All questions of Poem - The Last Bargain for Class 8 Exam

“An old man came out with his bag of gold”

The man accepted the child’s offer because it made him a free man.

Explanation:

When do houses have shut doors?
- The time of day when houses typically have shut doors is during Noon.
- Many people are indoors during this time for lunch and a break from the day's activities.
- It is common for houses to have their doors shut to keep cool or maintain privacy during the midday hours.
- In some cultures, it is also customary to have a midday rest or siesta, during which doors may be shut for added peace and quiet.
- Therefore, the correct answer to the question is Noon.

“Sword in hand the King came in his chariot”

Understanding the Symbolic Action
The symbolic action that made the speaker feel like a free man is represented by option 'D': "The child hiring the speaker with nothing." This moment encapsulates the essence of freedom and liberation in several ways.
Child's Innocence
- The act of a child hiring the speaker symbolizes pure innocence and untainted joy.
- Unlike adults who often impose conditions and expectations, children operate from a place of simplicity and trust.
Freedom from Constraints
- Hiring someone with "nothing" signifies a lack of materialism and societal pressure.
- The child does not require the speaker to possess wealth or status, emphasizing a sense of freedom from societal norms.
Emotional Connection
- This interaction creates an emotional bond that transcends conventional relationships.
- The speaker feels valued not for what he has, but for who he is, leading to a deeper sense of self-worth.
Symbol of Hope
- The child represents hope and a new beginning.
- By engaging in this innocent transaction, the speaker experiences a refreshing change, feeling liberated from his past burdens.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the act of being hired by a child with nothing symbolizes a profound sense of freedom. It highlights the intrinsic value of human connection, devoid of societal expectations, allowing the speaker to embrace a moment of true liberation. This powerful imagery resonates with the universal desire for acceptance and the joy found in simple, sincere interactions.

The child was playing with sea shells.

The Setting of the Scene
The setting plays a crucial role in establishing the mood and context of any narrative. In this case, the fair maid hiring the speaker with a smile takes place in a flower-filled garden in the evening. Here’s why this setting is significant:
1. Romantic Atmosphere
- A flower-filled garden evokes a sense of beauty and tranquility.
- The evening time adds a layer of romance and serenity, creating a perfect backdrop for interactions.
2. Symbolism of Flowers
- Flowers often symbolize growth, love, and new beginnings.
- The presence of flowers suggests a flourishing relationship between the characters.
3. Contrast with Other Settings
- Unlike a bustling marketplace, which is chaotic and noisy, the garden provides a quiet space for connection.
- A dark and desolate alley would evoke feelings of danger and tension, which is contrary to the positive interaction taking place.
- A crowded city square lacks the intimacy needed for the personal engagement between the maid and the speaker.
4. Emotional Connection
- The garden setting allows for a more intimate exchange, highlighting the warmth of the maid’s smile.
- It suggests a safe and inviting environment where characters can express their feelings freely.
Conclusion
The choice of a flower-filled garden in the evening enhances the narrative by creating a pleasant and inviting atmosphere, setting the stage for an important interaction. This serene backdrop not only reflects the mood of the moment but also contributes to the overall theme of romance and connection within the story.

The young maiden offers to hire him with a smile.

Rabindranath Tagore is the poet of the poem, “The Last Bargain”.