Online Self Test
Learn & Practice Quizzes & Challenges Competitive Exams
 

Once Upon A Time – CBSE NCERT Study Resources

Previous ChapterNext Chapter
Previous Chapter Next Chapter

Study Materials

10th

10th - English (Panorama - Prose)

Once Upon A Time

Jump to Question Sets

Overview of the Chapter

The chapter "Once Upon A Time" from the CBSE Grade 10 English textbook (Panorama - Prose) explores themes of nostalgia, societal change, and the loss of innocence. It reflects on how modern life has altered human relationships and values, contrasting the simplicity and honesty of the past with the complexities of the present.

Key Theme: The chapter highlights the contrast between the genuine emotions of childhood and the artificiality of adult interactions in contemporary society.

Summary

The narrator reminisces about a time when people were more genuine and relationships were built on trust and simplicity. The chapter critiques the superficiality of modern life, where people wear "masks" to hide their true feelings. The narrator expresses a longing to return to the innocence of childhood, free from pretenses.

Characters

  • The Narrator: Reflects on the past and contrasts it with the present, expressing a desire to reclaim lost innocence.
  • Society: Represented as having shifted from authenticity to artificiality, where people no longer communicate openly.

Important Quotes

"Once upon a time, people used to laugh with their hearts and laugh with their eyes."

"Now they laugh only with their teeth, while their ice-block-cold eyes search behind my shadow."

Literary Devices

  • Metaphor: The comparison of modern laughter to "ice-block-cold eyes" emphasizes emotional detachment.
  • Repetition: The phrase "Once upon a time" is used to evoke nostalgia and highlight the contrast between past and present.

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:
What is the theme of Once Upon A Time?
Answer:

Loss of innocence and societal hypocrisy.

Question 2:
Who is the author of Once Upon A Time?
Answer:

Gabriel Okara.

Question 3:
What does the poet regret in the poem?
Answer:

Losing genuine emotions like laughter.

Question 4:
Why does the poet say people wear masks?
Answer:

To hide their true feelings.

Question 5:
What does laugh with their teeth mean?
Answer:

Fake or insincere laughter.

Question 6:
How does the poet describe old laughter?
Answer:

Heartfelt and genuine.

Question 7:
What does the poet want to relearn?
Answer:

How to laugh sincerely.

Question 8:
What is the tone of the poem?
Answer:

Nostalgic and critical.

Question 9:
What does ice-block-cold eyes signify?
Answer:

Emotionless or fake expressions.

Question 10:
How does the poet feel about modern behavior?
Answer:

Disappointed and sad.

Question 11:
What literary device is laugh with their teeth?
Answer:

Metaphor.

Question 12:
What does the poet compare old and new laughter to?
Answer:

Genuine vs. fake emotions.

Question 13:
Why is the poem titled Once Upon A Time?
Answer:

It reflects nostalgia for the past.

Question 14:
What does the poet ask his son to teach him?
Answer:

How to laugh genuinely again.

Question 15:
What is the central theme of the chapter Once Upon A Time?
Answer:

The central theme of Once Upon A Time revolves around the loss of innocence and the hypocrisy of modern society. The poet reflects on how people have become artificial in their behavior, losing genuine emotions and simplicity.

Question 16:
Who is the poet of Once Upon A Time?
Answer:

The poet of Once Upon A Time is Gabriel Okara, a renowned Nigerian poet and novelist.

Question 17:
What does the poet mean by laugh with their teeth?
Answer:

The phrase laugh with their teeth symbolizes fake emotions and insincerity. It suggests that people laugh outwardly without genuine happiness or warmth.

Question 18:
Why does the poet say they used to shake hands with their hearts?
Answer:

The poet highlights the contrast between past and present behavior. In the past, handshakes were genuine and heartfelt, but now they are just formal gestures without real emotion.

Question 19:
What literary device is used in the line ice-block-cold eyes?
Answer:

The poet uses a metaphor here, comparing eyes to ice-block-cold to emphasize the coldness and lack of warmth in people's expressions.

Question 20:
How does the poet describe the behavior of modern people in the poem?
Answer:

The poet describes modern people as artificial and pretentious. They hide their true feelings behind fake smiles, empty words, and insincere gestures.

Question 21:
What does the poet wish to relearn from his son?
Answer:

The poet wishes to relearn the innocence and honesty of a child. He wants to experience genuine emotions and simplicity again.

Question 22:
What does the phrase search behind my shadow signify?
Answer:

It signifies the poet's distrust and fear of people who are always looking for hidden motives or weaknesses in others.

Question 23:
How does the poet contrast the past and present in the poem?
Answer:

The poet contrasts the genuine emotions and simplicity of the past with the artificiality and pretentiousness of the present.

Question 24:
What is the tone of the poem Once Upon A Time?
Answer:

The tone of the poem is nostalgic, regretful, and critical. The poet longs for the past while criticizing the hypocrisy of modern society.

Question 25:
What message does the poet convey through the poem?
Answer:

The poet conveys a message about the loss of authenticity in human relationships. He urges people to return to sincerity and simplicity in their interactions.

Question 26:
Who is the author of Once Upon A Time?
Answer:

The author of Once Upon A Time is Gabriel Okara, a renowned Nigerian poet and novelist.

Question 27:
What does the phrase laugh with their teeth signify in the poem?
Answer:

The phrase laugh with their teeth signifies fake emotions or insincere laughter. It reflects how people hide their true feelings behind artificial smiles.

Question 28:
How does the poet describe the behavior of people in the past in Once Upon A Time?
Answer:

The poet describes people in the past as genuine and emotionally open. They laughed with their hearts and expressed their feelings honestly.

