Unit 15: People and Places
Reading I
Me at the Beginning of Life
A. Find the words from the text that have the following meanings.
| Meaning | Answer |
|---|---|
| a. lacking taste | insipid |
| b. wrote words | inscribed |
| c. twisted together | tangled |
| d. causing difficulty in breathing | suffocating |
| e. a particular attitude towards something | perspective |
| f. a person's child or children | offspring |
| g. bad luck | misfortune |
B. Complete the sentences below choosing the correct words from the text.
a. The word 'calm' is opposite in meaning to 'restless.'
b. The phrase 'passed away' means 'died.'
c. The word 'invisible' means incapable of being seen.
d. The words 'wish' and 'desire' are synonyms.
e. The word 'soiling' means making dirty.
C. State whether the following statements are true or false.
| Statement | Answer |
|---|---|
| a. Jhamak Ghimire defines her life as a beautiful flower of creation. | False |
| b. According to her, our fortune decides how our life will be. | False |
| c. The author was happy with how she spent her childhood. | False |
| d. People blamed Jhamak herself for her physical disability. | True |
| e. According to the writer, Homer was incomplete because he was physically incapable. | False |
| f. Jhamak could make grandmother happy with her voice. | False |
| g. Jhamak's grandmother still looks after her. | False |
D. Answer these questions.
a. Why does Jhamak think of her life as a burdensome life?
=> Answer: Jhamak sees her life as burdensome because the physical limitations she was born with made many normal activities difficult for her. From an early age, she had to live with restrictions and hardships that other people did not experience in the same way.
b. When does fortune draw a line of fate?
=> Answer: As stated in the traditional belief mentioned in the text, fortune is believed to determine a person's destiny on the sixth day after a baby is born.
c. How did people respond to her life? Was she happy with their behavior?
=> Answer: The people around Jhamak frequently interpreted her disability negatively. Some believed that she had suffered because of a curse from the gods and treated her accordingly. She was certainly not pleased with such behavior, as their lack of sympathy and negative attitudes made her feel rejected and burdensome.
d. Who does Jhamak compare herself with? What made them different from Jhamak?
=> Answer: Jhamak draws a comparison between herself and Homer and Helen Keller. Both of them faced physical difficulties but succeeded in their respective lives. Jhamak, however, had to deal not only with her physical limitations but also with the unfair and discouraging attitude of the society in which she was raised.
e. Did achieving awareness become a curse for her? Why?
=> Answer: Yes, her growing awareness sometimes seemed like a curse rather than a blessing. As she began to understand herself and the world more clearly, she also became more conscious of the limitations imposed by her physical condition. This awareness made her feel the distance between what she desired and what she could actually do.
f. How does Jhamak picturize her family's economic condition during her childhood?
=> Answer: Jhamak describes her childhood family as financially disadvantaged. Even arranging two proper meals a day was difficult for them. On some occasions, her parents had to go without food themselves so that their children could eat.
E. Read the opening chapter of Jivan Kadan Ki Phul in Nepali and narrate the story of Jhamak's life in your own words.
Ans:
Jhamak Ghimire was born with physical disabilities that greatly affected her ability to perform ordinary activities. Walking and speaking were difficult for her, yet she had a strong wish to experience life and understand the world surrounding her.
Her childhood unfolded within a poor family whose economic circumstances were often difficult. Despite these limitations, her grandmother treated her with affection and concern. She tried to provide Jhamak with food, care, and emotional warmth whenever possible. This affection became an important source of comfort in Jhamak's early life.
As Jhamak grew older, she became more conscious of the world around her. At the same time, she increasingly recognized the restrictions caused by her physical condition. This deeper understanding brought emotional pain because she could see things she wanted to experience but could not easily achieve. The negative reactions of some people made her situation even more painful, especially when they blamed her for something over which she had no control.
In spite of these difficulties, Jhamak did not allow her circumstances to completely defeat her. She discovered a way to express her thoughts by learning to write with her feet. Through continuous effort and determination, she developed her abilities and eventually became a successful writer and poet.
