CHAPTER-2
(The Pot Maker & Gifts of Grace: Honouring Our Vocations)

The Pot Maker - Reflect and Respond

Reflect and Respond

I. Look at the pictures given below and identify the vocations. Now, list at least five more vocations.

Answer:

Vocations shown in the pictures:

• Basket Weaver
• Pot Maker (Potter)
• Handloom Weaver
• Carpenter

Five more vocations:

• Blacksmith
• Tailor
• Cobbler (Shoemaker)
• Goldsmith
• Stone Sculptor

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II. Work in pairs. Discuss the following questions and share your answers with your classmates and teacher.

1. What is common among these pictures?

Answer:

All the pictures show people engaged in traditional skill-based occupations. They use their hands, experience, and creativity to make useful products for society.

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2. We refer to such skill-based work as v__ __ a __ __ o __ s.

Answer:

Vocations.

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3. Mention a few differences between handmade and machine-made products.

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Check Your Understanding (Part I)

I. Do you think pot making is easy? If yes, why? If no, why not?

Answer:

No, pot making is not easy. It requires great skill, patience, hard work, and continuous practice. A potter has to collect clay from the riverbank, soften and prepare it, shape it carefully on the wheel, dry it properly, and fire it in a kiln. Even a small mistake in shaping or firing can spoil the entire batch of pots.

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II. Would Sentila be able to fulfil her dream of becoming a pot maker? Explain.

Answer:

Yes, Sentila would be able to fulfil her dream. She was passionate about pot making and never gave up despite facing many difficulties. She secretly observed expert potters, practised regularly, and remained determined to learn the craft. Her dedication and perseverance eventually helped her become a skilled pot maker.

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III. Do you think Mesoba and Arenla would support Sentila? Give a reason.

Answer:

Yes, Mesoba and Arenla would support Sentila. Mesoba defended his daughter before the village council and assured the elders that she would become an excellent pot maker. Although Arenla was initially reluctant because of the hardships of the profession, she later agreed to teach Sentila the traditional craft, showing her support for her daughter's dream.

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Check Your Understanding (Part II)

I. Do you think Onula's support helped Sentila? If yes, why? If no, why not?

Answer:

Yes, Onula's support greatly helped Sentila. She encouraged Sentila when she lost confidence, taught her the correct techniques of pot making, and motivated her to observe her mother's methods carefully. Her guidance gave Sentila the confidence and determination she needed to master the craft.

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II. Sentila observes her mother making pots. What does this tell us about her?

Answer:

Sentila's careful observation shows that she was eager to learn, patient, and highly dedicated. She believed that every small detail was important and learned by closely watching her mother's movements and techniques. This reflects her strong determination to become a skilled pot maker.

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III. Arrange the following events of the story in the correct sequence.

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Critical Reflection

I. Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow.

Extract 1

"Pounding the stubborn clay inside bamboo cylinders to soften it, is also tedious. So many times I've dropped the mould out of sheer exhaustion and have had to start all over again. It takes months to bring out a batch of pots after so much labour. And the reward? A few rupees. But if Sentila learns weaving, she can make much more money besides providing enough cloth for the family. Weaving is not messy like pot making and can be done indoors in all seasons. Also, the time spent on weaving one shawl is much less and the return is handsome."

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1. (i) Choose the correct reason for the given assertion.

Assertion (A): The effort in making pots is far greater than the returns.

Answer: A. The process of pot making is quite tiresome and long, and one hardly earns much.

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2. (ii) Why does Arenla want Sentila to learn weaving?

Answer:

Arenla wants Sentila to learn weaving because it is less tiring, can be done indoors throughout the year, earns more money, and also provides enough cloth for the family. She wishes her daughter to have a better and more comfortable livelihood.

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3. (iii) State one advantage that weaving has over pot making, as per the extract.

Answer:

One advantage of weaving is that it can be done indoors in every season and provides better financial returns in less time.

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4. (iv) Choose the sentence that uses the word 'handsome' in the same way as in the extract.

Answer: B. They will make a handsome profit selling this property.

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5. (v) 'And the reward?' What is the author's purpose of using a question mark here?

Answer:

The question mark is used to emphasise Arenla's disappointment with the poor earnings from pot making. It highlights the contrast between the hard work involved and the very small financial reward.

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Extract 2

"Onula saw her taking out some clay and the implements from her basket quietly. She watched Sentila's clumsy efforts to make a pot and noticed that Sentila was too tense. As a result, the clay seemed unable or unwilling to yield the right shape. When Sentila wearily let the misshapen lump fall flat on the ground, Onula went to her and said, 'Don't worry, little one, I shall teach you how to make a perfect pot.' Sentila watched in amazement as Onula fashioned a beautiful pot and asked her to try again."

