Online Self Test
Learn & Practice Quizzes & Challenges Competitive Exams
 

The Sleeping Porter – CBSE NCERT Study Resources

Previous ChapterNext Chapter
Previous Chapter Next Chapter

Study Materials

10th

10th - English (Panorama - Poetry)

The Sleeping Porter

Jump to Question Sets

Overview of the Chapter

The chapter The Sleeping Porter is a poignant poem included in the CBSE Grade 10 English textbook (Panorama - Poetry). It explores themes of exhaustion, labor, and the harsh realities faced by marginalized workers. The poem vividly portrays the life of a porter who, despite his fatigue, continues to work tirelessly, highlighting societal indifference toward the working class.

Key Theme: The poem underscores the exploitation and struggles of laborers, emphasizing their resilience amidst adversity.

Summary of the Poem

The poem The Sleeping Porter depicts a porter who collapses from exhaustion while carrying heavy loads. Despite his physical strain, he is ignored by passersby, symbolizing societal neglect. The poet uses vivid imagery to evoke empathy for the porter's plight, contrasting his vulnerability with the indifferent urban environment.

Literary Devices Used

  • Imagery: The poet employs descriptive language to paint a vivid picture of the porter's exhaustion.
  • Symbolism: The porter represents the broader struggles of the working class.
  • Irony: The porter's sleep, a sign of extreme fatigue, is mistaken for laziness by onlookers.

Important Questions

  1. How does the poet highlight the porter's exhaustion through imagery?
  2. What societal critique is implied in the poem?
  3. Discuss the significance of the title The Sleeping Porter.

Central Message: The poem critiques societal apathy toward laborers and calls for greater empathy and awareness.

All Question Types with Solutions – CBSE Exam Pattern

Explore a complete set of CBSE-style questions with detailed solutions, categorized by marks and question types. Ideal for exam preparation, revision and practice.

Very Short Answer (1 Mark) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These are 1-mark questions requiring direct, concise answers. Ideal for quick recall and concept clarity.

Question 1:
Who is the author of The Sleeping Porter?
Answer:

Manik Bandopadhyay

Question 2:
What is the main theme of The Sleeping Porter?
Answer:

Exploitation of laborers

Question 3:
Where does the porter sleep in the story?
Answer:

On the railway platform

Question 4:
Why does the porter struggle to sleep?
Answer:

Due to constant interruptions

Question 5:
What symbolizes the porter's helplessness?
Answer:

His tattered clothes

Question 6:
How does society treat the porter?
Answer:

With neglect and indifference

Question 7:
What is the porter's primary occupation?
Answer:

Carrying luggage

Question 8:
What emotion does the porter mostly feel?
Answer:

Exhaustion

Question 9:
What disrupts the porter's sleep?
Answer:

Passengers demanding service

Question 10:
What does the porter dream of?
Answer:

A peaceful sleep

Question 11:
How does the story highlight social inequality?
Answer:

By contrasting rich and poor

Question 12:
What literary device is used in The Sleeping Porter?
Answer:

Symbolism

Question 13:
What time of day is the story set?
Answer:

Late night

Question 14:
Why is the porter unable to escape his situation?
Answer:

Due to poverty

Question 15:
Who is the author of the chapter The Sleeping Porter?
Answer:
The author of The Sleeping Porter is Manik Bandopadhyay.
Question 16:
What is the central theme of The Sleeping Porter?
Answer:

The central theme of The Sleeping Porter revolves around the struggles of the working class, highlighting their exhaustion, poverty, and the harsh realities of life.

Question 17:
Describe the setting of The Sleeping Porter.
Answer:

The story is set in a railway station, where the porter, exhausted from his work, falls asleep on the platform, depicting the grim conditions of laborers.

Question 18:
Why does the porter fall asleep in the story?
Answer:

The porter falls asleep due to extreme exhaustion from his continuous labor and lack of proper rest, symbolizing the plight of overworked laborers.

Question 19:
What does the porter's sleep symbolize in the story?
Answer:

The porter's sleep symbolizes the temporary escape from his harsh reality, as well as the physical and emotional exhaustion faced by the working class.

Question 20:
How does the author portray the porter's life in the story?
Answer:

The author portrays the porter's life as difficult and unrelenting, filled with back-breaking work, poverty, and little hope for improvement.

Question 21:
What literary device is prominently used in The Sleeping Porter?
Answer:

The story prominently uses imagery to vividly describe the porter's exhaustion and the bleak surroundings of the railway station.

Question 22:
What is the significance of the railway station in the story?
Answer:

The railway station symbolizes the transient nature of life and the constant movement that contrasts with the porter's stagnant, exhausting existence.

Question 23:
How does the story The Sleeping Porter evoke empathy in the reader?
Answer:

The story evokes empathy by highlighting the porter's suffering and making the reader reflect on the struggles of marginalized laborers in society.

Question 24:
What message does the author convey through the porter's character?
Answer:

The author conveys a message about the inhuman conditions faced by laborers and calls for social awareness and change to improve their lives.

