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Poetry: The Shed – CBSE NCERT Study Resources

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Poetry: The Shed

Study Materials

7th

7th - English

Poetry: The Shed

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Overview of the Chapter

The chapter "Poetry: The Shed" is part of the CBSE English curriculum for Grade 7. It explores themes of curiosity, fear, and courage through a poem that describes a mysterious shed in the narrator's garden. The poem captures the child's imagination and hesitation about exploring the unknown.

The Shed: A small, often neglected structure in the garden that becomes a source of intrigue and fear for the narrator.

Summary of the Poem

The poem "The Shed" describes a dilapidated shed at the bottom of the narrator's garden. The shed has a rusty lock, and its door creaks when the wind blows. The narrator's brother warns him that a ghost lives inside the shed, which frightens the child. Despite this fear, the narrator feels a growing curiosity to peek inside the shed one day.

Key Themes

  • Fear and Courage: The poem highlights the internal conflict between fear and the desire to overcome it.
  • Childhood Imagination: The shed becomes a symbol of mystery and adventure in the child's mind.
  • Family Influence: The brother's warning adds to the narrator's hesitation, showing how family shapes perceptions.

Literary Devices

  • Imagery: Vivid descriptions of the shed create a clear mental picture.
  • Personification: The wind is described as making the door creak, adding to the eerie atmosphere.
  • Symbolism: The shed represents the unknown and the courage needed to face it.

Important Questions

  1. What does the shed symbolize in the poem?
  2. How does the narrator's brother influence his feelings about the shed?
  3. Why does the narrator want to look inside the shed despite his fear?

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 does the poet's brother claim is inside the shed?
Answer:

A ghost.

Question 2:
What emotion does the poet overcome by the end?
Answer:

Fear.

Question 3:
What does the poet learn from the shed?
Answer:

To face fears bravely.

Question 4:
What is the central theme of the poem The Shed?
Answer:

Overcoming fear and curiosity.

Question 5:
Who is the author of The Shed?
Answer:

Frank Flynn.

Question 6:
What does the broken window in the shed symbolize?
Answer:

Neglect and mystery.

Question 7:
Why does the poet's brother warn him about the shed?
Answer:

To scare him away.

Question 8:
What sound does the poet hear from the shed?
Answer:

A creaking noise.

Question 9:
What does the poet imagine is inside the shed?
Answer:

A ghost or hidden treasure.

Question 10:
How does the poet feel about the shed initially?
Answer:

Scared and curious.

Question 11:
What does the poet resolve to do at the end?
Answer:

Enter the shed someday.

Question 12:
What literary device is used in 'The spider’s web hangs across its door'?
Answer:

Imagery.

Question 13:
What does the rusty lock on the shed suggest?
Answer:

It hasn't been opened in years.

Question 14:
How does the poet describe the shed's door?
Answer:

Old and creaky.

Question 15:
What is the central theme of the poem The Shed?
Answer:

The central theme of the poem The Shed is childhood curiosity and fear. The poet describes a mysterious shed that fascinates and frightens the child, symbolizing the mix of excitement and apprehension in exploring the unknown.

Question 16:
Who is the speaker in the poem The Shed?
Answer:

The speaker in the poem The Shed is a young child who is both curious and fearful about the mysterious shed in his garden.

Question 17:
What does the broken window pane in the shed signify?
Answer:

The broken window pane signifies neglect and mystery, adding to the child's fear and curiosity about what might be inside the shed.

Question 18:
Why does the child hesitate to enter the shed?
Answer:

The child hesitates to enter the shed because of fear and uncertainty. He has heard stories about a ghost inside, which makes him apprehensive.

Question 19:
What does the phrase 'spider’s web hanging across the door' suggest?
Answer:

The phrase suggests that the shed is unused and abandoned, as spider webs indicate a lack of human activity.

Question 20:
How does the poet create a sense of mystery in the poem?
Answer:

The poet creates mystery by describing the shed as dark, creaky, and possibly haunted, using vivid imagery to build suspense.

Question 21:
What emotion does the child feel towards the shed?
Answer:

The child feels a mix of curiosity and fear towards the shed, as it represents the unknown.

Question 22:
What is the significance of the 'rusty' hinges in the poem?
Answer:

The 'rusty' hinges signify age and disuse, emphasizing the shed's neglected state and adding to its eerie atmosphere.

