Class 10 English First Flight Poem 10 Question Answer

Class 10 English First Flight Poem 10 Question Answer | The Tale of Custard the Dragon

Welcome to HSLC Guru. In this article, we provide a complete set of questions and answers for Class 10 English First Flight Poem 10 – The Tale of Custard the Dragon by Ogden Nash. This poem is an important part of the ASSEB (Assam State Board of Secondary Education) Class 10 English syllabus. Here you will find the poem explanation, central idea, textbook solutions (Thinking about the Poem), additional short and long answer questions, MCQs, extract-based questions, literary devices, and character sketches to help you prepare thoroughly for your HSLC examination.

About the Poet

Frederic Ogden Nash (1902-1971) was a famous American poet well known for his light, humorous verse. He was born in Rye, New York, and is regarded as one of the best writers of humorous poetry in the English language. Nash had a unique style of writing that included unconventional rhymes, made-up words, and playful misspellings to create comic effects. He wrote over 500 pieces of comic verse and published more than 20 volumes of poetry. His works often appeared in The New Yorker magazine. Some of his famous collections include Hard Lines, I’m a Stranger Here Myself, and Everyone But Thee and Me. “The Tale of Custard the Dragon” is one of his most popular and beloved poems.

Poem Explanation (Stanza-by-Stanza)

Stanza 1

Belinda lived in a little white house,
With a little black kitten and a little grey mouse,
And a little yellow dog and a little red wagon,
And a realio, trulio, little pet dragon.

Explanation: The poem opens by introducing the main characters. Belinda is a little girl who lives in a small white house. She has several pets: a little black kitten, a little grey mouse, a little yellow dog, and a little red wagon. Most importantly, she has a pet dragon that the poet describes as “realio, trulio” (really, truly), emphasising that the dragon is real. The repetition of the word “little” creates a sense of smallness and innocence, establishing the light-hearted and fairy-tale-like tone of the poem. The made-up words “realio, trulio” are an example of Ogden Nash’s poetic license, adding humour and a playful quality to the verse.

Stanza 2

Now the name of the little black kitten was Ink,
And the little grey mouse, she called him Blink,
And the little yellow dog was sharp as Mustard,
But the dragon was a coward, and she called him Custard.

Explanation: In this stanza, the poet reveals the names of Belinda’s pets. The black kitten is named Ink, the grey mouse is called Blink, and the yellow dog is named Mustard because he is as sharp (clever and alert) as mustard. However, the dragon is named Custard because he is a coward. The name “Custard” suggests something soft and mild, in contrast to what one would expect from a fearsome dragon. This stanza sets up the central irony of the poem — a dragon, traditionally a symbol of power and ferocity, is presented as the most timid character.

Stanza 3

Custard the dragon had big sharp teeth,
And spikes on top of him and scales beneath,
Mouth like a fireplace, chimney for a nose,
And realio, trulio daggers on his toes.

Explanation: Despite being a coward, Custard the dragon has a very fearsome physical appearance. He has big, sharp teeth and spikes on the top of his body with scales underneath. His mouth is compared to a fireplace (a simile suggesting he can breathe fire), and his nose is compared to a chimney (a metaphor suggesting smoke coming out). His toes are described as sharp as daggers. The phrase “realio, trulio” is repeated here to emphasise that the daggers on his toes are genuinely sharp and dangerous. The contrast between his terrifying appearance and his cowardly nature creates humour.

Stanza 4

Belinda was as brave as a barrel full of bears,
And Ink and Blink chased lions down the stairs,
Mustard was as brave as a tiger in a rage,
But Custard cried for a nice safe cage.

Explanation: This stanza contrasts the supposed bravery of Belinda and her other pets with Custard’s cowardice. Belinda is described as being as brave as “a barrel full of bears” (a simile with alliteration). Ink and Blink are so brave that they chase lions down the stairs. Mustard is as brave as “a tiger in a rage” (another simile). However, Custard, the largest and most fearsome-looking creature among them, merely cries for a nice safe cage. This contrast highlights the irony and sets the stage for the later reversal when true bravery is tested.

Stanza 5

Belinda tickled him, she tickled him unmerciful,
Ink, Blink and Mustard, they rudely called him Percival,
They all sat laughing in the little red wagon
At the realio, trulio, cowardly dragon.

Explanation: Because of Custard’s timid nature, Belinda and her other pets mock and bully him mercilessly. Belinda tickles him “unmerciful” (without mercy), and Ink, Blink, and Mustard rudely call him “Percival.” The name Percival is an allusion to Sir Percival, one of the Knights of the Round Table in Arthurian legend. Here it is used mockingly to highlight Custard’s perceived cowardice — they are sarcastically comparing the cowardly dragon to a legendary knight. They all sit laughing at Custard in the little red wagon. The repetition of “realio, trulio” before “cowardly dragon” adds to the humour.

Stanza 6

Belinda giggled till she shook the house,
And Blink said Weeck! which is giggling for a mouse,
Ink and Mustard rudely asked his age,
When Custard cried for a nice safe cage.

Explanation: The mockery of Custard continues. Belinda laughs so hard that the house shakes (hyperbole). Blink the mouse giggles in his own way, saying “Weeck!” — a made-up word (onomatopoeia) that the poet describes as what giggling sounds like for a mouse. Ink and Mustard rudely ask Custard’s age, implying that he is behaving like a baby. All of this happens whenever Custard cries for a nice safe cage, showing how his desire for safety is a constant source of amusement for the others.

