Summary: Poem - The School Boy Notes | Study English Class 8 - Class 8

The poem throws light on the mindset of a school boy. He is unhappy. He loves outdoor life. He hears the birds sing. The blowing of horn by the huntsmen pleases him. He wants to enjoy the company of the skylark. But he can find such joy only on a summer morning.

Instead of living like a free bird, the boy is made to go to school. It makes him sad. He hates going to school because of his cruel old teacher. There the small children spend the day from morning to evening and get disappointed.

Sometimes the boy sits for hours with his head hanging down but he is caged. He finds no joy in reading his book. The school is a cheerless place for him. He gets fed up with the shower of words from his teacher.

The boy compares himself to a bird who is born free to fly and enjoy life but he is caged. He cannot sing in a cage. The boy has the feeling of being a prisoner at school. He is all the time afraid of the teacher. As a caged bird he lets his wings droop down and forgets to share the joy of spring.

The poet calls upon the parents not to be so harsh or cruel to the children. School going kids are as delicate as birds and flowers. They need fresh air and free movement to grow healthy and happy. Keeping them under excess cage will make them unhappy.

If a plant is denied air and is kept in dark, it won’t grow well and never bear fruit.

Notes For the Teacher

• A school is a place where children and teachers assemble every morning to learn from one another. Find out if any child would like to describe school in a different way.
• An interesting discussion on different types of schools, supported by pictures from magazines/newspapers, may ensue — a village school where children are sitting on the floor; another school where they are sitting at long desks; an outdoor lesson under a tree, etc.
• Ask children how they reach school. Do they walk or take a bus, etc.? What problems others in remote areas may face in reaching school on time?
• Any suggestions as to how to make school an interesting and enjoyable place!