Alternative English AECC 2 The Bicycle BY Dash Benhur Summary & Question answers +3 1st year 2nd semester

                                           THE BICYCLE BY DASH BENHUR

SUMMARY OF THE BICYCLE

In "The Bicycle," Sudhir Babu, a retired teacher and poet, finds himself at odds with his grandson Tana, who dismisses his poetry about an old bicycle as outdated and irrelevant. Tana’s critique stings, prompting Sudhir to confront the neglected state of his beloved bike, Veersen, which has not been used in five years. As he gazes at the dust-covered bicycle, memories flood back, revealing its significance in his life a steadfast companion through various milestones and adventures, from family outings to intimate conversations with his late wife, Rajani. Sudhir's initial response to Tana's criticism is defensive; he feels that the boy lacks the understanding of poetry and symbolism. However, as he reflects on the bicycle's current state, he recognizes that he has abandoned not just the bike, but also the memories and the joy it once brought him. This realization stirs a deep emotional connection to Veersen, compelling him to restore it. He envisions bringing the bicycle back to life, not just for himself, but also to reclaim the cherished moments tied to it. Determined, Sudhir takes Veersen to Banamali’s Bicycle Repair Shop, where he invests time and money to restore it to its former glory. When he returns home with the refurbished bicycle, he is met with surprise from his family. Tana, who initially scorned the bike, is delighted to see it restored and claims it as his own, bridging the generational gap. This unexpected turn of events revitalizes Sudhir’s spirit, inspiring him to write anew. The story concludes with Sudhir Babu embracing his passion for poetry once again, fueled by the renewed connection to his beloved bicycle. The transformation of Veersen symbolizes not just the revival of an object but also the rekindling of Sudhir's creative energy and appreciation for the past. Through this journey, the narrative explores themes of nostalgia, the importance of memories, and how the act of caring for something can reignite one's passion and purpose.

QUESTION ANSWERS OF THE BICYCLE

Question 1: What was the theme of Sudhir Babu’s poems for the last two years?

Answer: The theme of Sudhir Babu's poems for the last two years was centered around his old bicycle, Veersen. He used the bicycle as a symbol of nostalgia and companionship, reflecting on the many memories and experiences tied to it, from family outings to conversations with his late wife, Rajani. This theme highlighted both his affection for the bicycle and the deeper emotions associated with the passage of time and personal history.

Question 2: Why was Tana annoyed with his grandfather’s poetry?

Answer: Tana was annoyed with his grandfather’s poetry because he found it old-fashioned and repetitive. He criticized Sudhir Babu for continually writing about the bicycle, calling it “rubbish” and suggesting that he needed to move on from that theme. Tana felt that the poems lacked freshness and relevance, which made him dismissive of his grandfather's work.

Question 3: Why was Tana annoyed with his grandfather’s poetry?

Answer: Tana was annoyed with his grandfather’s poetry because he found it outdated and overly focused on the theme of the bicycle. He felt that Sudhir Babu kept repeating phrases like “the bicycle is my friend” and “the bicycle is my life,” which he considered unoriginal and boring. Tana's critical perspective made him dismiss the poetry as “rubbish,” expressing a desire for his grandfather to explore new themes and ideas instead.

Question 4: What was Sudhir Babu’s profession?

Answer: Sudhir Babu was a teacher; he taught English at a college.

Question 5: Why was Tana annoyed with his grandfather’s poetry?

Answer: Tana was annoyed with his grandfather’s poetry because he found it old-fashioned and repetitive, particularly criticizing the frequent references to the bicycle. He felt that the poems were cliché and called them "rubbish," suggesting that Sudhir Babu should stop writing about the bicycle and move on.

Question 6: What kind of a bicycle did Sudhir Babu have? By what name did he address

his bicycle?

Answer: Sudhir Babu had a green "Made in England" Humber bicycle. He affectionately named it "Veersen," drawing a parallel to famous steeds like Chetak, the horse of Prithviraj Chauhan.

Question 7: What other incidents does Sudhir Babu recall where Veersen had emerged as

the real hero?

Answer: Sudhir Babu recalls several incidents where Veersen played a crucial role:

Picnic Incident: During a picnic, when the petromax light failed, Sudhir Babu's friends used Veersen's dynamo to light up the area, allowing them to enjoy their meal safely in the dark.

Carrying Goods: The bicycle had been instrumental in transporting various items, including vegetables and gifts for his wife, Rajani, from the market, highlighting its utility in his daily life.

Emotional Support: Sudhir Babu often spoke to Veersen, sharing personal thoughts and memories, especially during significant life events like the birth of his son, emphasizing the deep emotional connection he felt with the bicycle.

These memories reinforce the idea that Veersen was more than just a mode of transport; it was a silent companion through many important moments in Sudhir Babu's life.

Question 8: How did Sudhir Babu breathe a new lease of life into his old bicycle?

Answer: Sudhir Babu breathed new life into his old bicycle, Veersen, by taking it to Banamali’s Bicycle Repair Shop. After reflecting on his grandson's critical comments about the bicycle being "garbage," he felt a deep sense of neglect towards Veersen and decided to have it refurbished. He asked Banamali to repair it thoroughly, ensuring it looked new again. After a week, he returned to find the bicycle transformed and rejuvenated.

Upon bringing Veersen home, he felt immense satisfaction, and his excitement was palpable. This revitalization of the bicycle inspired Sudhir Babu to start writing poetry again, suggesting that the act of caring for Veersen reignited his creative spirit.

Question 9: Why was Veersen consigned to a lonely position on the front verandah? Why

did Sudhir Babu’s family bar him from riding the bicycle?

Answer: Veersen was consigned to a lonely position on the front verandah after Sudhir Babu had an accident while riding it, colliding with a telephone pole. Following this incident, his family, especially his son, prohibited him from riding the bicycle, citing concerns for his safety. They believed he was fortunate to escape the accident with minor injuries and thought it best for him to avoid riding again, which led to Veersen being neglected for several years.

Question 10: How did the bicycle come to the rescue of Sudhir Babu and his friends when

they found themselves stranded in a forest?

Answer: When Sudhir Babu and his friends found themselves stranded in a forest during a picnic, they needed a source of light to get back home. Their petromax lantern failed to work, and they were in a dark, remote area. Someone suggested using Sudhir Babu's bicycle, which had a dynamo. They took turns cranking the bicycle to power the dynamo, providing enough light for everyone to eat and ultimately guiding them back safely. This incident highlighted the bicycle's reliability and importance in Sudhir Babu's life.