SECOND YEAR HIGHER
SECONDARY EXAMINATION, MARCH 2023
Part – I Time : 2½
Hours
ENGLISH
Cool-off time : 15 Minutes
Maximum
: 80 Scores
Questions 1 – 8. Answer all questions. Each carries 1 score. (8 x 1 = 8)
Read the passages and answer the questions that
follow :
‘I come home at the end of four years of research in
North India, having earned a
doctoral degree and generous praise for my work on
making toys with husk; bored with
eating chapaties day after day, I’m eager to eat a
meal of athikira rice.’
1. Identify the poet.
Chemmanam Chacko
2. Who has gone to North India ?
The Speaker , The Poet
3. What is the purpose of his journey ?
To earn a doctoral degree
4. What is he eager about to eat from home ?
A meal of athikira rice
She
went about her repetitive, mundane work with an ‘infectious cheerfulness’.
5. Who is the ‘she’ referred to in the passage ?
Ratna
6. Identify the speaker
Sudha Murthy
7. What is the figure of speech used here ?
Oxymoron, transferred epithet
8. Choose the phrase from the passage which means ability to spread
happiness.
Infectious
cheerfulness
Questions 9 – 12. Answer any three questions. Each carries 2 scores. (3 x 2 = 6)
9. Why does the poet dislike sitting on a dentist’s chair ‘with his mouth
wide open ?’
The poet dislikes sitting in a dentist's chair with
his mouth wide open because he considers it as both a physical and mental
torture.Moreover he feels that he loses all his dignity.
10. (a) Neither the shoes nor the bag _____ (match) the dress.
matches
(b) These trousers (need)
_____ to be ironed.
need
11 . Ashapurna Debi compares women to match boxes. Do you agree ? Give
reason.
Ashapurna
Debi's comparison of women to matchboxes is a metaphorical way of highlighting
the societal expectations and roles imposed on women. While the comparison may
resonate with some aspects of women's lives, it's essential to recognize that
it oversimplifies a complex issue. Women, like men, are diverse individuals
with unique strengths, aspirations, and capacities, and reducing them to a
single metaphor doesn't capture this complexity. Gender roles and expectations
should be challenged and redefined to empower women to fulfill their potential
on their terms.
12. ‘Women deserve equality and not reservation’. Write 2 points either to
support or
counter the statement
Supporting
a.Women should be granted equal
opportunities based on merit rather than through reservation policies
b.If.women are given equal status to
men,they can excel through their own efforts, contributing to their personal
growth and the betterment of the society as a whole.
Against
a. Women need reservation and not
equality in todays society
b. Reservation will help women to come up and showcase their true potential.
Questions 13 – 19. Answer any five questions. Each carries 4 scores. (5 x 4 = 20)
13. If you have the two options of becoming a government servant or an
entrepreneur,which one would you prefer ? Express your thoughts in a paragraph.
I am drawn to the path of an entrepreneur, fueled by
a burning desire to innovate, create, and make a meaningful impact on the
world. Entrepreneurship offers a canvas of boundless possibilities, where I can
shape my ideas into reality, chart my course, and take calculated risks to
achieve my dreams. It embodies the spirit of resilience, adaptability, and
unyielding determination, qualities that resonate with my aspirations. Through
entrepreneurship, I aim not only to pursue my passions but also to contribute
to the betterment of society by addressing unmet needs and driving positive
change. This journey, though challenging, promises a sense of fulfillment,
self-discovery, and the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy that government
service, with all its merits, may not afford. Entrepreneurship is my chosen
path, where I see endless horizons of innovation and the potential to make a
difference in the world.
14. “Women sometimes lack confidence to match their competence.” Comment on
the
statement.
The statement, "Women sometimes lack confidence
to match their competence," highlights a critical issue that many women
face in various aspects of their lives, particularly in professional settings.
It points to the phenomenon known as the "confidence gap," where
women may doubt their abilities or hesitate to express their opinions, even
when they are highly competent and knowledgeable. This discrepancy between
their actual competence and their confidence can hold them back from pursuing
leadership roles, voicing their ideas, or taking risks in their careers. This
lack of self-assurance can be attributed to societal conditioning, stereotypes,
and the underrepresentation of women in certain fields. It underscores the
importance of not only empowering women with the necessary skills but also
fostering a supportive environment that encourages them to embrace their
competence with confidence, thus unlocking their full potential and
contributing to a more equitable and inclusive society.
