The Martyr’s Corner By R.K. Narayan is a beautiful Story of AHSEC Class 12 Alternative English (Harmony: An Anthology of Prose and Poetry) Chapter 4. Here you will find Brief Summary of the poem and a detailed Question Answer of The Martyr’s Corner Question Answer with additional And Important Questions for Upcoming 2024 Examination.
📌 Complete Notes of Alte. English
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Rasipuram Krishnaswami Narayan (1906-2001), popularly known as R.K. Narayan, is a doyen of Indian writing in English of the twentieth century. In an active writing career spanning more than half a century, Narayan published novels, short story collections, non-fiction as well as translations of Indian epics. Apart from his novels and stories, he is fondly remembered for 'Malgudi', a fictional South Indian town that is the setting for most of his work. The present story is taken from the collection Lawley Road and Other Stories (1956).
SUMMARY
The Martyr's Corner' is a short story that depicts the flourishing trade of a food vendor, Rama, and presents the negative impact a political riot has on his business. The story begins with Rama's 'establishment', a makeshift stall he puts up at a crucial juncture on the Market Road. Between eight and ten every evening, he sets up the stall, sells his goods and then departs, earning ten rupees. A neat sum of three hundred rupees a month, which even graduates of the time struggled to earn, prompts some to remark casually about Rama's eamings, but they fail to see the hard work Rama puts in throughout the day. At 8:15 in the evening, Rama punctually arrives at his spot carrying so much of load on him that it would seem as if he has four arms. When he puts up his display, mostly an assortment of snacks, nobody can pass by without casting a longing look at the food. The story places a premium on the location of his stall, which is central to the success of his business. While it lies at a sweet spot directly in line of the cinema-going crowd, it is also comfortably accessible to The people swarming the pavement-boot-polish boys, beggars, grass-selling women, and jutka-drivers. It seems as if all the earnings of men and women in that area comes to Rama at the end of the day. His customers also patronize him for the cheap price of the items as well for the freedom they could exercise in closely scrutinising the items before consumption. Though Rama violates: accepted norms of hygiene, for the consumers of his food, it does not seem to be a matter of concern. He also displays smart business acumen as he manages to keep policemen and health officials at bay by presenting them with occasional packets of his titbits. In a nutshell, he with his wife leads a happy and contented life. In this part of the story, Narayan presents a vivid and empathetic picture of a typical small town in post-independent India.
In the remaining part of the story, the routine life of Rama is altered by something he does not anticipate. Rama arrives one evening at his usual spot to find a fight brewing between two factions. It is a political fight, which soon turns into a free-for-all as knives are brandished, soda bottles are used as missiles and shops are looted. The police try to control the situation initially, but eventually open fire, resulting in casualties. When the next day Rama is forced to set up his stall at a distance, he least expects that worse was to follow. One day, after the return of normalcy, Rama is restrained from putting up his stall at his usual spot by some young men who claim that the municipality had handed over the corner to them for erecting a memorial for their leader who succumbed to police bullets on the night of the riot. Forced to move two hundred yards down the road, Rama goes outside the ken of his usual customers. With the number of patrons dwindling, Rama's earnings also start to decline. Then finally, one night, he declares to his wife that their business is now finished. He takes up a job as a waiter at a restaurant and sometimes derives satisfaction by reminiscing about the time when he too was a hotel owner once.
Assam Board Class 12 Alternative English Chapter 4 The Martyr’s Corner Questions Answers for 2024
QUESTIONS FROM TEXTBOOK
A. State whether these sentences are True or False.
1. Rama liked serving women.
Ans:False. Rama disliked serving women.
2. Rama lived in a lane behind the market.
Ans:True. Rama lived in a lane behind the market.
3. Soda bottles were used as missiles during the riot.
Ans:True. Soda bottles were used as missiles during the riot.
4. Rama came in time to catch the cinema crowd coming out after the night show.
Ans: True. Rama came in time to catch the cinema crowd coming out after the night show.
B. Answer these questions in one or two words.
1. What did Rama give free with every item?
Ans: Chutney.
2. Whose arm searched for the perfect duck's egg?
Ans: Wrestler's
3. Where did Rama sleep?
Ans: Pyol.
4. How much did four chapatis cost?
Ans: An anna.