Question 23:
How does the poem The Shed reflect childhood imagination?
Answer:

The poem reflects childhood imagination by showing how a simple shed becomes a source of wonder and fear, highlighting how children often exaggerate ordinary things in their minds.

Question 24:
What does the child plan to do 'one day' in the poem?
Answer:

The child plans to peek inside the shed 'one day,' showing his lingering curiosity despite his fear.

Question 25:
How does the poet use sound imagery in The Shed?
Answer:

The poet uses sound imagery like the creaking of the door and the wind to create a spooky and mysterious atmosphere.

Question 26:
What lesson can be learned from the poem The Shed?
Answer:

The poem teaches us that fear of the unknown is natural, but curiosity and courage can help us overcome it.

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:
What does the phrase 'spider’s web hanging across the door' suggest in the poem?
Answer:

The phrase spider’s web hanging across the door suggests neglect and mystery. It indicates that the shed has been unused for a long time, adding to its spooky and abandoned atmosphere.

Question 2:
How does the poet create a sense of suspense in The Shed?
Answer:

The poet creates suspense by using vivid imagery (like the spider’s web and creaking door) and repetition (e.g., 'I’ll go into that shed one day’). The child’s mixed feelings of fear and curiosity keep the reader engaged.

Question 3:
What does the shed symbolize in the poem?
Answer:

The shed symbolizes the unknown and childhood fears. It represents things that seem scary at first but may turn out to be harmless upon closer inspection, teaching a lesson about overcoming fears.

Question 4:
How does the poet describe the door of the shed?
Answer:

The poet describes the shed’s door as creaky and old, with a rusty hinge that makes noise when moved. This adds to the eerie and mysterious mood of the poem.

Question 5:
What is the significance of the line 'There’s a dusty old window around at the side'?
Answer:

This line signifies hidden curiosity. The window offers a glimpse into the shed, but the child is still too scared to look inside, showing how fear can hold back exploration.

Question 6:
How does the poem The Shed reflect a child’s imagination?
Answer:

The poem reflects a child’s imagination by portraying the shed as a mysterious and frightening place. The child’s mind exaggerates small details (like the creaking door) into something ghostly, showcasing innocent creativity.

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 create a sense of mystery in The Shed?
Answer:

The poet creates a sense of mystery in The Shed through:

  • Descriptions of the creaky door and rusty hinges, suggesting neglect and secrecy.
  • Mention of a ghost inside the shed, which fuels the narrator's fear.
  • The spider's web across the door, symbolizing something untouched and hidden.
These elements together build an eerie and suspenseful atmosphere.

Question 2:
Explain the significance of the line 'There’s a dusty old window around at the side' in The Shed.
Answer:

The line signifies the narrator's hidden curiosity about the shed. While he claims to be afraid, the mention of the window shows his desire to peek inside and uncover the truth. It reflects the conflict between fear and curiosity that children often experience.

Question 3:
How does the poet use imagery in The Shed to engage the reader?
Answer:

The poet uses vivid visual and auditory imagery to engage the reader:
1. Creaky door and rusty hinges create a sound-based image.
2. Dusty window and spider's web paint a clear visual of neglect.
3. The imagined ghost adds a layer of suspense. These details make the shed feel real and intriguing.

Question 4:
What does the shed symbolize in the poem The Shed?
Answer:

The shed symbolizes the unknown fears and childhood mysteries that often seem scarier in imagination than in reality. It represents how children (and even adults) sometimes avoid facing their fears due to exaggerated thoughts. The shed also stands for hidden truths that remain unexplored because of fear.

Question 5:
Contrast the narrator's feelings about the shed at the beginning and end of the poem The Shed.
Answer:

At the beginning, the narrator feels fearful and hesitant about the shed due to stories of a ghost. By the end, his curiosity grows stronger, showing a shift from fear to a desire to explore. This contrast highlights how overcoming fear often starts with curiosity.

Question 6:
Explain the significance of the line "My brother says there’s a ghost in the shed" in the poem.
Answer:

This line is significant because it shows how childhood fears are often influenced by others, like siblings. The brother's claim about a ghost adds to the speaker's fear and curiosity, making the shed seem even more mysterious. It also reflects how children sometimes exaggerate stories to scare each other.

Question 7:
Describe the speaker's attitude toward the shed at the beginning and end of the poem.
Answer:

At the beginning, the speaker is fearful and hesitant about the shed due to the stories of a ghost. By the end, the speaker shows a growing curiosity and a slight willingness to explore it, indicating a shift from fear to bravery. This change highlights the natural progression of overcoming childhood fears.