15. Justify the aptness of the title of the story “Crime and Punishment”.
The
title of the story, "Crime and Punishment," is indeed apt as it
encapsulates the central theme and conflict within the narrative. In this short
story by R. K. Narayan, the "crime" refers to the teacher's impulsive
act of slapping the young boy for giving a wrong answer in a math question. The
teacher's action is perceived as a wrongdoing, especially in the context of the
boy's privileged upbringing where his parents advocate a gentle, non-repressive
approach to child-rearing. The "punishment" comes in the form of the
boy's threat to tell his parents about the incident. The tension revolves
around the potential consequences of the teacher's action and how he tries to
navigate the situation to avoid punishment for his impulsive behavior. Thus,
the title effectively captures the essence of the story, which revolves around
an act of wrongdoing and the subsequent consequences or punishment that may
follow. It highlights the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by the characters
and explores the idea of discipline, authority, and child-rearing practices.
16. “Stammer” symbolizes the ability to protest, respond and react to the
evils of the
society. Do you agree ? Comment.
Yes,
I agree that "Stammer" can be seen as a symbol of the ability to
protest, respond, and react to the injustices and evils of society. In the
poem, stammering is portrayed as a unique mode of speech, a way of
communicating that deviates from the norm. This deviation can be seen as a form
of protest against the rigid structures and expectations imposed by society. By
suggesting that stammering is a sacrifice offered to the "God of
meanings," the poet implies that it has its own significance and purpose.
When an entire community or people stammer, it becomes their mother tongue,
indicating a collective response to the world around them. Stammering, in this
context, can be seen as a form of resistance, a way of speaking that defies
conformity and embraces individuality. So, in essence, "Stammer" can
symbolize the capacity to challenge societal norms and voice dissent against
the injustices and inequalities present in society.
17. “Good fences make good neighbours”. Elaborate the idea in a paragraph.
The
phrase "Good fences make good neighbors" encapsulates the idea that
clear and well-defined boundaries or limits between individuals or properties
can contribute to healthier and more harmonious relationships. It suggests that
maintaining a certain degree of personal space, privacy, and respect for
individual boundaries can help prevent conflicts and misunderstandings. In
essence, it implies that when people respect one another's autonomy and
property rights, there is a better chance of fostering positive and peaceful
interactions. However, it's important to note that while this saying
underscores the importance of boundaries, it does not advocate for excessive
isolation or a complete lack of interaction. Instead, it emphasizes the value
of mutual respect and understanding within the context of neighborly relations,
where each party acknowledges and honors the boundaries of the other.
18 . Edit the following :
Today, over fifty years later, the stream have
dried up, women walks long distances to
water which is not always clean, and children will
never know what they has lost.
Ans : has , walk , for , have
19 . Assistant : “No parcel for me to weigh ?”
Mrs. Smith : Good gracious, no ! I’ve sent all my presents and cards. I
believe in
posting early for Christmas”.
Assistant : “I wish more people would do that.”
(Report the passage)
The Assistant asked Mrs. Smith whether she had any
parcel for her to weigh. Mrs. Smith replied in the negative .She said that she
had sent all her presents and cards and that she believed in posting early for
Christmas. The Assistant told her that she wished more people would have done
that.
Questions 20 – 25. Answer any five. Each carries 6 scores. (5 x 6 = 30)
20. As the reporter of the BBC News you are present at the court during the
time of
Gresham’s trial. Give a live TV report regarding the trial.
[INTRO]
Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. This is [Your
Name] reporting live from outside the courthouse in what has become a highly
anticipated trial. We are here to bring you the latest updates on the trial of
Mr. Jonathan Gresham, the former owner of a prominent city bank, who stands
accused of misappropriating depositors' funds.
[COURTROOM ATMOSPHERE]
Inside the courtroom, tension is palpable as the
prosecution and defense prepare to present their cases. The gallery is packed
with curious onlookers, journalists, and supporters of both the accused and the
alleged victims.
[TRIAL HIGHLIGHTS]
Today, the prosecution began by outlining a case that
revolves around allegations of financial impropriety that ultimately led to the
collapse of Mr. Gresham's bank. They argue that Gresham's actions constituted a
breach of trust, as he allegedly used depositors' funds for personal
enrichment.
