Iswaran The Storyteller

AP/ NCERT Textual Solutions for Grade 9 

Supplementary Reader Chapter 3 

Iswaran The Storyteller

Think about it

1. In what way is Iswaran an asset to Mahendra?

Iswaran, Mahendra's devoted cook, accompanied him without complaints, tending to cooking, laundry, and engaging conversation. His storytelling prowess made him invaluable to Mahendra.

2. How does Iswaran describe the uprooted tree on the highway? What effect does he want to create in his listeners?

Iswaran illustrates the scene of a fallen tree on the empty highway. He describes the eerie sight of a sprawling, bushy form, initially evoking hesitation before revealing the mundane reality, aiming to grip his listeners in suspense.

3. How does he narrate the story of the tusker? Does it appear to be plausible?

Iswaran vividly recounts an exaggerated tale of a rampaging tusker. It wreaks havoc, damaging shops, a school ground, and causing chaos. Iswaran claims to have miraculously subdued it as a child by tapping its toenail, an implausible (unbelievable) feat given its size and the circumstances.

4. Why does the author say that Iswaran seemed to more than make up for the absence of a TV in Mahendra’s living quarters?

Iswaran compensates for the lack of TV by sharing daily captivating tales full of adventure, horror, and suspense. Mahendra relishes the stories, drawn in by Iswaran's unique storytelling skill, regardless of their believability.

5. Mahendra calls ghosts or spirits a figment of the imagination. What happens to him on a full￾moon night?

Mahendra dismisses spirits as imagination, doubting Iswaran's tale of a female ghost with a foetus. One moonlit night, he hears a moan, peeks out, and spots a dark figure clutching a bundle. Fear grips him, sweating, and he retreats in alarm.

6. Can you think of some other ending for the story?

 In the alternate climax, Mahendra's courage prevails as he investigates the truth. Discovering Iswaran's prank, he confronts him, realizing the fabricated ghost story. Instead of fleeing, Mahendra stays and bonds with Iswaran, turning fear into friendship.

Think about it

Is Iswaran a fascinating storyteller? Discuss with your friends the qualities of a good storyteller. Try to use these qualities and tell a story.

Iswaran excels as a storyteller, crafting suspenseful narratives. Adept qualities to become a good storyteller include eloquence, expressive gestures and facial cues, vivid imagination, nuanced tone and pitch, and engaging acting skills.