Question 8:
How does the poet use sound devices in The Shed to enhance the poem's mood?
Answer:

The poet uses alliteration (e.g., "spider’s web hanging across the door") and onomatopoeia (e.g., "creaking") to create a spooky and suspenseful mood. These sound devices make the reader feel the same tension and curiosity as the speaker, adding depth to the poem's atmosphere.

Question 9:
What lesson can readers learn from the poem The Shed?
Answer:

Readers can learn that fear often stems from imagination and facing one's fears can lead to growth. The poem teaches us that what seems scary at first might not be so bad upon closer inspection, encouraging bravery and curiosity in the face of the unknown.

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:
Explain how the poet uses imagery in The Shed to create a sense of mystery and fear.
Answer:
Introduction

In The Shed, the poet uses vivid imagery to build suspense. Our textbook shows how descriptions like 'spider’s web' and 'rusty hinges' paint a scary picture.

Argument 1
  • The 'broken window' suggests neglect, making the shed seem abandoned.
Argument 2
  • Phrases like 'darkness inside' create fear, as we imagine hidden dangers.
Conclusion

The imagery helps us feel the narrator’s curiosity and fear, making the poem engaging.

Question 2:
Describe the character of the narrator in The Shed based on his thoughts and actions.
Answer:
Introduction

The narrator in The Shed is curious but hesitant. We studied how his mixed feelings show his childish innocence.

Argument 1
  • He peeks inside but never enters, showing caution.
Argument 2
  • His brother’s warning makes him imaginative, as he wonders about ghosts.
Conclusion

The narrator’s blend of curiosity and fear reflects a typical child’s mindset.

Question 3:
How does the poet create a contrast between the shed’s appearance and the narrator’s imagination?
Answer:
Introduction

The shed is old and broken, but the narrator imagines it as terrifying. Our textbook highlights this contrast.

Argument 1
  • Real details like 'rusty hinges' are ordinary, but the narrator fears ghosts.
Argument 2
  • The brother’s story exaggerates the shed’s danger, fueling imagination.
Conclusion

This contrast makes the poem relatable, as children often imagine things scarier than they are.

Question 4:
Discuss the theme of fear and curiosity in The Shed with examples from the poem.
Answer:
Introduction

The Shed explores how fear and curiosity clash. We see this in the narrator’s dilemma.

Argument 1
  • He is curious about the shed but fears his brother’s ghost story.
Argument 2
  • Lines like 'I’ll open that door one day' show his lingering curiosity.
Conclusion

The poem captures a child’s struggle between wanting to explore and being afraid.

Question 5:
Analyze the significance of the brother’s warning in shaping the narrator’s view of the shed.
Answer:
Introduction

The brother’s warning about a ghost in the shed deeply affects the narrator. Our textbook explains its impact.

Argument 1
  • The warning makes the narrator fearful, as seen in his hesitation.
Argument 2
  • It also sparks his imagination, making the shed seem mysterious.
Conclusion

The brother’s words show how others’ stories can shape our fears.

Question 6:
Explain how the poet uses imagery and personification in The Shed to create a sense of mystery.
Answer:
Introduction

In The Shed, the poet uses vivid imagery and personification to build curiosity and fear.


Argument 1
  • The creaking door and rusty hinges create a spooky image.
  • Personification like the spider has been gone makes the shed seem alive.

Argument 2

Our textbook shows how the dusty windows and hidden corners deepen the mystery.


Conclusion

The poet successfully uses these techniques to make the shed feel eerie and intriguing.

Question 7:
Describe the conflict in the child’s mind about entering The Shed. How does the poet portray it?
Answer:
Introduction

The child in The Shed feels torn between curiosity and fear.


Argument 1
  • The child wonders if the ghost stories about the shed are true.
  • Lines like I’ll open that door one day show hesitation.

Argument 2

Our textbook highlights how the broken glass and creaking sounds amplify his fear.


Conclusion

The poet effectively captures the child’s inner struggle through vivid descriptions.

Question 8:
How does the setting of The Shed contribute to the poem’s mood? Provide examples.
Answer:
Introduction

The setting of The Shed creates a tense and mysterious mood.


Argument 1
  • The dusty old windows and rusty hinges suggest neglect and eeriness.
  • The spider’s absence adds to the suspense.

Argument 2

Our textbook shows how the hidden corners and creaking sounds make the shed feel alive.


