Skimbleshanks the railway cat by T.S.Elliot of class 9 icse explanation in hindi of treasure chest

Summary

The video explains the Class 9 English poem 'Skin the Railway Cat' by T.S. Allitt, which centers on Skill Sak, a vigilant cat in charge of the Night Mail train. Skill Sak supervises passengers, inspects luggage, and maintains order throughout the journey. The poem highlights his discipline, care, and dedication, ensuring passengers travel comfortably and safely. From overseeing guards and drivers to protecting passengers from mice and insects, Skill Sak’s presence guarantees smooth train operations. The video also describes the passengers’ cozy compartments and their interactions, ending with Skill Sak’s farewell at the final station, emphasizing his reliability and the charm of his watchful care.

Takeaways

• 😀 Skimbleshanks is a cat who is in charge of the Night Mail train, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
• 😀 The poem begins with passengers wondering where Skimbleshanks is, as the train is about to depart.
• 😀 'Hunt the thimble' refers to a game, not a literal hunt, indicating the cat's playful nature.
• 😀 Skimbleshanks is crucial for the train's operation, and his quick actions ensure the train departs on time.
• 😀 Skimbleshanks inspects the luggage in the rear of the train and gives a signal when everything is clear for departure.
• 😀 Skimbleshanks supervises all the staff, including the driver, guard, and backman, making sure they do their jobs well.
• 😀 He roams the train's corridors, checking the passengers and ensuring there is no trouble or disorder.
• 😀 Skimbleshanks is strict and doesn't tolerate any ruckus or fighting among the passengers, making the journey peaceful.
• 😀 The train's compartments are described as cozy, well-maintained, and equipped with facilities like adjustable lighting and fresh air.
• 😀 Skimbleshanks maintains order and ensures that the passengers are well taken care of during the journey, even at the small details like morning tea.
• 😀 The poem ends with a reassuring note that Skimbleshanks will always be there to guide the passengers, helping them with any issues and ensuring a smooth journey.

Q & A

Who is the main character in the poem 'Skin the Railway Cat'?

The main character is Skin, a male cat who is in charge of supervising the Night Mail train.

What are Skin’s primary responsibilities on the train?

Skin’s responsibilities include supervising passengers, inspecting luggage, maintaining order, patrolling all compartments, and ensuring that nothing goes wrong during the journey.

What does the phrase 'hunt the thimble' refer to in the poem?

'Hunt the thimble' refers to a children’s game in which a small object is hidden and others search for it. In the poem, passengers jokingly ask if Skin has gone to play this game when he is not found.

How do passengers react when Skin is not immediately visible?

Passengers become anxious and all the guards, porters, and even the station master’s daughters search for Skin, as the train cannot start until he is found.

What signal does Skin give once he has completed his inspection?

Skin gives a flash of his glassy green eyes to signal that all is clear and the train can depart.

How does Skin maintain order among passengers of different classes?

Skin patrols the train regularly, keeps an eye on passengers from first, second, and third class, and ensures no misbehavior, ruckus, or fighting occurs.

What measures are described in the poem to ensure passenger comfort?

The train has small private compartments with neat berths, adjustable lights, fresh air through windows, wash basins, and attentive guards serving tea. Skin ensures all of these functions run smoothly.

What does Skin do during the night while passengers sleep?

Skin remains alert and fresh, occasionally stops to catch insects, visits stations quietly, greets station masters, and continues supervising the train without disturbing passengers.

How does Skin communicate farewell at the final station?

Skin waves his long brown tail as a signal, indicating 'I will meet you again,' helping passengers disembark safely and giving a friendly goodbye.

What qualities make Skin an important character in the poem?

Skin is vigilant, responsible, disciplined, and observant. He ensures order, safety, and comfort on the train, showing quiet heroism and dedication.

Why is the poem humorous despite Skin’s serious duties?

The humor arises from playful elements like the 'hunt the thimble' joke and the way passengers worry about the cat, combined with Skin’s strict and diligent behavior.

What moral or lesson can be learned from the poem?

The poem teaches the value of responsibility, attentiveness, and diligence, showing that even a small creature can have a big role in ensuring safety and order.