First Flight Class X All Chapters and Poems' Summary NCERT

### Chapters

1. **A Letter to God** by G.L. Fuentes

   Lencho, a poor farmer, faces devastation when his crops are destroyed by a severe hailstorm. Desperate and deeply religious, he writes a letter to God, pleading for 100 pesos to plant new crops and sustain his family. The letter is addressed simply to "God," but it reaches the local post office. Amused at first, the postmaster is moved by Lencho's unwavering faith. He decides to help, collecting money from his colleagues. They gather only 70 pesos, which the postmaster places in an envelope with a note signed “God.” Lencho receives the money and is initially happy but soon becomes angry, believing that God sent the full amount, and the post office employees stole the rest. He writes another letter to God, asking not to send the money through the postal service because they are "a bunch of crooks." This story highlights Lencho’s innocent faith and trust in divine intervention while ironically showcasing his mistrust of human honesty. It also illustrates the selflessness of the postmaster and his colleagues, who come together to support someone in need, embodying the spirit of community and compassion.

2. **Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom** by Nelson Mandela

   In this excerpt from his autobiography, Nelson Mandela recounts his extraordinary life journey from his rural upbringing in a small village in South Africa to becoming a global icon of the anti-apartheid movement and the first black president of South Africa. Mandela describes his early years and education, which laid the foundation for his political activism. He reflects on the injustices of the apartheid system, which institutionalized racial discrimination and oppression. Mandela’s commitment to equality and justice led him to join the African National Congress (ANC), where he became a leading figure in the struggle against apartheid. Despite facing immense challenges, including 27 years of imprisonment, Mandela’s resolve never wavered. His release from prison in 1990 marked a significant turning point in South Africa’s history, leading to the end of apartheid and the establishment of a multiracial democracy. Mandela’s narrative emphasizes the values of forgiveness, reconciliation, and the enduring human spirit. His leadership and moral courage serve as an inspiration worldwide, demonstrating that peaceful resistance and unwavering determination can bring about profound social change.

3. **Two Stories about Flying**

   - **His First Flight** by Liam O'Flaherty: This story revolves around a young seagull who is terrified to take his first flight. Despite encouragement from his family, he is paralyzed by fear and refuses to fly. The young seagull observes his siblings flying with ease and is left alone on the ledge. Driven by hunger and desperation, he finally takes a leap into the air, overcoming his fear. The moment he starts flying, he experiences the exhilaration of freedom and self-reliance. This tale is a metaphor for the struggles of overcoming fear and the importance of taking the first step towards independence and self-discovery.

   - **Black Aeroplane** by Frederick Forsyth: In this suspenseful story, a pilot is flying a Dakota aircraft through a stormy night, heading towards England. Suddenly, his instruments fail, and he is enveloped in thick clouds. Lost and disoriented, he spots a mysterious black aeroplane that guides him through the storm to safety. Upon landing, the pilot is shocked to learn that the control tower had no record of any other plane in the sky. The story leaves readers intrigued by the unexplained events, hinting at the possibility of supernatural intervention or a mysterious guardian angel. It emphasizes themes of faith, survival, and the mysterious forces that sometimes aid us in dire circumstances.

4. **From the Diary of Anne Frank** by Anne Frank

   Anne Frank’s diary offers a deeply personal and poignant glimpse into the life of a young Jewish girl hiding from the Nazis during World War II. Written while Anne and her family were in hiding in Amsterdam, the diary captures her innermost thoughts, fears, and hopes. Anne’s writing reveals her growth and maturation, as she grapples with the realities of war and the challenges of living in confinement. Her reflections on human nature, her relationships with her family and fellow occupants, and her longing for a normal life resonate with readers. The diary stands as a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the atrocities of the Holocaust. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of tolerance, understanding, and the need to fight against hatred and discrimination. Anne’s voice, though silenced at a young age, continues to inspire and educate future generations about the horrors of war and the enduring hope for a better world.