Conclusion

The poet’s detailed setting builds a mood of fear and curiosity.

Question 9:
Discuss the significance of the spider in The Shed. How does its absence affect the child?
Answer:
Introduction

The spider in The Shed symbolizes the unknown and adds to the child’s fear.


Argument 1
  • The line the spider has been gone makes the shed seem emptier and scarier.
  • Its absence leaves the child wondering what else is hidden.

Argument 2

Our textbook explains how the missing spider deepens the mystery of the shed.


Conclusion

The poet uses the spider to heighten the child’s anxiety and curiosity.

Question 10:
Analyze how the poet builds suspense in The Shed through the child’s perspective.
Answer:
Introduction

The poet creates suspense in The Shed by showing the child’s fearful curiosity.


Argument 1
  • The child’s hesitation, like I’ll open that door one day, keeps readers guessing.
  • Descriptions of creaking sounds and broken glass add tension.

Argument 2

Our textbook highlights how the unknown contents of the shed fuel suspense.


Conclusion

Through the child’s eyes, the poet masterfully builds suspense about the shed.

Question 11:
In the poem 'The Shed', the poet describes the shed as a mysterious place. How does the poet create a sense of mystery and fear around the shed? Explain with examples from the poem.
Answer:

The poet Frank Flynn creates a sense of mystery and fear around the shed through vivid descriptions and the use of imagery. The speaker mentions that there is a 'spider’s web' hanging across the door, suggesting neglect and abandonment. The line 'There’s a dusty old window around at the side' adds to the eerie atmosphere, as if no one has looked inside for years.

Additionally, the poet uses sound imagery with the phrase 'a creaking sound', which makes the shed seem alive and possibly haunted. The speaker’s brother warns him about a 'ghost' inside, further intensifying the fear. The hesitation of the speaker to enter the shed, despite curiosity, shows how the unknown can be both fascinating and frightening.

These elements work together to build suspense and make the reader wonder what truly lies inside the shed, leaving the mystery unresolved.

Question 12:
The poem 'The Shed' explores the theme of childhood curiosity and fear. How does the poet depict the conflict between curiosity and fear in the poem? Support your answer with references from the text.
Answer:

The poet beautifully captures the conflict between curiosity and fear through the narrator’s thoughts and actions. Here’s how:

  • Desire to Explore: The narrator feels a strong urge to 'peep through that window', showing his curiosity about the shed.
  • Fear of the Unknown: At the same time, he is afraid because of his brother’s warning about a 'ghost' inside, which holds him back.
  • Inner Struggle: The line 'I’ll go into that shed one day' reflects his determination to overcome fear, but he hesitates, showing the ongoing conflict.

This conflict is relatable to children, as they often face situations where they are torn between wanting to explore and being scared of the consequences. The poet uses simple yet powerful imagery to convey this universal childhood experience.

Question 13:
In the poem The Shed, the poet describes the shed as a mysterious place. How does the poet create a sense of mystery and fear around the shed? Explain with examples from the poem.
Answer:

The poet Frank Flynn creates a sense of mystery and fear around the shed through vivid descriptions and the use of imagery. The shed is portrayed as an eerie and abandoned place, which sparks curiosity as well as fear in the speaker's mind.

  • The poet mentions that the shed has a dusty old window with three cracked panes, making it seem neglected and spooky.
  • The line 'There’s a dusty old window around at the side' suggests secrecy, as if something is hidden inside.
  • The speaker hears a creaking sound from the shed, which adds to the suspense and fear, making it seem like someone or something is inside.
  • The brother’s warning about a ghost hiding under the rotten floorboards further intensifies the mystery, playing on the speaker’s imagination.

These elements together build a tense atmosphere, making the shed seem both intriguing and frightening to the young speaker.

Question 14:
The poem The Shed reflects the theme of childhood curiosity and fear. Discuss how the poet captures the emotions of a child through the description of the shed.
Answer:

The poet Frank Flynn effectively captures the dual emotions of curiosity and fear in a child’s mind through the description of the shed. The child is drawn to the shed because of its mysterious nature, as seen in lines like 'I’ll go into that shed one day soon', showing his eagerness to explore.


However, the child is also afraid due to the stories he has heard, such as his brother’s warning about a ghost. The contrast between his desire to open the door and his fear of what lies inside reflects the inner conflict typical of childhood. The shed becomes a symbol of the unknown, representing how children often feel both excited and scared by new experiences.


