Notes Chapter 4.1 “The World is Mine” Class 10 English Maharashtra Board

Notes For All Chapters – English Class 10

Introduction to the Poem:

• Poet: Joy Lovelet Crawford
• Theme: Gratitude for life’s blessings and self-reflection on the privileges we often take for granted.
• Message: The poet urges readers to appreciate what they have and stop complaining about trivial things.

Summary of the Stanzas:

1. The Girl on the Bus:
   • The poet sees a beautiful girl with silken hair and envies her.
   • However, when the girl gets up, the poet notices she has one leg and uses a crutch.
   • Despite her disability, the girl smiles as she passes by.
   • Lesson: Be thankful for the ability to walk.
   • Key Line: “O God, forgive me when I whine, I have two legs, the world is mine.”
2. The Lad Selling Sweets:
   • The poet meets a charming and polite boy selling sweets.
   • The boy thanks the poet for being kind, revealing he is blind.
   • The poet reflects on the privilege of having sight.
   • Lesson: Appreciate the gift of vision.
   • Key Line: “O God, forgive me when I whine, I have two eyes, the world is mine.”
3. The Blue-Eyed Boy:
   • The poet encounters a blue-eyed child watching others play.
   • The poet encourages him to join, but the child remains silent.
   • It becomes clear that the child cannot hear.
   • Lesson: Be grateful for the ability to hear.
   • Key Line: “O God, forgive me when I whine, I have two ears, the world is mine.”
4. Conclusion:
   • The poet reflects on the blessings of having legs, eyes, and ears.
   • They feel deeply thankful for these simple yet vital abilities.
   • Key Line: “I’m blessed indeed, the world is mine.”

Themes and Lessons:

1. Gratitude:
   • Appreciate the abilities and blessings we have instead of focusing on what we lack.
   • Many people face greater challenges yet remain positive.
2. Empathy:
   • Understand the struggles of others and be kind to them.
   • Small gestures, like kindness and encouragement, can make a difference.
3. Self-Reflection:
   • The poem encourages us to introspect and realize how fortunate we are.

Figures of Speech:

1. Repetition:
   • “O God, forgive me when I whine, I have… the world is mine.”
   • This line emphasizes the poet’s realization and gratitude.
2. Imagery:
   • Visual descriptions like “silken hair,” “hobble down the aisle,” and “eyes of blue” create vivid mental pictures.
3. Apostrophe:
   • The poet directly addresses God with gratitude.
4. Contrast:
   • The poet contrasts their blessings with the disabilities of others to highlight their privileges.

Moral of the Poem:

• The poem teaches us to be content with what we have and avoid complaining about small inconveniences. Gratitude leads to happiness and a fulfilling life.

Key Glossary Words:

1. Whine: To complain in a crying tone.
2. Hobble: To walk with difficulty.
3. Charm: Politeness or attractiveness.
4. Blessed: Fortunate or favored.