NCERT Solutions for Class 9 English Poem 7 The Duck and the Kangaroo

Short Note:

• Edward Lear was famous for his nonsense verse, and this playful poem tells the imaginative story of a duck who wishes to travel and see the world beyond her pond.

• The duck asks the kangaroo to let her ride on his back so she can hop around the world with him, since she is tired of living only in the muddy pond.

• The kangaroo initially raises practical concerns, such as the cold and the duck's wet, cold feet, but eventually agrees, and the duck wraps her feet in flannel for the journey.

Short Note:

• The poem humorously explores themes of friendship, cooperation and the desire for adventure beyond one's usual, limited surroundings.

• It shows how two very different creatures can help each other overcome their individual limitations - the duck lacks the ability to travel far and fast, while the kangaroo lacks a companion for his journeys.

• The playful, nonsensical tone makes the poem entertaining while subtly encouraging openness to new experiences and unlikely friendships.

Short Note:

• Personification: The duck and the kangaroo are given human qualities such as speech, wishes and practical concerns.

• Humour and Nonsense Verse: The poem's whimsical, imaginative scenario and playful rhymes are characteristic of Edward Lear's comic style.

• Dialogue Form: The poem is structured as a conversation between the two animals, making it lively and engaging.