Notes Chapter 3.2 “A Lesson in Life from a Beggar” Class 10 English Maharashtra Board

Notes For All Chapters – English Class 10

Introduction

• Author: Sudha Murthy, an Indian author known for her simple yet impactful stories.
• Theme: Transformation of a pessimist into an optimist through a life lesson from an unlikely source, a beggar.
• Message: Happiness comes from within, and gratitude leads to contentment.

Character Sketches

1. Meena:
   • An LIC officer with a good salary but a chronic pessimist.
   • Always complained about life and had a negative attitude.
   • Lived alone in an apartment and had few friends due to her gloomy nature.
2. Narrator (Sudha Murthy):
   • Meena’s friend who initially found her company depressing.
   • Observed Meena’s transformation years later in Mumbai.
3. The Beggar and His Granddaughter:
   • Lived in front of Meena’s house and showed zest for life despite their hardships.
   • Their joy during a rainy day inspired Meena to change her outlook on life.

Summary of Events

1. Meena’s Initial Pessimism:
   • Meena’s negative attitude spread to others.
   • She criticized people, achievements, and even simple joys like walking in the sun.
2. Meeting Meena in Mumbai:
   • The narrator met Meena years later at Flora Fountain during a rainstorm.
   • Meena appeared cheerful and full of life, a drastic change from her old self.
3. The Beggar’s Impact:
   • One rainy day, Meena saw the beggar and his granddaughter playing joyfully in the rain despite hunger and discomfort.
   • This scene forced her to reflect on her own life and realize she had much to be grateful for.
   • The beggar’s ability to find happiness in dire circumstances inspired her to change her outlook.
4. Meena’s Transformation:
   • Over two years, she adopted a positive attitude, finding happiness in small things.
   • She sponsored the beggar’s granddaughter to a boarding school as a gesture of gratitude.

Important Themes

1. Gratitude:
   • Recognizing one’s blessings instead of focusing on what’s missing.
   • Meena learned to appreciate her privileges compared to the beggar’s life.
2. Happiness from Within:
   • True happiness is independent of external circumstances.
   • The beggar’s joy during the rain exemplified this.
3. Transformation:
   • A negative attitude can be changed with self-reflection and inspiration.
   • Meena’s realization led to a positive and fulfilling life.

Key Lessons

1. Optimism vs. Pessimism:
   • Optimists find hope in difficulties, while pessimists see the worst in every situation.
   • The beggar represented optimism despite hardships, while Meena learned to overcome her pessimism.
2. Role Models in Life:
   • Inspiration can come from unexpected sources, such as the beggar in this story.
   • Meena considered the beggar her guru (teacher).
3. Finding Joy in Small Things:
   • Everyday moments, like enjoying the rain, can bring happiness if one has the right attitude.

Significant Quotes

1. “A beggar changed my life.”
   • Highlights the profound impact the beggar had on Meena’s outlook.
2. “They were totally drenched and totally happy.”
   • Symbolizes the beggar’s ability to find joy despite adversity.
3. “I found I had more to be grateful for than most people could imagine.”
   • Reflects Meena’s realization of her blessings.

Figures of Speech

1. Metaphor: “A beggar changed my life.”
   • The beggar symbolizes a teacher who imparts life lessons.
2. Imagery: “They were totally drenched and totally happy.”
   • Evokes a vivid image of joy and contentment amidst rain.
3. Contrast: Meena’s earlier negativity vs. her later positivity.