CBSE Class 12 English Chapter 6: Poets and Pancakes NCERT Solutions

Here are the meanings of the words and expressions inferred from the context of the chapter:

• blew over: To pass without causing any lasting harm or effect; to be forgotten or disregarded. In the context, it suggests a situation or criticism that was intense but temporary.
• was struck dumb: To be rendered speechless, usually due to surprise, shock, or awe. It implies a state of being unable to react or speak.
• catapulted into: To be suddenly and forcefully propelled or thrust into a situation or state. It suggests a rapid and often unexpected transition.
• a coat of mail: A protective garment made of metal rings or plates, historically worn by warriors. In a figurative sense, it can mean a strong defense or protection against criticism or attack.
• played into their hands: To act in a way that unintentionally benefits an opponent or adversary. It means to give someone an advantage through one's actions.
• the favourite haunt: A place that a person or group visits frequently; a regular gathering spot. It refers to a preferred or common location.
• heard a bell ringing: This idiom suggests that a sound or experience has triggered a vague or indistinct memory, often something from the past that is not fully recalled but felt.

The writer uses the phrase 'fiery misery' to describe the intense discomfort and suffering experienced by actors when they were subjected to the make-up process. This discomfort was primarily caused by the heat generated from the powerful lights used in the make-up studios, which made the actors feel miserable and overheated.

The author refers to the make-up division of Gemini Studios as a prime example of national integration. This department was a microcosm of India's diversity, comprising individuals from various regions and religious backgrounds working together. The department was led by a Bengali, succeeded by a Maharashtrian, and included staff members such as a Dharwar Kannadiga, an Andhra, a Madras Indian Christian, an Anglo-Burmese, and local Tamils, showcasing a harmonious blend of different communities.

The 'office boy' in Gemini Studios was responsible for applying make-up to the actors who played the crowd scenes. During crowd shooting days, he would mix his paints in a large container and quickly apply them to the faces of the extras. He had joined the studios with grand ambitions, hoping to become a star actor, a screenwriter, a director, or a lyricist. However, he was deeply disappointed because his aspirations never materialized, and he remained confined to his role as an 'office boy'.

The author appeared to be doing nothing at the studios because his assigned job was to cut out newspaper clippings on a wide variety of subjects and meticulously store them in files. This task often involved copying information by hand. To the casual observer, who might only see him tearing up newspapers, his work seemed trivial or non-existent, leading them to believe he was idle.

The office boy was frustrated because, despite having a promising start and possessing literary talent, he remained stuck in his position as an 'office boy'. He felt his potential and good formal education were being wasted. He expressed his frustration and anger towards Kothamangalam Subbu, who was the second-in-command at Gemini Studios.

Subbu's principal, in the sense of his boss or the head of the institution he worked for, was Mr. S. S. Vasan. Mr. Vasan was the founder and proprietor of Gemini Studios.

Subbu was described as a many-sided genius, and his special abilities included:

1. Maintaining Cheerfulness: He had the remarkable ability to remain cheerful and positive at all times, regardless of the circumstances.
2. Loyalty and Creativity: His profound sense of loyalty meant he dedicated his entire creativity to benefiting his principal, making film production significantly easier for Mr. Vasan.
3. Literary and Acting Talent: Subbu was not only inclined towards literature, being a poet and novelist, but he was also an amazing actor.
4. Charitable Nature: He possessed a generous and loving disposition towards others.

The legal adviser was referred to as 'the opposite' by others because, despite his official title, his actions were counterproductive and did not benefit anyone. He was known for inadvertently ruining the career of a promising young actress, which led others to believe his role was detrimental rather than helpful, hence the ironic nickname.

The lawyer stood out distinctly from the other staff members at Gemini Studios primarily due to his attire. While most employees wore the conventional uniform of a khadi dhoti paired with a slightly ill-fitting white khadi shirt, the lawyer was notable for wearing Western clothing, including pants, a tie, and occasionally a coat.