Question 1. Who are the characters in this poem? List their pet names.
The characters are Belinda, a little girl, and her pets: a little black kitten named Ink, a little grey mouse named Blink, a little yellow dog named Mustard, a little pet dragon named Custard, and a pirate.
Question 2. Why did Custard cry for a safe cage? Why is he called the “cowardly dragon”?
Custard wanted a safe cage because he was very scared and cowardly. Unlike the brave others—Belinda like a barrel full of bears, Ink and Blink who can chase lions, and Mustard as fierce as an angry tiger—Custard feared a lot and sought protection.
Question 3. Why did Belinda tickle Custard unmercifully?
Belinda tickled Custard hard because tickling works well on soft-hearted creatures. Though a dragon, Custard was disturbed by it, revealing his cowardice, which made everyone laugh.
Question 4. What poetic devices does the poet use? Name a few.
The poet uses:
- Simile, like “mouth like a fireplace.”
- Repetition, such as the frequent use of “little” in the first stanza.
Question 5. How does the poet describe the dragon in stanza three?
Answer to be done by the reader.
Question 6. What is the rhyme scheme of the poem?
The poem follows the rhyme scheme ‘aabb’.
Question 7. Can you identify some images used in the poem?
Yes, vivid images include “mouth like a fireplace,” “chimney for a nose,” “brave as a barrel full of bears,” “brave as a tiger in a rage,” and “went at the pirate like a robin at a worm.” These phrases evoke pictures and emotions without explicit explanation.
Question 8. Is ‘The Tale of Custard the Dragon’ a serious or light-hearted poem? Explain.
It is a light-hearted and funny poem meant for enjoyment. Its fixed rhyme scheme makes it easy and fun to read. The humor comes from ironic contrasts, like tiny brave animals and a big dragon who is actually cowardly, seeking safety in a cage.
Question 9. Have you heard any modern songs or lyrics that tell a story like this? Share with your class or collect them as a project.
Answer to be done by the reader.