Question 29:
What does the poet mean by ice-block-cold eyes?
Answer:

The phrase ice-block-cold eyes refers to the emotionless and unfeeling gaze of modern people, symbolizing their lack of warmth and sincerity.

Question 30:
Why does the poet want to relearn how to laugh in Once Upon A Time?
Answer:

The poet wants to relearn how to laugh because he feels that modern laughter is artificial. He longs for the genuine, heartfelt laughter of the past.

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:
Why does the poet use the phrase Once Upon A Time in the poem?
Answer:

The phrase Once Upon A Time is used to create a contrast between the past and present. It signifies a time when people were genuine and honest, unlike the present where they wear masks of politeness and false emotions.

Question 2:
What is the significance of the line I have learned to wear many faces?
Answer:

This line highlights the duality of human behavior. The poet admits to adapting different faces or roles to fit into society, showing how people hide their true selves to conform to social expectations.

Question 3:
How does the poet feel about his son in the poem?
Answer:

The poet sees his son as a symbol of innocence and honesty. He wishes to relearn genuine emotions from his child, who hasn't yet been corrupted by the pretenses of society.

Question 4:
What does the poet want to relearn from his son?
Answer:

The poet wants to relearn how to laugh and smile genuinely, just like his son. He longs to return to a time when emotions were pure and unpretentious, free from societal hypocrisy.

Question 5:
Explain the metaphor of ice-block cold eyes in the poem.
Answer:

The metaphor ice-block cold eyes represents the emotional coldness and lack of warmth in people's interactions. It suggests that their expressions are frozen and devoid of real feelings.

Question 6:
Why does the poet say I want to be what I used to be?
Answer:

The poet expresses a desire to return to his authentic self, free from societal pretenses. He misses the simplicity and honesty of his past, contrasting it with the artificiality of his present life.

Question 7:
What message does the poet convey through the poem Once Upon A Time?
Answer:

The poet conveys a critique of modern society, where people have lost their genuineness. He urges readers to embrace honesty and simplicity, just like children, instead of hiding behind fake emotions.

Question 8:
How does the poem Once Upon A Time reflect cultural changes?
Answer:

The poem reflects how cultural shifts have made people more superficial. Traditional values of honesty and warmth have been replaced by artificial politeness and hidden motives, as seen in urban societies.

Question 9:
How does the poem criticize modern society?
Answer:

The poem criticizes modern society for promoting superficiality and fake emotions. It highlights how people have lost their genuine selves in the race to conform.

Question 10:
How does the poem end, and what does it signify?
Answer:

The poem ends with the poet asking his son to teach him how to laugh and cry genuinely. It signifies his desire to reconnect with his lost innocence and authenticity.

Question 11:
What does the phrase laugh with their hearts signify in the poem?
Answer:

The phrase laugh with their hearts signifies authentic happiness and unpretentious emotions. It contrasts with the artificial laughter of modern times, which often lacks true joy or sincerity.

Question 12:
What change does the poet observe in people's greetings over time?
Answer:

The poet observes that greetings have become mechanical and devoid of emotion. People now greet each other out of habit or social obligation, without any real feeling or connection.

Question 13:
Why does the poet want to relearn how to laugh and greet like in the past?
Answer:

The poet wishes to relearn these behaviors to reconnect with genuine emotions and escape the artificiality of modern interactions. He longs for the sincerity and simplicity of earlier times.

Question 14:
What literary device is prominently used in Once Upon A Time to convey the poet's message?
Answer:

The poet prominently uses contrast as a literary device to highlight the differences between past and present behaviors. This device effectively underscores the theme of lost innocence and changing societal norms.

Question 15:
How does the title Once Upon A Time relate to the poem's content?
Answer:

The title Once Upon A Time evokes a fairy-tale-like nostalgia, suggesting a time long gone when life was simpler and people were more genuine. It sets the tone for the poet's reflection on the past.

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:
How does the poet in Once Upon A Time describe the changes in human behavior over time?
Answer:

The poet, Gabriel Okara, describes how people have become artificial and fake in their interactions. He contrasts the past, where people were genuine and emotionally connected, with the present, where they wear masks and hide their true feelings. The poet uses phrases like 'laugh with their teeth' and 'shake hands without hearts' to highlight this change.

Question 2:
What is the significance of the title Once Upon A Time in the poem?
Answer:

The title Once Upon A Time suggests a nostalgic and fairy-tale-like tone, indicating a time long gone when people were honest and sincere. It contrasts the past's simplicity with the present's complexity, emphasizing how societal changes have made human interactions superficial and deceptive.

Question 3:
How does the poet use imagery to convey the theme of hypocrisy in the poem?
Answer:

The poet uses vivid imagery to depict hypocrisy, such as 'laugh with their teeth' and 'ice-block-cold eyes'. These images show how people pretend to be warm and friendly while their true emotions remain cold and distant. The contrast between outward actions and inner feelings highlights the theme of deception.

Question 4:
Explain the line: 'I have learned to wear many faces like dresses' from the poem.
Answer:

This line means that the speaker has adapted to society's expectations by changing his behavior and expressions like changing clothes. It reflects how people pretend to be different in different situations, losing their authenticity. The comparison to dresses suggests that these faces are temporary and not a true reflection of one's self.

Question 5:
What does the poet mean by 'I want to be what I used to be' in the poem?
Answer:

The poet expresses a desire to return to a time when he was genuine and emotionally open. He misses the innocence and honesty of his past self, before societal pressures forced him to adopt fake behaviors. This line highlights the poet's longing for authenticity in a world dominated by pretense.

Question 6:
How does the poem Once Upon A Time reflect the impact of modernization on human relationships?
Answer:

The poem shows how modernization has led to superficial relationships, where people prioritize appearances over genuine connections. The poet laments the loss of emotional depth and trust, as people now interact with hidden agendas. This reflects the broader societal shift towards materialism and away from emotional honesty.