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1. (i) Complete the sentence with an appropriate reason.

Answer:

Onula feels Sentila's effort at making a pot is clumsy because she was too tense and lacked confidence while shaping the clay.

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2. (ii) Choose the correct option to complete the following sentence.

'Don't worry, little one, I shall teach you how to make a perfect pot.'

This shows that Onula was C. thoughtful and generous.

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3. (iii) Which among the following is the effect of a cause?

Answer: A. As a result, the clay seemed unable or unwilling to yield the right shape.

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4. (iv) 'Onula fashioned a beautiful pot.' Here, the word 'fashioned' means ________.

Answer: created.

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5. (v) How might Sentila have felt when she saw 'the misshapen lump fall flat on the ground'?

Answer:

Sentila would have felt disappointed, frustrated, embarrassed, and discouraged because all her efforts had failed. However, Onula's encouragement gave her renewed confidence to try again.

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II. Answer the following questions.

1. Describe the process of pot making followed by expert pot makers, as observed by Sentila.

Answer:

Sentila observed that expert pot makers first mixed the clay with water and softened it by pounding it. They then skillfully shaped the clay using their hands and a spatula. After giving the pots their final shape, they dried them in the sun and finally fired them carefully in a kiln. Every step required patience, precision, and experience.

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2. What warning was given to Mesoba by the village council?

Answer:

The village council reminded Mesoba that it was Arenla's responsibility to pass on the traditional skill of pot making to Sentila. They warned that such skills belonged to the community and should be taught to future generations so that the tradition would not disappear.

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3. How did Sentila feel when she failed at pot making even after a year of training with her mother?

Answer:

Sentila felt ashamed, frustrated, and disappointed. Despite practising for a year, she could not make a proper pot, but she did not lose hope and continued trying to achieve her dream.

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4. 'Onula stood there for a long time as if trying to absorb a new phenomenon.' Explain.

Answer:

Onula saw two identical rows of freshly made pots and realised that Sentila had become as skilled as her mother. The pots were so similar that she could not distinguish between them. This remarkable achievement filled her with wonder, and she understood that a new master pot maker had emerged.

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5. 'The tradition and history of the people did not belong to any individual.' What does this symbolise?

Answer:

This statement symbolises that traditional knowledge and cultural heritage are the collective wealth of society. Such skills should be preserved and passed on to future generations rather than being kept as personal property.

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6. What is the significance of the concluding line of the story, 'A new pot maker was born'?

Answer:

The concluding line signifies Sentila's transformation into a skilled pot maker. It marks the success of her hard work, determination, and perseverance. It also symbolises the continuation of a valuable traditional craft from one generation to the next.

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7. What is the role of perseverance in pursuing one's dreams? Elaborate with reference to Sentila.

Answer:

Perseverance is the key to achieving success despite failures and difficulties. Sentila never gave up on her dream of becoming a pot maker. She continued observing expert potters, practised patiently, accepted guidance from Onula, and learnt from her mistakes. Her determination and constant effort finally enabled her to master the art of pot making, proving that sincere hard work and perseverance always lead to success.

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Vocabulary in Context – I

The highlighted words in the lesson describe the tools, raw materials, and processes involved in pot making. Classify the given words as shown below.

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Word Meanings

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Summary

The process of pot making requires different tools, natural raw materials, and carefully performed techniques. Each stage—from preparing the clay to shaping and firing the pots—requires patience, precision, and skill. These tools and materials help potters create strong, beautiful, and useful earthen pots.

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Vocabulary in Context – II

The following words are related to economy, business, and livelihood. Find their meanings and use each word in a meaningful sentence.

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Quick Revision

• Bankrupt → Unable to pay debts.
• Credit → Buy now, pay later.
• Currency → Official money of a country.
• Debt → Money owed to someone.
• Fiscal → Related to government finance.
• Inflation → Increase in prices.
• Investment → Money put in to earn profit.
• Interest → Extra money paid or earned on money.

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Structures in Context – III (1)

Complete the following sentences with suitable noun clauses.

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What is a Noun Clause?

A noun clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb and functions as a noun in a sentence. It can act as the subject, object, or complement of the main clause.

Examples:

• I know that she is honest.
• He explained why he was late.
• We believe that hard work leads to success.

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Structures in Context – III (2)

Read the following sentences from the text. Underline the Main Clause and circle the Subordinate Clause.

Note: Since HTML cannot underline and circle text exactly as in a notebook, the Main Clause is shown using the <u> tag and the Subordinate Clause is enclosed in ( ).

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1.

Arenla took Sentila to the riverbank (where the grey and red clay was found).

Main Clause: Arenla took Sentila to the riverbank.

Subordinate (Relative) Clause: where the grey and red clay was found.

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2.