Question 25:
How does the title The Sleeping Porter relate to the story?
Answer:

The title reflects the porter's moment of rest amidst his grueling life, emphasizing his exhaustion and the fleeting nature of his peace.

Question 26:
What emotions does the story The Sleeping Porter primarily evoke?
Answer:

The story primarily evokes emotions of sympathy, sadness, and reflection on the hardships faced by the working class.

Very Short Answer (2 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 2-mark questions test key concepts in a brief format. Answers are expected to be accurate and slightly descriptive.

Question 1:
Who is the author of the poem The Sleeping Porter?
Answer:

The poem The Sleeping Porter is written by Keki N. Daruwalla. He is a renowned Indian poet known for his vivid imagery and social themes.

Question 2:
Describe the condition of the porter in the poem.
Answer:

The porter is depicted as exhausted and deprived of basic comforts. He sleeps on a cold railway platform, symbolizing the neglect and indifference of society towards laborers.

Question 3:
How does the poet evoke sympathy for the porter?
Answer:

The poet uses vivid imagery and contrast to evoke sympathy. The porter's frail body and harsh surroundings make the reader reflect on social injustice.

Question 4:
What does the railway platform symbolize in the poem?
Answer:

The railway platform symbolizes transience and isolation. It reflects the porter's temporary existence and society's lack of concern for marginalized individuals.

Question 5:
Name one poetic device used in The Sleeping Porter.
Answer:

The poet uses metaphor in the poem. For example, the porter's sleep is compared to a brief escape from his harsh reality.

Question 6:
How does the poem critique societal inequality?
Answer:

The poem critiques societal inequality by contrasting the porter's poverty with the indifference of the privileged. It exposes the exploitation of the working class.

Question 7:
What emotions does the porter's sleep evoke in the reader?
Answer:

The porter's sleep evokes sadness and helplessness. His exhaustion and vulnerability make the reader question societal norms.

Question 8:
Why is the porter's sleep described as 'brief'?
Answer:

The porter's sleep is 'brief' because it symbolizes the temporary relief from his struggles. It hints at the ongoing hardships he faces daily.

Question 9:
How does the poet use imagery in The Sleeping Porter?
Answer:

The poet uses visual imagery to depict the porter's tired body and harsh environment. This creates a powerful emotional impact on the reader.

Question 10:
What message does the poet convey through the porter's character?
Answer:

The poet conveys a message about social justice and human dignity. The porter represents the voiceless laborers who deserve empathy and fair treatment.

Short Answer (3 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 3-mark questions require brief explanations and help assess understanding and application of concepts.

Question 1:
Describe the significance of the title 'The Sleeping Porter' in the context of the story.
Answer:

The title 'The Sleeping Porter' highlights the central theme of the story—the plight of the working class. The porter, exhausted from his labor, symbolizes the exploitation and neglect faced by laborers. His sleep represents a temporary escape from harsh realities, emphasizing the need for empathy and social justice.

Question 2:
How does the author use irony in 'The Sleeping Porter' to convey a deeper message?
Answer:

The author employs irony by showing the porter sleeping amidst chaos, contrasting his peaceful state with the harshness of his life. This irony underscores the indifference of society toward laborers, making readers reflect on societal inequalities.

Question 3:
Explain the role of setting in 'The Sleeping Porter' and its impact on the story.
Answer:

The setting—a bustling railway station—creates a stark contrast between the porter's exhaustion and the surrounding activity. This highlights his isolation and the relentless demands of his job, reinforcing the story's critique of labor exploitation.

Question 4:
What emotions does the sleeping porter evoke in the narrator, and why?
Answer:

The narrator feels pity and guilt upon seeing the sleeping porter. The porter's exhaustion reminds the narrator of the systemic injustice faced by laborers, prompting a moment of introspection about societal responsibilities.

Question 5:
How does the story 'The Sleeping Porter' reflect the socio-economic conditions of its time?
Answer:

The story mirrors the harsh realities of laborers during its era, depicting their overwork and underpayment. It critiques the socio-economic system that perpetuates such inequalities, urging readers to acknowledge and address these issues.

Question 6:
Discuss the symbolism of the porter's sleep in the story.
Answer:

The porter's sleep symbolizes both escape and resistance. It represents his brief respite from oppression while also silently protesting the inhuman working conditions imposed on him by society.

Question 7:
How does the poet use imagery in The Sleeping Porter to evoke empathy for the porter?
Answer:

The poet uses vivid imagery to depict the porter's exhaustion and harsh living conditions. Phrases like 'his body a bundle of rags' and 'the cold bites his bones' create a strong visual of his suffering. This helps readers empathize with his plight by making his struggles feel real and relatable.

Question 8:
Explain the significance of the title The Sleeping Porter in the context of the poem.
Answer:

The title highlights the porter's momentary escape from his harsh reality through sleep. Despite his backbreaking work, sleep is his only respite. It symbolizes both his exhaustion and his humanity, reminding readers that even laborers deserve dignity and rest.

