Chapter 3 - The Rocking-horse Winner

Given below is the dictionary meaning of
Smirk: to smile in a silly or unpleasant way that shows that you are pleased with yourself.
Look up the dictionary for the following words which are also related to facial expressions and write down the meaning of each

Explain the following phrases

a. Sure as eggs
b. Spinning yarns
c. Turned to dust

'A bird in hand is worth two in the bush'.

a. Explain the above statement in the literal sense.
b. Explain it in the context in which it is mentioned in the story.

 The ending of the story is an instance of irony. Suppose Paul had not died at the end, how would you have reacted to the story?

How has the author linked the symbol of the rocking-horse to Paul's triumphs at the races?

 Examine the communication channels in the story between

a. Paul and his mother
b. Paul and Bassett
c. Paul and his uncle
d. Basset and Paul's uncle
e. Paul's mother and his uncle

 What were the voices that Paul heard? Did they lead him to success in the real sense?

 Although Paul's mother liked to be rich she did not approve of betting on horses.

Luck is necessary for success in life'.

 Paul's final bet his family richer but cost him his life. Explain.

 What was the reason for the anxiety of Paul's mother as he grew older?

 What was the reason for the anxiety of Paul's mother as he grew older?

Why do you think Paul's mother was not satisfied with the yearly birthday gift of 1,000 pounds for five years.

What was the reason for young Paul's restlessness at the beginning of the story? How did it find expression?