The Village Blacksmith

"The Village Blacksmith" by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow depicts the life of a steadfast and hardworking blacksmith whose strength and integrity are as solid as the iron he forges. Through vivid descriptions of his daily labor and moments of personal reflection, the poem honors the dignity of honest work and the quiet resilience of an ordinary man. Longfellow’s portrayal of the blacksmith's routine, family devotion, and emotional strength highlights the virtues of self-reliance, humility, and unwavering dedication.

Back from the Brink

"Back from the Brink" by Rita Bannerjee and Maya Khosla examines the intersection of traditional hunting practices and wildlife conservation in northeast India. The narrative follows a group of filmmakers as they document the hunting culture of the Nyshi tribe in Arunachal Pradesh while highlighting the alarming decline in wildlife populations due to overhunting. Through their encounters with local hunters, the authors illustrate the challenges faced by tribal communities and the pressing need for sustainable practices that respect both cultural traditions and ecological integrity. The extract ultimately emphasizes the importance of community action and collaboration in preserving the region's rich biodiversity.

The Battle of Blenheim

"The Battle of Blenheim," written by Robert Southey, is a satirical and poignant poem that critiques the glorification of war, especially one of the most famous battles in British history— the Battle of Blenheim (1704). Through a deceptively simple narrative between an old man and his grandchildren, Southey reveals the horrors of war and questions the value of so-called "victories."

Feelings

"Feelings" by C.J. Heck is a heartfelt poem that captures a child's confusion and sadness when faced with hurtful words from other kids. Through a conversation with their mother, the child learns that bullies often act out of their own unhappiness and that it's important to respond with kindness rather than anger. The poem emphasizes the value of emotional resilience, advising the child to stand up for themselves while choosing happiness over hostility. Simple yet profound, it teaches a lesson about managing difficult emotions with compassion and understanding.