Question 9:
How does the poet contrast the porter's life with the surroundings in The Sleeping Porter?
Answer:

The poet contrasts the porter's poverty and suffering with the indifference of the world around him. While he sleeps on a cold pavement, the city continues bustling, ignoring his existence. This juxtaposition emphasizes societal neglect toward laborers.

Question 10:
What message does the poet convey about social inequality through The Sleeping Porter?
Answer:

The poem exposes the social inequality faced by laborers like the porter, who work tirelessly yet live in misery. The poet urges readers to recognize their struggles and question the unfair systems that keep them oppressed. It’s a call for empathy and change.

Question 11:
Describe the tone of the poem The Sleeping Porter and how it influences the reader's perception.
Answer:

The tone is somber and sympathetic, reflecting the porter's suffering. By avoiding melodrama, the poet makes the porter's plight feel genuine. This tone helps readers connect emotionally with the porter and reflect on societal injustices.

Question 12:
How does the poet use metaphors in The Sleeping Porter to deepen the poem's meaning?
Answer:

The poet uses metaphors like 'his dreams are as light as his pockets' to show the porter's hopelessness. This comparison between his dreams and poverty emphasizes how his harsh life crushes even his aspirations, making the poem more poignant.

Long Answer (5 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 5-mark questions are descriptive and require detailed, structured answers with proper explanation and examples.

Question 1:
How does the poem The Sleeping Porter highlight the exploitation of laborers?
Answer:
Introduction

The poem The Sleeping Porter portrays the harsh reality of laborers through vivid imagery. Our textbook shows how the porter symbolizes exploited workers.


Argument 1
  • The porter's exhaustion reflects physical oppression.
  • He sleeps on a cold platform, ignored by society.

Argument 2
  • The poem contrasts his poverty with others' comfort.
  • Lines like 'his dreams are unpaid' emphasize injustice.

Conclusion

Thus, the poem criticizes societal neglect of laborers, urging empathy.

Question 2:
Explain the symbolism of the porter’s sleep in The Sleeping Porter.
Answer:
Introduction

In The Sleeping Porter, sleep symbolizes both escape and suffering. We studied how it represents his only respite.


Argument 1
  • Sleep is his temporary freedom from pain.
  • His curled posture shows vulnerability.

Argument 2
  • It contrasts with society's wakeful indifference.
  • NCERT highlights how dreams hint at unfulfilled desires.

Conclusion

The poet uses sleep to critique systemic oppression.

Question 3:
How does the poet use imagery to depict the porter’s plight?
Answer:
Introduction

The poem employs stark imagery to show the porter's suffering. Our textbook notes his 'torn blanket' and 'cold floor'.


Argument 1
  • 'Frozen toes' symbolize physical neglect.
  • The platform's hardness reflects his harsh life.

Argument 2
  • His 'unpaid dreams' contrast with others' luxury.
  • NCERT compares this to real-world labor issues.

Conclusion

Imagery makes the porter's struggles vivid and relatable.

Question 4:
Discuss the theme of inequality in The Sleeping Porter.
Answer:
Introduction

The poem exposes societal inequality through the porter's life. We studied how he represents marginalized workers.


Argument 1
  • His poverty contrasts with passengers' wealth.
  • Economic disparity is shown in his ragged clothes.

Argument 2
  • The station's busyness ignores his suffering.
  • NCERT links this to modern labor exploitation.

Conclusion

The poem urges readers to acknowledge such inequalities.

Question 5:
Analyze the tone of the poem The Sleeping Porter.
Answer:
Introduction

The tone of the poem is melancholic and critical. Our textbook describes it as a mix of pity and anger.


Argument 1
  • Words like 'frozen' and 'unpaid' evoke sadness.
  • The detached narration highlights societal apathy.

Argument 2
  • NCERT notes the poet's silent condemnation of injustice.
  • The ending leaves readers reflective.

Conclusion

The tone effectively conveys the porter's despair.

Question 6:
How does the poem The Sleeping Porter appeal to the reader’s emotions?
Answer:
Introduction

The poem stirs empathy by depicting the porter's suffering. We studied its emotional language.


Argument 1
  • Descriptions like 'torn blanket' evoke pity.
  • His isolation makes readers feel his loneliness.

Argument 2
  • NCERT compares his dreams to unrealized hopes.
  • The cold setting amplifies his misery.

Conclusion

By humanizing the porter, the poem connects deeply.

Question 7:
What is the significance of the setting in The Sleeping Porter?
Answer:
Introduction

The railway platform setting symbolizes transience and neglect. Our textbook explains its role.


Argument 1
  • The cold platform reflects societal indifference.
  • Passengers hurry past, ignoring him.

Argument 2
  • NCERT links it to migrant laborers' unstable lives.
  • The station's noise contrasts his silent suffering.

Conclusion

The setting reinforces the poem's critique of exploitation.

Question 8:
How does the poet portray the dignity of the porter despite his hardships?
Answer:
Introduction

The poem subtly honors the porter's dignity amid suffering. We studied his quiet resilience.


Argument 1
  • His sleep shows endurance, not defeat.
  • Dreams imply he retains hope.