Question 7:
How does the poet use the metaphor of 'laughing with teeth' in the poem?
Answer:

The metaphor of 'laughing with teeth' represents fake emotions and superficiality. Unlike laughing with the heart, which is genuine, laughing with teeth shows only a physical reaction without any real joy or warmth. This metaphor highlights how people have become mechanical and insincere in their interactions.

Question 8:
Why does the poet mention the phrase 'feel at home' in the poem?
Answer:

The poet mentions 'feel at home' to point out the hollow hospitality of modern society. People say it out of habit or politeness, not because they truly mean it. This reflects the lack of genuine warmth and the prevalence of pretentious behavior in social interactions today.

Question 9:
What lesson does the poet want to convey through the poem Once Upon A Time?
Answer:

The poet wants to convey the importance of authenticity and sincerity in human relationships. He criticizes the artificiality and hypocrisy of modern life and urges people to return to the simplicity and honesty of the past. The poem serves as a reminder to value genuine emotions over superficial gestures.

Question 10:
How does the poet describe the behavior of people in the past compared to the present in the poem?
Answer:

In the past, people were more honest and transparent in their interactions. They laughed with their hearts and expressed their true feelings. In contrast, present-day people are described as wearing masks, hiding their true emotions, and engaging in fake politeness. The poet highlights this shift to emphasize the loss of genuine human connections.

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 Once Upon A Time highlight the theme of loss of innocence? Support your answer with examples from the text.
Answer:
Introduction

The poem Once Upon A Time by Gabriel Okara explores the loss of innocence as people grow older. Our textbook shows how the speaker reflects on his childhood honesty compared to his current pretentious behavior.


Argument 1
  • The speaker recalls a time when he laughed with his heart, but now laughs only with his teeth.
  • This shows how genuine emotions are replaced by fake smiles.

Argument 2
  • He mentions how people now say 'goodbye' without meaning it.
  • This reflects societal hypocrisy, as seen in NCERT examples.

Conclusion

The poem warns against losing innocence and becoming artificial, urging us to reclaim sincerity.

Question 2:
Explain the use of contrast in Once Upon A Time to depict changing human behavior.
Answer:
Introduction

The poem Once Upon A Time uses contrast to show how people change from honesty to pretense. We studied how the speaker compares his past and present self.


Argument 1
  • Earlier, he laughed with his heart, but now only with his teeth.
  • This contrast highlights emotional insincerity.

Argument 2
  • He once spoke directly, but now uses 'ice-block cold eyes.'
  • NCERT examples show this reflects societal decay.

Conclusion

Through contrasts, the poem critiques fake behavior and longs for lost genuineness.

Question 3:
How does the speaker in Once Upon A Time express his desire to relearn innocence from his son?
Answer:
Introduction

In Once Upon A Time, the speaker wants to relearn innocence from his son. Our textbook shows his regret over losing sincerity.


Argument 1
  • He asks his son to teach him how to laugh genuinely again.
  • This shows his longing for childlike honesty.

Argument 2
  • The speaker admits he has 'learned to wear many faces,' unlike his son.
  • NCERT examples highlight this as a critique of adulthood.

Conclusion

The poem ends with hope that innocence can be rediscovered through younger generations.

Question 4:
Discuss the significance of the title Once Upon A Time in conveying the poem's message.
Answer:
Introduction

The title Once Upon A Time suggests a fairy-tale-like past of honesty. We studied how it contrasts with the present artificiality.


Argument 1
  • It implies a lost era of genuine emotions, like laughing with the heart.
  • This mirrors NCERT examples of societal change.

Argument 2
  • The phrase hints at nostalgia, as the speaker wishes to return to that time.
  • It frames the poem as a moral lesson.

Conclusion

The title reinforces the theme of lost innocence and the need to reclaim it.

Question 5:
Analyze how Once Upon A Time critiques modern society's hypocrisy with textual evidence.
Answer:
Introduction

The poem Once Upon A Time critiques societal hypocrisy. Our textbook shows how people pretend to be friendly but are actually cold.


Argument 1
  • The speaker says people now laugh with teeth, not hearts, showing fake emotions.
  • This reflects NCERT examples of superficial relationships.

Argument 2
  • He describes how 'goodbye' is said without meaning, highlighting dishonesty.
  • Such behavior reveals societal decay.

Conclusion

The poem urges us to reject hypocrisy and embrace sincerity.

Question 6:
How does Gabriel Okara use imagery to depict hypocrisy in Once Upon A Time?
Answer:
Introduction

Okara employs vivid imagery to expose societal hypocrisy. Our textbook shows how metaphors like 'ice-block-cold eyes' reveal emotional coldness.


Argument 1
  • 'Laughing with their teeth' depicts fake smiles, masking true feelings.

Argument 2
  • 'Homeface, officeface, streetface' illustrates role-playing in different settings.

Conclusion

Through such imagery, Okara critiques the loss of genuine human connections.

Question 7:
Discuss the poet's tone in Once Upon A Time and its impact.
Answer:
Introduction

Okara's tone shifts from nostalgic to critical. Our textbook notes his disappointment with modern insincerity.


Argument 1
  • Lines like 'I want to be what I used to be' show longing for the past.

Argument 2
  • Phrases like 'mutual deception' reveal bitterness toward societal pretense.

Conclusion

The tone deepens the poem's message, urging readers to reject hypocrisy.

Question 8:
Analyze the contrast between past and present in Once Upon A Time.
Answer:
Introduction

Okara contrasts childhood honesty with adult deceit. Our textbook emphasizes this duality through vivid examples.