The defense, however, claims that Mr. Gresham is a
victim of circumstance and that he did everything within his power to save the
bank. They argue that his intent was never to harm depositors but rather to
navigate the bank through a difficult financial situation.
[WITNESS TESTIMONY]
Throughout the day, we've heard compelling
testimonies from key witnesses. Notably, Mr. Robert Baldwin, a former close
associate of Gresham and a crucial witness in this trial, took the stand.
Baldwin's testimony provided a glimpse into the inner workings of the bank and
his interactions with Gresham.
[REACTIONS FROM THE GALLERY]
As these revelations unfolded, emotions ran high
inside the courtroom. Supporters of Gresham listened intently, while some
depositors who lost their savings as a result of the bank's collapse looked on
with a mix of anger and sadness.
[CLOSING REMARKS]
The trial is far from over, and it remains to be seen
how the judge and jury will weigh the evidence presented. The proceedings will
continue in the coming days, and we will be here to provide you with the latest
updates on this high-stakes trial.
[OUTRO]
Thank you for joining us for this live report from
the courthouse. Stay tuned to BBC News for further developments in the trial of
Jonathan Gresham.
21. Explain the significance of the title ‘Horegallu’.
The title "Horegallu" holds great
significance in Sudha Murty's narrative. In the context of the passage,
"Horegallu" refers to a simple stone bench placed under a large
banyan tree in a village. While on the surface, it might seem like just a
physical object, its deeper meaning carries several layers of importance:
1. Symbol of Rest and Respite: The
"Horegallu" serves as a place where weary travelers can rest, put
down their burdens, and find relief from their journey's hardships. It
symbolizes the idea that in life, we all encounter challenges and burdens, and
sometimes, we need a moment to pause, reflect, and regain our strength.
2. Metaphor for Empathy and Compassion: Just
as the stone bench provides a physical resting place, it also represents the
emotional support and compassion that people can offer to one another. It
highlights the significance of being there for others, lending an empathetic
ear, and helping them carry their emotional burdens.
3. Community and Connection: The
"Horegallu" becomes a gathering place where people from the village
and travelers passing through can connect, share their stories, and form a
sense of community. It underscores the importance of human connection and
communication in our lives.
4. Personal Growth and Reflection: It suggests
that taking breaks and reflecting on one's journey is essential for personal
growth. Just as travelers use this place to rest and gather their thoughts,
individuals need moments of introspection and self-care to navigate their life
paths effectively.
In essence, the title "Horegallu" is a
symbol of the broader themes of empathy, compassion, community, and self-care
that run through Sudha Murty's narrative. It teaches us that even simple things
in life, like a stone bench, can carry profound meanings and offer valuable
life lessons.
22. Imagine you are selected as the announcer of the match between
Argentina and
Portugal at the Fifa World Cup 2022. Write the script of the announcement
to be made
before the match.
Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, football fans
from around the world, welcome to the most anticipated match of the FIFA World
Cup 2022! I'm your announcer, and I'm thrilled to be here to bring you all the
action and excitement as Argentina takes on Portugal in this epic showdown.
Before we dive into the heart-pounding action, let's
take a moment to appreciate the significance of this match. It's a clash of
titans, a battle of two football powerhouses, each with a rich history and a
tradition of excellence. This is the moment we've all been waiting for!
Now, for those of you who might be new to the
beautiful game, let me break it down for you. Argentina, led by their superstar
Lionel Messi, has a storied history of success in international football, with
two World Cup titles to their name. On the other side, Portugal, captained by
the phenomenal Cristiano Ronaldo, is the reigning European champion and boasts
a team full of talent and determination.
But it's not just about the stars; it's about the
passion, the pride, and the dedication that these players bring to the pitch.
It's about the fans, both here in the stadium and those watching from all
corners of the globe, who unite to support their teams with unwavering loyalty.
As we prepare for kickoff, let's remember that
football is more than just a game; it's a universal language that brings us all
together, regardless of our backgrounds or beliefs. It's a celebration of
skill, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence.
So, to the students watching this match, whether
you're cheering for Argentina or Portugal, take this as a lesson in the
importance of perseverance, teamwork, and the pursuit of your dreams. Just like
these players have worked hard to reach the World Cup stage, you too can
achieve greatness with dedication and determination in whatever field you
choose.