The experiences of her difficult childhood also changed the way she understood life. She came to recognize the importance of genuine human affection, particularly the unconditional love she received from her grandmother. Her hardships helped her observe people, relationships, and society from a distinctive point of view.
Jhamak later used literature as a means of expressing those experiences and ideas. Her writing reflects the struggles she faced as well as the determination that helped her move beyond them. She presents life from the perspective of someone who experienced both physical limitations and social prejudice.
Her journey demonstrates that adversity does not have to determine the final direction of a person's life. Through patience, courage, and persistent effort, Jhamak transformed many of her difficulties into a source of strength and became an inspiring literary personality.
📝 Grammar I
A. Relative Pronouns and Adverbs
a. I admired the player whose performance was fantastic.
b. We had some juice which was in the fridge.
c. She didn't tell her teacher about her problem which was her mistake.
d. My mother, who is a farmer, grows a lot of vegetables.
e. You are my friend whom I want to sit with.
f. I want to help those children whose economic condition is very bad.
g. This is the road where the accident took place.
h. The mobile phone, which I bought six years ago, is still working.
i. It was in 2015 when the earthquake hit Nepal badly.
j. Marima is a wonderful lady whom everyone can trust.
B. Join the following pairs of sentences as in the example.
Example 1:
I was a girl robbed by fate. I had neither the sweetness nor the joy of life.
=> Answer: I was the girl robbed by fate who had neither the sweetness nor the joy of life.
Example 2:
The mother bore me. She also taught me values.
=> Answer: The mother, who bore me, also taught me values.
a. The letter reached me this morning. My friend sent it from abroad.
=> Answer: The letter, which my friend sent from abroad, reached me this morning.
b. This is the palace. Bhimsen built it.
=> Answer: This is the palace that Bhimsen built.
c. The boy committed cybercrime. The judge sent him to jail.
=> Answer: The boy who committed cybercrime was sent to jail by the judge.
d. He is a liar. You should not believe him.
=> Answer: He is a liar whom you should not believe.
e. I know an artist. He moves with an artificial leg.
=> Answer: I know an artist who moves with an artificial leg.
f. Bring me the file. The file is about our new project.
=> Answer: Bring me the file that is about our new project.
g. We met a girl. The girl had lost her way.
=> Answer: We met a girl who had lost her way.
h. I saw a soldier. His bravery impressed everyone.
=> Answer: I saw a soldier whose bravery impressed everyone.
i. Once upon a time there lived a giant in a forest. Nobody dared to go there.
=> Answer: Once upon a time, there lived a giant in a forest where nobody dared to go.
j. The dog took away the ball. The kids were playing it.
=> Answer: The dog took away the ball that the kids were playing.
✍️ Writing I
Write a short biography of Nepali literary figure Til Bikram Nembang Limbu aka Bairagi Kainla.
Given Outlines
- •Birth: August 9, 1939 – Panchthar, Nepal
- •Education: Bachelor's Arts; learnt letters at home and was taught by local teachers
- •Publications: Bairagi Kainlaka Kavitaharu, Sappok-Chomen: Limbu Jatima Kokh-Puja, Nawacoit Mundhum and others
- •Contributions: Poet, former Chancellor of the Nepal Academy, pioneer of Tesro Aavam [Third Dimension] movement
- •Awards: Jagdamba Shree Award, 2076 B.S.; Sajha Puraskar, 2031 B.S.; Vishist Shrasta Samman, B.S. 2068, etc.
Ans:
Til Bikram Nembang Limbu [Bairagi Kainla]
Til Bikram Nembang Limbu, widely known by his literary name Bairagi Kainla, was born on August 9, 1939, in Panchthar, Nepal. His early education began at home, where he learned his letters and received instruction from local teachers because he could not attend a formal school.
He established himself as an important poet and writer, particularly through his contribution to Limbu-language literature. Among his recognized publications are Bairagi Kainlaka Kavitaharu, Sappok-Chomen: Limbu Jatima Kokh-Puja, and Nawacoit Mundhum, along with other literary works.