5. Where did Rama work as a waiter?
Ans: Restaurant.
C. Answer these questions in a sentence or two.
1. At what time did Rama wake up every day?
Ans: Rama woke up whenever the cock in the next house crowed, which could be as early as three in the morning
or
Rama woke up early in the morning, usually around dawn or when the cock in the next house crowed.
2. What did Rama sell?
Ans: Rama sold snacks and beverages at his roadside stall.
3. Who were Rama's customers?
Ans: Rama's customers were mainly the people who passed by his stall, including locals and tourists.
4. Why did the riot break out?
Ans:The riot broke out due to a disagreement between two groups, leading to escalating tensions and eventual violence.
D. Answer these questions briefly.
1. Why did Rama's customers like him?
Ans: Rama's customers liked him because he offered affordable prices for his goods, such as coffee for six pies and four chappatis for an anna. They also appreciated his generosity and the fact that he allowed them to pick and choose their items after proper scrutiny.
2. Briefly describe Rama's attitude towards the boot-polish boys.
Ans:- Rama had a sympathetic and compassionate attitude towards the boot-polish boys. He felt sorry for their difficult lives and poverty, and he wished that customers would be more generous in paying them. He had a soft corner in his heart for these waifs.
3. Why did Rama have to move his stall two hundred yards away?
Ans:- Rama had to move his stall two hundred yards away because a memorial was erected at his original spot where a leader had fallen during a violent incident. The spot became a holy place, and the municipality handed it over to the congregation for the memorial, forcing Rama to relocate.
4. What did Rama's wife do upon his arrival at night?
Ans:- Upon Rama's arrival at night, his wife would open the door of their home and take from him all his encumbrances. She would then retrieve the cloth bag hanging from his neck, which contained the day's earnings. She would count the cash and separate the gains, putting them away in a little wooden box.
E. Answer these questions in detail.
1. Describe, in detail, how Rama's business was finished.
Ans:- Rama's business came to an unfortunate end due to a series of events. Firstly, the municipality moved his stall two hundred yards away from its original spot due to the construction of a memorial. This new location was less favorable and resulted in a significant drop in customers. Additionally, a new shop opened nearby, offering similar goods at lower prices, further diminishing Rama's customer base.
Furthermore, Rama's health began to decline, and he lost his energy and enthusiasm for the business. He became dispirited and started neglecting his stall, resulting in poor maintenance and a decline in the quality of his goods. As a result, his already dwindling customer base dwindled even further.
Moreover, Rama's customers started vanishing gradually. Some of them moved away, while others found alternative options closer to their new homes. The remaining customers were not enough to sustain Rama's business, and the lack of demand eventually led to its downfall.
In the end, Rama's business was finished due to a combination of factors: the relocation of his stall, competition from a nearby shop, his declining health, and the gradual loss of his customer base.
2. Do you think that Narayan has depicted many aspects of typical Indian way of life? Write a persuasive answer.
Ans:- Yes, Narayan has indeed depicted many aspects of typical Indian way of life in his works. His writing provides a vivid portrayal of Indian culture, traditions, values, and social dynamics. Through his storytelling, he captures the essence of everyday life in India and presents it in a relatable and engaging manner.
Narayan's works often revolve around ordinary characters and their experiences, reflecting the lives of common people in India. He explores themes such as family relationships, societal norms, religion, and the struggles of individuals in the face of social and economic challenges. His stories delve into the complexities of Indian society, including its caste system, customs, and the influence of tradition on people's lives.
Moreover, Narayan's writing style incorporates humor, wit, and irony, which are integral aspects of Indian storytelling and conversation. He infuses his narratives with cultural references, local idioms, and colloquial language, capturing the nuances of Indian speech patterns and adding authenticity to his portrayal of Indian life.
Narayan's works have been celebrated for their universal appeal while remaining rooted in the Indian context. His stories provide valuable insights into the diverse aspects of Indian culture and offer readers a glimpse into the intricacies of everyday life in India.
Overall, Narayan's depiction of the typical Indian way of life is persuasive and comprehensive, making his works resonate with readers both within and outside of India.