She started on the next one, and like a sprinter (who had suddenly found momentum).

Main Clause: She started on the next one.

Subordinate (Relative) Clause: who had suddenly found momentum.

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3.

Skills such as pot making, (which not only catered to the needs of the people but also symbolised the tradition and history of the people), did not belong to any individual.

Main Clause: Skills such as pot making did not belong to any individual.

Subordinate (Relative) Clause: which not only catered to the needs of the people but also symbolised the tradition and history of the people.

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Quick Note

Relative (Adjectival) Clause: A relative clause describes or gives more information about a noun in the main clause. It usually begins with words such as who, whom, whose, which, that, where, or when.

Examples:

• The girl who won the prize is my sister.
• This is the village where I was born.
• I read a book that inspired me.

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Structures in Context – III (3)

Complete the following sentences with suitable relative clauses.

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What is a Relative Clause?

A relative clause (also called an adjectival clause) gives additional information about a noun or pronoun in the main clause. It usually begins with a relative pronoun such as who, whom, whose, which, or that, or a relative adverb such as where or when.

Examples

• The girl who won the competition received a prize.
• This is the workshop where the potters make clay pots.
• I read a story which inspired me to work hard.
• The teacher whose guidance helped me is highly respected.

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Remember

• Who → Refers to people.
• Whose → Shows possession.
• Which → Refers to things or animals.
• That → Refers to people or things.
• Where → Refers to a place.
• When → Refers to time.

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Structures in Context – III (4)

(i) Find out some more determiners from the text.

Answer:

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(ii) Fill in the blanks with suitable determiners.

A.

The florist arranged five bouquets for her clients, that were displayed in an elegant floral shop.

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B.

The carpenter crafted two unique tables, and they became the centrepiece in the furniture collection.

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C.

Each of the apprentices in the culinary class demonstrated excellent knife skills during the intense cooking session.

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D.

All of the sculptures were displayed at the art exhibition, showcasing their diverse artistic skills.

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What are Determiners?

Determiners are words placed before nouns to indicate which noun, how many, or whose noun we are talking about.

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Examples

• This pot is beautifully crafted.
• Many villagers admired Sentila's work.
• Her dream was to become a skilled pot maker.
• The clay was carefully shaped into a pot.
• Every artisan should preserve traditional crafts.

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Gifts of Grace: Honouring Our Vocations

Reflect and Respond

I. Given below are four riddles. Read and identify who these people are.

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Check Your Understanding

I. Based on your understanding of the poem, state whether the following statements are True or False. Also, rectify the false statements.

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Explanation

The poem honours people engaged in different vocations such as artisans, carpenters, electricians, boatmen, shoemakers, cooks, designers, and masons. It conveys that every occupation contributes to society and forms an important part of a person's identity. The repeated line "I hear Bharat celebrating, the varied vocations I hear!" reinforces the message that all honest work deserves equal respect and appreciation.

II. Let us appreciate the poem.

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1. Rhyme Scheme and Lineation

(i) Does the poem strictly adhere to a rhyme scheme, or is it in free verse?

Answer:

The poem is written in free verse. It does not follow a fixed rhyme scheme. Instead, it uses repetition, rhythm, and expressive language to celebrate the dignity of different vocations.

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(ii) What is the impact of the varying length of lines in the poem?

Answer:

The varying length of the lines creates a natural rhythm and makes the poem lively and expressive. It allows the poet to describe different occupations effectively while maintaining the reader's interest and emphasising the uniqueness of each vocation.

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(iii) What is the pattern in the structure of most lines of the poem?

Answer:

Most lines begin with the repeated expression "I hear..." followed by the description of a particular vocation and its contribution to society. This repeated pattern gives the poem a musical flow and unifies all the different occupations.

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2. Speaker

(i) Who appears to be the speaker and what is her/his role here?

Answer:

The speaker appears to be a thoughtful observer and admirer of society. The speaker appreciates people engaged in different vocations and reminds readers that every occupation contributes to the progress and prosperity of Bharat and deserves equal respect.

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3. Tone and Mood

(i) Fill in the blanks with suitable options from the box given below.

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4. Imagery

(i) Select any two descriptions from the poem that evoke visual images.

Answer:

• The carpenter carefully shaping wood into beautiful furniture.
• The mason laying bricks and building strong houses and monuments.

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(ii) Fill in the blanks with suitable phrases.

The poem includes auditory imagery through mentions of artisans with lutes, drummers with drums, and the delicious singing of the cook, emphasising the sounds associated with each vocation.

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5. Metaphor

(i) State whether the following sentence is true or false.

Statement: The mention of 'delicious singing' of the cook is a metaphor because it implies that the quality of the singing is so enjoyable or pleasing that it can be equated to the experience of tasting something delicious.

