KSEEB Class 9 · English (1st language) · KTBS Revised 2024-25
The Pencil's Story
Chapter summary, hard words and model exam answers for Karnataka Board Class 9 English.
Free online summary and notes (Karnataka Board Class 9 English). Read it here, no PDF download needed.
About the author
Parthasarathi is a Tamil poet whose poem "The Pencil's Story" personifies a pencil speaking about its journey from tree to classroom. The translated lyric is popular in Indian textbooks because it links nature, labour, and education in one humble object.
Summary
The pencil recalls being wood in a forest - rooted, growing, part of nature.
The pencil recalls being wood in a forest - rooted, growing, part of nature.
Human labour cuts, shapes, and coats it with graphite lead. It becomes a tool for writing.
Human labour cuts, shapes, and coats it with graphite lead. It becomes a tool for writing.
In a child's fingers it forms alphabets, numbers, and sketches. Each line is shared creation.
In a child's fingers it forms alphabets, numbers, and sketches. Each line is shared creation.
Sharpening removes its body; it grows smaller so knowledge may grow larger.
Sharpening removes its body; it grows smaller so knowledge may grow larger.
Rich or poor, every student may hold a pencil. It democratises learning.
Rich or poor, every student may hold a pencil. It democratises learning.
The pencil asks only to serve until it is too short to hold - devotion without complaint.
The pencil asks only to serve until it is too short to hold - devotion without complaint.
Hard words & meanings
| personification | treating an object as if it could speak and feel |
| graphite | soft black carbon material used for writing |
| transform | to alter completely in shape or purpose |
| sacrifice | losing something valuable for a greater good |
| democratise | to spread access equally among people |
| alphabet | set of letters used in writing a language |
| humble | not proud; simple in status |
| labour | physical or mental effort especially in making things |
| devotion | commitment to helping without seeking praise |
Model exam answers, grammar & audio
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