Argument 1
  • Past: 'heart's laughter' vs. Present: 'laughing with their teeth.'

Argument 2
  • Past: genuine emotions vs. Present: 'ice-block-cold eyes.'

Conclusion

This contrast highlights the erosion of authenticity in modern life.

Question 9:
How does the poem Once Upon A Time criticize modern society?
Answer:
Introduction

Okara critiques modern society's artificiality. Our textbook shows his disdain for fake interactions.


Argument 1
  • Lines like 'mutual deception' reveal societal dishonesty.

Argument 2
  • 'Homeface, officeface' shows people wearing masks in different roles.

Conclusion

The poem urges a return to sincerity, condemning modern pretense.

Question 10:
What is the central message of Once Upon A Time?
Answer:
Introduction

The poem warns against losing authenticity in adulthood. Our textbook highlights Okara's plea for sincerity.


Argument 1
  • The poet regrets societal shift from 'heart's laughter' to fake smiles.

Argument 2
  • He seeks to relearn innocence, as shown in the final stanza.

Conclusion

Okara's message is clear: reclaim genuine human connections.

Question 11:
How does the poet use repetition in Once Upon A Time to emphasize his point?
Answer:
Introduction

Repetition reinforces Okara's critique of societal pretense. Our textbook shows phrases like 'once upon a time' echoing nostalgia.


Argument 1
  • 'Laughing with their teeth' repeats to highlight fake emotions.

Argument 2
  • 'Face' is repeated to stress role-playing in different settings.

Conclusion

Through repetition, Okara underscores the poem's central theme.

Question 12:
Explain the symbolism of 'ice-block-cold eyes' in the poem.
Answer:
Introduction

'Ice-block-cold eyes' symbolize emotional detachment. Our textbook links it to modern indifference.


Argument 1
  • It represents lack of warmth in human interactions.

Argument 2
  • The imagery contrasts with childhood's genuine emotions.

Conclusion

This symbolism critiques societal coldness, urging change.

Question 13:
How does the poet's personal reflection shape the poem's meaning?
Answer:
Introduction

Okara's personal regret adds depth to the poem. Our textbook shows his desire to 'unlearn' modern traits.


Argument 1
  • Lines like 'I want to be what I used to be' reveal his longing.

Argument 2
  • His plea to his son highlights intergenerational hope.

Conclusion

This reflection makes the poem relatable, emphasizing its universal message.

Question 14:
How does the poem Once Upon A Time highlight the theme of loss of innocence?
Answer:
Introduction

The poem Once Upon A Time by Gabriel Okara explores how modern life erodes genuine emotions. Our textbook shows the poet lamenting the loss of childhood honesty.


Argument 1
  • The poet contrasts his past sincerity with present artificiality, calling it 'laughing with their teeth.'

Argument 2
  • Phrases like 'ice-block-cold eyes' symbolize emotional detachment, showing societal decay.

Conclusion

Thus, the poem warns against losing innocence in adulthood, urging us to reclaim authenticity.

Question 15:
Explain the significance of the title Once Upon A Time in the poem.
Answer:
Introduction

The title Once Upon A Time reflects nostalgia for a simpler past. Our textbook highlights its fairy-tale tone, hinting at lost innocence.


Argument 1
  • It suggests childhood memories, like the poet's genuine 'heart's laughter.'

Argument 2
  • The phrase contrasts with the present's artificiality, emphasizing societal change.

Conclusion

By using this title, Okara underscores the gap between past sincerity and modern pretense.

Question 16:
In the chapter Once Upon A Time, the poet Gabriel Okara reflects on the loss of innocence and authenticity in modern society. Elaborate on how the poet uses contrast and imagery to convey this theme effectively.
Answer:

In Once Upon A Time, Gabriel Okara highlights the loss of innocence and genuineness in modern life through powerful contrasts and vivid imagery. The poet contrasts the past, where people were sincere and emotions were genuine, with the present, where interactions are fake and calculated. For example, he mentions how people used to laugh with their hearts but now laugh only with their teeth, showing the superficiality of modern relationships.

Okara also uses strong imagery to emphasize this theme. Phrases like ‘ice-block-cold eyes’ and ‘search behind my shadow’ paint a picture of a cold, distrustful world. The imagery of wearing ‘many faces’ like dresses further illustrates how people hide their true selves. These literary devices make the reader feel the poet’s nostalgia for a simpler, more honest time.

Additionally, the poem’s structure—starting with a fairy-tale-like tone and ending with a plea to relearn innocence—reinforces the contrast between the past and present. This layered approach ensures the message is both emotional and thought-provoking.

Question 17:
The poem Once Upon A Time explores the theme of cultural erosion due to modernization. Discuss how the poet’s use of tone and repetition strengthens this idea, providing examples from the text.
Answer:

Gabriel Okara’s Once Upon A Time critiques cultural erosion caused by modernization, using tone and repetition to deepen the impact. The poem begins with a nostalgic, almost fairy-tale-like tone (‘Once upon a time’), which gradually shifts to sadness and frustration as the poet describes the loss of traditional values. This tonal shift mirrors the disintegration of cultural authenticity.

Repetition is key in emphasizing this erosion. The phrase ‘they used to’ is repeated to contrast past genuineness with present hypocrisy. For instance, the poet repeats how people once shook hands with ‘hearts’ but now do so without ‘eyes’, highlighting the emptiness of modern interactions. The repeated use of ‘learn’ in the final stanza (‘show me, teach me’) underscores the poet’s desperate plea to reclaim lost innocence.

Through these techniques, Okara not only critiques societal changes but also evokes empathy, making the reader reflect on their own actions. The poem serves as a wake-up call to preserve cultural integrity in a rapidly changing world.