5. **The Hundred Dresses - I** by Eleanor Estes

   Wanda Petronski, a quiet and introverted girl from a poor Polish immigrant family, becomes the target of teasing and bullying by her classmates, especially Peggy and Maddie. Wanda's claim of having a hundred dresses in her closet, despite wearing the same faded blue dress every day, becomes a subject of ridicule. The other children, unaware of her poverty, mock her for her seemingly absurd statement. However, Wanda’s calm and composed demeanor in the face of their cruelty is a testament to her inner strength. The turning point comes when the school holds a drawing contest, and Wanda submits a collection of one hundred beautiful, detailed dress sketches. The realization of Wanda’s talent and the depth of her creativity shocks her classmates and makes them reconsider their behavior. This chapter highlights the harmful effects of bullying and prejudice, and the story’s moral lesson underscores the importance of empathy, kindness, and the recognition of inner qualities over outward appearances.

6. **The Hundred Dresses - II** by Eleanor Estes

   After the drawing contest, Peggy and Maddie, the main bullies, feel guilty for their treatment of Wanda. They decide to visit her home to apologize, only to find that Wanda and her family have moved away to escape the discrimination they faced. This revelation deeply affects Maddie, who resolves to stand up against any form of injustice in the future. Later, the girls receive a letter from Wanda, expressing her forgiveness and gifting her drawings to Peggy and Maddie. This gesture teaches them a valuable lesson in compassion and the impact of their actions on others. Wanda’s forgiveness highlights her generous and kind nature, contrasting sharply with the pettiness of her classmates’ earlier behavior. The story’s conclusion reinforces the themes of empathy, personal growth, and the importance of standing up for what is right, regardless of the consequences.

7. **Glimpses of India**

   - **A Baker from Goa** by Lucio Rodrigues: This nostalgic piece takes readers back to the author’s childhood in Goa, where the baker, or ‘pader,’ was an integral part of village life. The baker’s daily visits, signaled by the jingling of his bamboo staff, brought joy and anticipation to the community. The story highlights the cultural significance of bread in Goan society, the traditional methods of baking, and the enduring legacy of the Portuguese in Goa. It also reflects on the simplicity and charm of village life and the fond memories of childhood.

   - **Coorg** by Lokesh Abrol: This chapter describes the enchanting beauty of Coorg, a region in Karnataka known for its lush coffee plantations, verdant hills, and vibrant culture. Coorg is portrayed as a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, offering activities like trekking, rafting, and wildlife spotting. The chapter also delves into the history and heritage of the Coorgi people, known for their bravery and hospitality. The description of Coorg’s natural splendor and cultural richness paints a vivid picture of this idyllic destination.

   - **Tea from Assam** by Arup Kumar Datta: The narrative takes readers on a journey through the tea gardens of Assam, exploring the origins and cultural significance of tea. The chapter provides insights into the labor-intensive process of tea cultivation and production, from plucking the leaves to processing them in factories. It also highlights the economic importance of the tea industry in Assam and the role of tea in everyday life. The author’s descriptive writing brings to life the scenic beauty of the tea gardens and the aroma of freshly brewed tea, making readers appreciate the effort behind every cup of tea they enjoy.

8. **Mijbil the Otter** by Gavin Maxwell

   The author recounts his unique experience of adopting an otter named Mijbil, or Mij, while in Iraq. Mij’s playful and curious nature quickly endears him to Maxwell, leading to numerous adventures and misadventures. The story describes the challenges of caring for an otter, including Mij’s escapades and his eventual adjustment to life in London. Maxwell’s affectionate and detailed portrayal of Mij highlights the deep bond that can form between humans and animals. The narrative also touches on the broader themes of wildlife conservation and the joy of discovering the natural world through the eyes of an animal. Mij’s antics, from turning the bathroom into a play area to his fascination with water, add humor and charm to the story. Maxwell’s observations about Mij’s behavior and personality provide readers with a deeper understanding of otters and their needs, emphasizing the importance of respecting and protecting wildlife.

9. **Madam Rides the Bus** by Vallikannan

   Eight-year-old Valli, filled with curiosity and a sense of adventure, dreams of riding the bus that passes by her village. Determined to experience the world beyond her home, she meticulously plans and saves money for the journey. On the day of her adventure, Valli boards the bus alone and is thrilled by the sights and sounds of the journey. Her excitement and wonder are palpable as she observes the bustling life outside her village. Valli’s innocence and naivety are evident in her interactions with the bus conductor and passengers. Despite her small stature, she displays remarkable independence and confidence. The story takes a poignant turn when Valli witnesses the sight of a dead cow on

 the road, a stark reminder of the harsh realities of life. This moment of realization adds depth to Valli’s character, showing her transition from childlike innocence to a more mature understanding of the world. The narrative beautifully captures the spirit of childhood, the thirst for exploration, and the bittersweet process of growing up.