Kainla is especially remembered as one of the pioneers of the Tesro Aavam (Third Dimension) movement. His literary activities also led him to an important administrative position in Nepal's literary institution, where he served as Chancellor of the Nepal Academy from 1995 to 1999.
His contribution to literature was recognized through several honours. He received the Sajha Puraskar in 2031 B.S., Vishist Shrasta Samman in 2068 B.S., and Jagdamba Shree Award in 2076 B.S.
Bairagi Kainla's literary career has contributed significantly to the development and recognition of Limbu literature and cultural expression. His work has also helped represent diverse cultural voices within Nepal's wider literary tradition.
Unit 15
Reading II
Sugarloaf Mountain: 5 Interesting Facts
Sugarloaf Mountain is one of the best-known natural attractions of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Standing 396 metres high, it is recognized for its unusual shape, dramatic granite landscape, and spectacular surroundings. Visitors particularly enjoy the famous cable car journey, and the mountain is associated with a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- •It is a famous natural landmark and a recognizable symbol of Rio de Janeiro.
- •Visitors can reach the summit through a two-stage cable car ride and enjoy extensive views along the way.
- •Sugarloaf Mountain and Corcovado Mountain are included within a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- •Its steep granite cliffs have made it a notable destination for rock climbing.
- •The mountain has appeared as a filming location in important movies and television productions.
📖 Sugarloaf Mountain: Exercise
A. Match these words with their meanings.
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| a. landmark | vi. an object or structure on land that is easy to see and recognize |
| b. spectacular | v. very impressive |
| c. sprawling | viii. covered with buildings across a large area |
| d. tranquil | iv. calm, quiet, and peaceful |
| e. blockbusters | ii. very successful films |
| f. fortifications | i. walls or other constructions built to strengthen a place against attack |
| g. peninsula | iii. a piece of land that is almost entirely surrounded by water and is attached to a larger land area |
| h. bustling | vii. full of lively activity |
B. Form adjectives by adding -ing or -ed.
a. The children were annoyed when they missed the beginning of the movie.
(annoy)
b. Have you read Agni by Nabaraj Lamsal? It's a great book if you are interested in reading poems.
(interest)
c. The result of the game was surprising. The best team didn't win!
(surprise)
d. I don't enjoy going out with Sumi. She's the most boring person I've ever met.
(bore)
e. The students were so excited when their school decided to take them on a trip.
(excite)
f. Angela was quite terrified when she was flying for the first time.
(terrify)
g. I love to go to the fairs because they perform very interesting magic.
(interest)
C. Match the paragraphs in Reading II with their correct headings.
| Paragraph | Correct Heading |
|---|---|
| A | iv. Rock Climbing |
| B | i. Neighboring Mountains |
| C | v. Hollywood Star |
| D | iii. Guanabara Bay |
| E | ii. Awesome Cable Car Ride |
D. Answer these questions.
a. Where is Sugarloaf Mountain located?
=> Answer: Sugarloaf Mountain stands in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
b. How did the mountain get the name 'Sugarloaf Mountain'?
=> Answer: Its name comes from the mountain's distinctive shape, which is similar to the traditional form of refined sugar that was commonly used during the 19th century.
c. Do you think many people can do rock-climbing at a time when they visit the mountain? Why?
=> Answer: Yes, many people can take part in rock climbing because the mountain is a major urban climbing destination. It contains about 270 climbing routes, allowing climbers to choose from numerous available routes.
d. Which of the sites do you think the children would love to visit? Why?
=> Answer: Children would probably enjoy visiting Morro de Urca the most because there is a play area for them. The presence of a restaurant there also makes the place convenient for visitors.
e. Name the first film in which Sugarloaf Mountain was featured.
=> Answer: The first film to feature Sugarloaf Mountain was ** Now, Voyager (1942)**, which starred Bette Davis.
f. What is historic about Guanabara Bay?
=> Answer: Guanabara Bay has historical importance because several fortifications were built there by the colonial government during the 16th century.
g. What should you do to enjoy the best scene of Guanabara Bay?
=> Answer: A visitor should go up Sugarloaf Mountain to obtain an elevated and impressive view of Guanabara Bay and the scenery around it.
h. Do you think a visitor should ride the cable cars while visiting the mountain? Why?