As the players take the field and the world watches
in anticipation, I encourage you all to savor every moment of this incredible
match. Whether it's a breathtaking goal, a stunning save, or a brilliant piece
of skill, remember that in football, anything is possible.
So, without further ado, let the FIFA World Cup 2022
match between Argentina and Portugal begin! Get ready for 90 minutes of
heart-stopping action, and may the best team win! Enjoy the game, everyone!
23. Akansha Foundation is doing a significant job by transforming the lives
of
underprivileged children. Draft an e-mail to your friend on your impression
about
Akansha Foundation.
Subject:
Impressive Work by Akanksha Foundation
Dear
[Friend's Name],
I
hope this email finds you well. I wanted to share with you my recent impression
of the Akanksha Foundation, an organization that is doing remarkable work in
transforming the lives of underprivileged children in India.
Recently,
I came across a story about Akanksha Foundation's founder, Shaheen Mistri, and
her incredible journey of personal transformation and commitment to making a
positive impact on society. Her story is not only inspiring but also a
testament to the power of one person's dedication and empathy.
What
struck me the most is how Akanksha Foundation focuses on providing education to
children who might not otherwise have access to quality schooling. Their
efforts go beyond traditional academics, emphasizing values, self-esteem, and
confidence, which are essential for these young individuals to break the cycle
of poverty and achieve their full potential.
I
was particularly moved by how Akanksha began as a small initiative with just 15
children and grew into a network of 58 centers and 6 schools, benefiting over
3500 children. This growth is a testament to the organization's commitment and
its ability to engage the community, volunteers, and supporters in their
mission.
In a
world where educational inequalities persist, Akanksha Foundation's work serves
as a shining example of what can be achieved when individuals and organizations
are driven by a genuine desire to make a positive change. It's heartwarming to
see how they are providing hope and opportunities to those who need it the
most.
I
thought you might find their work as inspiring as I did, and it's a reminder
that even small efforts can lead to significant positive changes in the lives
of others.
If
you're interested, I can share more about their initiatives and how you might
get involved or support their cause in the future.
Looking
forward to hearing your thoughts on this incredible organization.
Warm
regards,
[Your
Name]
24. Bring out the elements of satire in the poem “Rice” highlighting the
changes in the
attitude of people with the changing times.
Here are the elements of satire in the poem “Rice”
by Chemmanam Chacko:
- Exaggeration: The
speaker's father claims that rice farming is "inconvenient" and
that only "fools" would turn to it for gain. This is an
exaggeration, as rice farming is a perfectly viable way to make a living.
- Hypocrisy: The
speaker's father is happy to accept government handouts of rice, but he is
unwilling to grow rice himself. This is hypocritical, as he is benefiting
from the government's support of the agricultural sector while also
contributing to its decline.
- Sarcasm: The
speaker's question about whether the government will give him some husk
from the Centre to make toys with is a sarcastic comment on the
government's failure to support the agricultural sector.
- Irony: The
speaker is disappointed to find that his father has stopped farming rice,
but his father is happy with the change. This is ironic, as the speaker is
the one who has been away for four years and should be more familiar with
the changes that have taken place.
The poem also highlights
the changes in the attitude of people with the changing times. The speaker's
father is willing to abandon the traditional way of life and switch to cash
crops in order to make a profit. This is a reflection of the increasing materialism
and greed of the modern world.
The poem is a satire of
the government's policies towards agriculture and the changes in the attitude
of people with the changing times. It is a warning about the dangers of
monoculture and the importance of preserving traditional ways of life.
25. Irfan Alam says “It is important to take risks to achieve your dreams.”
Comment on this statement.
Irfan Alam's statement, "it is important to take
risks to achieve your dreams," carries profound wisdom and insight into
the world of entrepreneurship and personal growth.
1. Pushing Boundaries: Taking risks is
synonymous with stepping out of one's comfort zone. Achieving dreams often
involves venturing into the unknown and confronting uncertainties. It requires
the courage to challenge the status quo and push the boundaries of what is
deemed possible.
2. Learning and Adaptation: Risk-taking
provides invaluable lessons. Failure, an inherent part of risk, teaches
adaptability and resilience. It equips individuals with the experience needed
to refine their strategies and approach, ultimately increasing the likelihood
of success in subsequent endeavors.
3. Innovation and Progress: Many
groundbreaking innovations and achievements have been realized by those willing
to take calculated risks. Risk-takers are often the ones who challenge
conventional thinking and drive progress in various fields.