The poet uses simple yet powerful imagery, like the rusty hinges and the spider’s web, to make the shed feel real and relatable. This helps readers connect with the child’s emotions, making the poem a perfect depiction of childhood curiosity mixed with fear.

Question 15:
In the poem The Shed, the poet describes a mysterious shed. How does the poet create a sense of mystery and fear around the shed? Explain with examples from the poem.
Answer:

The poet creates a sense of mystery and fear around the shed through vivid descriptions and the use of imagery and tone. The shed is described as old and creaky, with a spider's web hanging across the door, which adds to its eerie atmosphere. The line 'There’s a dusty old window around at the side' suggests neglect and secrecy.


Additionally, the poet mentions a ghost hiding inside the shed, which instills fear in the narrator. The line 'My brother says there’s a ghost in the shed' shows how rumors and imagination contribute to the mystery. The poet also uses sound imagery, like the creaking of the door, to make the shed seem alive and threatening.


Overall, the combination of visual and auditory details, along with the narrator's hesitation to enter the shed, builds a strong sense of suspense and fear.

Question 16:
The poem The Shed explores the theme of childhood curiosity and fear. How does the poet depict the narrator's conflicting emotions? Support your answer with references from the poem.
Answer:

The poet depicts the narrator's conflicting emotions of curiosity and fear through the narrator's thoughts and actions. On one hand, the narrator is curious about the shed and wants to explore it, as seen in the line 'I’ll go into that shed one day soon'. This shows a desire to overcome fear and discover the truth.


On the other hand, the narrator is afraid due to the stories about the shed, such as the ghost mentioned by the brother. The line 'But not just yet...' reveals hesitation and fear, highlighting the inner conflict. The poet uses repetition of the phrase 'one day' to emphasize the narrator's lingering doubt.


This contrast between curiosity and fear is a common theme in childhood, where the unknown both attracts and frightens. The poet effectively captures this duality through simple yet powerful language.

Question 17:
The poem The Shed reflects the speaker's curiosity and fear. How does the speaker's attitude towards the shed change as the poem progresses? Support your answer with references from the poem.
Answer:

At the beginning of the poem, the speaker is fearful of the shed due to stories about a ghost inside. However, as the poem progresses, the speaker's curiosity grows stronger. The line 'I’ll go into that shed one day soon' shows the speaker’s determination to overcome fear. The speaker also notices that the spider’s web has been gone for years, hinting that the shed might not be as scary as believed. By the end, the speaker’s attitude shifts from fear to a brave resolve to explore the shed, showing personal growth and a willingness to face fears.

Question 18:
The poem 'The Shed' explores the theme of childhood curiosity and fear. How does the speaker’s attitude toward the shed change as the poem progresses? Support your answer with references from the poem.
Answer:

At the beginning of the poem, the speaker is curious but fearful of the shed due to stories told by his brother. The line 'My brother says there’s a ghost in the shed' shows how external influences create fear. The speaker describes the shed as 'creepy' and avoids going near it, indicating hesitation.

However, as the poem progresses, the speaker’s curiosity grows stronger. He mentions 'I’ll go into that shed one day soon', showing a shift from fear to determination. The line 'But not just yet' suggests that while he is still slightly afraid, his desire to explore overcomes his fear.

This change in attitude highlights how children often balance curiosity and fear when facing the unknown. The poem captures the universal experience of growing up, where curiosity eventually leads to bravery.

Question 19:
The poem The Shed reflects a child's curiosity and fear. How does the poet show the conflict between the speaker's desire to explore the shed and his fear of the unknown? Support your answer with references from the poem.
Answer:

The poem The Shed beautifully captures the inner conflict of a child torn between curiosity and fear. The speaker is drawn to the shed but is also afraid of what might be inside.

  • The speaker admits that 'I know that there isn’t really a ghost', showing his logical side, yet he still hesitates due to the stories he has heard.
  • The line 'My brother tells lies to keep the shed for his den' suggests that the speaker suspects the tales are exaggerated, yet he cannot shake off the fear completely.
  • The repeated mention of the creaking sound and the spider’s web across the door adds to the hesitation, making the shed seem forbidden and dangerous.

This conflict is relatable to children, as they often struggle between wanting to explore and the fear of the unknown. The poet effectively uses simple yet powerful imagery to convey this emotional tug-of-war.

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 Shed, the poet describes the shed as a mysterious place. What two details from the poem suggest this mystery? How does this impact the speaker's feelings?
Answer:
Case Summary

We studied how the poet describes the shed as mysterious using details like a creaking door and a spider's web.