=> Answer: Yes, riding the cable cars is worthwhile because they transport visitors toward the summit while offering breathtaking views of Rio de Janeiro and its surrounding landscape.
E. Do you think a visitor should ride cable cars while visiting the mountain? Why? Which of the facts of Sugarloaf Mountain interested you the most? Give reasons.
Ans:
In my opinion, taking the cable car should be an essential part of a visit to Sugarloaf Mountain. It offers visitors an easy way to travel towards the summit while turning the journey itself into an enjoyable sightseeing experience.
One of the greatest attractions of the ride is the changing view of Rio de Janeiro. From above, visitors can observe the city's beaches, bays, coastal mountain ranges, and the wide landscape spread beneath them. The higher viewpoint makes the scenery particularly spectacular.
Another reason for choosing the cable car is its convenience. It allows people of different ages and physical abilities to experience the mountain without depending entirely on a difficult climb. The safety arrangements and backup power system also make the journey reliable.
The fact that interests me most is the panoramic view from the summit. Being able to see Rio de Janeiro's beaches, bays, and mountains together from such a height would be a memorable experience.
Therefore, the cable car is appealing not simply as a means of transportation but as part of the overall adventure. It brings together comfortable travel, beautiful scenery, and the excitement of reaching a famous mountain viewpoint.
📝 Grammar II
A. Complete the following sentences choosing the correct preposition from the brackets.
a. I love to travel. Therefore, I went to Delhi by plane last week.
b. Namrata visited Lumbini in 2002.
c. My best friend lives in a beautiful house across the street.
d. We had to walk up to the edge of the desert to find water.
e. The Prime Minister died of a head injury a few days after his accident.
f. My family has been living in Dharan for two years.
g. I am very pleased to meet you.
h. He is a tall boy with long brown hair.
i. Guman Singh is a student at Tribhuvan University.
j. On November 2, we will start our new semester.
k. I love your house by the river.
l. She misses her grandfather because she has not met him for ages.
B. Complete the text below with the correct prepositions.
Ans:
I live in Bhairahawa, but every summer I like to travel to Pokhara. I am afraid of travelling by plane. Last summer I decided I would travel by bus. According to the ticket I received from the travel agency, the bus would leave Pokhara at 9:15 pm on Friday and arrive in Pokhara the following day at 5:30 in the morning.
The travel would include boating in Phewa Lake, from one end of the lake to another end. We would also drive to different beautiful places. It would be really wonderful.
✉️ Writing II
Write a letter or an email to your foreign friend about a tourist destination in Nepal.
Pokhara, Kaski
29th July, 2023
Dear John,
Ans:
I hope everything is going well with you. It has been quite a while since we last met, so I thought I would tell you about one of Nepal's most attractive tourist destinations.
The place I want to introduce to you is Pokhara. It is a remarkable destination for anyone who enjoys natural scenery, peaceful surroundings, and outdoor experiences. I am sure you would find its landscape fascinating.
Pokhara lies approximately 200 kilometres from Kathmandu. The city is beautifully situated between Phewa Lake and the Annapurna Range, creating an impressive mountain backdrop. The combination of the calm lake and surrounding mountains gives the place a special natural charm.
Visitors can enjoy different activities and explore a variety of natural attractions there. One exciting experience is paragliding from the mountains and landing on the beaches beside the lake. The area also offers caves, waterfalls, and hiking trails where visitors can explore the surrounding natural beauty.
Another appealing feature of Pokhara is its peaceful atmosphere. Compared with the busy environment of Kathmandu, it provides a more relaxed setting surrounded by quiet forests and natural scenery.
The climate is also pleasant, as the place is neither excessively hot nor excessively cold. For someone who loves nature, Pokhara can therefore be an excellent destination to explore and enjoy.
If you ever visit Nepal, I would be very happy to take you around Pokhara and help you explore its beautiful places. I believe you would have a memorable experience there.
Please let me know whether you would like to visit such a destination. I am looking forward to hearing from you soon.
Warm regards,
Shriram