ADDITIONAL QUESTION ANSWER
Very Short Type Question Answer:
1. What was Rama's initial reaction to the relocation of his stall?
Ans:- Rama was initially upset and frustrated by the relocation of his stall.
2. How did the opening of a new shop near Rama's stall affect his business?
Ans:- The opening of the new shop led to a decline in Rama's customer base as they were attracted by lower prices.
3. How did Rama's declining health contribute to the downfall of his business?
Ans:- Rama's declining health resulted in a lack of energy and enthusiasm, leading to neglect of his stall and a decline in the quality of his goods.
4. What were some reasons for Rama's customers disappearing gradually?
Ans:- Some customers moved away, while others found alternative options closer to their new homes, causing a gradual loss of Rama's customer base.
5. How did Rama's wife react upon his arrival at night? Ans:- Rama's wife warmly welcomed him and attended to his needs.
6. What role did Rama's son play in the management of the stall?
Ans:- Rama's son assisted in running the stall and helped with customer service.
7. How did Rama's relationship with the boot-polish boys evolve over time?
Ans:- Initially distant, Rama developed a friendly and caring attitude towards the boot-polish boys, treating them as his own children.
8. What steps did Rama take to attract new customers after the relocation of his stall?
Ans:- Rama offered discounts, improved the quality of his services, and implemented marketing strategies to attract new customers.
9. How did Rama's financial situation change as his business declined?
Ans:- Rama faced financial hardships, struggling to make ends meet and falling into debt.
10. Did Rama's wife contribute to the financial stability of their family?
Ans:- Yes, Rama's wife took up stitching work to supplement the family income and support their livelihood.
11. How did Rama's reputation in the community affect his business?
Ans:- Rama's good reputation as a trustworthy and hardworking person initially attracted customers, but as his business declined, his reputation suffered.
12. What impact did the changing economic conditions have on Rama's business?
Ans:- The changing economic conditions, including inflation and increased competition, further hampered Rama's ability to sustain his business.
13. How did Rama's emotional state affect his interactions with customers?
Ans: - Rama's emotional distress and frustration often led to irritable behavior, causing some customers to be discouraged from visiting his stall.
14. Did Rama seek any support or assistance to revive his business?
Ans:- Rama reached out to friends and family for help, seeking advice and financial assistance, but with limited success.
15. How did Rama's relocation impact his relationship with neighboring stall owners?
Ans:- Rama's relocation strained his relationships with neighboring stall owners, as they saw him as competition and were not supportive of his presence in the new location.
16. What steps did Rama take to attract customers to his stall?
Ans: - Rama tried various marketing techniques such as offering discounts, improving the presentation of his goods, and providing exceptional customer service to attract customers.
17. How did Rama's financial situation contribute to the closure of his business?
Ans: - Rama faced financial difficulties due to declining sales and increasing expenses, making it challenging for him to sustain his business and eventually leading to its closure.
18. Did Rama consider diversifying his business or exploring new opportunities?
Ans: - Rama contemplated diversifying his business by introducing new products or services, but limited resources and market constraints hindered his ability to pursue such options.
19. How did the absence of regular customers affect Rama's motivation?
Ans:- The absence of regular customers demotivated Rama, making it harder for him to maintain his enthusiasm and dedication to his business.
20. Did Rama receive any support from the local community during his hardships?
Ans:- While some members of the local community expressed sympathy for Rama's situation, there was limited tangible support offered, further adding to his challenges.
Long Answer Type Question Answer:
Q1: How did Rama's relocation of the stall affect his business in the long run?
Ans:- The relocation of Rama's stall proved detrimental to his business in the long run. The new location, two hundred yards away from its original spot, resulted in a significant loss of customers. The distance made it inconvenient for his regular patrons to visit the stall, leading to a decline in foot traffic and sales. Moreover, the new location lacked the familiarity and visibility of the previous spot, making it difficult for Rama to attract new customers. As a result, his business gradually declined, causing financial hardships and a sense of frustration for Rama.
Q2: How did Rama's deteriorating health impact his relationship with customers?
Ans:- Rama's deteriorating health had a negative impact on his relationship with customers. As his health declined, Rama lacked the energy and enthusiasm to maintain the same level of service and attention to detail. He could no longer provide the quick and efficient boot-polishing services that his customers had come to expect. This led to a decline in the quality of his work, and customers began to notice the difference. As a result, they started seeking alternative options for boot-polishing, causing Rama to lose his loyal customer base gradually. Additionally, Rama's declining health made him less present and engaging with customers, further diminishing their connection and trust in his services.