4. Overcoming Fear: Pursuing dreams
necessitates overcoming the fear of failure. Those who embrace risk learn to
confront fear head-on, making them more confident and determined in their
pursuits.
5. Rewards of Success: While risks can lead to
failures, they can also result in remarkable successes. The potential rewards
of realizing one's dreams, whether personal or entrepreneurial, often far
outweigh the risks taken.
In conclusion, Irfan Alam's statement underscores the
idea that, in both entrepreneurship and life, taking risks is an essential
component of achieving significant goals and making a lasting impact. It
encourages individuals to embrace uncertainty as an opportunity for growth and
innovation, ultimately propelling them towards the realization of their dreams.
Questions 26 – 28. Answer any two. Each carries 8 scores. (2 x 8 = 16)
assembly on the topic
“Drug Abuse among Teenagers : Causes and Effects.”
Title:
Drug Abuse among Teenagers: Causes and Effects
Ladies
and gentlemen, teachers, and my dear fellow students,
Today,
I stand before you as a volunteer of our school's Anti-Narcotic Club to address
a pressing issue that concerns us all: "Drug Abuse among Teenagers: Causes
and Effects." It's a topic that requires our immediate attention and
collective efforts to protect the future of our youth.
As
we gather here in this school assembly, we must recognize that the youth of our
nation is its most valuable asset. However, the rising issue of drug and
alcohol addiction threatens to derail the dreams and aspirations of countless
young individuals. We need to understand the causes behind this alarming trend
and the devastating effects it has on our peers and society as a whole.
Causes
of Drug Abuse Among Teenagers:
1.
Peer Pressure: One of the primary reasons teenagers experiment with drugs is
peer pressure. The desire to fit in and be accepted among their peers can lead
them down a dangerous path.
2.
Curiosity: Adolescence is a time of curiosity and exploration. Some teenagers
may turn to drugs out of sheer curiosity, not fully grasping the consequences.
3.
Stress and Coping Mechanism: The pressures of academic performance, family
expectations, and personal issues can become overwhelming. Some teens resort to
drugs as a way to escape or cope with these stressors.
4.
Easy Access: Unfortunately, drugs are often readily available, making it easier
for teenagers to experiment.
Effects
of Drug Abuse Among Teenagers:
Now,
let's delve into the devastating effects of drug abuse among teenagers:
1.
Health Consequences: Substance abuse can lead to severe health problems,
including addiction, physical and mental health disorders, and even fatal
overdoses.
2.
Academic Decline: Drug abuse can have a detrimental impact on a student's
academic performance, leading to lower grades and jeopardizing future
opportunities.
3.
Broken Relationships: Drug abuse can strain relationships with family and
friends, leading to isolation and loneliness.
4.
Legal Troubles: Involvement with drugs often leads to legal issues, which can
have lifelong consequences.
5.
Economic Burden: Treating drug addiction is costly, placing an additional
burden on families and society.
Now,
the question we must ask ourselves is, "What can we do to combat this
grave issue?"
First
and foremost, awareness is key. We must educate ourselves and others about the
dangers of drug abuse. Knowledge is a powerful tool in making informed
decisions.
Secondly,
as members of the Anti-Narcotic Club, we need to actively engage with our
peers. We should provide support and encourage open conversations about the
challenges they face. Let's be there for one another.
Lastly,
we must remember that prevention is the best solution. By building a strong
support system, promoting healthy alternatives to cope with stress, and
fostering a drug-free environment, we can help prevent drug abuse among
teenagers.
In
conclusion, drug abuse among teenagers is a grave concern, but together, we can
address it. Let's stand united as a school community to protect our youth and
ensure they have bright futures ahead. Together, we can make a difference,
saving lives and safeguarding our collective future.
Thank
you.
27. “Emancipation and empowerment of women is of prime importance in every
society”. In the light of your understanding of the ideas expressed by
Christine Legarde, prepare
an editorial on the role played by women in the progress of the nation.
Title: Women Empowerment: The Cornerstone of National
Progress
In a world characterized by diversity and dynamism,
the emancipation and empowerment of women stand as pillars of progress in every
society. Christine Lagarde's words echo a universal truth - the role of women
is not merely significant; it is indispensable in the trajectory of a nation's
advancement.
