A child’s ways of perceiving the world conflicts with an adult’s ways of perception. Discuss with reference to Madam Rides a Bus and From the Diary of Anne Frank. (Class 10 English)
ANS:
Children perceive the world with curiosity, innocence, and a sense of wonder, which often conflicts with the practical and cautious views of adults. In Madam Rides the Bus, Valli, an eight-year-old girl, is excited to explore the world through a bus ride. She plans her bus ride with determination but does not fully understand the harsh realities, like death, which surprises her during the journey. Similarly, in From the Diary of Anne Frank, Anne views life with hope, humour, and honesty, even amid the horrors of war. Her optimism contrasts with the adults’ fear and seriousness, showcasing their differing perspectives.
Detailed Explanation –
Children and adults often perceive the world differently due to their varied levels of experience, innocence, and understanding. This contrast is beautifully illustrated in “Madam Rides the Bus” by Vallikkannan and “From the Diary of Anne Frank” by Anne Frank.
1. Innocence vs. Practicality
- In Madam Rides the Bus, Valli, the young protagonist, views the bus journey as an exciting adventure. She is captivated by the scenery, the thrill of the ride, and the novelty of the experience.
- Child’s Perspective: Curiosity and excitement dominate her thoughts, such as her desire to feel independent and explore.
- Adult’s Perspective: Adults on the bus focus on practical concerns like their destination or daily struggles. They view the journey as mundane.
- In Anne Frank’s Diary, Anne writes with a youthful innocence about the world, often focusing on her personal feelings and relationships, even during war.
- Child’s Perspective: Anne’s optimism and introspection reflect her belief in the goodness of humanity despite the horrors of the Holocaust.
- Adult’s Perspective: The adults around her, like her father Otto Frank, are more focused on survival and the grim realities of their situation.
2. Imagination vs. Realism
- Valli in Madam Rides the Bus fantasizes about the bus journey, planning it meticulously and saving money secretly. She is thrilled by the sights, such as the fields, mountains, and a cow on the road.
- Child’s Perspective: Imagination fuels her dreams and helps her escape the constraints of her small world.
- Adult’s Perspective: For adults, the journey is a means to an end, and they rarely notice the beauty of the surroundings, as they are preoccupied with responsibilities.
- In Anne Frank’s Diary, Anne dreams of a better future and becoming a writer.
- Child’s Perspective: Her youthful dreams remain untouched by the harshness of reality.
- Adult’s Perspective: The adults in hiding argue about food, space, and survival, grounded in the stark realities of their precarious lives.
3. Emotional Reactions
- Valli is naive and untouched by the seriousness of life’s hardships. Even when she sees a dead cow on the road, her reaction is emotional but fleeting.
- Child’s Perspective: Valli feels sadness but quickly moves on, as her focus shifts back to her joy.
- Adult’s Perspective: Adults would likely view the incident with a deeper understanding of life and death, recognizing its broader implications.
- Similarly, Anne Frank reflects on her strained relationships with her mother and others in the annexe.
- Child’s Perspective: Anne’s emotions are intense and often self-centred, focusing on her personal growth.
- Adult’s Perspective: The adults, burdened by stress and fear, sometimes fail to empathize with her emotions.
Conclusion
Children like Valli and Anne demonstrate curiosity, imagination, and optimism that are often overshadowed by the practicality and responsibilities of adults. While children perceive the world with wonder and hope, adults are shaped by experience, leading to a more realistic and sometimes pessimistic view. The contrast between these perspectives highlights the innocence of childhood and the weight of adulthood.