GSEB Class 12 English Solutions Unit 2 Read 1 Unforgettable Walt Disney

Comprehension

Question 1. Underline / Write five sentences that create Walt's character.
(1) One might anticipate encountering that lanky, rural figure, head bowed in contemplation of a new venture.
(2) For my imaginative and industrious brother left behind a plethora of projects in progress, enough to occupy the rest of us for many years.
(3) Walt was a multifaceted individual. To the writers, producers, and animators collaborating with him, he represented a genius with an extraordinary talent for infusing additional imaginative flair into any narrative or concept.
(4) For the millions who tuned into his television program, he embodied a kind, amiable persona, bringing joy and entertainment into their homes.
(5) To the bankers who provided funding, I am certain he appeared as a reckless individual, determined to risk everything for bankruptcy.
In simple words: Walt Disney was a complex individual, seen as a creative genius by his colleagues, a warm personality by his audience, and a wild risk-taker by his financiers, always immersed in new ideas.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing a character, focus on their actions, perceptions by others, and key personality traits. Using varied adjectives and providing specific examples from the text strengthens the answer.

Question 2. Make a list of adjectives used for Walt and classify them.
Answer:
(1) Creative: possessing matchless imagination, virtuoso imagination, musical talent, fertile imagination, and unique creativity.
(2) Psychological: a complex man.
(3) Work-oriented: successful, stubborn, industrious, achieving overwhelming success.
(4) Ambitious: highly ambitious.
(5) Artistic: creative, aesthetic.
(6) Others: a warm, kind personality, a wild man, an amazing kid.
In simple words: Walt Disney was described with many adjectives across different aspects, highlighting his creativity, psychological depth, work ethic, ambition, artistic nature, and overall personality as warm, kind, and energetic.

🎯 Exam Tip: Categorizing adjectives helps in understanding different facets of a character. Ensure each adjective directly relates to the character and is correctly classified based on its meaning.

Question 3. Write 'Yes' in the box if the sentence is true. Write 'No' if it is false and then rewrite the correct sentence without changing the underlined parts.
Answer:
Example:
Walt was a warm and heartless personality who brought fun into the homes of millions of people.
Walt was a warm and kind personality who brought fun into the homes of millions of people. No
In simple words: The example sentence correctly identifies Walt as a warm personality but incorrectly states he was heartless; the accurate description is that he was kind, bringing joy to many.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay close attention to keywords that change the meaning of a sentence. For true/false questions requiring correction, ensure the rewritten sentence precisely rectifies the error while preserving specified parts.

Question 1. Walt used to sit gloomily through the saddest cartoon, trying to focus on some way to improve it.
Answer: Walt would sit gloomily through the funniest cartoon, concentrating on methods to enhance it. No
In simple words: Walt would sit sadly even during funny cartoons, focused intently on ways to improve them, rather than being sad during a sad cartoon.

🎯 Exam Tip: When rewriting, identify the precise word or phrase that makes the original statement false and replace it with the correct information from the text.

Question 2. Walt had angrily nursed the dream of a new kind of amusement park for years together.
Answer: Walt had quietly nurtured the dream of a new kind of amusement park for many years. No
In simple words: Walt secretly held onto his vision for a novel amusement park for a long time, not angrily.

🎯 Exam Tip: Precision in vocabulary, especially adverbs, can significantly alter the meaning. Ensure your corrected sentence accurately reflects the character's sentiment as described in the text.

Question 3. The success of Disneyland totally changed Walt and he remained a simple man.
Answer: The triumph of Disneyland never altered Walt; he continued to be the simplest of individuals. No
In simple words: Despite Disneyland's immense success, Walt's character remained humble and unchanged.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on direct contrasts presented in the text (e.g., "totally changed" vs. "never changed") to ensure factual accuracy in your corrections.

Question 4. Young Roy was so surprised at Walt's graphic telling of a fairy tale that he remembered all about his measles.
Answer: Young Roy was so captivated by Walt's vivid narration of the fairy tale that he forgot completely about his measles. No
In simple words: Roy was so engrossed by Walt's storytelling that he forgot his illness, not remembered it.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand the impact of an event on a character. The vividness of Walt's storytelling led to forgetting, not remembering, an unpleasant condition.

Question 5. Millions of people flocked to see the unique creation of Walt's imagination.
Answer: No change. Yes
In simple words: The statement is true, as countless individuals were drawn to experience Walt's extraordinary creative work.

🎯 Exam Tip: Confirm direct statements or widely accepted facts from the text. If a statement is accurate, simply indicate 'Yes' without altering it.

Question 6. After becoming successful in business, Walt borrowed several million dollars for the development of California Institute of Art.
Answer: After achieving business success, Walt donated several million dollars for the establishment of the California Institute of Art. No
In simple words: Walt generously contributed money to the California Institute of Art after his success, he did not borrow for it.

🎯 Exam Tip: Distinguish between financial actions like "borrowing" and "donating." These terms have opposing meanings and are crucial for factual accuracy.

Question 7. Walt studied cartooning in Paris and then started a little animated cartoon company in Kansas city.
Answer: Walt pursued cartooning studies in Chicago, and subsequently established a small animated cartoon company in Kansas City. No
In simple words: Walt studied cartooning in Chicago, not Paris, before founding his company in Kansas City.

🎯 Exam Tip: Specific geographical locations are key details. Ensure the corrected statement provides the accurate location as mentioned in the text.

Question 8. Walt was only fifteen years old when he decided to try his luck in Hollywood.
Answer: Walt was twenty-one years old when he resolved to seek his fortune in Hollywood. No
In simple words: Walt was 21 years old, not 15, when he made the decision to go to Hollywood to pursue his career.

🎯 Exam Tip: Numerical facts like age are precise details. Verifying these against the text is essential for correct answers.

Question 9. The Alice cartoons were not very successful, so Walt started a new series called Oswald the Rabbit.
Answer: No change. Yes
In simple words: This statement is correct, as the limited success of Alice cartoons led Walt to develop the Oswald the Rabbit series.

🎯 Exam Tip: Analyze the cause-and-effect relationship described. If the sequence of events and their outcomes align with the text, the statement is true.

Question 10. Even on the previous night of his death, Walt was full of plans for the future.
Answer: No change. Yes
In simple words: The statement is true, highlighting Walt's lifelong dedication and foresight, planning for the future even in his final moments.

🎯 Exam Tip: Look for evidence of a character's enduring traits or actions. Walt's consistent planning, even towards the end, confirms the truth of this statement.

Complete The Sentences

Question 1. Walt is famous in the world for ....
Answer: Walt is renowned globally for his animated cartoons, nature documentaries, and feature films.
In simple words: Walt Disney is famous for his groundbreaking cartoons, nature films, and movies.

🎯 Exam Tip: When completing sentences, ensure the answer provides comprehensive and accurate information that flows logically with the given prompt.

Question 2. To keep the rest of them busy for many many years, Walt ....
Answer: To keep the remaining staff occupied for numerous years, Walt left many projects in development.
In simple words: Walt constantly had new projects in the pipeline, ensuring his team always had work for years to come.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the implicit subject and action. The phrase "left enough projects in progress" effectively completes the sentence, showcasing Walt's forward-thinking nature.

Question 3. Walt had impractical dreams but ....
Answer: Walt held ambitious, seemingly unrealistic dreams, but he successfully transformed them into reality.
In simple words: Despite having dreams that seemed impossible, Walt was able to make them happen.

