Form pairs or groups and discuss the following questions.
1. This story is not an Indian story. But do you think there are fathers, mothers and grandmothers like the ones portrayed in the story in our own country?
2. Was Kezia’s father right to punish her? What kind of a person was he?
You might find some of these words useful in describing him:

undemonstrative	loving	strict	hardworking
responsible	unkind	disciplinarian	short-tempered
affectionate	caring	indifferent

 

1. Even though the story is not an Indian one, we can closely associate with it because the characters portrayed are not unusual in the Indian context. Ours is a patriarchal society and authoritative fathers like Kezia's are a standard. Similarly, suppressed wives and mothers, and doting grandmothers are commonly found in Indian households.

2. While it was imperative to make Kezia realise her mistake and to teach her a lesson, her father should have tried to understand the child's position as well.

Kezia's father comes across as a strict disciplinarian who ordered things around in the house. As a short-tempered person, he punishes Kezia for her mistake. However, it would be wrong to call him unkind since towards the end of the story we find him to be an affectionate and loving father. He is not indifferent; rather, as a responsible father who works hard all day long, he does not get time to show his love and care.

(A model answer has been provided for students' reference. It is strongly recommended that students prepare the answer based on their own experience and understanding.)