Argument 2
  • NCERT notes his curled posture as self-protection.
  • He isn't begging, maintaining self-respect.

Conclusion

The poet humanizes him, challenging stereotypes.

Question 9:
Compare the porter’s reality with his dreams in the poem.
Answer:
Introduction

The poem contrasts the porter's grim reality with his dreams. Our textbook highlights this duality.


Argument 1
  • Reality: cold platform, physical exhaustion.
  • Dreams: warmth, unpaid desires.

Argument 2
  • NCERT suggests dreams are his only escape.
  • They hint at unfulfilled basic needs.

Conclusion

The contrast underscores his oppressed state.

Question 10:
Why is the title The Sleeping Porter ironic?
Answer:
Introduction

The title seems simple but carries irony. We studied how it masks deeper suffering.


Argument 1
  • Sleep implies rest, but he’s exhausted, not relaxed.
  • His 'sleep' is a collapse from overwork.

Argument 2
  • NCERT notes he sleeps in discomfort, not peace.
  • The title hides societal neglect.

Conclusion

The irony critiques labor exploitation subtly.

Question 11:
Describe the central theme of the chapter The Sleeping Porter and how the author portrays the struggles of the porter through literary devices. Support your answer with examples from the text.
Answer:

The central theme of The Sleeping Porter revolves around the exploitation and inhuman conditions faced by laborers, particularly porters, in society. The author highlights the porter's physical exhaustion and emotional despair through vivid imagery and symbolism.

For instance, the porter's sleep is not just a state of rest but a symbol of his escapism from the harsh realities of his life. The author uses metaphors like 'his sleep was as deep as death' to emphasize his extreme fatigue and hopelessness. Additionally, the contrast between the porter's ragged appearance and the indifferent attitude of the passengers underscores societal apathy.

Literary devices such as personification (e.g., 'the station groaned under the weight of travelers') and irony (e.g., the porter's job is to carry others' burdens while his own go unnoticed) further deepen the narrative's emotional impact. These techniques collectively portray the porter's dehumanization and evoke empathy from the reader.

To achieve full marks, a student must analyze at least two literary devices with textual examples and connect them to the broader theme of social injustice.

Question 12:
Analyze the character of the porter in The Sleeping Porter and discuss how his circumstances reflect broader social issues. Provide textual evidence to justify your response.
Answer:

The porter in The Sleeping Porter is depicted as a victim of systemic oppression, representing the struggles of the working class. His character reflects issues like economic inequality and social neglect.

Textually, his 'torn clothes' and 'emaciated body' symbolize the harsh realities of poverty. The line 'nobody stopped to wake him' highlights society's indifference. The porter's anonymity (lack of a name) further dehumanizes him, mirroring how laborers are often overlooked.

His circumstances serve as a critique of a system that prioritizes productivity over humanity, urging readers to recognize and address such injustices.

Question 13:
Describe the central theme of the chapter The Sleeping Porter and how it reflects the struggles of the working class. Support your answer with examples from the text.
Answer:

The central theme of The Sleeping Porter revolves around the exploitation and hardships faced by the working class, particularly porters, who labor tirelessly yet remain marginalized in society. The chapter highlights their physical exhaustion and emotional resilience through the portrayal of the porter's life.

For instance, the porter is depicted as sleeping on a railway platform, symbolizing his lack of a secure home despite his hard work. The text also mentions how he is overworked and underpaid, reflecting the broader societal neglect of laborers. His dignity and silent suffering are emphasized, showing how the working class often endures injustice without complaint.

Additionally, the chapter subtly critiques the indifference of society towards such individuals, urging readers to empathize with their plight. This theme is universal, resonating with the struggles of laborers across different cultures and time periods.

Question 14:
Analyze the character of the porter in The Sleeping Porter and explain how his portrayal evokes sympathy among readers. Use textual evidence to justify your response.
Answer:

The porter in The Sleeping Porter is portrayed as a sympathetic and hardworking individual, whose life evokes deep empathy from readers. His character is a representation of the unseen labor that keeps society functioning.

Key traits of the porter include:

  • Resilience: Despite his exhaustion, he continues to work tirelessly, as seen in the line, 'His body ached, yet he carried on.'
  • Humility: He never complains about his circumstances, showcasing his acceptance of his fate.
  • Loneliness: The text describes him as 'a solitary figure on the platform,' highlighting his isolation.

The author uses vivid imagery, such as the porter's tattered clothes and weary posture, to amplify the reader's emotional connection. His silent suffering and unnoticed contributions make readers reflect on societal inequalities, thereby evoking sympathy.

This portrayal serves as a moral reminder to acknowledge and respect the labor of such individuals, making the character deeply impactful.

Question 15:
Describe the character of the sleeping porter in the chapter 'The Sleeping Porter' and explain how his situation reflects the socio-economic challenges faced by laborers in India. Support your answer with examples from the text.
Answer:

The sleeping porter in the chapter 'The Sleeping Porter' is portrayed as a hardworking yet exhausted laborer who represents the struggles of the working class in India. His character highlights the exploitation and economic hardships faced by laborers who often work long hours for meager wages.