Analysis
  • The creaking door hints at neglect, making it eerie.
  • The spider's web suggests abandonment, adding to the fear.
Conclusion

These details make the speaker curious yet scared, as our textbook shows how mystery creates mixed emotions.

Question 2:
The speaker in The Shed hears stories about a ghost. How does this rumor affect the speaker's actions? Give two examples from the poem.
Answer:
Case Summary

The speaker avoids the shed due to ghost stories, as we learned in the poem.

Analysis
  • The speaker peers through the window but doesn’t enter.
  • He plans to go inside someday, showing hesitation.
Conclusion

Rumors create fear, delaying action, just like our textbook explains how imagination fuels uncertainty.

Question 3:
The poet uses sound imagery in The Shed. Identify two sounds mentioned and explain how they enhance the poem's mood.
Answer:
Case Summary

Sound imagery, like the creaking door and wind noise, sets the mood in the poem.

Analysis
  • The creaking door adds suspense.
  • The wind noise makes the shed feel lonely.
Conclusion

These sounds create a spooky atmosphere, as our textbook shows how sensory details shape emotions.

Question 4:
In The Shed, the speaker says, 'I’ll go inside one day.' What does this reveal about his character? Support your answer with two traits.
Answer:
Case Summary

The speaker’s statement shows his cautious yet curious nature.

Analysis
  • He is brave for wanting to explore.
  • He is hesitant as he delays going in.
Conclusion

This mix of traits reflects real-life fears, just like our textbook explains how characters mirror human emotions.

Question 5:
In the poem The Shed, the poet describes a mysterious shed. Case Summary: The speaker is curious but afraid of the shed.

Q1. Why does the speaker feel both curious and afraid of the shed? Support your answer with examples from the poem.
Answer:
Case Summary: The speaker is intrigued by the shed but fears it due to rumors.
Analysis:
  • Curiosity: The speaker wonders about the shed's broken window and spider's web.
  • Fear: His brother warns of a ghost inside, making him hesitant.
Conclusion: The poem shows how imagination mixes with fear, just like our textbook examples of childhood mysteries.
Question 6:
Case Summary: The shed in the poem has a rusty door and a creaking sound.

Q2. How do these details create a mood in the poem? Compare it to another poem from your textbook with a similar atmosphere.
Answer:
Case Summary: The shed's description builds suspense.
Analysis:
  • Rusty door and creaking sound suggest neglect and eeriness.
  • Similar to The Shadow (NCERT), where darkness creates fear.
Conclusion: Both poems use sensory details to set a spooky mood, as we studied in class.
Question 7:
Case Summary: The speaker’s brother claims there’s a ghost in the shed.

Q3. Do you think the brother is telling the truth? Analyze how this affects the speaker’s actions.
Answer:
Case Summary: The brother’s story influences the speaker.
Analysis:
  • Likely a lie to scare, as the speaker never sees the ghost.
  • Speaker peeks but doesn’t enter, showing caution and doubt.
Conclusion: Like NCERT’s Garden Snake, fear stems from stories, not reality.
Question 8:
Case Summary: The poem ends with the speaker resolving to visit the shed someday.

Q4. What does this resolution reveal about the speaker’s character? Relate it to a personal experience of overcoming fear.
Answer:
Case Summary: The speaker decides to face his fear.
Analysis:
  • Shows courage and growth, like when we finally ride a bicycle after falling.
  • NCERT’s Chivvy also teaches about growing confidence.
Conclusion: The poem inspires us to conquer fears, just as we learn in life.
Question 9:
In The Shed, the poet describes the shed as a mysterious place. Case Summary: The speaker is curious but afraid of the shed.
Analysis: Why does the poet use words like 'creaking' and 'spider’s web'?
Conclusion: How does this build suspense?
Answer:
Case Summary: The poet describes the shed as eerie with a creaking door and spider’s web.
Analysis: Words like 'creaking' suggest age and neglect, while 'spider’s web' shows abandonment. Our textbook shows these create fear.
Conclusion: The suspense makes us wonder if something scary is inside, like in ghost stories we hear.
Question 10:
Case Summary: The speaker in The Shed hesitates to enter.
Analysis: How does the line 'There’s a dusty old window...' add to the mood?
Conclusion: What does this tell us about the speaker’s character?
Answer:
Case Summary: The speaker sees a dusty window but avoids going in.
Analysis: 'Dusty old window' suggests no one visits, adding loneliness. Our textbook compares it to abandoned places.
Conclusion: The speaker is curious but cautious, like how we feel about dark rooms.
Question 11:
Case Summary: The shed has a rusty hinge and a hidden corner.
Analysis: How do these details make the shed seem alive?
Conclusion: Why might the poet personify the shed?
Answer:
Case Summary: The shed’s rusty hinge creaks, and its corner stays dark.
Analysis: The hinge 'screaks' like a voice, and the shadowy corner feels watching. Our textbook says this adds mystery.
Conclusion: Personification makes the shed feel like a character, like monsters in stories we imagine.
Question 12:
Case Summary: The poet repeats 'I’ll go in one day' in The Shed.
Analysis: What does this repetition reveal about the speaker’s conflict?
Conclusion: How does this connect to real-life fears?
Answer:
Case Summary: The speaker keeps delaying entering the shed.
Analysis: Repetition shows he wavers between bravery and fear, like in our NCERT example of overcoming doubts.
Conclusion: It mirrors how we postpone scary tasks, like going to a dark basement alone.
Question 13:

Read the following lines from the poem The Shed:

'There’s a dusty old window around at the side
With three cracked panes of glass,
I often think there’s someone staring at me
Each time that I pass.'

Based on these lines, answer the following:

  • Why does the poet feel someone is staring at him?
  • What does the condition of the window tell us about the shed?
Answer:

1. Why does the poet feel someone is staring at him?
The poet feels someone is staring at him because of the eerie and neglected state of the shed. The three cracked panes of glass and the dusty old window create shadows or reflections that trick his mind into imagining a presence. This reflects the poet's fear and curiosity about the unknown.

2. What does the condition of the window tell us about the shed?
The cracked panes and dusty window suggest that the shed is old, unused, and possibly abandoned. It highlights a sense of neglect and mystery, making the shed seem isolated and spooky, which adds to the poet's hesitation to enter it.

Question 14:

In the poem The Shed, the poet describes the shed as having a spider's web hanging across the door. Answer the following:

  • How does the spider's web contribute to the atmosphere of the shed?
  • What does this detail reveal about the poet's feelings towards the shed?
Answer:

1. How does the spider's web contribute to the atmosphere of the shed?
The spider's web adds to the creepy and abandoned atmosphere of the shed. It shows that the shed has been untouched for a long time, as spiders usually build webs in undisturbed places. This detail makes the shed seem more mysterious and uninviting.

2. What does this detail reveal about the poet's feelings towards the shed?
The poet feels a mix of fear and fascination towards the shed. The spider's web symbolizes neglect and the unknown, which makes him hesitant to enter. However, his repeated thoughts about the shed also show his curiosity and desire to overcome his fear.

Question 15:
Read the following lines from the poem The Shed:
'There’s a dusty old window around at the side
With three cracked panes of glass,
I often think there’s someone staring at me
Each time that I pass.'

Based on these lines, answer the following:

  • Why does the poet feel someone is staring at him?
  • What does the condition of the window tell us about the shed?
Answer:

The poet feels someone is staring at him because of the eerie and mysterious atmosphere created by the dusty old window with three cracked panes of glass. The cracks and dust distort the view, making shadows or reflections seem like a presence. This reflects the poet's fear and imagination.


The condition of the window tells us that the shed is neglected and unused. The dust and cracked panes suggest it has been abandoned for a long time, adding to its spooky and lonely appearance. This detail helps build the poem's mood of mystery and curiosity.

Question 16:
In the poem The Shed, the poet describes the shed as having a spider's web hanging across the door.

Answer the following based on this detail:

  • What does the spider's web symbolize in the poem?
  • How does this description contribute to the overall theme of the poem?
Answer:

The spider's web symbolizes neglect and the passage of time. Since spiders build webs in undisturbed places, it shows that the shed has been untouched for a long time, reinforcing its abandoned and mysterious nature.


This description contributes to the overall theme of fear and curiosity. The web acts as a barrier, making the shed seem even more forbidden and intriguing. It heightens the poet's hesitation to enter, while also sparking his imagination about what might be inside.

Question 17:
Read the following lines from the poem The Shed:

'There’s a shed at the bottom of our garden
With a spider’s web hanging across the door,
The hinges are rusty and creak in the wind.'