🎯 Exam Tip: Look for a contrasting clause that resolves the initial statement. The core idea is that his impractical dreams were indeed realized.

Question 4. An old-fashioned train was one of the first attractions at Disneyland because ....
Answer: An old-fashioned train was among the initial attractions at Disneyland because Walt always maintained a deep affection for trains.
In simple words: Disneyland featured an old train early on because Walt Disney always loved trains.

🎯 Exam Tip: Connect the attraction to Walt's personal interests. His lifelong passion for trains directly influenced this design choice at Disneyland.

Question 5. Walt earned his first money by ....
Answer: Walt earned his initial money by creating a drawing of a neighbor's horse.
In simple words: Walt's very first payment came from sketching a horse for a neighbor.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pinpoint the specific event mentioned in the text regarding his first earnings. Focus on the direct action and its result.

Question 6. Edward was wide-eyed because ....
Answer: Edward was wide-eyed because Walt's captivating narration of the fairy tale made him entirely forget about his measles.
In simple words: Edward stared in wonder because Walt's story was so engaging that he forgot all about his illness.

🎯 Exam Tip: Explain the reason behind Edward's reaction. The impact of Walt's storytelling on Edward's memory of his illness is the key element.

Question 7. Edward was disappointed because ....
Answer: Edward felt disappointed because the visual representation did not evoke the same excitement as when Uncle Walt recounted the story.
In simple words: Edward was let down because the picture didn't capture the magic of Uncle Walt's verbal storytelling.

🎯 Exam Tip: Highlight the contrast between the live storytelling experience and the visual representation. The disappointment stemmed from the difference in impact.

Question 8. Every kid isn't fortunate enough to have a bike of his own so ....
Answer: Every child is not privileged enough to own a bicycle, so Walt instructed the narrator during a story session to modify the phrase "your bicycle" to "a bicycle" in the sequence titled 'How to Ride a Bicycle.'
In simple words: Since not every child owns a bicycle, Walt had the narrator change "your bicycle" to "a bicycle" to make the story more relatable for all children.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on Walt's intention to make content universally relatable. His correction reflected an understanding of varying circumstances among children.

5. Find The Sentences From The Text With Similar Meaning.

Question 1. Walt was the central figure for all creations of the company.
Answer: Walt served as the primary driving force behind all our endeavors, from producing films to constructing Disneyland.
In simple words: Walt was the main person leading all the company's projects, from making movies to building Disneyland.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify phrases that convey leadership and initiative. "Driving force" directly aligns with "central figure" in this context.

Question 2. Disneyland is the example of his firm decision.
Answer: The narrative of Disneyland perhaps best exemplifies Walt's vision and his unyielding commitment to realizing an idea he deeply believed in.
In simple words: Disneyland shows Walt's clear vision and strong will to make his ideas happen.

🎯 Exam Tip: Look for phrases that describe determination and belief in an idea. "Stubborn determination to realize an idea he believed in" precisely matches the essence of a "firm decision."

Question 3. For a longer period of time he didn't share his idea of amusement park with anybody.
Answer: For years, Walt had privately nurtured the concept of a novel amusement park. It appeared so absurd that he refrained from discussing it with anyone.
In simple words: For a long time, Walt kept his idea for a new amusement park to himself because it seemed too unbelievable to share.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify keywords that indicate secrecy or reluctance to share. "Quietly nursed the dream" and "wouldn't mention it to anyone" effectively convey the same meaning.

Question 4. It should be unique.
Answer: It ought to appear unlike anything else on Earth.
In simple words: The idea was that it had to be truly one-of-a-kind.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on expressions that denote unparalleled distinctiveness. "Nothing else on this earth" is a strong indicator of uniqueness.

Question 5. Walt entertained himself with Disneyland / enjoyed Disneyland as strangers did.
Answer: Walt used to stroll through the park, observing with as much delight as any visitor.
In simple words: Walt enjoyed Disneyland just like any other tourist, walking around and looking at everything happily.

🎯 Exam Tip: Look for descriptions of behavior that show enjoyment and blending in with the general public. "Gawking as happily as any tourist" reflects this idea.

Question 6. Everyone has an inborn childlike playfulness, ability to rejoice in little things and the power of imagination.
Answer: "... that precious, ageless quality in every human being that enables us to engage with children's toys, laugh at trivialities, and sing in the bathroom and dream."
In simple words: Everyone possesses an inherent, timeless quality that lets them play with toys, laugh easily, and dream, reflecting childlike joy and imagination.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the core components of the described qualities—playfulness, joy in small things, and imagination—and match them to the provided sentence from the text.

6. Write One Sentence To Show Significance Of These In Walt's Life.

Question 1. Trains
Answer: Walt never relinquished his affection for trains.
In simple words: Trains were a lifelong passion for Walt.

🎯 Exam Tip: For significance, state how the item or concept impacted Walt's personal life or professional endeavors, emphasizing its lasting importance.

Question 2. Alice in Cartoonland
Answer: Alice in Cartoonland did not achieve significant success.
In simple words: The "Alice in Cartoonland" series was not a major success.

🎯 Exam Tip: Briefly explain the outcome or impact of the given item. In this case, its lack of commercial success is the key significance.

Question 3. Mouse
Answer: Mickey, Walt's mouse, was the inaugural successful creation born from his unparalleled imagination and his capacity to bring his aspirations to fruition.
In simple words: Mickey Mouse was Walt's first big success, a product of his unique creativity and ability to make dreams real.

🎯 Exam Tip: Highlight the novelty and success associated with the item. Mickey Mouse's role as the "first successful product" is crucial.

Question 4. Imagination
Answer: Walt was a visionary who possessed a remarkable aptitude for enhancing any story or concept with an additional spark of imagination.
In simple words: Walt was a genius with a special talent for adding extra imagination to any idea.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the unique quality or skill that imagination represented for Walt. His "uncanny ability to add an extra fillip of imagination" is the key takeaway.

Question 5. Shortage of finance ......
Answer: To the financiers who provided him capital, he appeared as an impulsive individual, recklessly pursuing endeavors that could lead to bankruptcy.
In simple words: The bankers saw Walt as a reckless person, always on the verge of bankruptcy due to his ambitious projects.

🎯 Exam Tip: Describe how the financial challenges impacted perceptions of Walt. The bankers' view of him as "hell-bent for bankruptcy" summarizes this.

Question 6. Bicycle
Answer: During a story conference, when the narrator began outlining a sequence called 'How to Ride a Bicycle' by saying, "Now when you get on your bicycle...", Walt interrupted and corrected him, stating, "Change your bicycle to a bicycle."
In simple words: Walt insisted on changing "your bicycle" to "a bicycle" in a story to make it relatable to all children, regardless of whether they owned a bike.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on Walt's specific instruction and its underlying reason. His attention to detail and desire for universal relatability is the significance here.

Tick Mark The Sentences / Phrases Nearest In Meaning.

Question 1. I half expect to encounter that gangly, country- boy figure, head bowed in thought about some new project.
(a) The narrator misses him.
(b) The narrator praises him.
(c) The narrator talks about Walt's habit.
Answer: (c) The narrator talks about Walt's habit.
In simple words: The narrator describes Walt's typical posture and constant contemplation, indicating it was his usual mannerism.

🎯 Exam Tip: Analyze the description provided. The sentence portrays Walt's characteristic appearance and mental state, which points to a habit rather than missing or praising him.