In the text, the porter is described as being in a deep sleep despite the noisy surroundings, symbolizing his extreme fatigue. This reflects the physical toll of his labor-intensive job. His tattered clothes and frail appearance further emphasize the poverty and lack of basic amenities that many laborers endure.

  • Example 1: The porter's inability to afford proper rest or nutrition shows the cycle of poverty that traps laborers.
  • Example 2: His unnoticed presence in a busy station mirrors how society often overlooks the contributions and struggles of the working class.

The porter's situation is a microcosm of larger socio-economic issues such as income inequality, lack of social security, and exploitative labor practices. The chapter urges readers to empathize with such individuals and recognize the need for systemic change to improve their living conditions.

Question 16:
Describe the character of the sleeping porter in the chapter The Sleeping Porter. How does his situation reflect the struggles of the working class? Support your answer with examples from the text.
Answer:

The sleeping porter in the chapter The Sleeping Porter is portrayed as a hardworking yet exhausted individual who represents the struggles of the working class. His character highlights the physical and emotional toll of labor-intensive jobs, often overlooked in society.

For instance, the porter is described as being in a deep sleep despite the noisy surroundings, indicating his extreme fatigue. This detail emphasizes how laborers like him are pushed to their limits, with little time for rest or personal care. His tattered clothes and worn-out appearance further symbolize the economic hardships faced by the working class.

The chapter also subtly critiques societal indifference. While people pass by the sleeping porter, no one stops to help or acknowledge his plight. This mirrors the broader neglect of laborers who keep cities functioning yet remain invisible to the privileged.

In conclusion, the porter’s character serves as a powerful reminder of the social inequality and the need for empathy toward the working class. His struggles, as depicted in the text, urge readers to reflect on their responsibilities toward marginalized communities.

Question 17:
Describe the character of the sleeping porter in the chapter 'The Sleeping Porter' and explain how his situation reflects the struggles of the working class. Support your answer with examples from the text.
Answer:

The sleeping porter in the chapter 'The Sleeping Porter' is portrayed as a hardworking yet exhausted individual who represents the struggles of the working class. His character highlights the physical and emotional toll of labor-intensive jobs.

Key traits of the porter:

  • Dedication: Despite his exhaustion, he continues to work tirelessly to earn a living.
  • Resilience: He endures harsh conditions without complaint, showing his strength.
  • Vulnerability: His deep sleep in public spaces reflects his extreme fatigue and lack of proper rest.

Reflection of working-class struggles: The porter's situation mirrors the challenges faced by laborers, such as:
1. Exploitation: Long hours with minimal pay.
2. Lack of dignity: Sleeping in public due to no proper shelter.
3. Social neglect: Society often overlooks their hardships.

Example from text: The porter's inability to wake up even when people step over him shows his exhaustion and the indifference of others toward his plight.

Value-added insight: The chapter subtly critiques societal inequality by humanizing the porter, urging readers to empathize with the working class.

Question 18:
In the chapter The Sleeping Porter, the porter's life is depicted with deep empathy. Discuss how the author uses literary devices to highlight the porter's struggles and evoke sympathy from the readers. Support your answer with examples from the text.
Answer:

The author of The Sleeping Porter skillfully employs various literary devices to portray the porter's hardships and evoke empathy. Here’s how:

  • Imagery: The author uses vivid descriptions like "the porter’s tattered clothes" and "his weary eyes" to paint a picture of his poverty and exhaustion.
  • Simile: Comparisons such as "he slept like a dead man" emphasize his extreme fatigue, making readers feel his plight.
  • Personification: The line "the station groaned under the weight of travelers" mirrors the porter’s silent suffering, adding depth to his struggles.
  • Symbolism: The porter’s "faded uniform" symbolizes his neglected dignity, subtly criticizing societal indifference.

These devices collectively humanize the porter, making his struggles relatable and urging readers to reflect on social inequalities.

Question 19:
Describe the central theme of the chapter The Sleeping Porter and how the author uses symbolism to convey deeper meanings. Support your answer with examples from the text.
Answer:

The central theme of The Sleeping Porter revolves around the exploitation of the working class and the indifference of society towards their struggles. The author highlights the harsh realities faced by laborers, who work tirelessly yet remain unseen and unappreciated.

The author employs powerful symbolism to convey these themes. For instance, the sleeping porter himself symbolizes the exhaustion and neglect of the working class. His deep sleep, even amidst chaos, represents the societal ignorance towards their plight. Another example is the railway station, which symbolizes the relentless pace of life where the porter is just a small, unnoticed part.

Further, the whistle of the train symbolizes the constant demands placed on the porter, while his inability to hear it underscores his detachment from a world that exploits him. These symbols collectively emphasize the dehumanization and isolation of laborers.

To score full marks, it's essential to connect these symbols to the broader social message of the chapter, showing how the author critiques systemic inequality through subtle yet impactful imagery.