Question 18:
In the chapter Once Upon A Time, the poet reflects on the loss of innocence and authenticity in modern society. Elaborate on how the poet uses contrast between the past and present to convey this message. Support your answer with examples from the poem.
Answer:

The poet Gabriel Okara effectively uses contrast in Once Upon A Time to highlight the shift from genuine human connections to artificial behavior in modern society. The poem contrasts the simplicity and honesty of the past with the pretentiousness of the present.

For example, the poet recalls a time when people 'used to laugh with their hearts' and 'shake hands with their hearts', indicating warmth and sincerity. However, in the present, he observes that people 'laugh with their teeth' and 'shake hands without hearts', showing superficiality.

Another striking contrast is the poet's description of his son, who represents innocence and unfiltered emotions, unlike adults who 'wear many faces' to hide their true feelings. This juxtaposition emphasizes the loss of authenticity as people grow older.

Through these contrasts, Okara critiques the erosion of human values in modern society, urging readers to reflect on their own behavior and strive for sincerity.

Question 19:
The poem Once Upon A Time explores the theme of hypocrisy in human interactions. Analyze how the poet portrays this theme through the use of imagery and tone. Provide textual evidence to support your answer.
Answer:

In Once Upon A Time, Gabriel Okara uses vivid imagery and a melancholic tone to expose the hypocrisy in human interactions. The poem is filled with visual and sensory descriptions that highlight the disparity between outward appearances and inner feelings.

For instance, the poet describes how people 'wear many faces like dresses', using the imagery of changing clothes to symbolize the artificial masks people wear in different situations. This metaphor underscores the dishonesty in social behavior.

The tone of the poem shifts from nostalgic to critical as the poet reflects on his own transformation. He admits, 'I have learned to wear many faces like dresses', acknowledging his participation in this hypocrisy. The regretful tone conveys his longing for the sincerity of the past.

Another powerful image is the 'ice-block-cold eyes', which depicts the emotional coldness and lack of genuine connection in modern interactions. This stark imagery reinforces the theme of hypocrisy.

Through these literary devices, Okara effectively critiques the superficiality of contemporary society and calls for a return to authentic relationships.

Question 20:
In the chapter Once Upon A Time, the poet reflects on the loss of innocence and sincerity in modern society. Discuss how the poet uses contrast and imagery to convey this theme. Support your answer with examples from the poem.
Answer:

In the poem Once Upon A Time, the poet Gabriel Okara effectively uses contrast and imagery to highlight the loss of innocence and sincerity in modern society. The poet contrasts the genuine emotions of the past with the artificial behavior of the present.


Contrast: The poet compares his childhood, where people were "laughing with their hearts", to the present, where people "laugh with their teeth". This stark contrast shows how emotions have become superficial. The poet also contrasts the "open warmth" of the past with the "cold formality" of modern interactions.


Imagery: The poet uses vivid imagery to depict the hypocrisy of modern society. For example, the line "ice-block-cold eyes" creates a visual of emotionless and insincere people. The phrase "search behind my shadow" suggests hidden motives and distrust.


Through these literary devices, the poet conveys a deep sense of nostalgia for a time when relationships were genuine and emotions were openly expressed. The poem serves as a critique of the artificiality and lack of trust in contemporary life.

Question 21:
In the chapter Once Upon A Time, the poet reflects on the loss of innocence and authenticity in human interactions. Discuss how the poet uses contrast and imagery to convey this theme. Provide examples from the text to support your answer.
Answer:

The poet in Once Upon A Time effectively uses contrast and imagery to highlight the shift from genuine emotions to artificial behavior in modern society. The poem begins with a nostalgic tone, where the poet recalls a time when people were sincere and emotions were expressed openly. However, as the poem progresses, the poet contrasts this past innocence with the present hypocrisy.

For example, the line 'they used to laugh with their hearts' is contrasted with 'now they only laugh with their teeth'. This stark contrast emphasizes the superficiality of modern interactions. The use of imagery like 'ice-block-cold eyes' further reinforces the cold and calculating nature of contemporary relationships.

Additionally, the poet employs vivid imagery to depict the mechanical and rehearsed behavior of people, such as 'search behind my shadow', suggesting a lack of trust and authenticity. Through these literary devices, the poet successfully conveys the theme of lost innocence and the artificiality of human connections in today's world.

Question 22:
In the chapter Once Upon A Time, the poet reflects on the loss of innocence and authenticity in modern society. Elaborate on how the poet uses contrast and imagery to convey this theme effectively. Support your answer with examples from the poem.
Answer:

The poet Gabriel Okara in Once Upon A Time vividly contrasts the innocence of childhood with the artificiality of adulthood to highlight the loss of genuineness in modern society. He uses powerful imagery and contrast to emphasize this theme.

For instance, the poet contrasts the "laughing with their hearts" of the past with the "laughing with their teeth" of the present, showing how emotions have become superficial. The imagery of "ice-block cold eyes" further reinforces the cold, calculated interactions of adults compared to the warmth of genuine childhood relationships.

Additionally, the poet uses the metaphor of "wearing many faces" to depict the multiple masks people wear in society, losing their true selves. The repetitive structure of the poem, with phrases like "once upon a time", evokes a fairy-tale-like nostalgia, contrasting the simplicity of the past with the complexity of the present.

Through these techniques, Okara effectively conveys the theme of lost innocence and the artificiality of modern human interactions, urging readers to reflect on their own authenticity.

Question 23:
In the chapter Once Upon A Time, the poet reflects on the loss of innocence and sincerity in human interactions. Discuss how the poet uses contrast and imagery to convey this theme effectively. Support your answer with examples from the poem.
Answer:

In the poem Once Upon A Time, the poet Gabriel Okara highlights the loss of innocence and sincerity in modern human interactions through the use of contrast and imagery. The poem contrasts the genuine emotions of the past with the artificial behavior of the present.

