Learn English through Story 04 Rich Man Poor Man

Summary

In a small village, Adam receives a letter from his son Sol, who has sent him a money order for 100 pounds. Excited yet confused, Adam sets out to redeem it but faces bureaucratic hurdles, including the need for an identity card. Despite multiple trips to the town and interactions with various officials and a photographer, he struggles to navigate the system. Ultimately, he learns that the money order is worthless, receiving only 10 pounds instead. The story highlights the challenges faced by those unfamiliar with modern systems and the deep bond between a father and son.

Takeaways

• 😀 A postman delivers a letter to Adam from his son Sol, who has moved to London.
• 😀 Adam and his wife Martha are anxious but excited to receive news from Sol.
• 😀 Sol sends a money order of 100 pounds to support his parents.
• 😀 Adam, unfamiliar with money orders, struggles to understand the process to claim the funds.
• 😀 He faces bureaucratic challenges at the post office due to the need for an identity card.
• 😀 Adam's attempts to obtain an identity card are met with frustration and delays.
• 😀 The photographer, who is supposed to take Adam's picture for the identity card, fails to deliver.
• 😀 After multiple trips to Darpoor, Adam encounters a policeman and is dismissed for not having an identity card.
• 😀 Eventually, Mr. Sheth, a wealthy man, informs Adam that the money order is worthless.
• 😀 Adam receives only 10 pounds instead of the 100 pounds initially sent by Sol, leaving him feeling disheartened.

Q & A

What is the primary setting of the story?

The story primarily takes place in the village of Minta and the town of Darpoor.

Who sends the money order to Adam, and how much is it for?

Adam's son Sol sends the money order for £100.

Why is Adam unable to read the letter from Sol?

Adam cannot read the letter because he never received an education and cannot read or write.

What challenges does Adam face when trying to cash the money order?

Adam faces challenges including not having an identity card, long queues, and an unhelpful postal official.

What does the photographer charge Adam for the photographs needed for the identity card?

The photographer initially charges Adam £2.50, but later agrees to take three photographs for £2.

What happens when Adam confronts the photographer?

When Adam confronts the photographer about his photographs, a struggle ensues, and Adam is taken to the police station.

How does Mr. Sheth respond to Adam's situation?

Mr. Sheth informs Adam that the money order is worthless but offers to help by giving him £10.

What emotional state does Adam experience throughout the story?

Adam experiences a range of emotions, including hope, frustration, anger, and ultimately disappointment.

What lesson does Adam learn by the end of the story?

Adam learns that despite the hope of financial support, he must navigate the realities of bureaucracy and his limited means.

How do the villagers react to Adam's situation?

The villagers express sympathy and support for Adam, sharing in his frustration over the challenges he faces.