Question 20:
Describe the character of the sleeping porter in the chapter 'The Sleeping Porter' and analyze how his actions reflect the themes of empathy and social inequality in the story. Support your answer with examples from the text.
Answer:

The sleeping porter in the chapter 'The Sleeping Porter' is portrayed as a hardworking yet marginalized individual who represents the struggles of the working class. His character highlights the themes of empathy and social inequality through his actions and interactions with others.

For instance, despite his exhaustion from laborious work, the porter is often seen helping others without expecting anything in return. This selflessness evokes empathy from the readers and contrasts sharply with the indifference shown by the wealthier characters in the story. His tattered clothes and humble demeanor symbolize the systemic social inequality that keeps individuals like him trapped in a cycle of poverty.

One key example from the text is when the porter shares his meager meal with a stray dog, showcasing his compassionate nature even in dire circumstances. Another moment is when he is scolded by a wealthy passenger for dozing off, highlighting the lack of understanding and respect for his hardships.

Through these examples, the story emphasizes the need for empathy and addresses the deep-rooted social inequality that affects marginalized communities. The porter's character serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of societal neglect.

Case-based Questions (4 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 4-mark case-based questions assess analytical skills through real-life scenarios. Answers must be based on the case study provided.

Question 1:
In The Sleeping Porter, how does the poet highlight the porter's exhaustion? Explain with two examples from the poem.
Answer:
Case Summary

The poem The Sleeping Porter depicts the porter's extreme fatigue through vivid imagery.

Analysis
  • The porter is described as sleeping 'like a log,' showing deep exhaustion.
  • His 'dusty clothes' and 'weary limbs' emphasize physical strain.
Conclusion

Our textbook shows how the poet uses simple yet powerful descriptions to convey the porter's hardship.

Question 2:
What message does The Sleeping Porter convey about the lives of laborers? Support your answer with references from the poem.
Answer:
Case Summary

The poem sheds light on the harsh realities faced by laborers.

Analysis
  • The porter's 'unmindful' sleep suggests constant toil.
  • His 'dreamless' state reflects a life without hope.
Conclusion

We studied how the poet uses the porter's condition to critique societal neglect of workers.

Question 3:
How does the poet use contrast in The Sleeping Porter to emphasize the porter's plight? Provide two examples.
Answer:
Case Summary

The poem employs contrast to highlight the porter's suffering.

Analysis
  • The 'noisy station' contrasts with his 'silent sleep.'
  • His 'heavy load' contrasts with his 'empty pockets.'
Conclusion

Our textbook shows how such contrasts make the porter's struggles more poignant.

Question 4:
Explain the significance of the title The Sleeping Porter. How does it reflect the poem's central theme?
Answer:
Case Summary

The title focuses on the porter's momentary rest amid hardship.

Analysis
  • 'Sleeping' suggests temporary escape from labor.
  • 'Porter' indicates his marginalized identity.
Conclusion

We studied how the title encapsulates the poem's theme of laborers' unseen struggles.

Question 5:
In The Sleeping Porter, how does the poet highlight the porter's exhaustion? Explain with two examples from the poem.
Answer:
Case Summary

The poem portrays the porter's extreme tiredness through vivid imagery.

Analysis
  • The line 'His head had sunk upon his breast' shows physical collapse.
  • 'The load still tied behind his back' suggests he couldn’t even unburden himself before sleeping.
Conclusion

Our textbook shows how these details emphasize his inhuman workload and helplessness.

Question 6:
Contrast the porter's reality with the shopkeeper's comfort in The Sleeping Porter. How does this deepen the poem's message?
Answer:
Case Summary

The poem juxtaposes the porter's suffering with others' indifference.

Analysis
  • The porter sleeps on 'cold stones' while the shopkeeper has 'a warm quilt'.
  • Nobody wakes him, showing societal neglect.
Conclusion

We studied how such contrasts highlight inequality, a key theme in NCERT poems.

Question 7:
Identify two poetic devices used in 'The load still tied behind his back' and explain their effect.
Answer:
Case Summary

This line uses devices to emphasize the porter's plight.

Analysis
  • Imagery: Visual of an unremoved load shows perpetual labor.
  • Irony: Even in sleep, he isn’t free from his burden.
Conclusion

Our textbook shows such devices make the social critique more impactful.

Question 8:
How does the setting of the poem contribute to its mood? Support your answer with textual evidence.
Answer:
Case Summary

The harsh setting mirrors the porter's despair.

Analysis
  • 'Street light flickers' creates an unstable, gloomy atmosphere.
  • 'Cold stones' symbolize his comfortless life.
Conclusion

We studied how NCERT poems often use setting to reflect characters' emotions.

Question 9:
In The Sleeping Porter, the porter's exhaustion is vividly described. How does the poet use imagery to highlight his condition? Provide two examples from the poem.
Answer:
Case Summary

The porter is depicted as exhausted, using vivid imagery to show his struggle.

Analysis
  • The poet describes his 'aching limbs' to show physical pain.
  • 'Dust-covered face' symbolizes his harsh life.
Conclusion

We studied how imagery helps us visualize the porter's suffering, as seen in our textbook examples.