Contrast: The poet compares his childhood, where people were 'hearty' and 'sincere', to the present, where interactions are filled with 'ice-block-cold eyes' and 'laugh with only their teeth'. This stark difference emphasizes the theme of lost authenticity.

Imagery: The poet uses vivid imagery to depict the change in human behavior. Phrases like 'they used to shake hands with their hearts' create a warm, emotional picture of the past, while 'faces like dresses' and 'homeface, officeface, streetface' portray the fake, changing masks people wear today.

For example, the line 'I have learned to wear many faces like dresses' uses the imagery of changing clothes to show how people alter their personalities based on situations. Similarly, the contrast between the 'hearty' laughter of the past and the 'teeth-only' laughter of today underscores the poem's central theme.

Through these literary devices, Okara effectively conveys the emotional disconnect and lack of genuineness in modern relationships, urging readers to reflect on their own interactions.

Question 24:
In the chapter Once Upon A Time, the poet reflects on the loss of innocence and sincerity in modern human interactions. Elaborate on how the poet uses contrast and imagery to convey this theme effectively.
Answer:

The poet in Once Upon A Time uses contrast and imagery to highlight the shift from genuine emotions to artificial behavior in society. The poem contrasts the past, where people were sincere and heartfelt, with the present, where interactions are superficial and fake.


For example, the poet contrasts the phrase "once upon a time" (symbolizing a time of innocence) with the modern habit of wearing "faces" or masks to hide true feelings. The imagery of "laughing with their teeth" and "shaking hands without hearts" vividly portrays the emptiness of contemporary relationships.


Additionally, the poet uses the metaphor of a "portrait smile" to emphasize how people now mimic emotions rather than express them genuinely. This contrast between past sincerity and present hypocrisy serves as a powerful critique of modern society.

Question 25:
The poem Once Upon A Time explores the theme of cultural change and its impact on human relationships. Discuss how the poet's use of tone and repetition reinforces this theme.
Answer:

The poet employs a nostalgic and melancholic tone in Once Upon A Time to reflect on the loss of authentic human connections due to cultural change. The tone shifts from fond remembrance of the past to disappointment with the present, emphasizing the emotional impact of this transformation.


Repetition is used effectively to reinforce this theme. The repeated phrase "once upon a time" evokes a fairy-tale-like innocence, contrasting sharply with the repeated descriptions of fake smiles and hollow gestures in the present. This repetition underscores the poet's longing for a time when relationships were genuine.


For instance, the line "they used to laugh with their hearts" is later contrasted with "now they only laugh with their teeth," highlighting the decay of sincerity. The poet's tone and repetition work together to create a poignant commentary on how cultural shifts have eroded true human connection.

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 Once Upon A Time, the poet contrasts childhood innocence with adult hypocrisy. How does the poem highlight this difference?
Answer:
Case Summary

The poem contrasts the genuine emotions of childhood with the fake behavior of adults. The child's honesty is compared to the adult's forced smiles and lies.

Analysis
  • Childhood: The poet recalls a time when emotions were real, like laughter and tears.
  • Adulthood: Now, people wear masks, saying 'goodbye' when they mean 'good riddance'.
Conclusion

Our textbook shows how society forces us to hide true feelings, losing innocence over time.

Question 2:
Explain the significance of the phrase 'laugh with their teeth' in the poem Once Upon A Time.
Answer:
Case Summary

The phrase describes fake smiles adults use to hide true emotions.

Analysis
  • Literal Meaning: Teeth are visible, but the smile isn't genuine.
  • Symbolism: Represents societal pressure to appear polite while feeling otherwise.
Conclusion

We studied how the poet criticizes this artificial behavior, contrasting it with a child's honest expressions.

Question 3:
How does the poet use repetition in Once Upon A Time to emphasize his message?
Answer:
Case Summary

The poet repeats phrases like 'once upon a time' and 'learned to' to stress how people change.

Analysis
  • Effect: Creates rhythm and highlights the loss of innocence.
  • Example: 'Learn to say goodbye when they mean good riddance' shows repeated hypocrisy.
Conclusion

Our textbook shows repetition makes the critique of adult behavior stronger.

Question 4:
In Once Upon A Time, the poet wishes to 'unlearn' certain behaviors. What does this reveal about his perspective on society?
Answer:
Case Summary

The poet wants to return to childhood honesty, rejecting adult pretenses.

Analysis
  • Desire: He regrets adopting fake smiles and lies.
  • Critique: Society values superficiality over authenticity.
Conclusion

We studied how the poem reflects his longing for a time when emotions were real, not performative.

Question 5:
In Once Upon A Time, the poet describes how people wear masks to hide their true emotions. How does this reflect modern society?
Answer:
Case Summary

In the poem, the poet highlights how people pretend to be happy or friendly while hiding their true feelings. Our textbook shows this through phrases like 'laugh with their teeth' and 'shake hands without hearts.'

Analysis
  • Modern society often forces people to act polite even when they don't mean it.
  • Example: Fake smiles in social gatherings or professional settings.
Conclusion

This behavior creates emotional distance, just as the poem suggests.

Question 6:
The poet uses contrast between childhood innocence and adult hypocrisy in Once Upon A Time. Explain with two examples from the poem.
Answer:
Case Summary

The poem contrasts a child's honesty with adults' fake behavior. We studied how the poet wishes to relearn sincerity from his son.

Analysis
  • Example 1: Children speak their minds ('laugh with their hearts'), unlike adults who 'laugh with their teeth.'
  • Example 2: Adults wear 'faces like dresses,' while children remain genuine.
Conclusion

The poet regrets losing innocence as he grew older.

