GSEB Class 9 English Moments Chapter 10 The Beggar Solutions

Think About It

Question 1. Has Lushkoff become a beggar by circumstance or by choice?
Answer: Lushkoff gets to be a beggar due to situations. He had been a singer and sang in the choir. This singing happens in the church. He became jobless due to alcohol abuse. Once he left the rehab facility, the social bad reputation of being a drunkard stopped him from finding work. To survive, he was forced to begging.
In simple words: Lushkoff became a beggar due to circumstances, not by choice. He lost his singing job because of drinking and then struggled to get new employment because of his past.

Exam Tip: Clearly state whether it was circumstance or choice, and then provide specific reasons from the story to support your answer.

Question 2. What reasons does he give to Sergei for his telling lies?
Answer: He explains that if he told the truth, people would refuse alms. We can link this to the way beggars dress and complain about being hungry for days. In larger towns, there are groups of criminals who keep an army of beggars. They put on necessary makeup and leave beggars at important crossroads. They teach them how to cry well so that people feel pity and help them. Finally, the gang lord takes a large part of the day's earnings.
In simple words: He lied thinking that people would only give him money if they felt pity, knowing the truth wouldn't get donations.

Exam Tip: Remember to list all the reasons Lushkoff gives, including the broader societal context of professional beggars, to fully answer the question.

Question 3. Is Lushkoff a willing worker? Why, then, does he agree to chop wood for Sergei?
Answer: Lushkoff is feeble due to malnourishment and alcoholism. He understands he lacks the strength for labor. But after Sergei uncovers his deception, he feels embarrassed. His inner feeling compels him to accept chopping wood.
In simple words: Lushkoff didn't want to work at first due to his weakness and alcohol problem. However, he accepted the task when Sergei exposed his dishonesty, feeling ashamed, and his conscience prompted him.

Exam Tip: Differentiate between Lushkoff's initial unwillingness and the later emotional compulsion that makes him agree to work, highlighting the turning point.

Question 4. Sergei says, "I am happy that my ? words have taken effect.” Why does he say so? Is he right in saying this?
Answer: Sergei believes that due to his timely advice, Lushkoff managed to stop begging and now earns his own money. He sees things correctly from his viewpoint as he is unaware that it was Olga who cut the wood for Lushkoff. Regardless, the end outcome means Lushkoff's life has returned to the proper path. And as they say, "All is well that ends well."
In simple words: Sergei believed his words transformed Lushkoff and helped him stand on his own. He thought he was correct, unaware Olga did the actual work.

Exam Tip: When evaluating if Sergei is "right," consider his limited knowledge compared to the full truth revealed later in the story. Explain his perspective clearly.

Question 5. Lushkoff is earning thirty-five roubles a month. How is he obliged to Sergei for this?
Answer: If he had not met Sergei, Lushkoff would still be begging. Sergei was the reason he had the chance to receive Olga's help. The entire event alters the way Lushkoff views his future plans. Before, he lacked faith in finding employment. His time with Sergei and Olga instills fresh belief in him, helping him secure a good position.
In simple words: Lushkoff was thankful to Sergei because their meeting resulted in Olga's assistance and provided him with fresh confidence to find a proper job.

Exam Tip: Focus on the chain of events initiated by Sergei and how it provided Lushkoff with the opportunity and motivation to change his life, even if indirectly.

Question 6. During their conversation, Lushkoff reveals that Sergei's cook, Olga, is responsible for the positive change in him. How has Olga saved Lushkoff?
Answer: Olga feels sorry for Lushkoff. She understands a feeble person cannot cut timber. She assisted him by cutting wood for him. Despite Olga's harsh language, she held a caring mindset. Olga's simple action transforms Lushkoff's heart. If Olga had not assisted Lushkoff with wood cutting, he would not receive the money he needed. He would miss the opportunity to hear Olga's ethical advice. It was Olga who rescued him—she cut the logs, and the kindness she displayed caused a change within him.
In simple words: Olga saved Lushkoff by cutting the logs instead of him when he was too weak. Her kindness and strong words affected him deeply and inspired him to alter his ways and quit alcohol.

Exam Tip: Highlight Olga's practical help and her emotional impact (her words, sacrifice, and suffering) as key factors in Lushkoff's transformation, not just Sergei's initial intervention.