First and foremost, women constitute roughly half of
a nation's population. To disregard or suppress the potential of such a
significant portion of the citizenry is akin to steering a ship with one hand
tied behind one's back. Empowering women unlocks a vast pool of talent,
creativity, and innovation, propelling society forward.
Women are no longer limited to domestic roles; they
are increasingly contributing to diverse fields like science, technology,
business, and governance. Their participation bolsters economic growth, fosters
diversity of thought, and enriches decision-making processes.
Furthermore, women are crucial in nurturing future
generations. They play an irreplaceable role in instilling values, ethics, and
education in children, shaping the character of future citizens.
Empowered women are also better equipped to address
critical societal issues. They advocate for gender equality, healthcare,
education, and social reforms, thus enhancing the well-being of the entire
populace.
However, it is essential to acknowledge that gender
disparities persist in many parts of the world. Discrimination, unequal
opportunities, and violence against women are stark realities that need to be
addressed urgently.
To harness the full potential of women, societies
must champion gender equality, promote access to education and healthcare, and
encourage women's participation in leadership and decision-making roles.
Empowerment is not just a moral imperative; it is a strategic necessity for the
sustainable progress of any nation.
In conclusion, the emancipation and empowerment of
women are not optional but imperative for a nation's development. Their
contributions are fundamental to shaping a more equitable, progressive, and
prosperous society. It is high time that societies worldwide recognize this
fact and invest in women's empowerment as a cornerstone of national progress.
28. Read the following poem given below and compare it with “Mending Wall”.
As I Grew Older
Langston Hughes
It was long time ago
I have almost forgotten my dream
But it was there then,
In front of me,
Bright like a sun –
My dream
And then the wall rose,
Rose slowly,
Slowly,
Between me and my dream.
Rose until it touched the sky –
The wall.
Shadow.
I am black.
I lie down in the shadow.
No longer the light of my dream before me,
Above me.
Only the thick wall.
Only the shadow.
My hands !
My dark hands !
Break through the wall !
Find my dream !
Help me to shatter this darkness,
To smash this night,
To break this shadow
Into a thousand lights of sun,
Into a thousand whirling dreams
Of Sun !
Langston Hughes' poem "As I Grew Older"
shares some thematic similarities with Robert Frost's "Mending Wall,"
but it explores these themes from a different perspective. Here's a comparison
of the two poems:
1. Themes of Barriers and Boundaries:
- Mending
Wall : In "Mending Wall," the focus is on the physical wall that
separates the speaker from his neighbor. The poem questions the need for such
barriers and explores the idea of boundaries and isolation.
- As I Grew
Older : In Hughes' poem, the wall is metaphorical. It represents the racial and
societal barriers that the speaker encounters as a Black person. The wall here
symbolizes not just physical separation but also discrimination and the
suppression of dreams.
2. Nature vs. Human-Made Obstacles:
- Mending
Wall : Frost's poem juxtaposes the forces of nature, like freezing ground and
the sun, with the man-made wall. It suggests that nature itself resists the
presence of this wall.
- As I Grew
Older : Hughes' poem uses the image of a dream as something natural and innate
within a person. The wall, on the other hand, is a human-made construct that
separates the speaker from their dream. It emphasizes the idea that societal
structures can obstruct individual aspirations.
3. Questioning the Status Quo:
- Mending
Wall : Frost's speaker questions the tradition of wall-building, suggesting
that before erecting such barriers, one should consider why they are doing so
and what they are keeping in or out.
- As I Grew
Older : Hughes' speaker challenges the racial discrimination and social
injustice that have created the metaphorical wall in their life. They want to
break through this barrier to reach their dreams, symbolizing the desire for
equality and justice.
4. Resolution and Empowerment:
- Mending
Wall : Frost's poem doesn't necessarily offer a clear resolution. The speaker
and the neighbor continue their annual ritual of mending the wall, but the
speaker remains skeptical.
- As I Grew
Older : Hughes' poem ends on a more hopeful note. The speaker's determination
to break through the wall of darkness and reach their dreams suggests a resolve
to overcome adversity and oppression.
In summary, both poems explore the idea of barriers
and boundaries, but "Mending Wall" focuses on physical separation and
tradition, while "As I Grew Older" addresses racial and societal
discrimination as metaphorical walls that hinder personal aspirations. Both
poems, however, ultimately invite readers to contemplate the impact of walls,
whether physical or metaphorical, on human lives and the need to question and
challenge them.
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