Question 2. He was a genius who had an uncanny ability to add an extra fillip of imagination to any story or idea.
(a) He could twist any story.
(b) Through his art, he would add in beauty to any story.
(c) He was an imaginative writer.
Answer: (b) Through his art, he would add in beauty to any story.
In simple words: Walt Disney had a unique talent for enhancing any story or concept with his creative artistic contributions, making it more appealing.

🎯 Exam Tip: The phrase "add an extra fillip of imagination" suggests enhancing or beautifying an idea, aligning more closely with adding beauty through art rather than merely twisting a story or being a writer.

Question 3. Walt was a complex man.
(a) He was not easy to understand.
(b) He had difficult thoughts that he could not express.
(c) Different people understood him in different ways.
Answer: (a) He was not easy to understand.
In simple words: To say Walt was a complex man implies he had a multifaceted personality that was challenging to comprehend fully.

🎯 Exam Tip: A "complex man" usually refers to someone whose personality, motives, or thoughts are intricate and not straightforward, hence "not easy to understand."

Question 4. It didn't seem as exciting as when Uncle Walt told it.
(a) Walt presented the story better than the movie could.
(b) The movie seemed better than the story told by uncle orally.
(c) Walt could not make the story as he wished.
Answer: (a) Walt presented the story better than the movie could.
In simple words: The oral narration of the story by Uncle Walt was far more engaging and thrilling than its cinematic adaptation.

🎯 Exam Tip: The core idea is that Walt's personal delivery had a greater impact than the visual medium. This means his storytelling skill surpassed the film's ability to excite.

Question 5. Whatever it is I've got, don't get it.
(a) He didn't want any one to succeed as much as he did.
(b) He didn't want any one to suffer from the same disease.
(c) He suggested others not to enter into his profession.
Answer: (b) He didn't want any one to suffer from the same disease.
In simple words: Walt, having contracted a fatal illness, wished that no one else would have to endure the same suffering he was experiencing.

🎯 Exam Tip: This phrase is often used in the context of illness or hardship. It expresses a wish that others be spared the same misfortune.

Question 6. The rest is a history..
(a) The world knows what happened then onwards.
(b) The world knows history of Walt.
(c) Walt was a history maker.
Answer: (a) The world knows what happened then onwards.
In simple words: This idiom signifies that the subsequent events were widely known and impactful, becoming common knowledge.

🎯 Exam Tip: "The rest is history" means that what followed was so significant and well-known that it requires no further explanation, implying everyone is aware of the developments.

8. Give Arguments To Prove These

Question 1. The final judgement was always unquestionably his.
Answer: Walt consistently respected the perspectives of his collaborators and listened to their opinions patiently. However, while he appreciated agreement, if he disagreed with a critic's viewpoint, he ultimately proceeded with his own intentions.
In simple words: While Walt listened to everyone's ideas, he always made the final decisions, especially if he disagreed with criticism.

🎯 Exam Tip: Provide evidence from the text that demonstrates both his collaborative nature (listening) and his ultimate authority (doing what he wanted despite dissent).

Question 2. Walt was a complex man.
Answer: A complex individual is someone whose nature is difficult to fully grasp. It was not straightforward to foresee the outcomes of Walt's imaginative endeavors, yet the results consistently received universal acclaim.
In simple words: Walt was hard to understand because his imagination was unpredictable, but his creative results were always admired.

🎯 Exam Tip: An effective argument highlights the contradictory aspects of his character—difficult to understand yet widely appreciated—to illustrate his complexity.

Question 3. Success never changed Walt.
Answer: Despite experiencing failures, Walt persevered with his innovative concepts. The advent of 'Mickey' marked a significant shift in his fortunes, leading to the establishment of a studio, then Disneyland, and eventually Disney World. Nevertheless, success did not alter his fundamental character. For Walt, a celebration merely meant enjoying a burger and chili at a modest restaurant.
In simple words: Despite gaining immense success and wealth with Mickey Mouse and Disneyland, Walt remained a simple man who preferred a quiet meal to extravagant celebrations.

🎯 Exam Tip: To prove success didn't change him, cite examples of his simple lifestyle and continued dedication to work, contrasting his achievements with his personal humility.

Question 4. Walt Disney's influence will never be finished.
Answer: Walt Disney's legacy is enduring. Even in his final moments, he was filled with ambitious plans for the future. Subsequent generations will persist in honoring what he once described as "that invaluable, eternal quality in every human being that compels us to engage with children's playthings, laugh at trivialities, and vocalize songs in the shower, and to dream."
In simple words: Walt's impact will continue indefinitely because he planned for the future until his death and inspired others with his belief in childlike wonder and imagination.

🎯 Exam Tip: Emphasize his forward-thinking mindset even on his deathbed and the timeless nature of the "precious, ageless something" he described, which ensures his lasting influence.

9. Answer The Following Questions:

Question 1. Write three sentences about personality of Walt.
Answer: Walt was a genuinely modest individual endowed with a highly imaginative mind. He was exceedingly diligent and managed numerous ongoing projects. His personality was complex, and he possessed an inherent genius capable of imbuing any narrative or concept with an extraordinary spark of creativity. He had a warm, compassionate nature, bringing happiness and delight to everyone.
In simple words: Walt Disney was a simple, highly imaginative, and industrious man who was also complex, a genius with an uncanny ability to add imagination to ideas, and a warm, kind personality that brought joy to many.

🎯 Exam Tip: Combine several key traits and actions from the text to paint a comprehensive picture of his personality. Focus on creativity, work ethic, and interpersonal impact.

Question 2. What was Walt for different people ?
Answer: According to his brother, Walt was a highly imaginative and industrious individual. The bankers, however, perceived him as a reckless figure heading towards financial ruin. To his brother, he was an extraordinary child brimming with ambitious, often impractical, dreams.
In simple words: Walt was seen differently by various people: his brother saw him as imaginative and industrious, bankers viewed him as a reckless risk-taker, and his brother also considered him an amazing kid full of impractical dreams.

🎯 Exam Tip: List the different perceptions of Walt, clearly attributing each viewpoint to the specific group of people mentioned in the text (e.g., brother, bankers).

Question 3. Write a few sentences about Walt's journey from 'horse' to 'mouse'.
Answer: Walt's initial earnings came from sketching a neighbor's horse. He then pursued cartooning studies in Chicago and subsequently launched an animation company in Kansas City, which unfortunately failed. At the age of 21, he decided to try his fortune in Hollywood, where he initiated a cartoon series titled Alice in Cartoonland, which did not achieve significant success. His next venture was Oswald the Rabbit, a more promising series, but he was unfortunately deceived by the distributor who copyrighted the character. Following this, Mickey Mouse emerged, achieving remarkable success, and from that point onward, Walt never looked back.
In simple words: Walt's career began with a simple horse sketch, progressed through failed cartoon ventures in Kansas City and Hollywood (Alice in Cartoonland, Oswald the Rabbit where he was cheated), and finally found astonishing success with Mickey Mouse, which launched his lasting legacy.

🎯 Exam Tip: Outline the chronological progression of Walt's early career, highlighting key successes, failures, and pivotal moments that led to the creation of Mickey Mouse, which marked a turning point.

Question 4. Why did Walt say, 'Change your bicycle to a bicycle' ?
Answer: Walt engaged deeply in every aspect of his projects. During a story conference, a storyteller was describing a sequence named 'How to Ride a Bicycle.' He mentioned an instance by saying, "when you ride your bicycle." Walt immediately interjected, commenting that "it is not possible for every kid to own a bicycle," and therefore altered "your" to "a."
In simple words: Walt changed "your bicycle" to "a bicycle" to ensure the story was inclusive and relatable to all children, recognizing that not every child owns a bicycle.

