Class 10 English Chapter 1 Question Answers - First Flight

Q1. Why do you think Custard, the dragon, was called a coward? How was Custard able to save all his housemates from the pirate? What values should Belinda have possessed so that custard could have been among her favourites?
Ans: The dragon was seen as a coward because he often cried for a safe cage. However, when a pirate entered the house with pistols in both hands, everyone else fled in fear, while Custard faced the pirate bravely. He attacked the pirate with his strong tail and gobbled him up completely. Belinda should have treated Custard with kindness. Instead of laughing at him with her other pets, she should have made him feel comfortable and safe in their home. Being more protective towards him would have helped Custard feel valued and appreciated.

Q2. Everyone believed that Custard was a coward, but when an opportunity came he showed exemplary courage. Based on your reading of the poem, write a paragraph on the topic: 'Courage is a Mind, not a Muscle.'
Ans: In 'The Tale of Custard the Dragon', Custard is first seen as a cowardly dragon, frightened even by mice. However, when his friends are in danger, he bravely confronts the threat, demonstrating that courage is more about mindset than physical strength. This change in Custard shows that true character is revealed during crises. Thus, the poem illustrates that courage is not a muscle to be flexed, but an inner quality that can be developed through experience and self-reflection.

Q3. Why did Custard cry for a nice, safe cage? Why is the dragon called the 'cowardly dragon'? How did he prove everyone wrong?
Ans: Custard cried for a nice, safe cage because he was afraid of the pirate who entered the house. The dragon is referred to as the 'cowardly' dragon because he lacks the bravery shown by the other characters in the poem, such as Belinda, Ink, Blink, and Mustard. However, Custard proves everyone wrong by bravely confronting the pirate and ultimately defeating him. This act of courage demonstrates that, despite being labelled a coward, Custard is capable of heroic actions when it truly matters.

Q4. Despite being so powerful and displaying rare bravery by killing and swallowing the pirate, why does the dragon Custard taunt as being a coward, always asking for a nice safe cage?
Ans: Custard, the dragon, is often ridiculed by Belinda's other pets, despite his great strength and bravery. He has shown remarkable courage by defeating a pirate who attacked him. The reason for the taunting is not due to a lack of physical power but rather Custard's low self-esteem and confidence. The other pets, particularly the kitten, belittle him, insisting he is cowardly and should remain in a safe cage. This constant mockery has led Custard to doubt his own abilities, making him feel that a cage offers him protection. Although he is physically strong, his lack of self-respect and awareness of his own capabilities causes him to seek safety in a cage. Thus, he is seen as a coward, even though his actions prove otherwise. In summary, Custard's true strength and bravery are overshadowed by his feelings of inadequacy, resulting in his desire for a safe cage and the ridicule he faces from the other pets.

Q5. 'Bravery is spontaneous.' Explain concerning the poem.
Ans: Custard the dragon displayed true bravery without boasting like Belinda and her other pets. Unlike them, Custard faced real danger when he confronted the pirate. He proved his courage by not running away and ultimately defeating the pirate. This illustrates that bravery and courage are shown when someone encounters a dangerous situation. Therefore, these qualities can be seen as spontaneous, as demonstrated by Custard's actions.

Q6. Evaluate Ogden Nash’s ‘The Tale of Custard the Dragon’ as a ballad. What message does the poet give to the readers in this poem?
Ans: Ballads are stories told in verse, often focusing on adventures and heroism. In Ogden Nash's poem, the encounter between Custard and the pirate reflects this traditional spirit. The poem consists of four-line stanzas with a consistent aabb rhyme scheme. Through Custard's fate, the poet conveys a subtle message: in a world filled with deceit, qualities like self-confidence, self-dependence, and self-respect are essential for earning your rightful place among peers. Physical strength alone is insufficient; it is crucial to be aware of your own strength. The poem suggests that those who are weaker should not have the right to mock or belittle you.

Q7. Custard was discriminated against, bullied, and made fun of. Such behaviour often has a disastrous impact on the victims and leaves a permanent scar on their minds. Write the opinions of Wanda and Mandela on this issue.
Ans: Wanda: I believe that the way Custard was discriminated against, bullied, and made fun of was entirely unfair and unacceptable. Such behaviour can have a severe impact on the victim's mental health, and it is crucial to take a stand against it. The victim should never be blamed for what happened, and the bullies must be held accountable for their actions. 
Nelson Mandela: I firmly believe that no one should face discrimination, bullying, or ridicule, regardless of their appearance, abilities, or personality. It is essential to foster a culture of respect and understanding, where everyone is valued for who they are. Victims should be supported and empowered to stand up against their bullies, while the bullies should be educated and given a chance to change their behaviour.

Q8. When the pirate attacked Belinda, three of her brave friends—Ink, Blink and Mustard—ran away. Only Custard fought with the enemy. Based on your reading of the poem, write a paragraph on the topic: 'A Friend in Need is a Friend Indeed.'
Ans: A Friend in Need is a Friend Indeed is a well-known proverb that is exemplified in the poem 'The Tale of Custard the Dragon.' In this poem, Belinda has several friends: Ink, Blink, Mustard, and Custard, who is a dragon. When a pirate attacks Belinda, three of her friends flee in fear, leaving only Custard to confront the enemy. This act of bravery shows that Custard is a true friend, standing by Belinda when she needs help the most. In life, many people may claim to be our friends, but true friends are those who support us through challenges. A genuine friend is always there for us, whether we need emotional support, practical assistance, or even protection. Custard exemplifies this by risking his life to defend Belinda from danger. This poem teaches us the importance of valuing true friendships and being there for our friends during difficult times. In conclusion, 'The Tale of Custard the Dragon' reinforces the idea that A Friend in Need is a Friend Indeed.