10. **The Sermon at Benares** by Betty Renshaw

    This chapter recounts the life and teachings of Gautama Buddha, focusing on his first sermon at Benares after attaining enlightenment. The story of Kisa Gotami, a grieving mother who seeks Buddha’s help to revive her dead son, forms the crux of the sermon. Buddha advises her to find a mustard seed from a household that has not experienced death, illustrating the universality of suffering. Through this poignant lesson, Kisa Gotami realizes that death is an inevitable part of life and finds solace in Buddha’s teachings. The sermon emphasizes the Buddhist principles of detachment, acceptance, and the impermanence of life. It underscores the importance of compassion, understanding, and the quest for inner peace. Buddha’s message of the Middle Path, avoiding extremes of indulgence and asceticism, resonates as a guide to living a balanced and meaningful life. The chapter highlights the timeless wisdom of Buddha’s teachings and their relevance in helping individuals cope with loss and find spiritual fulfillment.

11. **The Proposal** by Anton Chekhov

    In this one-act play, Anton Chekhov humorously explores the theme of marriage and the trivialities of human nature. Lomov, a nervous and hypochondriac young man, visits his neighbor, Stepan Stepanovich Chubukov, to propose to his daughter, Natalya. However, instead of a straightforward proposal, a series of comical misunderstandings and arguments ensue over petty issues like the ownership of a disputed piece of land and the superiority of their respective dogs. The arguments escalate, revealing the absurdity and pettiness of the characters. Despite the quarrels, Lomov and Natalya eventually agree to marry, primarily due to their mutual desire for social status and material gain rather than genuine affection. The play satirizes the superficial aspects of marriage and the human tendency to prioritize trivial matters over meaningful relationships. Chekhov’s sharp wit and keen observation of human foibles make “The Proposal” an enduring and entertaining commentary on the complexities of social interactions and matrimonial alliances.

### Poems

1. **Dust of Snow** by Robert Frost

   In this brief yet profound poem, Robert Frost captures a transformative moment in nature. The poem describes how the simple act of a crow shaking snow off a hemlock tree causes the snow to fall on the poet, changing his mood from despondency to appreciation. This seemingly insignificant event has a profound impact on the poet’s outlook, illustrating how small, unexpected moments can bring about a positive change. The crow and the hemlock tree, often associated with darkness and death, contrast with the lightness of the snow, symbolizing the idea that beauty and inspiration can be found in the most unlikely places. Frost’s use of concise language and vivid imagery conveys the theme of finding hope and joy in everyday occurrences, reminding readers of the power of nature to uplift and heal.

2. **Fire and Ice** by Robert Frost

   This poem explores the potential end of the world through the destructive forces of fire and ice, symbolizing desire and hatred respectively. Frost reflects on the dual nature of human emotions, suggesting that both unchecked passion and cold indifference can lead to catastrophic outcomes. The poem’s brevity and stark imagery underscore the intensity of these emotions and their capacity to destroy. By drawing parallels between natural elements and human behavior, Frost invites readers to contemplate the consequences of their actions and the importance of balance. The poem’s contemplative tone and philosophical depth make it a powerful meditation on the darker aspects of human nature and the need for self-awareness and restraint.

3. **A Tiger in the Zoo** by Leslie Norris

   This poem contrasts the life of a tiger in captivity with its natural habitat in the wild. The tiger in the zoo is depicted as confined and restless, pacing back and forth in its cage, longing for the freedom of the jungle. In the wild, the tiger is powerful and majestic, roaming freely and hunting for its prey. The poem evokes a sense of sadness and empathy for the captive tiger, highlighting the ethical dilemmas of keeping wild animals in zoos. Through vivid imagery and a contemplative tone, Norris emphasizes the loss of the tiger’s natural instincts and the impact of human interference on wildlife. The poem calls for a greater appreciation of the natural world and the need to preserve the habitats of wild animals.

4. **How to Tell Wild Animals** by Carolyn Wells

   This humorous poem offers exaggerated and whimsical descriptions of various wild animals, providing readers with entertaining and imaginative ways to identify them. Each stanza introduces a different animal, using rhyme and playful language to describe their distinctive features and behaviors. The poem’s lighthearted tone and creative approach make it both educational and amusing, engaging readers with its clever use of humor and wordplay. Through its playful descriptions, the poem encourages readers to appreciate the diversity of the animal kingdom and the unique characteristics of different species.