🎯 Exam Tip: Explain Walt's motivation for the linguistic change. His intent was to make the story universally accessible, demonstrating his meticulous attention to detail and audience empathy.

Question 5. "I fertilize that field with it." What do 'that field' and 'it' refer to here ?
Answer: A friend once inquired about Walt's intentions for the substantial wealth he accumulated after Mickey's success. In response, Walt indicated that he would cultivate (develop) 'that field' (referring to his studio) using 'it' (meaning the money).
In simple words: "That field" refers to Walt's studio, and "it" refers to the money he earned, indicating he would reinvest his profits to develop his company.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the metaphorical meanings. "Fertilize" implies investment and growth, with "field" as the business/studio and "it" as the capital.

Question 6. What inspiration do you get from the last days of Walt?
Answer: Even in his final days, Walt remained a source of inspiration to others. On his deathbed, he was preoccupied with extensive plans for the future. The lesson we derive from Walt's life is the importance of never ceasing our efforts until the very end.
In simple words: From Walt's last days, we learn to never give up and to keep planning and working towards the future, even in the face of adversity.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on Walt's enduring resilience and forward-looking attitude. His continued planning until the very end serves as a powerful message about perseverance.

Question 7. List creations of Walt. Write one or two sentences about each.
Answer:
His initial earnings came from a sketch of a neighbor's horse.
Alice in Cartoonland, an early animated series, did not succeed.
The animated-cartoon company he started in Kansas City also failed.
The Oswald the Rabbit series showed improvement, but the distributor unlawfully copyrighted it.
Mickey Mouse achieved tremendous success.
Disneyland in California and Disney World in Florida were monumental successes, bringing his visionary idea to life. He also donated land for the California Institute of Art.
In simple words: Walt's creations include a neighbor's horse sketch, the failed Alice in Cartoonland and Kansas City cartoon company, the copy-righted Oswald the Rabbit, the immensely successful Mickey Mouse, and the iconic Disneyland and Disney World, alongside his philanthropic donation to the California Institute of Art.

🎯 Exam Tip: List each creation and provide a concise statement on its outcome or significance. Include both early, less successful ventures and his major triumphs.

(C) Reading Comprehension

Read the following extracts and answer the questions:

(1) I met him at the station. He was carrying a cheap suitcase that contained all of his belongings. We borrowed Rs. 500 from an uncle, and Walt started a cartoon series called Alice in Cartoonland. It was tough going. Walt did all the animation, and I cranked the old-fashioned camera. The Alice cartoons didn't make much of a splash, so Walt started a new series called Oswald the Rabbit. Oswald did better but when Walt went to our New York distributor for more money he ran into trouble.
Question 1. Whom did the writer meet at the station? How can you say that the man he met was not rich?
Answer: The writer encountered Walt at the station. It was evident that Walt was not wealthy because he was carrying only a simple suitcase containing all his possessions.
In simple words: The author met Walt, who appeared not to be rich, as he only had a cheap suitcase with all his belongings.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing characters, pay attention to specific details like possessions or circumstances that reveal their economic status.

(2) Question 2. Why had Walt to start the Series Oswald the Rabbit?
Answer: Walt had to initiate the Oswald the Rabbit series because his initial cartoon venture, Alice in Cartoonland, did not achieve significant commercial success.
In simple words: Walt launched Oswald the Rabbit because his previous Alice in Cartoonland series didn't perform well financially.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understanding cause-and-effect relationships in the narrative is crucial for answering 'why' questions effectively.

(2) The rest is a history. Walt's mouse, Mickey, celebrated his 40th birthday in 1968, and a happy 40th it was. A quarter of a billion people saw a Disney movie in 1968, million
Question 1. How was the 40th birthday of Mickey a happy day?
Answer: Mickey's 40th birthday in 1968 was a joyous occasion because a colossal number of people, specifically a quarter of a billion, watched a Disney film; 100 million viewed a Disney TV program; nearly a billion perused a Disney book or periodical; and approximately ten million individuals explored Disneyland.
In simple words: Mickey's 40th birthday was happy because an immense number of people watched Disney movies and TV shows, read Disney books, and visited Disneyland.

🎯 Exam Tip: Quantifiable data and specific figures strengthen your answers when describing significant events or impacts.

(2) Question 2. In what different ways was the production of Walt enjoyed?
Answer: Walt's creations, including Disney and his iconic character Mickey Mouse, were enjoyed by people through various mediums. Audiences watched his movies and TV shows, read books and magazines featuring his content, and visited Disneyland.
In simple words: People enjoyed Walt's work by watching his films and TV, reading his books, and visiting Disneyland.

🎯 Exam Tip: When listing multiple points, ensure each point is distinct and clearly explains a different aspect of the answer.

(3) The story of Disneyland, perhaps better than anything else, illustrates Walt's vision and his stubborn determination to realize an idea he believed in. For years, Walt had quietly nursed the dream of a new kind of amusement park. It would be a potpourri of all the ideas conjured up by his fertile imagination. But the idea of sinking millions of Rs. into an amusement park, even Walt's kind of amusement park seemed so preposterous that he wouldn't mention it to anyone. He just quietly began planning.
Question 1. What does the story of Disneyland illustrate?
Answer: The narrative of Disneyland most effectively demonstrates Walt's imaginative vision and his unwavering resolve to transform a cherished idea into reality.
In simple words: Disneyland's story shows Walt's strong vision and determination to make his ideas happen.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on identifying the main theme or central message that a particular story or excerpt conveys.

(2) Question 2. How was Walt's dream of amusement park?
Answer: Walt envisioned an amusement park that would be a comprehensive blend of all the innovative concepts generated by his prolific imagination.
In simple words: Walt's dream park was a unique combination of all his creative ideas.

🎯 Exam Tip: Provide concise descriptions that capture the essence of a concept, especially when detailing someone's vision or dream.

(4) The overwhelming success of Walt's "crazy idea" triggered a dramatic about-face in the Disney fortunes. Yet success never changed Walt. He remained the simplest of men. He hated parties, and his idea of a night out was a burger and chilli at some little restaurant. His only extravagance was a miniature railroad that ran around the grounds of his home. "What do you do with all your money?" a friend once asked him. Pointing at the studio, Walt said, "I fertilize that field with it.” And it's true that Walt ploughed money back into the company almost as fast as it came in.
Question 1. Was there any effect of the overwhelming success of Disneyland? Explain.
Answer: The extraordinary triumph of Disneyland indeed brought immense wealth to Walt. However, despite this success, he maintained his humble nature, avoiding parties and preferring simple meals like a burger and chili at a small restaurant. His only personal indulgence was a miniature railroad on his property.
In simple words: Disneyland's huge success made Walt rich, but he stayed a simple man, avoided parties, and preferred basic pleasures like a burger and his home railroad.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked to explain, provide details and examples from the text to support your statement, demonstrating a thorough understanding.

(2) Question 2. What did Walt do with the money he earned abundantly?
Answer: Walt reinvested the substantial earnings from Disneyland directly back into the company, treating the studio as a fertile ground for continuous development and growth.
In simple words: Walt put all his earnings back into the company to help it grow.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the financial strategy and actions described in the text to accurately answer questions about money management.

(5) As far back as I can remember, Walt was drawing. The first money he ever made was a nickel for a sketch of a neighbour's horse. He studied cartooning in Chicago, and then started a little animated-cartoon company in Kansas city that flopped.
Question 1. How much money did Walt earn from his sketch?
Answer: From drawing a sketch of his neighbor's horse, Walt earned a nickel.
In simple words: Walt got a nickel for drawing a horse.

