Textbook Solutions: The Bridge Builder | Buzzword Class 7: Book Solutions, Summaries & Worksheets PDF Download

(A) Answer these questions.

1. 
Ans: The stream that the old man crossed was described as vast, deep, and wide. It had a sullen tide flowing through it. This means that the stream was not just a small or shallow one but a substantial obstacle in the old man's path. It was a significant and challenging natural barrier that he had to overcome.

2.
Ans: The fellow pilgrim tried to stop the old man because he thought the old man was wasting his time and strength by building a bridge. The fellow pilgrim believed that since the old man had already crossed the chasm successfully, there was no need for him to build a bridge at that moment. He was concerned that the old man's effort was futile, as he assumed the old man's journey was nearing its end, and he would not have to cross the same way again.

3. 
Ans: The speaker suggests that the chasm might be a pitfall for the fair-haired youth because it could pose a danger or obstacle for the young traveler. The old man, after hearing the fellow pilgrim's criticism, explains that he is building the bridge for the youth who will follow him on the same path. He wants to ensure that the young traveler does not face the same challenges he did when crossing the chasm. This shows the old man's selfless nature and his concern for the well-being of future generations, demonstrating his wisdom and empathy.

4.
Ans: The first instance that shows the unselfish nature of the old man is when he turns to build a bridge after safely crossing the chasm himself. He is not concerned about his own comfort or safety but is thinking about the future travelers who might need the bridge.
The second instance is when the old man explains to the fellow pilgrim that he is building the bridge for the youth who will follow him. This action demonstrates his selflessness and his willingness to help others, even when he could have chosen to continue his journey without considering the needs of the young traveler.

(B) Think and answer

1.
Ans: The line "Your journey will end with the ending day" has a deeper meaning in the sense that it not only refers to the literal journey of the old man but also carries a symbolic message. It implies that life is finite, and just as each day comes to an end, our entire life's journey will ultimately come to a close. In a broader sense, it serves as a reminder of the impermanence of life and the importance of using our time and efforts wisely to leave a positive impact on the world and help those who come after us.

2.
Ans: The title of the poem, "The Bridge Builder," is justified by the central theme and message of the poem. The poem tells the story of an old man who, after crossing a challenging chasm, decides to build a bridge for the benefit of a young traveler who will follow him. The title reflects the primary role and action of the old man, which is to build a bridge. It symbolizes the idea that we should be bridge builders in our own lives, helping others overcome obstacles and challenges, even if we have already crossed those hurdles ourselves. The poem conveys a message of selflessness and the importance of considering the welfare of future generations, which is precisely what a bridge builder does.