Question 7:
How does the poet's tone change from nostalgia to regret in Once Upon A Time? Support your answer with textual evidence.
Answer:
Case Summary

The poem begins with nostalgia for childhood honesty but shifts to regret over adult hypocrisy.

Analysis
  • Nostalgic tone: 'Once upon a time... I used to laugh with my heart.'
  • Regretful tone: 'But now I only laugh with my teeth.'
Conclusion

The poet realizes he has lost his authenticity over time.

Question 8:
The phrase 'ice-block-cold eyes' in Once Upon A Time symbolizes emotional detachment. How does this imagery deepen the poem's theme?
Answer:
Case Summary

The poet uses cold imagery to show how people emotionally disconnect from others.

Analysis
  • The 'ice-block-cold eyes' suggest lack of warmth in interactions.
  • Example: People today often avoid deep conversations, staying superficial.
Conclusion

This imagery reinforces the poem's critique of fake social behavior.

Question 9:
In Once Upon A Time, the poet describes how people wear false faces in society. What does this metaphor imply about modern human behavior? Support your answer with examples from the poem.
Answer:
Case Summary

The poet uses the metaphor of false faces to criticize insincere social interactions. People hide their true emotions behind artificial smiles.

Analysis
  • Example 1: The line 'They laugh with their teeth' shows fake laughter.
  • Example 2: 'Ice-block-cold eyes' reveals hidden coldness.
Conclusion

Our textbook shows how modern relationships lack genuine warmth, making the poem relevant today.

Question 10:
How does the poet use contrast in Once Upon A Time to highlight changing values? Analyze with two textual references.
Answer:
Case Summary

The poet contrasts past sincerity with modern pretense to show societal decay.

Analysis
  • Example 1: 'Once I was like you' vs current artificial behavior.
  • Example 2: Genuine handshakes vs 'search behind my shadow' suspicion.
Conclusion

We studied how contrasts emphasize lost innocence, making the poem impactful.

Question 11:
Explain the significance of the line 'I have learned to wear many faces' in the context of the poem. How does this reflect urban lifestyle?
Answer:
Case Summary

This line shows adaptation to societal expectations by masking true feelings.

Analysis
  • Example 1: Office faces vs home faces show role-playing.
  • Example 2: 'Confrontation faces' prove calculated interactions.
Conclusion

Our textbook illustrates how urban life forces people to develop multiple personas for survival.

Question 12:
The poem ends with the speaker wanting to relearn childhood honesty. What message does this convey about personal growth? Use poem references.
Answer:
Case Summary

The ending shows desire to return to authentic living after experiencing hypocrisy.

Analysis
  • Example 1: 'I want to be what I used to be' expresses regret.
  • Example 2: Request to 'show me how to laugh' seeks guidance.
Conclusion

We studied how the poem advocates rediscovering innocence amidst artificial adulthood.

Question 13:

Read the following excerpt from Once Upon A Time and answer the question that follows:

"The boy was fascinated by the stories his grandmother told him. They were filled with kings, queens, and magical creatures. But as he grew older, he realized these stories were not just for entertainment—they held deeper meanings."

Based on the excerpt, explain how the boy's perception of his grandmother's stories changed over time. What does this reveal about the theme of growing up in the chapter?

Answer:

The boy initially viewed his grandmother's stories as mere entertainment, enjoying the fantastical elements like kings, queens, and magical creatures. However, as he grew older, he began to recognize the deeper meanings and life lessons embedded in them. This shift in perception highlights the theme of growing up, where the boy transitions from a naive child to a more thoughtful individual who understands the symbolism and moral values in stories.

This change also reflects how maturity brings a broader perspective, allowing one to appreciate the layers of meaning in seemingly simple narratives. The grandmother's stories, thus, serve as a metaphor for the journey from innocence to wisdom.

Question 14:

In Once Upon A Time, the grandmother often uses stories to teach moral lessons. Analyze one such story from the chapter and explain how it conveys a universal truth about human behavior or society.

Answer:

One of the grandmother's stories in the chapter revolves around a greedy king who loses everything due to his insatiable desire for wealth. This story teaches the universal truth that excessive greed leads to downfall. The king's actions and their consequences mirror real-world scenarios where unchecked ambition or materialism often results in loss or suffering.

The grandmother uses this narrative to highlight the importance of contentment and ethical behavior. By framing the lesson within a story, she makes it relatable and memorable, ensuring the boy (and readers) internalize the message. This technique underscores how storytelling can effectively convey timeless wisdom about human nature and societal values.

Question 15:

Read the following excerpt from Once Upon A Time and answer the question that follows:

"The people in the house opposite were not the same anymore. They had changed. They had become like the others."

Based on the above lines, explain how the theme of loss of innocence is portrayed in the story. How does this change reflect the societal pressures mentioned in the chapter?

Answer:

The theme of loss of innocence is portrayed through the transformation of the neighbors, who were once friendly but later conformed to societal norms of fear and distrust. The line "They had become like the others" highlights how external pressures strip away genuine human connections, replacing them with suspicion.

This change reflects societal pressures such as:

  • Fear of crime: People build higher walls and install security systems, losing their openness.
  • Conformity: The neighbors adopt the same behaviors as everyone else, losing their individuality.
  • Distrust: Innocent interactions are replaced by caution, symbolizing the erosion of trust.

The story critiques how modern society forces people to abandon their innate kindness, leading to a loss of innocence and authenticity.

Question 16:

In Once Upon A Time, the narrator describes how the family's security measures escalate, ultimately leading to a tragic irony. Analyze how the irony in the story serves as a critique of excessive fear and materialism. Support your answer with examples from the text.