Question 10:
The poem The Sleeping Porter reflects the theme of social injustice. Explain how the porter's situation represents this theme with two supporting details.
Answer:
Case Summary

The porter's hardships reflect societal neglect.

Analysis
  • He sleeps on a railway platform, showing homelessness.
  • His labor is unnoticed, highlighting exploitation.
Conclusion

Our textbook shows how the poem critiques social inequality, similar to other NCERT examples.

Question 11:
How does the poet create sympathy for the porter in The Sleeping Porter? Identify two literary devices used for this purpose.
Answer:
Case Summary

The poet evokes empathy through specific techniques.

Analysis
  • Personification: 'The platform groaned' mirrors his pain.
  • Metaphor: 'A bundle of rags' dehumanizes him.
Conclusion

We studied how these devices deepen emotional impact, as in NCERT poems.

Question 12:
Contrast the porter's dreams and reality in The Sleeping Porter. How does this contrast emphasize his struggles?
Answer:
Case Summary

The porter dreams of comfort but faces harsh reality.

Analysis
  • He dreams of 'soft beds' but sleeps on hard ground.
  • His reality is 'endless toil,' unlike his peaceful dreams.
Conclusion

Our textbook shows this contrast highlights his unfulfilled desires, like other NCERT examples.

Question 13:
In The Sleeping Porter, how does the poet highlight the porter's exhaustion? Provide two examples from the poem.
Answer:
Case Summary

The porter's exhaustion is vividly described through imagery and metaphors.

Analysis
  • The phrase 'his sleep was like a stone' shows deep exhaustion.
  • 'His face was pale as ashes' emphasizes physical strain.
Conclusion

Our textbook shows how the poet uses strong comparisons to depict the porter's tiredness, making his struggle relatable.

Question 14:
Explain how The Sleeping Porter reflects the theme of social inequality. Support your answer with two references from the poem.
Answer:
Case Summary

The poem portrays the porter's harsh life, contrasting his struggles with others' comfort.

Analysis
  • 'The rich man's feast went on' highlights indifference to his suffering.
  • 'He slept while the world moved' shows his isolation.
Conclusion

We studied how the poet uses these lines to criticize societal neglect of laborers.

Question 15:
How does the poet use contrast in The Sleeping Porter to emphasize the porter's condition? Give two examples.
Answer:
Case Summary

The poet contrasts the porter's stillness with the bustling world around him.

Analysis
  • 'The trains roared past' vs. 'he lay like a log' shows his exhaustion.
  • 'Lights flashed' contrasts with 'his eyes were shut'.
Conclusion

Our textbook explains how such contrasts deepen the poem's emotional impact.

Question 16:
Discuss the significance of the title The Sleeping Porter. How does it relate to the poem's central idea?
Answer:
Case Summary

The title focuses on the porter's sleep, symbolizing his escape from hardship.

Analysis
  • Sleep represents his only respite from labor.
  • It hints at society's ignorance of his struggles.
Conclusion

We studied how the title encapsulates the poem's critique of social injustice.

Question 17:

Read the following extract from The Sleeping Porter and answer the question that follows:

"The porter lay curled up like a child, oblivious to the world around him. The station buzzed with activity, but he slept through it all."

Q. How does the author use contrast to highlight the porter's state of exhaustion? Explain in about 40-50 words.

Answer:

The author uses contrast by juxtaposing the porter's deep sleep ("curled up like a child") with the chaotic environment of the station ("buzzed with activity"). This stark difference emphasizes the porter's extreme exhaustion, showing how he remains unaffected by the surrounding noise and movement.

Question 18:

In The Sleeping Porter, the porter's life is depicted as one of hardship and struggle. Based on your understanding of the chapter, answer the following:

Q. How does the story evoke empathy for the porter? Support your answer with two examples from the text (40-50 words).

Answer:

The story evokes empathy by highlighting the porter's difficult circumstances.
1. His "torn clothes" and "calloused hands" show physical hardship.
2. His deep sleep amidst chaos ("oblivious to the world") reflects mental exhaustion. These details make the reader sympathize with his relentless struggles.

Question 19:

Read the following extract from The Sleeping Porter and answer the question that follows:

"The porter lay curled up like a child, oblivious to the world around him. The station buzzed with activity, but he slept peacefully, as if in a world of his own."

Q. How does the author use contrast to highlight the porter's state of mind? Explain in detail.

Answer:

The author uses contrast effectively to emphasize the porter's state of mind by juxtaposing the chaotic environment of the station with the porter's peaceful slumber.

1. The phrase "the station buzzed with activity" suggests noise, movement, and busyness, creating a lively atmosphere.
2. In contrast, the porter is described as "curled up like a child" and "oblivious to the world", which portrays his calm and undisturbed state.
3. This sharp contrast highlights the porter's ability to detach himself from his surroundings, almost as if he exists in a separate, tranquil world.
4. The comparison to a child further reinforces his innocence and vulnerability, making the reader empathize with his exhaustion.