Q3: How did the opening of a new shop near Rama's stall impact his business?
Ans:- The opening of a new shop near Rama's stall had a significant impact on his business. The new shop offered lower prices for boot-polishing services, attracting Rama's customers who were seeking more affordable options. The competitive pricing drew customers away from Rama's stall, leading to a decline in his customer base and overall revenue. Moreover, the new shop's location, being in close proximity to Rama's stall, provided added convenience for customers, making it more enticing for them to choose the new establishment. The competition posed by the new shop, combined with the attractive pricing and convenience factor, created a challenging environment for Rama's business, further contributing to its downfall.
Q4: What were some factors contributing to the gradual disappearance of Rama's customers?
Ans:- Several factors contributed to the gradual disappearance of Rama's customers. Firstly, some of his customers moved away due to various reasons such as job relocations or changes in residence. The physical distance made it difficult for them to continue visiting Rama's stall regularly. Secondly, the opening of the new shop near his stall enticed customers with lower prices, drawing them away from Rama's business. The competitive pricing and convenience of the new establishment made it an attractive choice for customers. Lastly, Rama's declining health and the subsequent decline in the quality of his services played a crucial role in customers seeking alternative options. As they noticed a drop in the standards of his work, they gradually shifted their loyalty to other boot-polishing services.
Q5: How did Rama's wife support him in his business endeavors?
Ans:- Rama's wife played a supportive role in his business endeavors. Upon his arrival at night, she warmly welcomed him and attended to his needs. She understood the challenges Rama faced in running the stall and offered emotional support during difficult times. Additionally, she actively participated in the management of the household affairs, allowing Rama to focus on his business. She would assist him in preparing the boot-polishing materials, ensuring they were readily available. Her involvement helped streamline the operations of the stall and contributed to the efficiency of Rama's business. Furthermore, she provided encouragement and motivation to Rama, reminding him of his skills and capabilities, instilling confidence in him during moments of self-d
oubt.
Q6: How did Rama's declining health affect the quality of his goods?
Ans:- Rama's declining health had a direct impact on the quality of his goods. As his health deteriorated, he lacked the energy and stamina to maintain the same level of meticulousness and attention to detail. This resulted in a decline in the standard of his boot-polishing services. The once impeccable shine and finish of the shoes gradually became lackluster, disappointing his customers. Rama's declining health prevented him from dedicating the necessary time and effort to ensure the highest quality of workmanship. This decline in quality was noticeable to his customers, who started seeking alternative options for boot-polishing services that could offer a better result. Thus, Rama's health issues directly influenced the deterioration of the quality of his goods, further contributing to the decline of his business.
Q7: How did Rama's relationship with the boot-polish boys evolve over time?
Ans:- Rama's relationship with the boot-polish boys evolved from initial indifference to a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect. Initially, Rama viewed the boys as a nuisance, considering them a hindrance to his business. However, as time went by, he started recognizing their hard work and determination. Rama began appreciating their presence and the value they added to his stall, as their polished shoes served as a testament to his boot-polishing skills. He even started offering them occasional treats as a gesture of gratitude. This evolving relationship fostered a sense of teamwork and cooperation between Rama and the boys, leading to a more harmonious and productive atmosphere around the stall.
Q8: How did Rama's declining health affect his overall business operations?
Ans:- Rama's declining health had a significant impact on his overall business operations. As his health deteriorated, he lacked the physical strength and stamina to carry out the necessary tasks efficiently. His energy levels diminished, resulting in a decline in his productivity. Rama struggled to maintain the same level of service and attention to detail, causing a drop in the quality of his goods. Moreover, his declining health affected his ability to attract and engage with customers. Rama appeared less present and enthusiastic, which made it challenging to build and maintain relationships with his clientele. Ultimately, the decline in his overall business operations contributed to the gradual downfall of his business.
Q9: How did Rama's relocation to a new spot affect his connection with existing customers?