🎯 Exam Tip: Extract specific numerical details carefully to answer direct factual questions.

(2) Question 2. Where did Walt start animated-cartoon company?
Answer: Walt established his initial animated-cartoon company in Kansas City.
In simple words: Walt started his first cartoon company in Kansas City.

🎯 Exam Tip: Always identify the exact location or context mentioned in the text for geographical questions.

(6) For my imaginative, industrious brother left enough projects in progress to keep the rest of us busy for many many years. Walt was a complex man. To the writers, producers and animators, who worked with him, he was a genius, who had an extraordinary ability to add an extra stroke of imagination to any story or idea. To the millions of people who watched his TV show, he was a warm kindly personality, bringing fun and pleasure into their homes. To the bankers who financed us, I'm sure he seemed like a wild man, hell-bent for bankruptcy. To me he was my amazing kid brother, full of impractical dreams that he made come true.
Question 1. What did the writer think about Walt?
Answer: The writer, Roy Disney (Walt's younger brother), considered Walt an imaginative and diligent individual, as well as a complex person. He also believed Walt was an incredible brother who transformed impractical dreams into reality.
In simple words: The writer saw Walt as a creative, hardworking, complex brother who made impossible dreams happen.

🎯 Exam Tip: Distinguish between different perspectives presented in the text to accurately represent each viewpoint.

(2) Question 2. The bankers thought that Walt...
Answer: The bankers perceived Walt as an impetuous individual, convinced he was determined to go bankrupt.
In simple words: Bankers saw Walt as reckless and heading for financial ruin.

🎯 Exam Tip: Note specific characterizations used by different groups to describe the same person.

(7) The apple orchard and weeping willows stand green and beautiful at our old farm, Where Walt sketched his first animals. I recall how Walt and I would snuggle together in bed and hear the haunting whistle of a locomotive passing in the night. Out Uncle Mike was an enginer, and he'd blow his whistle-one long and two shorts-just for us.
Question 1. Where did Walt sketch his first animals?
Answer: Walt drew his initial animal sketches at their old farm, specifically in the apple orchard and among the weeping willows.
In simple words: Walt sketched his first animals at his family's old farm, near the apple trees and willows.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay attention to descriptive details about locations as they often hold key information for direct questions.

(2) Question 2. For whom would Uncle Mike blow his whistle?
Answer: Uncle Mike would blow his locomotive whistle specifically for Walt and his brother, Roy.
In simple words: Uncle Mike blew the train whistle for Walt and Roy.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the specific recipients of an action when a question asks "for whom."

(8) Walt studied cartooning in Chicago, and then started a little animated-cartoon company in Kansas City that flopped. I was in Los Angeles when Walt, just 21, decided to try his luck in Hollywood. I met him at the station. He was carrying a cheap suitcase that contained all of his belongings. We borrowed Rs. 500 from an uncle and Walt started a cartoon series called Alice in Cartoonland.
Question 1. Where did Walt start a little animated-cartoon company?
Answer: Walt established a small animated-cartoon company in Kansas City.
In simple words: Walt opened a small animation company in Kansas City.

🎯 Exam Tip: Locate and quote factual details like place names directly from the text for accuracy.

(2) Question 2. Why did Walt borrow some money from an uncle?
Answer: Walt secured a loan of Rs. 500 from an uncle to launch his cartoon series, Alice in Cartoonland.
In simple words: Walt borrowed Rs. 500 from his uncle to start his Alice in Cartoonland cartoon series.

🎯 Exam Tip: When a question asks "why," ensure your answer provides the reason or purpose behind the action.

(D) Say True Or False

Question. Write whether the following sentences are True or False:
(1) Walt earned his first money by drawing a sketch of a neighbour's horse.
(2) Walt had practical dreams and he made them come true.
(3) Walt was only fifteen-years-old when he decided to try his luck in Hollywood.
(4) The success of Disneyland never changed Walt and he remained the simplest of men.
(5) Walt's idea of starting an amusement park seemed to be a silly idea.
(6) Disneyland is the example of Walt's firm decision.
(7) Walt was a simple man.
(8) Walt used to say that Disneyland would never be finished.
(9) Walt was a warm and kind personality who brought fun into the homes of millions of people.
(10) Walt used to sit gloomily through the saddest cartoon, trying to focus on some way to improve it.
(11) Walt had nursed the dream of a new kind of amusement park for years together.
(12) Young Roy was so surprised at Walt's graphic-telling of the fairy tale that he forgot all about his measles.
(13) After becoming successful in business, Walt borrowed several million dollars for the development of California Institute of Art.
(14) Success brought tremendous changes in Walt.
Answer:
(1) True
(2) False
(3) True
(4) True
(5) False
(6) True
(7) False
(8) True
(9) True
(10) False
(11) True
(12) True
(13) False
(14) False
In simple words: This section tests your understanding of various facts about Walt Disney's life, career, and personality from the provided text, requiring you to identify whether each statement is accurate or not.

🎯 Exam Tip: For true/false questions, carefully read each statement and compare it precisely with the information given in the passage to avoid misinterpretations. Minor differences can change the truth value.

Unforgettable Walt Disney Summary In Gujarati

સમગ્ર વિશ્વમાં વૉલ્ટ ડિઝની આજે કોઈ પરિચયનો મોહતાજ નથી. વૉલ્ટના ભાઈએ અહીં જે વૉલ્ટનું શબ્દચિત્ર આલેખ્યું છે, તે સંઘર્ષ અને સફળતાની યાત્રાની માર્ગદર્શિકા છે. આખો દિવસ વિચારોમાં ડૂળ્યા રહેતા પાતળા બાંધાના ઊંચા દેશી છોકરાની અદ્વિતીય સિદ્ધિઓની આ કથા છે. અત્યંત કલ્પનાશીલ, ઉદ્યમી એવા વૉલ્ટને સમજવો જટિલ હતો. તેની સાથે કામ કરતા લેખકો, પ્રધુસર્સ કે ઍનિમેટર્સ આ વિચક્ષણ બુદ્ધિના સ્વામીને ક્યારેય સમજી શક્યા નહોતા. બૅન્કવાળા એને લોન આપતા ડરતા.

નાનપણથી જ ચિત્રકામનો શોખ એને સુંદર કાર્ટૂન દોરવા તરફ લઈ ગયો. શિકાગોમાં કાર્ટૂનિંગ શીખ્યા બાદ કૅન્ઝસ શહેરમાં ઍનિમેટેડ કાર્ટુન કંપની સ્થાપી અને એ નિષ્ફળ ગઈ. ત્યારબાદ કાકા પાસેથી Rs. 500 ડૉલર ઉછીના લઈ ‘એલિસ ઇન કાર્ટુનલૅન્ડ' નામની કાર્ટુન સીરિઝ બનાવી. ત્યારબાદ ‘ઓસ્વાલ્ડ, ધ રેબિટ’ બનાવી, જેણે ઠીક ઠીક ધંધો કર્યો પણ પછી ન્યૂ યૉર્કના એક ડિસ્ટ્રબ્યુટરે સોદામાં એ પચાવી પાડી.