Answer:

The story uses irony to critique how excessive fear and materialism backfire. The family installs increasingly extreme security measures to feel safe, but these very precautions lead to their child's harm.

Examples of irony include:

  • Barbed wire: Meant to keep dangers out, it injures the child who mimics fairy-tale adventures.
  • Walls and alarms: Instead of creating safety, they isolate the family, making them prisoners of their own fear.
  • Materialism: The family accumulates wealth and security gadgets, yet they lose what truly matters—their child's well-being.

The tragic ending underscores the futility of prioritizing material security over human values, serving as a powerful critique of modern society's misplaced priorities.

Question 17:

Read the following excerpt from Once Upon A Time and answer the question that follows:

"The boy was not interested in the story. He was more interested in the watch his father was holding."

Based on the excerpt, analyze the boy's behavior and its significance in the context of the story. How does this reflect the theme of modern distractions versus traditional storytelling?

Answer:

The boy's lack of interest in the story and his fascination with the watch highlights the conflict between modern distractions and traditional storytelling.

1. Behavior Analysis: The boy prioritizes material objects (the watch) over the imaginative world of stories, showing how modern gadgets divert attention from meaningful interactions.

2. Theme Significance: This reflects the broader theme of how technology and materialism can erode cultural traditions like storytelling, which foster bonding and creativity.

3. Value-Added Insight: The author subtly critiques the shift from oral traditions to screen-based entertainment, urging readers to preserve storytelling as a cultural heritage.

Question 18:

In Once Upon A Time, the father tries to engage his son with a story but fails. Imagine you are the father and write a dialogue (4-5 exchanges) where you use a creative approach to make the story more appealing to the boy. Incorporate elements from the chapter to justify your response.

Answer:

Dialogue:
Father: "What if I tell you a story about a magical watch that could stop time?"
Son: (Eyes widen) "Really? How?"
Father: "This watch belonged to a boy like you who discovered it could freeze moments—like your football goals or ice-cream time!"
Son: "Wow! What happened next?"
Father: "He learned that real magic lies in living the moment, not just watching it. Want to hear more?"

Justification: The dialogue uses the boy's interest in the watch (from the chapter) to blend modern appeal with moral storytelling, aligning with the chapter's theme of bridging generational gaps creatively.

Question 19:

Read the following excerpt from Once Upon A Time and answer the question that follows:

"They had a burglar alarm, a watchdog, and a high wall around their house. They were safe."

Q. How does the poet use irony to critique modern society's obsession with security in the poem? Support your answer with reference to the text.

Answer:

The poet uses irony to highlight the false sense of security in modern society. While the family in the poem believes they are "safe" due to their burglar alarm, watchdog, and high wall, the poet subtly suggests that these measures isolate them from genuine human connections. The irony lies in the fact that despite all these precautions, the family loses their warmth and authenticity, becoming prisoners of their own fear.

For example, the line "They were safe" is ironic because physical safety does not equate to emotional or social well-being. The poet critiques how modern society prioritizes material security over trust and openness, leading to a hollow existence.

Question 20:

Read the following lines from Once Upon A Time:

"They used to laugh with their hearts and laugh with their eyes, but now they only laugh with their teeth."

Q. How does the poet contrast the past and present behavior of people in the poem? What message does this convey about societal changes?

Answer:

The poet contrasts past and present behavior to show the loss of sincerity in modern interactions. In the past, people laughed "with their hearts and eyes", indicating genuine joy and emotional connection. Now, they laugh "only with their teeth", which symbolizes artificiality and superficiality.

This contrast conveys that societal changes have led to a decline in authentic relationships. People have become more guarded and less emotionally open, prioritizing appearances over true feelings. The poet critiques this shift, urging readers to reflect on the importance of honesty and warmth in human interactions.

Question 21:
Read the following excerpt from Once Upon A Time:
'The boy was fascinated by the stories his grandmother told him. They were filled with magic, adventure, and lessons about life.'
Based on this, explain how storytelling plays a significant role in shaping a child's imagination and moral values. Support your answer with examples from the chapter.
Answer:

Storytelling is a powerful tool that shapes a child's imagination and moral values. In Once Upon A Time, the grandmother's stories are not just entertaining but also carry deeper lessons. For example, her tales of bravery and kindness inspire the boy to think beyond his immediate surroundings and develop a sense of right and wrong.

The magic and adventure in the stories fuel the boy's creativity, allowing him to envision worlds beyond his own. This helps in cognitive development and emotional growth. Additionally, the moral lessons embedded in the stories, such as the importance of honesty or courage, subtly influence his behavior and decisions.

In real life, storytelling serves a similar purpose. It helps children understand complex emotions and societal norms in a relatable way, making it an essential part of their upbringing.

Question 22:
In Once Upon A Time, the grandmother often uses animals as characters in her stories. Analyze how the use of anthropomorphism (giving human traits to animals) helps in conveying moral lessons effectively to the young boy. Provide examples from the chapter to support your answer.
Answer:

Anthropomorphism is a literary device where animals are given human traits, making stories more engaging and relatable for children. In Once Upon A Time, the grandmother uses this technique to teach the boy important life lessons.

For instance, if the grandmother tells a story about a clever fox who outsmarts a greedy wolf, she is indirectly teaching the boy about the value of intelligence and the dangers of greed. The animal characters make the lessons less preachy and more enjoyable, ensuring the boy retains the message.

This method works because children often project themselves onto animal characters, making the lessons personal. The use of anthropomorphism also adds an element of fun, keeping the boy interested and eager to learn more.

Overall, this technique is effective in conveying moral values in a way that is both entertaining and educational.

Chat on WhatsApp