Based on these lines, describe the condition of the shed and explain how the poet creates a sense of mystery around it.
Answer:

The shed described in the poem is in a neglected and old condition. The presence of a spider’s web hanging across the door suggests that it has not been used or opened for a long time. The rusty hinges that creak in the wind further emphasize its abandoned state.

The poet creates a sense of mystery by using vivid imagery. The spider’s web acts as a barrier, making the shed seem untouched and possibly hiding secrets. The creaking sound of the hinges adds an eerie feeling, as if the shed is alive or warning someone not to enter. These details make the reader curious about what might be inside the shed.

Question 18:
In the poem The Shed, the poet mentions a ghost inside the shed. How does this reference contribute to the overall mood of the poem? Provide examples from the text to support your answer.
Answer:

The mention of a ghost in the shed adds a fearful and suspenseful mood to the poem. It makes the shed seem haunted and dangerous, which heightens the curiosity and fear of the speaker (and the reader).

For example, the poet says, 'My brother says there’s a ghost in the shed
Who hides under the rotten floorboards.' This line creates a vivid image of something supernatural lurking inside, making the shed feel even more mysterious and intimidating. The use of the word rotten further adds to the eerie atmosphere, suggesting decay and something unsettling.

This reference to the ghost not only builds tension but also reflects the speaker’s inner conflict—whether to believe the stories or gather the courage to explore the shed.

Question 19:
Read the following lines from the poem The Shed:
'There’s a shed at the bottom of our garden
With a spider’s web hanging across the door,
The hinges are rusty and creak in the wind.'

Based on these lines, describe the condition of the shed and explain how the poet creates a sense of mystery around it.

Answer:

The shed described in the poem is in a neglected and old condition. The presence of a spider’s web hanging across the door suggests that it has not been used or opened for a long time. The rusty hinges that creak in the wind further emphasize its abandonment and age.

The poet creates a sense of mystery by using vivid imagery. The spider’s web and the creaking hinges make the shed seem eerie and possibly haunted. The wind adds to the suspense, as if the shed is alive or hiding secrets. This makes the reader curious about what might be inside the shed.

Question 20:
In the poem The Shed, the speaker says, 'My brother says there’s a ghost in the shed
Who hides under the rotten floorboards.'

How does the brother’s statement influence the speaker’s feelings about the shed? Provide evidence from the poem to support your answer.

Answer:

The brother’s statement about a ghost hiding under the rotten floorboards makes the speaker feel fearful and hesitant about the shed. The speaker admits in the poem that they are afraid to go inside because of this warning.

Evidence from the poem includes the lines: 'I’ll go into that shed one day soon,
But not just yet…' This shows the speaker’s hesitation due to the fear planted by the brother. The mystery and fear make the shed seem like a forbidden or dangerous place, affecting the speaker’s curiosity and courage.

Question 21:
Read the following lines from the poem The Shed:
'There's a shed at the bottom of our garden
With a spider's web hanging across the door.'

Based on these lines, describe the setting of the shed and explain how the poet creates a sense of mystery around it.

Answer:

The shed is located at the bottom of the garden, which suggests it is somewhat isolated and perhaps neglected. The presence of a spider's web across the door indicates that the shed has not been used or opened for a long time, adding to its mysterious and eerie atmosphere.

The poet creates a sense of mystery by using simple yet vivid imagery. The spider's web acts as a barrier, making the shed seem forbidden or untouched. This makes the reader curious about what might be inside the shed, whether it holds secrets or something unexpected.

Additionally, the choice of words like 'hanging' gives a feeling of something suspended in time, as if the shed is frozen in a moment, waiting to be discovered.

Question 22:
In the poem The Shed, the speaker says, 'My brother says there's a ghost in the shed.'

How does this line contribute to the overall mood of the poem? Discuss the effect of the brother's statement on the speaker and the reader.

Answer:

The line 'My brother says there's a ghost in the shed' adds a frightening and suspenseful element to the poem. It shifts the mood from curiosity to fear, making the shed seem even more mysterious and possibly dangerous.

The brother's statement affects the speaker by creating doubt and apprehension. The speaker might now feel hesitant or scared to explore the shed, even if they were curious before. This adds a layer of internal conflict to the poem.

For the reader, this line builds tension and excitement. It makes us wonder whether the ghost is real or just a story told by the brother. The uncertainty keeps the reader engaged, wanting to know more about the shed's secrets.

Overall, this line enhances the poem's mysterious and slightly spooky atmosphere, making it more intriguing.

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