Comprehensive Analysis of ‘Two Stories about Flying’ from NCERT’s ‘First Flight’ for Class 10 CBSE and RBSE

Introduction to ‘Two Stories about Flying’ from ‘First Flight’

“Two Stories about Flying,” part of the “First Flight” textbook for Class X under the NCERT curriculum, comprises two distinct yet thematically similar short stories: “His First Flight” by Liam O’ Flaherty and “Black Aeroplane” by Frederick Forsyth.

A. His First Flight – By Liam O’ Flaherty
This story focuses on a young seagull’s journey towards independence and self-confidence. The narrative is centered around the seagull’s initial fear of flying and how it overcomes its fears to take its first successful flight. The story is a metaphor for the challenges faced during the transition to adulthood and the importance of taking the leap of faith.

B. Black Aeroplane – By Frederick Forsyth
“Black Aeroplane” tells the tale of a pilot caught in a storm and the mysterious guiding figure that helps him navigate to safety. This suspenseful story explores themes of mystery, the unknown, and the relief of overcoming adversity. It’s a gripping narrative that keeps the reader engaged till the very end.

Summary of ‘Two Stories about Flying’ from ‘First Flight’

A. His First Flight – By Liam O’ Flaherty
“His First Flight” is a heartwarming tale of a young seagull learning to fly. Initially terrified of flying, the seagull is stranded on a ledge, watching its family soar. Despite hunger and isolation, its fear prevents it from taking off. Eventually, encouraged by the hunger and the coaxing of its mother, who tempts it with food, the seagull finally musters the courage to spread its wings. The story culminates in the seagull’s successful flight, symbolizing the triumph over fear and the exhilarating freedom that comes with it. The narrative is a touching metaphor for the universal theme of overcoming one’s fears and stepping into the unknown.

B. Black Aeroplane – By Frederick Forsyth
In “Black Aeroplane,” a pilot narrates his mysterious and harrowing flight experience. Flying towards England at night, he encounters a massive storm and loses his way, with no hope of landing safely. In this dire situation, a mysterious black aeroplane appears and guides him through the storm. Miraculously, he lands safely but finds out that no other aeroplane was seen on the radar, making the black aeroplane’s existence a mystery. This story is imbued with themes of mystery and the supernatural, highlighting the human instinct for survival and the unexpected miracles that can appear in dire circumstances.

Both stories in “Two Stories about Flying” encapsulate the essence of human emotions — fear, courage, mystery, and the innate desire to overcome challenges. They serve as perfect metaphors for the struggles one faces in life and the eventual triumph that follows perseverance.

Multiple Choice Questions for ‘Two Stories about Flying’ from ‘First Flight’

1. In ‘His First Flight,’ what is the young seagull afraid of?

• (a) Diving into the sea
• (b) Flying
• (c) Other birds
• (d) His parents
• Answer: (b) Flying

1. What motivates the young seagull to finally attempt to fly?

• (a) His parents’ encouragement
• (b) His hunger
• (c) Seeing his siblings fly
• (d) The threat from predators
• Answer: (b) His hunger

1. What is the primary theme of ‘His First Flight’?

• (a) Family relationships
• (b) Adventure and exploration
• (c) Overcoming fear
• (d) The beauty of nature
• Answer: (c) Overcoming fear

1. Who is the author of ‘Black Aeroplane’?

• (a) Liam O’ Flaherty
• (b) Frederick Forsyth
• (c) Roald Dahl
• (d) J.K. Rowling
• Answer: (b) Frederick Forsyth

1. In ‘Black Aeroplane,’ what unusual event does the pilot encounter?

• (a) A storm
• (b) Engine failure
• (c) A mysterious black aeroplane
• (d) Getting lost
• Answer: (c) A mysterious black aeroplane

1. What is the narrator’s profession in ‘Black Aeroplane’?

• (a) A teacher
• (b) A pilot
• (c) A sailor
• (d) A scientist
• Answer: (b) A pilot

1. What does the ‘Black Aeroplane’ symbolize in the story?

• (a) Danger
• (b) Mystery and the unknown
• (c) Technology
• (d) Speed
• Answer: (b) Mystery and the unknown

1. How does the young seagull feel after his first flight?

• (a) Tired and hungry
• (b) Scared and alone
• (c) Proud and exhilarated
• (d) Confused and lost
• Answer: (c) Proud and exhilarated

1. What is the setting of ‘His First Flight’?

• (a) A mountain range
• (b) A coastal area
• (c) A dense forest
• (d) A city
• Answer: (b) A coastal area

1. How does the story ‘Black Aeroplane’ end?
   • (a) The pilot crashes
   • (b) The pilot safely lands the plane
   • (c) The black aeroplane disappears
   • (d) Both (b) and (c)
   • Answer: (d) Both (b) and (c)

Short Answer Questions for ‘Two Stories about Flying’

1. What is the main lesson the young seagull learns in ‘His First Flight’?

• Answer: The young seagull learns to overcome fear and trust in its abilities.