5. **The Ball Poem** by John Berryman

   The poem tells the story of a boy who loses his ball and experiences a profound sense of loss. The ball, representing his childhood and innocence, falls into the water, symbolizing the inevitable passage of time and the loss of innocence. The boy’s realization that he cannot retrieve the ball reflects the universal experience of loss and the necessity of moving forward. Berryman’s poignant language and reflective tone capture the boy’s sorrow and the lesson he learns about letting go. The poem emphasizes the importance of resilience and the understanding that losses, though painful, are an integral part of life’s journey.

6. **Amanda!** by Robin Klein

   This poem depicts a young girl named Amanda who is constantly reprimanded by her mother for various behaviors. To escape the constant nagging, Amanda retreats into her imagination, dreaming of a life of freedom and adventure. She imagines herself as a mermaid, an orphan, and a fairy tale character, each fantasy representing her desire for independence and escape from parental control. Klein’s use of contrasting tones – the mother’s authoritative voice and Amanda’s imaginative musings – highlights the tension between parental expectations and a child’s need for autonomy. The poem underscores the importance of allowing children to express themselves and the impact of excessive control on their creativity and self-esteem.

7. **Animals** by Walt Whitman

   Whitman’s poem expresses admiration for the simplicity, honesty, and contentment of animals, contrasting them with the complexities and hypocrisies of human beings. The poet envies the animals’ ability to live in harmony with nature, free from the burdens of materialism, greed, and pretense. Through vivid imagery and a contemplative tone, Whitman reflects on the virtues of living a simple and authentic life. The poem calls for a return to a more natural and sincere way of being, valuing the qualities of integrity and contentment that animals exemplify. It challenges readers to reconsider their own lives and the societal values they uphold.

8. **The Trees** by Adrienne Rich

   In this poem, Adrienne Rich describes the symbolic movement of trees leaving the confines of a house and returning to the forest. The trees’ departure represents a yearning for freedom and the restoration of natural balance. Rich’s imagery evokes a sense of liberation and renewal, highlighting the interconnectedness of humans and nature. The poem also touches on themes of environmental preservation and the need to protect natural habitats. By personifying the trees and their journey, Rich emphasizes the importance of living in harmony with nature and respecting its inherent rights.

9. **Fog** by Carl Sandburg

   This short poem uses the metaphor of a cat to describe the arrival and movement of fog. The fog is depicted as silent, mysterious, and graceful, much like a cat that sits and watches the city before moving on. Sandburg’s concise and evocative language captures the ethereal and transient nature of fog, creating a vivid image in the reader’s mind. The poem’s simplicity and elegance reflect the beauty of natural phenomena and the poet’s ability to find wonder in everyday occurrences. It invites readers to pause and appreciate the quiet, fleeting moments of beauty in the world around them.

10. **The Tale of Custard the Dragon** by Ogden Nash

    This whimsical poem tells the story of Custard, a seemingly cowardly dragon who surprises everyone by displaying unexpected bravery. Custard lives with a group of other pets, including Belinda, a little girl, and her brave companions – a dog, a cat, and a mouse. Despite being teased for his cowardice, Custard proves his worth by bravely defeating a pirate who threatens them. Nash’s humorous and playful language, combined with rhyming verses, creates an engaging and entertaining narrative. The poem subverts the typical dragon stereotype, emphasizing that true courage often lies hidden beneath a timid exterior. It conveys the message that bravery can be found in the most unlikely individuals and situations.

11. **For Anne Gregory** by William Butler Yeats

    This dialogue-based poem explores the theme of superficial beauty versus inner qualities. The poet converses with Anne Gregory, suggesting that true love should be based on inner virtues rather than outward appearance. Anne, a young and beautiful girl, wishes to be loved for who she is, not just for her physical beauty. Yeats uses this conversation to highlight the transient nature of physical attractiveness and the enduring value of inner qualities. The poem encourages readers to look beyond superficial appearances and appreciate the deeper aspects of a person’s character. Through its reflective tone and thoughtful insights, the poem underscores the importance of genuine love and self-worth.