Skimbleshanks: The Railway Cat
ICSE · Class 10 · English Literature-Treasure Chest ( Poems and Short Stories)
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Get startedWho is Skimbleshanks in the poem?
Answer
Skimbleshanks is the railway cat who is in charge of the Sleeping Car Express. He patrols the train, supervises staff and passengers, keeps order, and is shown as indispensable because the train canno…
Why does the Night Mail not start without Skimbleshanks?
Answer
The train cannot depart until Skimbleshanks is found because he is the one who keeps everything under control. His presence signals that the train is ready to move safely and on time.
What happens when Skimbleshanks appears at the last moment?
Answer
He comes out from the luggage van just before the signal is due, gives one flash of his glass-green eyes, and the signal goes All Clear. This shows that his arrival brings order and allows the train t…
What does Skimbleshanks do on the train?
Answer
He supervises the driver, guards, and bagmen, and also examines passengers in the First and Third class compartments. He watches carefully and notices if anything is wrong, so the train runs smoothly.
What kind of nature does Skimbleshanks show?
Answer
He is strict, alert, and watchful. He does not approve of hilarity and riot, so passengers stay quiet when he is around. His serious nature helps maintain discipline on the train.
What is meant by the phrase 'The Cat of the Railway Train'?
Answer
It means Skimbleshanks belongs to the railway world and works like an important railway employee. The phrase gives him a special identity and shows that he is part of the train’s daily life.
What is anthropomorphism in this poem?
Answer
Anthropomorphism means giving human qualities to an animal. In this poem, Skimbleshanks drinks tea, supervises people, speaks to police, and manages a train like a responsible human worker. This makes…
Why are the passengers comfortable and safe with Skimbleshanks aboard?
Answer
They know that he will handle problems, keep order, and protect them from mice. The poem presents him as a dependable railway cat who makes the journey peaceful and safe.
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