Working with the Poem
- Question: Read the first stanza and think.
(i) Is Macavity a cat really?
(ii) If not, who can Macavity be?
Answer:
(i) No, Macavity is not just a cat; he symbolizes a master criminal.
(ii) Macavity could represent anyone who is elusive, cunning, and adept at evading capture, possibly a criminal mastermind or a trickster figure. - Question: Complete the following sentences.
(i) A master criminal is one who commits crimes with exceptional skill and intelligence, often outsmarting authorities.
(ii) The Scotland Yard is baffled because Macavity is clever and always manages to escape detection.
(iii) The detectives are always at a loss, because Macavity moves much faster than them. - Question: “A cat, I am sure, could walk on a cloud without coming through.” (Jules Verne) Which law is Macavity breaking in light of the comment above?
Answer: Macavity is breaking the law of gravity, as the comment implies that he can defy physical laws, moving in ways that are impossible for ordinary beings. - Question: Read stanza 3, and then describe Macavity in two or three sentences of your own.
Answer: Macavity is portrayed as a mysterious and elusive character, almost supernatural in nature. He possesses extraordinary agility and cunning, allowing him to outsmart those who try to capture him. His presence instills fear and confusion among those who encounter him, highlighting his status as a master criminal. - Question: Say ‘False’ or ‘True’ for each of the following statements.
(i) Macavity is not an ordinary cat.
Answer: True.
(ii) Macavity cannot do what a fakir can easily do.
Answer: False.
(iii) Macavity has supernatural powers.
Answer: True.
(iv) Macavity is well-dressed, smart, and bright.
Answer: False.
(v) Macavity is a spy, a trickster, and a criminal, all rolled in one.
Answer: True. - Question: Having read the poem, try to guess whether the poet is fond of cats. If so, why does he call Macavity a fiend and monster?
Answer: The poet appears to have a fondness for cats, as he appreciates their mysterious nature and independence. However, he calls Macavity a fiend and monster to emphasize his cunning and criminal behavior, contrasting the charming qualities often associated with cats. - Question: Has the poet used exaggeration for special effect? Find a few examples of it and read those lines aloud.
Answer: Yes, the poet employs exaggeration to create a vivid image of Macavity’s character. Examples include phrases that highlight his agility and cleverness, such as “Macavity’s not there!” and descriptions of him evading capture in extraordinary ways. Reading these lines aloud enhances the dramatic effect of his elusiveness and cunning nature.
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