Ans:- Rama's relocation to a new spot had a negative impact on his connection with existing customers. The distance of two hundred yards from the original location created inconvenience for his regular patrons, making it difficult for them to visit the new spot. This physical separation weakened the bond between Rama and his existing customers, reducing their frequency of visits. As a result, the personal connection and familiarity that Rama had built with his customers over time started to diminish. The lack of regular face-to-face interactions made it harder for Rama to maintain strong relationships with his existing customers, leading to a gradual decrease in their loyalty and support.
Q10: How did Rama's financial situation contribute to the decline of his business?
Ans:- Rama's financial situation played a significant role in the decline of his business. As his business suffered from a loss of customers and declining sales, his income dwindled. This financial strain made it challenging for Rama to invest in necessary improvements for his stall or purchase high-quality boot-polishing materials. The lack of resources and financial stability further hindered his ability to compete with other businesses in the area. Rama's financial limitations restricted his options for marketing, advertisement, or attracting new customers. Ultimately, the financial difficulties added to the overall challenges Rama faced in sustaining his business, making it increasingly difficult to recover and regain stability.
Q11: How did Rama's stall relocation affect his sense of identity and self-worth?
Ans: Rama's stall relocation had a profound impact on his sense of identity and self-worth. The move to a new spot, away from his familiar surroundings, disrupted the established identity he had built around his stall. Rama had been known and respected by his regular customers in the original location, and the relocation made him feel disconnected and invisible. The loss of his loyal customer base and the decline in his business eroded his self-esteem and confidence. Rama's stall was not just a source of income but also a representation of his skills and craftsmanship. The relocation shattered this sense of identity, leaving Rama feeling disheartened and undervalued.
Q12: How did the lack of community support impact Rama's business?
Ans: The lack of community support had a detrimental impact on Rama's business. In his new location, Rama did not receive the same level of recognition and support from the local community as he did in his previous spot. The community members did not actively promote or recommend his services to others, resulting in a limited word-of-mouth marketing effect. This lack of community support deprived Rama of potential customers and opportunities to expand his clientele. Additionally, without a strong support network, Rama struggled to overcome the challenges he faced, both in terms of competition and personal setbacks. The absence of community backing compounded the difficulties he encountered, contributing to the decline and eventual closure of his business.
Q13: How did Rama's wife's role as a pillar of emotional support influence his business journey?
Ans: Rama's wife's role as a pillar of emotional support played a crucial role in his business journey. Her unwavering encouragement and belief in Rama's abilities helped him navigate the challenges he faced. During times of self-doubt and frustration, her reassuring presence reminded Rama of his skills and motivated him to persevere. Her understanding of the hardships of running a stall and her willingness to actively participate in the household affairs allowed Rama to focus on his business. This support system alleviated some of the emotional burden Rama carried, enabling him to dedicate his energy to the stall. Ultimately, Rama's wife's role as a source of emotional support provided him with the strength and resilience necessary to sustain his business for as long as he could.
Q14: How did the changing socioeconomic landscape impact Rama's business?
Ans:: The changing socioeconomic landscape had a significant impact on Rama's business. As the area around his stall experienced transformations and shifts in demographics, it influenced the demand for his services. The movement of customers to new residential areas resulted in a loss of his regular clientele. Additionally, changes in income levels and consumer preferences affected the willingness of customers to spend on luxury services like boot-polishing. Rama found it challenging to adapt to these changes, and his business suffered as a result. The evolving socioeconomic landscape presented new challenges that Rama struggled to overcome, ultimately contributing to the decline of his business.
Q15: How did Rama's relationship with the boot-polish boys change over time, and what impact did it have on his business?
Disclaimer: The aforementioned notes are meticulously curated to serve as a valuable reference for students. However, we strongly advise students to exercise due diligence by independently verifying the information presented. While we strive to provide the utmost accuracy and reliability in our content, we cannot warrant or guarantee its absolute correctness. Therefore, any reliance placed on these notes is at the sole discretion and risk of the students. In our unwavering commitment to excellence, we welcome and appreciate your feedback regarding any discrepancies or oversights in the provided material. Your input allows us to continuously enhance the quality and integrity of our premium notes. It is important to remember that academic success is multifaceted, and we encourage students to supplement their studies with various academic resources and guidance prescribed by their educational institutions.