Notes Chapter 1.5 His First Flight Class 10 English Maharashtra Board

Notes For All Chapters – English Class 10

Author: Liam O’ Flaherty

Key Themes:

1. Overcoming Fear:
   • The story revolves around a young seagull’s fear of flying.
   • It highlights the role of courage, hunger, and support in conquering fear.
2. Parental Support:
   • The seagull’s parents motivate and push him to fly, even using tough love.
   • Their guidance plays a crucial role in his success.
3. Self-Discovery:
   • The young seagull realizes his own potential and abilities during his first flight.

Plot Summary:

1. Initial Fear of the Young Seagull:
   • The young seagull is afraid of flying because he feels his wings are too weak.
   • His siblings, despite having shorter wings, have already flown successfully.
   • His parents scold and threaten him, but he remains hesitant.
2. Observing Others:
   • The seagull watches his parents teach his siblings how to fly, catch fish, and survive.
   • He feels isolated and hungry, further intensifying his fear and desperation.
3. Hunger as Motivation:
   • Hunger becomes unbearable as he hasn’t eaten for 24 hours.
   • His mother tempts him with a piece of fish but stops midway, forcing him to dive for it.
4. Taking the First Flight:
   • In desperation, he dives toward the fish and ends up flying unintentionally.
   • The fear of falling transforms into a realization of his ability to fly.
5. Freedom and Joy:
   • The young seagull experiences the joy of flight, soaring and curving through the air.
   • His family joins him in celebrating his success.
   • He learns to float on the sea and receives praise and food from his family.

Key Characters:

1. The Young Seagull:

• Hesitant and afraid, he eventually discovers his potential.

2. The Parents:

• Supportive but strict, they use tough love to encourage him.

3. The Siblings:

• Confident and independent, they serve as an example for the young seagull.

Key Vocabulary:

Ledge: A narrow shelf on a cliff.

Brink: The edge of a steep place.

Cowardice: Lack of courage to face danger.

Devour: To eat hungrily.

Derisively: Mockingly or scornfully.

Soar: To fly high in the sky.

Moral of the Story:

• Fear is natural, but overcoming it leads to growth and success.
• Challenges are opportunities to discover one’s hidden potential.
• Family support plays a crucial role in overcoming life’s obstacles.

Important Quotes:

1. “The great expanse of sea stretched down beneath, and it was such a long way down.”
   • Reflects the young seagull’s initial fear.
2. “Hunger maddened him.”
   • Shows how desperation can motivate action.
3. “He was soaring gradually downwards and outwards.”
   • Marks the moment of self-discovery and confidence.

Key Takeaways:

1. Fear can hold us back, but taking the first step is essential.
2. Tough love and support from loved ones can help us overcome challenges.
3. Success brings freedom, confidence, and joy.