Moments The Beggar - NCERT Solutions

CBSE Class 09 English Language and Literature
NCERT Solutions
Moments Chapter 10
The Beggar

Page No: 67 Think About It
1. Has Lushkov become a beggar by circumstance or by choice?
Ans: Lushkov has become a beggar by circumstance. Formerly, he sang in a Russian choir, but was sent away because of his regular drinking habit.To make his both ends meet ,he started to beg.

2. What reasons does he give to Sergei for his telling lies?
Ans: Lushkov gives reasons to Sergei that since he was fired for being an alcoholic, he had to tell lies. And, if he would tell ,the people would not give him any alms.

3. Is Lushkov a willing worker? Why, then, does he agree to chop wood for Sergei?
Ans: No, Lushkov is not a willing worker. He agrees to chop wood for Sergei not because he was hungry and wanted work but because Sergei had caught him telling lies to him and Lushkoff felt ashamed . His conscience pushed him to work for Sergei.His strength had been undermined by drinking too much vodka and he was unhealthy and did not feel the slightest inclination to do any work.

Page No: 68
4. Sergei says, “I am happy that my words have taken effect.” Why does he say so? Is he right in saying this?
Ans: When Sergei got Lushkoff to work for him the first time, he wasn't a willing worker. But after chopping wood for Sergei and helping him move houses, Sergei noticed that Lushkoff had developed a willingness to work. On seeing this, Sergei felt content that because of his timely advice ,Lushkov could get rid of begging and has become financially independent.He is now on the right path and that he wouldn't have to beg again for a living. If Sergei had not helped Lushkoff, he would still be telling lies and begging on the streets.



5. Lushkoff is earning thirty five roubles a month. How is he obliged to Sergei for this?
Ans: Lushkoff is obliged to Sergei.Had there been no encounter with Sergei, Lushkov would have still been begging on the streets.Sergei gives him an opportunity of meeting Olga. The whole incident has changed the way Lushkov thinks about his future.His stint with Sergei and Olga gives him a new lease of life and helps him in getting a decent job where he earns thirty five roubles a month.