Test: My Unknown Friend - Class 7 MCQ

The primary theme of "My Unknown Friend" revolves around the absurdity of social interactions and the unpredictable nature of strangers. The story showcases how appearances can be deceiving and how individuals often overestimate their cleverness in social situations. This theme is illustrated through the narrator's encounter with a well-dressed stranger, highlighting the complexities and humor inherent in human behavior.

The narrator responds to the stranger's greeting with confusion and uncertainty, as he cannot recall the man’s identity despite the stranger's claims of recognition. This sets the stage for a humorous interaction where the narrator must navigate the conversation carefully, illustrating the tension between his pride in his memory and his actual lack of knowledge.

The narrator employs the tactic of mentioning mutual acquaintances to control the conversation with the stranger. By bringing up names like "Billy" and "Pete," the narrator tests the stranger's knowledge while maintaining his own ambiguity. This strategy allows him to manage the dialogue without revealing his confusion, showcasing his intelligence and wit.

The narrator comes to the realization that the stranger has ulterior motives throughout their conversation. Despite the friendly demeanor, the stranger manipulates the situation to his advantage, which ultimately reveals the complexities of social interactions and the potential for deception in seemingly innocent encounters.

The encounter highlights that overconfidence can lead to being outwitted. The narrator, who prides himself on his cleverness and memory, finds himself manipulated by the stranger, demonstrating that even the most self-assured individuals can be vulnerable to deception and should remain cautious in their social dealings.

The suitcase serves as a tool for the stranger's manipulation. When the stranger struggles with the lock and hastily exits the train, it becomes clear that his conversation was a means to an end, illustrating how objects can be intertwined with human interactions and serve ulterior purposes in social exchanges.

 The narrator learns that humility and caution are more valuable than overconfidence, as even clever people can be outwitted by appearances.

Leacock's writing style, characterized by wit and satire, enhances the humor in "My Unknown Friend." His ability to portray everyday situations with comedic charm allows readers to appreciate the absurdities of social interactions, creating a narrative rich in both humor and insight into human behavior.

The narrator's pride in his memory signifies his confidence and self-assuredness. He believes he is capable of remembering everyone he meets, which ultimately sets him up for embarrassment when he fails to recognize the stranger. This aspect of his character reflects a common human tendency to overestimate one's abilities.

The overall message of "My Unknown Friend" emphasizes that appearances can be misleading and that caution is essential in social interactions. The story illustrates how individuals may not be what they seem, and it encourages readers to approach social situations with humility and awareness to avoid being misled or embarrassed.