ત્યારબાદ એને જે પારસમણિ હાથ લાગ્યો એ 'મિકી માઉસ', જેણે આકાશની ઊંચાઈઓ બી. 1968માં 25 કરોડ લોકોએ ડિઝની મૂવી જોયું, 10 કરોડ લોકોએ ડિઝની ટીવી શો જોયો, અન્ય 25 કરોડ લોકોએ ડિઝની પુસ્તક અને સામયિક વાંચ્યાં અને લગભગ 10 લાખ લોકોએ ડિઝનીલૅન્ડની મુલાકાત લીધી.

ડિઝની નાની વાતને પણ મોટા અવસરમાં ફેરવી શકતો. મનોરંજનને વૉલ્ટે જીવનમંત્ર બનાવ્યો. પ્રોડક્ટ બનાવ્યા પછી તેના પર એ લોકોનો મત એ જરૂર લેતો, પણ અંતિમ ફેંસલો તો તેનો જ રહેતો. ડિઝનીલૅન્ડની વાત એ વૉલ્ટની દષ્ટિ અને દઢ મનોબળનો પુરાવો છે. ડિઝનીલેન્ડ કેવું લાગવું જોઈએ?’ એવા પ્રશ્નના ઉત્તરમાં વૉલ્ટ ખુમારીથી કહેતો, “સમગ્ર પૃથ્વી પર એના સમાન અન્ય કશું (કોઈ સ્થાન) જ ન હોય તેવું લાગવું જોઈએ.”

જુલાઈ 1955માં ડિઝનીલૅન્ડ ખુલ્લું મુકાતાં લોકોના ટોળેટોળાં જોવા ઉમટ્યાં. અદ્વિતીય સફળતા અને સંપત્તિ પણ વૉલ્ટને ચળાવી શકી નહિ. એ એ જ સાદો સરળ માનવ રહ્યો. તે જે સંપત્તિ કમાયો તે વળી પાછી તેના સુડિયોમાં જ નાખી. એનાં અન્ય ગૌરવપૂર્ણ યોગદાન – ‘મિનરલ કાઇન્ડ', કેલિફૉર્નિયા ઇન્સ્ટિટ્યૂટ ઑફ આર્ટ’, ‘100 મિલિયન ડૉલરનું ડિઝનીલૅન્ડ' અને ફ્લોરિડાનું 'સિટી ઑફ ટુમોરો' ગણી શકાય.

તે જીવલેણ રોગમાં સપડાયો તે સમયે પણ તેના શબ્દો હતા, “ભલે મને આ રોગ થયો, પણ અન્ય કોઈને આ રોગ ન થજો.” આવા રોગમાં હૉસ્પિટલમાં હોવા છતાં તેનું મગજ તો ભવિષ્યના આયોજનોમાં જ ખોવાયેલું હતું. વૉલ્ટ કહેતો કે “ડિઝનીલૅન્ડ ક્યારેય પૂરું થયું નથી અને એનો ક્યારેય અંત આવશે નહિ.”

તે દઢપણે માનતો હતો કે દરેક માણસમાં એક બાળક છુપાયેલું છે જે અજર છે. તેને રમકડાં રમવાં, મુક્તપણે હસવું અને બાથરૂમમાં કે સપનામાં ગીત ગાવાં ગમે છે. માનવમનની આ ગહનતાને પામી તેને 'ડિઝનીલૅન્ડ' તરીકે મૂર્તિમંત કરનાર આ સપનાંના સોદાગરને સો સો સલામ !

Glossary (શબ્દાર્થ)

linger (v.) (લિંગર) - stay, hang around, persist - ટકી રહેવું

encounter (v.) (એનકાઉન્ટર) - meet, come across - મળવું, સામનો કરવો

gangly (adj.) (ગેંગલી) - lean, thin - ઊંચો, પાતળો

uncanny (adj.) (અનકેની) - supernatural, strange - અલૌકિક, વિચિત્ર

hell-bent (adj.) (હેલ-બેન્ટ) - recklessly determined, resolute - દૃઢનિશ્ચયી, અડગ

bankruptcy (n.) (બૅન્ક્રપ્સી) - failure, insolvency - નિષ્ફળતા, દેવાળિયાપણું

impractical (adj.) (ઇમ્પ્રૅક્ટિકલ) - unwise to implement, impossible, unrealistic - અવ્યવહારુ, અવાસ્તવિક

orchard (n.) (ઓર્ચર્ડ) - grove - ફળોની વાડી

willow (n.) (વિલો) - any of various deciduous trees - નેતર જેવું વૃક્ષ

snuggle (v.) (સ્નગલ) - to lie or press close together, cuddle (અહીં) પથારીમાં એકબીજા સાથે લપાઈને સૂવું

haunting (adj.) (હૉન્ટિંગ) - persistent, unforgettable - વારંવાર આવ્યા કરવું, ભૂલાય નહીં તેવું

locomotive (n.) (લોકોમોટિવ) - engine - એંજિન, (અહીં) ટ્રેન

nickel (n.) (નિકલ) (here) - coin - (અહીં) 5 સેન્ટનું નાણું-સિક્કો

animate (v.) (ઍનિમેટ) - fill with life, enliven - જીવંત બનાવવું

flop (v.) (ફ્લૉપ) - fail, collapse - નિષ્ફળ જવું, તૂટી પડવું

crank (v.) (ક્રૅન્ક) - start - (અહીં) શરૂ કરવું

downhearted (adj.) (ડાઉનહાર્ટડ) - depressed, unhappy, discouraged - હતાશ, દુઃખી

enthuse (v.) (ઍન્થ્યુઝ) - excite, get stimulated - ઉત્સાહી થવું

billion (n.) (બિલિયન) - one million million - એક લાખ કરોડ, મહાપદ્મ, એક સો અબજ

matchless (adj.) (મૅચલેસ) - unparalleled, unique - અતુલનીય, અજોડ

measles (n.) (મીઝલ્સ) - a contagious disease - ઓરી, અછબડા

virtuoso (n.) (વર્ચ્યુઓસો) - a masterly, skilful person - કુશળતાપૂર્ણ, અદ્ભુત આવડત ધરાવતી વ્યક્તિ

rivet (v.) (રિવેટ) - concentrate, engross - તલ્લીન કરી નાખવું, -માં ડૂબી જવું

twitch (v.) (ટ્વિચ) - to draw, pull, or move suddenly and sharply - (અહીં મૂછોને) વળ ચડાવવો / આમળવી

wide-eyed (adj.) (વાઇડ-આઇડ) - spell-bound, awe-stricken - દિગ્મૂઢ, ચકિત

graphic (adj.) (ગ્રાફિક) - vivid, picturesque - આબેહૂબ વર્ણનવાળું, તાદશ થાય તેવું

glumly (adv.) (ગ્લુમલિ) - sadly - ખિન્નતાપૂર્ણ, નાખુશીના ભાવવાળું

evident (adj.) (એવિડન્ટ) - apparent, obvious - સ્પષ્ટ, દેખીતું

snap (v.) (સ્નૅપ) - to speak abruptly and sharply - (વાતચીતમાં) એકદમ વચ્ચેથી બોલી ઊઠવું, વાત કાપવી

projectionist (n.) (પ્રોજેક્શનિસ્ટ) - one who operates a movie projector - ફિલ્મ પ્રોજેક્ટર ચલાવનાર

sense (v.) (સેન્સ) - to become aware of - (કોઈક બાબતે) સભાન થઈ જવું

dissent (n.) (ડિસેન્ટ) - objection, disagreement, protest - અસહમતી, મતભેદ, વિચારભેદ

grin (v.) (ગ્રિન) - to smirk - smile expressing scorn instead of pleasure - આનંદ વિનાનું / કૃત્રિમ હાસ્ય કરવું