1. What initially prevents the young seagull from flying?

• Answer: Fear and lack of confidence prevent the young seagull from flying.

1. Who guides the pilot in ‘Black Aeroplane’?

• Answer: A mysterious pilot in a black aeroplane guides him.

1. How does the pilot in ‘Black Aeroplane’ feel during the storm?

• Answer: He feels anxious and scared during the storm.

1. What does the young seagull’s family do to encourage him to fly?

• Answer: They encourage him by calling him and showing him how to fly.

1. What happens to the black aeroplane at the end of the story?

• Answer: It mysteriously disappears after leading the pilot to safety.

1. What is the young seagull’s reaction after his successful flight?

• Answer: He feels thrilled and proud of his achievement.

1. Why is the pilot flying to England in ‘Black Aeroplane’?

• Answer: He is flying to England to see his family.

1. How does the young seagull’s mother encourage him to fly?

• Answer: She tempts him with food, standing just out of reach.

1. What is the setting of ‘His First Flight’?
   • Answer: It is set on a cliff by the sea.

Small Questions with Elaborate Answers for ‘Two Stories about Flying’

1. Explain how the theme of fear and overcoming it is portrayed in ‘His First Flight’.

• Answer: In ‘His First Flight’, fear is depicted as a natural yet conquerable barrier. The young seagull’s initial fear of flying symbolizes the universal apprehension faced when trying something new. His eventual triumph, driven by hunger and parental encouragement, mirrors the process of facing and overcoming one’s fears, leading to growth and independence.

1. How does ‘Black Aeroplane’ explore the theme of the unknown and mystery?

• Answer: ‘Black Aeroplane’ delves into the unknown through the mysterious black plane and the pilot. The uncertainty and fear experienced by the narrator in the storm are compounded by the appearance of the unexplained aircraft. This element of mystery adds suspense and highlights the human instinct to seek guidance in the face of the unknown.

1. Discuss the significance of the family’s role in the young seagull’s first flight.

• Answer: The family in ‘His First Flight’ represents a support system. Their actions, from taunting to tempting with food, mirror how familial pressures and expectations can push one to face fears. The story subtly suggests that while family can encourage and motivate, the ultimate leap must be taken alone.

1. Analyze the ending of ‘Black Aeroplane’ and its implications.

• Answer: The ending of ‘Black Aeroplane,’ where the mysterious plane vanishes, leaves readers pondering its reality. It could symbolize a guardian angel, the pilot’s inner strength, or an hallucination. This open-ended conclusion invites interpretation and reflects on how, in critical moments, one may find inexplicable assistance.

Long Questions with In-Depth Answers for ‘Two Stories about Flying’

1. Analyze the use of symbolism in ‘His First Flight’ and its impact on the story’s message.

• Answer: ‘His First Flight’ utilizes the symbolism of flight to represent personal growth and overcoming challenges. The young seagull’s journey from fear to flight symbolizes a rite of passage, a transition from dependence to independence. This metaphor extends beyond the literal act of flying to encompass broader themes of facing one’s fears and the exhilarating freedom that comes with self-discovery and mastery. The story encapsulates this universal experience, making it relatable and inspiring, as it reflects the journey of overcoming personal barriers to achieve growth.

1. Discuss how ‘Black Aeroplane’ blends reality with elements of fantasy and the effect this has on the narrative.

• Answer: ‘Black Aeroplane’ artfully blends reality with fantasy, creating a narrative that oscillates between a thrilling adventure and a mysterious, almost supernatural, occurrence. The realistic setting of a pilot navigating through a storm contrasts sharply with the appearance of the enigmatic black aeroplane, introducing an element of the supernatural. This blend adds layers to the story, creating a sense of intrigue and suspense. It challenges the reader to question the nature of reality and the unexplained, adding depth to the narrative and engaging the reader in a deeper contemplation of the line between the real and the surreal.