Questions and Answers
Q1. What purpose does the first sentence serve?
A: It introduces a sad and gloomy situation, likening happiness to rain that never comes.
Q2. Can you guess what story Ivan was about to tell Bourkin?
A: It’s about two brothers pursuing happiness in different ways.
Q3. How do you feel when it rains?
A: I feel sad and gloomy; I prefer sunshine.
Q4. Describe Aliokhin’s appearance.
A: Tall, stout, about 40, with long hair, dusty face, muddy boots, and wearing simple, grimy clothes.
Q5. Why couldn’t Aliokhin bathe regularly?
A: He had no time.
Q6. How did Ivan respond to the rain?
A: He swam joyfully, splashing, diving, and shouting with glee.
Q7. When did Ivan start narrating his story?
A: After bathing, in the evening, as they sat dressed and relaxed in the drawing-room.
Q8. How did the brothers spend childhood after their father’s death?
A: In the countryside, like peasants’ children, working in fields and fishing.
Q9. Comment on Ivan’s view of “a man needs only six feet of land.”
A: Six feet is for a corpse; a man needs much more to live.
Q10. “To leave town for a farmhouse is not life – it is egoism.” Do you agree?
A: Yes, life should be spent exploring the world and using one’s talents.
Q11. What was the difference between Ivan and Nicholai’s attitudes towards life?
A: Nicholai passionately loved the countryside, while Ivan appreciated it without such intensity.
Q12. What was Nicholai’s dream?
A: Living in the countryside with gooseberry bushes, fresh air, and a peaceful life.
Q13. Mention advantages of country life.
A: Fresh air, tranquility, outdoor activities, and healthier surroundings.
Q14. ‘Fixed goals help achieve success.’ What’s your opinion?
A: Agreed. Goals provide direction and make efforts purposeful.
Q15. What sacrifices did Nicholai make for his goal?
A: He lived frugally, dressed poorly, and saved every penny.
Q16. How would you feel if you achieved less than you dreamed?
A: I would feel sad and disappointed.
Q17. What were Nicholai’s ‘good works’?
A: Treating peasants with soda, castor-oil, and holding thanksgiving services.
Q18. Why were sour gooseberries delicious to Nicholai?
A: They were his own, fulfilling his dream.
Q19. Was Nicholai happy? How do you know?
A: Yes, his fulfilled dream brought him tears of joy.
Q20. What distinction did Ivan make between the happy and the unhappy?
A: The happy feel their happiness; the unhappy silently bear their burden.
Q21. What was Ivan’s view on freedom?
A: Freedom is essential, like air, and must be immediate.
Q22. Why did Ivan struggle to live in town after visiting his brother?
A: The town’s peace and quiet oppressed him, reminding him of his loneliness.
Q23. What change in attitude came over Ivan?
A: He sought forgiveness, realizing his mistakes.
Q24. How can happiness be achieved?
A: By realizing one’s dreams, though happiness varies from person to person.