Answer: True.

Explanation: The poet compares the cook's pleasant singing to something delicious without using the words "like" or "as". This creates a metaphor that makes the reader imagine the sweetness and joy of the cook's voice.

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6. Personification

(i) Select the line that tells us that the poet personifies vocations by attributing human-like qualities to them.

Answer:

"I hear Bharat celebrating, the varied vocations I hear!"

This line personifies Bharat by presenting the nation as if it were a living being celebrating the achievements of its people.

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7. Repetition

(i) Why might the poet have begun and ended with the same line—"I hear Bharat celebrating, the varied vocations I hear!"?

Answer:

The repetition of this line emphasises the central idea of the poem—that every vocation deserves honour and respect. It gives the poem a musical quality, reinforces its theme, and leaves a lasting impression on the reader about the dignity of labour.

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8. Alliteration

(i) Identify two examples of alliteration from the poem.

Answer:

• delicious singing (repetition of the 's' sound)
• varied vocations (repetition of the 'v' sound)

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9. Symbolism

(i) Each vocation in the poem symbolises something more than just a job. What does it symbolise?

Answer:

Each vocation symbolises hard work, creativity, dedication, self-reliance, cultural heritage, and service to society. Together, these occupations represent the strength, diversity, unity, and collective progress of Bharat. The poem conveys that every honest profession is valuable and deserves equal respect.

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Critical Reflection

I. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow.

The shoemakers affirming the quality of their work, for the feet that walk, dance, run, jump, return home.

The delicious singing of the cook, or the rhythm of designer, mason, each celebrating what belongs to them and to none else.

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1. The poet says that the shoemakers ‘affirm’ the quality of their work. What does ‘affirm’ refer to here?

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2. What do quality shoes help with, according to the poet?

Answer:

According to the poet, quality shoes help people walk, dance, run, jump, and return home safely and comfortably. They support people in carrying out their daily activities with confidence.

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3. What does ‘return home’ symbolise besides the literal act of returning?

Answer:

Besides its literal meaning, 'return home' symbolises safety, comfort, belonging, peace, and the successful completion of one's daily journey. It reflects the care and responsibility of the shoemaker's work.

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4. Identify the phrase that tells us that every worker's contribution is distinct.

Answer:

"each celebrating what belongs to them and to none else".

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5. Complete the following with suitable words.

"...for the feet that walk, dance, run, jump, return home" refers to the different activities and journeys of human life that are supported by the shoemaker's skilled work.

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II. Answer the following questions.

1. Why does the poet say, "I hear Bharat celebrating, the varied vocations I hear"?

Answer:

The poet says this because every vocation contributes to the progress, culture, and well-being of the nation. Bharat is portrayed as celebrating the dedication, talent, and hard work of people engaged in different occupations, each of whom plays an important role in society.

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2. What does the electrician ‘humming’ while getting ready for work suggest?

Answer:

The electrician's humming suggests happiness, enthusiasm, confidence, and pride in the work. It shows that the electrician enjoys the profession and performs duties with dedication and positive energy.

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3. Explain the significance of the line, "The voice of their vocation is the voice of their identity."

Answer:

This line means that a person's work reflects their identity, character, skills, and contribution to society. Every vocation gives people a unique purpose and earns them dignity and respect. The profession they choose becomes an important part of who they are.

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4. Do you think the role of all the people belonging to different vocations is important in our daily lives? Support your answer with a reason.

Answer:

Yes, every vocation is important because society depends on the combined efforts of people performing different kinds of work. Farmers grow food, teachers educate students, doctors save lives, electricians provide electricity, masons build homes, and artisans preserve our culture. Without any one of these professions, daily life would become difficult.

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5. Why is the poet celebrating all the vocations in the poem? Explain by giving examples from your context.

Answer:

The poet celebrates all vocations because each profession contributes to society in its own unique way. Every worker deserves equal respect for serving the community with honesty and skill. For example, teachers guide students, sanitation workers keep our surroundings clean, nurses care for patients, mechanics repair vehicles, and shopkeepers provide essential goods. Together, they make society function smoothly.

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6. How does the poet use sensory imagery to bring out the beauty of everyday work?

Answer:

The poet uses sensory imagery by describing sounds, movements, colours, and actions associated with different occupations. Expressions such as the musicians playing instruments, the cook's "delicious singing," the humming electrician, and the rhythmic work of artisans help readers hear, imagine, and appreciate the beauty and dignity of everyday work. This imagery makes ordinary occupations appear lively, meaningful, and inspiring.

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Vocabulary in Context

I. People of different vocations are being described in the poem. Match the vocations given in the box below with the descriptions that follow.

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II. Identify the word from Column 2 that is not the synonym of the word given in Column 1.

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Quick Vocabulary Revision

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