sports icons finds a place.

Answer: Here are some stories and movies where the theme of hero worship and fantasizing about film or sports icons is explored:

Books and Stories

1.               “The Fan Club” by Rona Maynard

This short story delves into a young girl’s admiration for a popular girl at school and the lengths she goes to feel accepted. Though not about a celebrity, it highlights the dynamics of idolizing someone and seeking validation.

2.               “Fever Pitch” by Nick Hornby

A memoir that explores the author’s obsession with football, particularly with Arsenal Football Club. It showcases how sports fandom can shape one’s identity and influence their life choices.

3.               “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Although not directly about hero worship, Gatsby’s infatuation with the American Dream and his idealization of Daisy mirrors the theme of placing someone or something on a pedestal.

Movies

1.               “Fan” (2016)

A Bollywood film starring Shah Rukh Khan, where a young man obsessed with a movie star faces disillusionment and conflict when his idol doesn’t meet his expectations.

2.               “The Fan” (1996)

A psychological thriller where an obsessed baseball fan takes his admiration for a player too far, leading to dangerous consequences.

3.               “Bend It Like Beckham” (2002)

A story about a girl who idolizes footballer David Beckham and dreams of becoming a professional football player, despite facing cultural and familial challenges.

4.               “Notting Hill” (1999)

This romantic comedy explores the relationship between a famous actress and a bookstore owner, showcasing the fascination and challenges of loving a celebrity.

5.               “Almost Famous” (2000)

A semi-autobiographical film about a teenager’s experience following a rock band for a magazine, capturing the allure and complexities of idolizing musicians.

6.               “Rock On!!” (2008)

An Indian film about a group of friends who reunite to revive their band, with elements of fan admiration for music and musicians.

TV Shows

1.     “Glee” (2009–2015)

The series frequently explores themes of hero worship, as characters idolize celebrities and musicians while pursuing their dreams of stardom.

2.     “Ted Lasso” (2020–Present)

Though cantered on a football coach, the series delves into how players and fans idolize sports figures and the pressures that come with it.

Common Themes

These stories and films often highlight:

The allure of fame and success.

The emotional connection fans feel with their idols.

The conflict between fantasy and reality.

The influence of idols on personal aspirations and identity.

Each narrative adds depth to the idea of hero worship and its impact on individuals and society.