outline (v.) (આઉટલાઇન) - to describe in brief - સંક્ષેપમાં વર્ણન કરવું

sequence (n.) (સિક્વન્સ) - course - ઘટનાક્રમ, શ્રેણી, ચિત્રપટની ઘટના કે પ્રસંગ

stubborn (adj.) (સ્ટબર્ન) - obstinate, unyielding - હઠીલું, માને નહીં તેવું, દૃઢ

potpourri (n.) (પૉટપૂરી) - collection, assortment - (અહીં, અવ્યવસ્થિત, વિખરાયેલા વિચારોને) ભેગા કરવા તે

preposterous (adj.) (પ્રિપૉસ્ટરસ) - absurd, foolish, ridiculous - મૂર્ખામીભર્યું, હાસ્યાસ્પદ

infuse (v.) (ઇન્ફ્યુઝ) - inculcate, instill, inspire - પ્રેરણા આપવી

predictably (adv.) (પ્રિડિક્ટેબલી) - forecastingly, assumably - પૂર્વધારણા કરવાની રીતે

flock (v.) (ફ્લૉક) - crowd, gather in group - મોટી સંખ્યામાં ભેગા થવું, ટોળે મળવું

gawk (v.) (ગૉક) - to stare stupidly, gape - મૂર્ખામીભર્યું તાકી રહેવું

trigger (v.) (ટ્રિગર) - શરૂ કરી દેવું

about-face (n.) (અબાઉટ ફેસ) - sudden and complete change - એકાએક પૂર્ણ ફેરફાર

extravagance (n.) (ઇક્સટ્રેવેગન્સ) - અતિ ખરચાળપણું

solvent (n.) (સોલ્વન્ટ) - capable of meeting financial obligations - દેવાં ચૂકવી શકવાની સ્થિતિમાં હોય તેવો

fatal (adj.) (ફૅટલ) - causing death - જીવલેણ

desperately (adv.) (ડેસ્પરેટલી) - seriously - ગંભીરપણે

ભાષાંતર

મારો ભાઈ વૉલ્ટ અત્યારે જીવિત નથી, છતાંય અત્યારે પણ 5 જેને લીધે તે સમગ્ર વિશ્વમાં જાણીતો થયો તથા તેને પ્રેમ સંપાદન થયો તે કાર્ટૂન્સ, નેચર ફિલ્સ અને ફિચર મુવીઝ જ્યાં બની હતી, તે ટુડિયોમાં તેની ઉપસ્થિતિ સતત વર્તાય છે. અત્યારે પણ હું જ્યારે ટુડિયોમાં કામ કરનારાઓની વચ્ચે ચક્કર લગાવતો હોઉં ત્યારે મને માથું નીચે ઘાલીને કોઈક નવા પ્રોજેક્ટના વિચારોમાં તલ્લીન એવા ઊંચા, દેશી છોકરાનો જાણે કે) સાક્ષાત્કાર થાય છે. ચલચિત્રો બનાવવાથી માંડી મકાન બનાવવા સુધીની જે પણ પ્રવૃત્તિઓ અમે કરતા એ દરેકમાં વૉલ્ટ અમારું પ્રેરકબળ હતો. હજુય એ જીવિત ન હોય તેમ લોકો (આજેય) ડિઝનીલૅન્ડ એમ એના નામનો ઉલ્લેખ સતત કરતા જ રહે છે. જ્યારે પણ અમે નવું પિક્યર બનાવીએ કે ડિઝનીલેન્ડમાં કોઈક પાસાનો ઉમેરો કરીએ ત્યારે કોઈક તો એવું જરૂર પૂછી બેસે છે, “મને આશ્ચર્ય થાય છે (ક) વૉલ્ટને આ (બનાવવાનું) કેવી રીતે ગમ્યું હશે?" અને જ્યારે પણ આવું થાય છે કે મને તરત જ થઈ આવે છે કે (અરે હા, આ તો એ જ છે, જેમાં તેણે આયોજન કર્યું હતું. અમે બધા વર્ષો સુધી વ્યસ્ત રહીએ એ માટે મારો કલ્પનાશીલ, ઉદ્યમી ભાઈ પૂરતું પાછળ છોડી ગયો છે. વૉલ્ટ એ એક જટિલ (ન સમજાય તેવો) માણસ હતો.

લેખકો, પ્રધુસરો તથા ઍનિમેશન ફિક્સ બનાવનાર એ તમામ માટે એ એક વિચક્ષણ પ્રતિભા હતો, જેની પાસે કોઈક વાર્તા કે વિચારમાં કલ્પનાશક્તિથી કશુંક વિશેષ ઉમેરવાની અસાધારણ ક્ષમતા હતી. જે લાખો લોકો તેના ટીવી શો નિહાળતા એ તમામ માટે તેમના ઘરોમાં મનોરંજન અને ખુશી લાવનાર, એક હૂંફ આપનાર, કરુણાસભર વ્યક્તિત્વ હતો. મને ખાતરી છે કે તેને નાણાં ધીરનાર બૅન્કર્સને એ દેવાળું કાઢવાની પૂરેપૂરી શક્યતા ધરાવનાર ઉદામ વ્યક્તિ લાગતી. મારા માટે તો એ એક અદ્ભુત ભાઈ હતો, જેણે બિનવ્યવહારુ સપનાને સાકાર કરી બતાવ્યાં.

જ્યાં વૉલ્ટે સૌપ્રથમ પ્રાણીઓના સ્કેચ (રેખાચિત્રો) બનાવ્યાં હતાં, એ સુંદર, લીલીછમ સફરજનની વાડીઓ અને હર્યાભર્યા ઝાડવાં ધરાવતું અમારું જૂનું ફાર્મ (વાડી) આજે પણ છે. મને યાદ આવે છે (ક) વૉલ્ટ અને હું કેવા પથારીમાં એકબીજાને લપાઈને સૂતા અને રાતે પસાર થતી ટ્રેનની ડરાવી દેતી સીટી સાંભળતા. અમારા કાકા માઇક એન્જિનિયર હતા; એ ફક્ત અમારે માટે એક લાંબી અને બે ટૂંકી સીટી વગાડતા. વૉલ્ટનો ટ્રેઇન્સ પ્રત્યેનો પ્રેમ (લગાવ) ક્યારેય ઓછો થયો નહિ. વર્ષો બાદ, ડિઝનીલેન્ડમાં એક જૂના જમાનાની ટ્રેન એનાં શરૂઆતનાં આકર્ષણોમાંની એક બની.

ભૂતકાળની વાત મને યાદ છે કે વૉલ્ટ ચિત્રો દોરતો. સૌપ્રથમ જો એણે પૈસા મેળવ્યા હોય, તો તે પડોશીના ઘોડાના રેખાચિત્રમાંથી મળેલા 5 સેન્ટ હતા. તે કાર્ટૂન બનાવવાનું શિકાગોમાં શીખ્યો, અને પછી તેણે કેન્ઝસ શહેર નજીક એક નાનકડી ઍનિમેટેડ કાર્ટૂનની કંપની શરૂ કરી, (જોકે) તે નિષ્ફળ ગઈ. જ્યારે વૉલ્ટે માત્ર 21 વર્ષની વયે હૉલિવુડમાં તેનું નસીબ અજમાવવાનું નક્કી કર્યું ત્યારે હું લોસ એન્જલિસમાં હતો. હું એને સ્ટેશન પર મળ્યો. એ વખતે તેની પાસે તેનો તમામ સરસરંજામ ભરેલી એક સામાન્ય સૂટકેસ હતી. અમે એક વડીલ પાસેથી Rs. 500 ઉછીના લીધા અને વૉલ્ટે “એલિસ ઈન કાર્ટુનલૅન્ડ' નામની એક કાર્ટુન-શૃંખલા શરૂ કરી. આગળ વધવું ઘણું જ કઠિન હતું.