Question 20:

In The Sleeping Porter, the porter's sleep is described as "deep and dreamless." Based on this description, analyze the possible reasons for his exhaustion and its symbolic significance in the story.

Answer:

The porter's "deep and dreamless" sleep suggests extreme physical and mental exhaustion, likely due to his demanding job.

1. Physical Labor: As a porter, he probably carries heavy loads all day, leaving him too tired even to dream.
2. Mental Fatigue: The repetitive nature of his work might drain his mental energy, making his sleep devoid of dreams.
3. Symbolism: His exhaustion symbolizes the struggles of the working class, who often work tirelessly without respite.
4. The dreamless aspect could also imply a lack of hope or aspirations, reflecting the harsh realities of his life.

This description helps the reader understand the porter's hardships and evokes sympathy for laborers who sacrifice their well-being for survival.

Question 21:

Read the following extract from The Sleeping Porter and answer the question that follows:

"The porter slept through the noise of the bustling station, unaware of the chaos around him."

Q. How does the author use contrast in this line to highlight the porter's exhaustion? Explain in about 40-50 words.

Answer:

The author uses contrast by juxtaposing the porter's deep sleep with the chaotic environment of the station. While the station is bustling with noise and activity, the porter remains unaware, emphasizing his extreme exhaustion. This contrast makes his tiredness more vivid and relatable to the reader.

Question 22:

In The Sleeping Porter, the porter is described as having "wrinkles that told stories of endless labor."

Q. What does this line reveal about the porter's life? How does the author use imagery to convey this message? (Answer in 40-50 words)

Answer:

The line reveals that the porter has led a life of hard work and struggle. The author uses imagery by comparing his wrinkles to stories, suggesting that his physical appearance reflects years of toil. This vivid description helps the reader visualize and empathize with his hardships.

Question 23:
Read the following excerpt from The Sleeping Porter:

'The porter lay curled up like a child, oblivious to the noise around him. His tattered clothes and worn-out shoes told a story of hardship.'

Based on this, analyze how the author uses imagery and symbolism to highlight the porter's life conditions.
Answer:

The author employs imagery and symbolism to vividly depict the porter's struggles. The phrase 'curled up like a child' creates a visual of vulnerability, contrasting with the harsh reality of his surroundings. The 'tattered clothes' and 'worn-out shoes' symbolize prolonged poverty and neglect, serving as metaphors for his marginalized existence.

Additionally, the imagery of noise around him emphasizes his exhaustion, as he remains undisturbed despite chaos. This technique deepens the reader's empathy, making the porter's plight more relatable and poignant.

Question 24:
In The Sleeping Porter, the protagonist's resilience is a central theme. Identify two instances from the text where his determination is subtly revealed, and explain how these moments contribute to the overall message of the story.
Answer:

The porter's resilience is evident in two key moments:

  • When he continues working despite his 'aching limbs', showing his unwavering commitment to survival.
  • When he smiles briefly at a stranger's kindness, revealing his ability to find hope in small gestures.

These instances highlight his inner strength amidst adversity. The first moment underscores his physical endurance, while the second reflects emotional resilience. Together, they reinforce the story's message of human perseverance and dignity in the face of hardship.

Question 25:
Read the following excerpt from The Sleeping Porter:

'The porter, exhausted from his day's labor, lay curled up on the platform, oblivious to the chaos around him. The trains roared past, but his sleep remained undisturbed.'

Based on the excerpt, analyze how the author uses contrast to highlight the porter's state of exhaustion. Provide textual evidence to support your answer.
Answer:

The author employs contrast effectively to emphasize the porter's deep exhaustion. The chaos of the roaring trains and the bustling platform is sharply contrasted with the porter's undisturbed sleep. This juxtaposition highlights how his fatigue overpowers even the loudest disturbances.

Textual evidence includes:

  • 'The trains roared past' vs. 'his sleep remained undisturbed'.
  • The dynamic environment of the platform vs. the porter's static, curled-up posture.
This contrast underscores the porter's physical and mental exhaustion, making his state relatable to the reader.

Question 26:
In The Sleeping Porter, the protagonist's exhaustion is a central theme. Imagine you are asked to write a diary entry from the porter's perspective after his long day of work. Describe his emotions and physical state, incorporating details from the chapter to make it authentic.
Answer:

Dear Diary,

Today was another day of backbreaking labor. My shoulders ache from carrying heavy loads, and my feet feel like they’re on fire. The platform was crowded, and the noise was unbearable, but the moment I lay down, everything faded away. I couldn’t even hear the trains—just the sweet relief of sleep.

I remember curling up, trying to shield myself from the cold floor. The world around me kept moving, but I was too tired to care. Sometimes, I wonder how long I can keep this up. The exhaustion is overwhelming, but sleep is my only escape. Maybe tomorrow will be easier... but I doubt it.

This entry reflects the porter's physical pain and emotional resignation, as seen in the chapter. His detachment from the chaos around him shows how exhaustion dominates his life.

Chat on WhatsApp