Back to: West Bengal Board Class 6th English Guide and Notes
Table of Contents
Introduction
In this poem, Pyle tells the story of a kite overcoming its fears to fly high in the sky as a way of teaching readers a lesson about being brave and trying new things, even when they are scared. Pyle’s approach works because she embodies it in a narrative without being overly didactic or heavy-handed.
About the poet
Katherine Pyle (1863-1938) an American artist, poet, and children’s author were born in Wilmington, Delaware. Her first major success occurred in 1898 with The Counterpane Fairy. In the course of her career, she wrote over 30 books and illustrated the works of the others.
Theme
Through the poem, children are able to witness the little kite move from fear of the untried to the discomfort of trying something new to the thrill of succeeding.
Stanza 1
"I never can do it,” the little kite said, As he looked at the others high over his head; “I know I should fall if I tried to fly.” “Try,” said the big kite; “only try! Or I fear you never will learn at all.” But the little kite said, “I‘m afraid I’ll fall.”
The kite was afraid of flying in the sky, he felt that he can never do it. He saw the other kites flying high and felt if he tried, he would fall down. The big kite tries to encourage the small one and tries to convince him to at least make an attempt but the little kite was too frightened.
Stanza 2
The big kite nodded: “Ah, well, good-bye; I am off”; and he rose toward the tranquil sky. Then the little kite’s paper stirred at the sight, And trembling he shook himself free for flight. First whirling and frightened, then braver grown, Up, up he rose through the air alone, Till the big kite looking down could see The little one rising steadily.
The big kite gave up and bid farewell as he knew it was of no use trying to encourage the little kite. Seeing the big kit fly off, the little one gathered a little courage and trembling shook himself free for flight. First, the little kite was nervous but he grew braver and rose up in the air. Now, even the big kite could see the little one rising steadily.
Stanza 3
Then how the little kite thrilled with pride, As he sailed with the big kite side by side! While far below he could see the ground, And the boys like small spots moving round. They rested high in the quiet air, And only the birds and clouds were there. “Oh, how happy I am!” the little kite cried; “And all because I was brave, and tried.”
The Little kite felt proud for being able to fly along with the big kite. He was flying so high that he could see the ground and the boys seemed to him so little that they appeared like a dot to him. Both the kites rested high in the air and only birds and clouds were their companions. The little kite was extremely happy for being brave and trying to fly.