વૉલ્ટ તમામ ઍનિમેશન કરતો અને હું પેલો જૂની શૈલીનો કેમેરા ચલાવતો. એ એલિસ કાર્ટુન્ને બહુ કાંઈ ધાડ ન મારી. તેથી વૉલ્ટે 'ઓસ્વાલ્ડ, ધ રેબિટ' નામની એક નવી શૃંખલા ચાલુ કરી. ઓસ્વાલ્ડ પ્રમાણમાં સારું કર્યું પણ જ્યારે વૉલ્ટ વધારે પૈસા માટે અમારા ન્યૂ યૉર્ક | (ખાતેના) ડિસ્ટ્રિબ્યુટર પાસે ગયો ત્યારે એ મુશ્કેલીમાં મુકાઈ ગયો. ‘ પૂછ્યું, “ભાઈ તેં આ કેવા પ્રકારનો સોદો કર્યો?" વૉલ્ટે સ્વીકાર્યું, “આપણને હિસ્સો (ભાગ) મળ્યો નહિ. ડિસ્ટ્રિબ્યુટર ઓસ્વાલ્ડના માલિકીના હક લઈ લીધા અને હવે એ શૃંખલા (સીરિઝ) પોતે ચલાવશે." આશ્ચર્ય વચ્ચે, વૉલ્ટ જરા પણ નાહિંમત દેખાયો નહિ, એણે ઉત્સાહભેર કહ્યું, “આપણે એક નવી સીરિઝ ચાલુ કરવાના છીએ.” “એ એક ઉંદર વિશે છે, અને આ વખતે આ ઉંદરને આપણો કરી લઈશું."

તે પછી જે બન્યું એ ઇતિહાસ છે. વૉલ્ટના ઉંદર – મિકીએ 1968માં તેનો 40મો જન્મદિવસ મનાવ્યો, અને એ 40મો જન્મદિવસ અત્યંત આનંદપ્રદ હતો. 1968માં આ ડિઝની મૂવી 25 કરોડ લોકોએ જોઈ, 10 કરોડ લોકોએ ડિઝની ટીવી શો જોયો, લગભગ 25 કરોડ લોકોએ ડિઝનીનું પુસ્તક કે સામયિક વાંચ્યું અને લગભગ 1 કરોડ લોકોએ ડિઝનીલૅન્ડની મુલાકાત લીધી અને વૉલ્ટ કહેતો તેમ, આ બધી શરૂઆત મિકીએ કરી.

વૉલ્ટની બેજોડ કલ્પનાશક્તિ અને ક્ષમતાથી સપનાને વાસ્તવિકતામાં તબદીલ કરી દેનાર 'મિકી'એ એકમાત્ર તેની પ્રથમ સફળ કૃતિ હતી. આ ક્ષમતાને એ કોઈ પણ નાના કે મોટા અવસરે કામે લગાડતો. એક વાર જ્યારે મારા દીકરા રૉય એડવર્ડને ઓરી નીકળ્યા હતા, ત્યારે એણે (વૉલ્ટ) એ સમયે જેના પર કામ કરી રહ્યો હતો એ પિનોશિયોની વાર્તા એને (મારા દીકરાને) કહી. વૉલ્ટે એ વાત જ્યારે એને કરી ત્યારે એની કાબેલિયતનો પરિચય હતો. તેની નજર તેના શ્રોતા પર બરાબર જડાયેલી, તેની મૂછો સ્પષ્ટપણે વંકાયેલી, તેના ઉપરનીચે થતાં ભવાં અને એના હાથ કોઈ વાદકવૃંદના સંચાલકની મોહક અદાથી આમતેમ હલનચલન કરી રહ્યા હતા.

નાનકડો રૉય વૉલ્ટની એ પરીકથા નિરૂપવાની શૈલીથી એટલો બધો પ્રભાવિત હતો કે એ તેના દર્દ સંપૂર્ણપણે વિસરી ગયો. પાછળથી, જ્યારે એણે પૂર્ણ થયેલ ચિત્ર જોયું, તો એ આશ્ચર્યપૂર્ણ રીતે નિરાશ થયો. તેણે કહ્યું, 'આ તો અંકલ વૉલ્ટે નિરૂપ્યું હતું, એટલું ઉત્તેજનાપૂર્ણ દેખાતું નહોતું.' વૉલ્ટે સાચરોએ તેના ઓK જે લોકો વિનોદ સર્જવાનું કાર્ય કરે છે, તેવા ઘણા એની સાથે કામ કરતા લોકોની જેમ વૉલ્ટ પણ આ દિશામાં ગંભીરતાથી કામ કર્યું. સૌથી વધારે રમૂજ પેદા કરનાર કાર્ટુનને નિહાળ્યા બાદ, વૉલ્ટે (તેના માટે) લોકોના હજુ કઈ રીતે સુધારી શકાય એ ઇરાદાથી ગંભીરતાથી ઘણી વાર બેસી રહેતો.

વૉલ્ટ એની સાથે કામ કરનાર અન્યોના મતને જરૂર મહત્ત્વપૂર્ણ ગણતો પણ નિઃશંકપણે અંતિમ ફેંસલો તો તેનો જ રહેતો. એક વાર, દેખીતી નાખુશીથી એક નવા કઈ કાર્ટુનને નિહાળ્યા બાદ, વૉલ્ટે (તેના માટે) લોકોના એક જૂથનો અભિપ્રાય માગ્યો. એક પછી એક તેઓ વૉલ્ટની ખામીઓ શોધવા લાગ્યા. તેણે સડાક દઈને ચોપડાવી દીધું, “ઠીક છે, વૉલ્ટ' કહેતા રબર સ્ટેમ્પ હું લાવી શકું છું." ત્યારબાદ ચકરડું ફેરવ્યું અને જે વિચાર્યું હતું એ પ્રોજેકટર ચલાવનારને કહ્યું. પેલા માણસને ખ્યાલ આવી ગયો કે મતભેદ ઠીક છે. તેણે કહી દીધું, “મને લાગે છે કે તમે બધા ખોટા છો." વૉલ્ટે માત્ર મુખર સ્મિત કર્યું. એણે સૂચવ્યું, “તું માત્ર તારા પ્રોજેક્ટરનું ધ્યાન રાખ."

વૉલ્ટ બધી જ બાબતોમાં પોતાની જાતને સાંકળતો. મિકી માઉસ ક્લબ ટીવી શોની એક વાર્તાસભા દરમિયાન, વાર્તા કહેનાર, હાથમાં | (નકશો, ચિત્ર) દર્શાવવાની લાકડી લઈને ‘સાઇકલ સવારી કેવી રીતે કરવી' નામની એક શ્રેણીનું સંક્ષેપમાં વર્ણન કરી રહ્યો હતો. એણે શરૂ કર્યું, “હવે જ્યારે તમે તમારી’ સાઇકલ પર સવાર થાઓ છો ..." વૉલ્ટે તેને અટકાવ્યો. તેણે કહ્યું, ‘તમારી સાઇકલને બદલે (માત્ર) સાઇકલ’.