What role does Skimbleshanks play on the Night Mail train?

Skimbleshanks acts as the overseer, ensuring everything runs smoothly and that the train can depart on time.

Fill in the blank: Skimbleshanks is often described as having ___ eyes that signal everything is in order.

Glass-green

True or False: Skimbleshanks is a minor character in the poem, contributing little to the train's operation.

False. Skimbleshanks is a vital character whose presence is essential for the train’s departure and smooth operation.

How does the presence of Skimbleshanks affect the behavior of the passengers?

Passengers are quiet and respectful in his presence, indicating that he commands authority and ensures order.

What does the phrase 'You can play no pranks with Skimbleshanks!' suggest about his character?

It suggests that he is a figure of authority who is not to be taken lightly, and his presence suppresses disorder.

Fill in the blank: The poem highlights Skimbleshanks’s ability to monitor everyone on the train, making him resemble a ___ figure.

Surveillance

Discuss the anthropomorphism depicted in the character of Skimbleshanks.

Skimbleshanks is given human traits, such as drinking tea and supervising, which elevate him from a mere cat to a figure of authority and power.

What do the passengers know they can rely on Skimbleshanks for?

They can rely on him to handle any issues, such as keeping the train free from mice and ensuring they have a comfortable journey.

Fill in the blank: The poem's setting includes various locations like Crewe and Carlisle, which indicates the train travels across ___.

The UK

What themes are explored through the character of Skimbleshanks in the poem?

Themes of absolute control, surveillance, suppression of dissent, and the inescapable presence of authority are explored.

True or False: Skimbleshanks only appears at night and is not involved during the day.

False. He is continuously present and active, ensuring order around the clock.

How does Eliot depict the comfort of the train berths in the poem?

He describes them as neat, well-maintained, and equipped with amenities, highlighting the passengers' comfort under Skimbleshanks's watch.

What is the significance of Skimbleshanks’s interactions with the stationmaster and police?

These interactions showcase his role as a crucial figure in maintaining order and assisting with train operations at various stops.

Fill in the blank: The character of Skimbleshanks ensures that the Night Mail train can only leave when he is present, indicating his role in the train's ___ operations.

Essential

What does the poem suggest about the relationship between authority and comfort in the context of the train journey?

It suggests that while authority, represented by Skimbleshanks, ensures safety and order, it may also suppress freedom and joy among the passengers.