Stanza 7

Suddenly, suddenly they heard a nasty sound,
And Mustard growled, and they all looked around.
Meowch! cried Ink, and ooh! cried Belinda,
For there was a pirate, climbing in the winda.

Explanation: The poem takes a dramatic turn. Suddenly, a nasty sound is heard. Mustard growls in alarm, and everyone looks around. Ink cries out “Meowch!” and Belinda cries “Ooh!” in shock because they see a pirate climbing in through the window. The word “winda” is a deliberate misspelling of “window,” used by the poet to maintain the rhyme scheme (winda rhymes with Belinda). The repetition of “suddenly” creates suspense and urgency. The arrival of the pirate is the moment of real danger that will test everyone’s supposed bravery.

Stanza 8

Pistol in his left hand, pistol in his right,
And he held in his teeth a cutlass bright,
His beard was black, one leg was wood;
It was clear that the pirate meant no good.

Explanation: The poet gives a vivid description of the pirate. He carries a pistol in each hand and holds a bright cutlass (a short sword) between his teeth. He has a black beard and a wooden leg — both stereotypical features of pirates in literature. The last line, “It was clear that the pirate meant no good,” states the obvious in a humorous understatement, making it clear that the pirate has come with evil intentions.

Stanza 9

Belinda paled, and she cried Help! Help!
But Mustard fled with a terrified yelp,
Ink trickled down to the bottom of the household,
And little mouse Blink strategically mouseholed.

Explanation: When real danger arrives, the supposedly brave characters show their true colours. Belinda turns pale with fear and cries for help. Mustard, who was described as being as brave as a tiger, runs away with a terrified yelp. Ink the kitten “trickled” down to the bottom of the house (the word “trickled” is used cleverly, as ink trickles). Blink the mouse “strategically mouseholed” — meaning he ran into a mouse hole. The word “strategically” is used humorously, suggesting Blink’s retreat was a planned tactical move rather than cowardice. All the characters who boasted of their bravery are now revealed as cowards.

Stanza 10

But up jumped Custard, snorting like an engine,
Clashed his tail like irons in a dungeon,
With a clatter and a clank and a jangling squirm,
He went at the pirate like a robin at a worm.

Explanation: In a dramatic reversal, the “cowardly” Custard rises to the occasion. He jumps up, snorting like an engine (simile), and clashes his tail like irons in a dungeon (simile). The words “clatter,” “clank,” and “jangling” are examples of onomatopoeia, creating vivid sound imagery of Custard preparing for battle. He charges at the pirate “like a robin at a worm” (simile), suggesting that for Custard, defeating the pirate is as easy as a bird catching a worm. This is the turning point of the poem, where the supposedly cowardly dragon shows true bravery.

Stanza 11

The pirate gaped at Belinda’s dragon,
And gulped some grog from his pocket flagon,
He fired two bullets, but they didn’t hit,
And Custard gobbled him, every bit.

Explanation: The pirate is shocked (gaped) at the sight of the fierce dragon charging at him. He nervously gulps some grog (an alcoholic drink) from his pocket flagon (a small bottle) to steady his nerves. He fires two bullets at Custard, but they miss. Custard then swallows (gobbled) the pirate completely, eating “every bit” of him. The ease with which Custard defeats the pirate is humorous and emphasises that Custard’s true nature is far more courageous than anyone believed.

Stanza 12

Belinda embraced him, Mustard licked him,
No one mourned for his pirate victim.
Ink and Blink in glee did gyrate
Around the dragon that ate the pirate.

Explanation: After Custard defeats the pirate, everyone celebrates. Belinda embraces Custard, Mustard licks him affectionately, and no one mourns for the pirate. Ink and Blink dance (gyrate) around Custard in joy and delight (glee). The same characters who had mocked and bullied Custard are now celebrating him. Nobody feels sorry for the pirate — the focus is entirely on the joy of being saved. This stanza shows how quickly attitudes change when someone proves their worth.

Stanza 13

But presently up spoke little dog Mustard,
I’d have been twice as brave if I hadn’t been flustered.
And up spoke Ink and up spoke Blink,
We’d have been three times as brave, we think,
And Custard said, I quite agree
That everybody is braver than me.

Explanation: Despite being saved by Custard, the other pets quickly begin to downplay his bravery. Mustard claims he would have been twice as brave if he had not been “flustered” (confused or nervous). Ink and Blink claim they would have been three times as brave. These are clearly empty boasts meant to restore their pride. Custard, ever humble, agrees with them and says, “I quite agree that everybody is braver than me.” This shows Custard’s gentle and modest nature. The stanza has a different rhyme scheme (aabbcc) compared to the usual aabb pattern, which draws attention to this important moment. The irony is sharp — those who ran away from the pirate now claim they would have been even braver than the one who actually fought.

Stanza 14

Belinda still lives in her little white house,
With her little black kitten and her little grey mouse,
And her little yellow dog and her little red wagon,
And her realio, trulio little pet dragon.

Explanation: The final stanza mirrors the opening stanza, bringing the poem full circle. Life returns to normal. Belinda still lives in her little white house with all her pets. The repetition of the first stanza at the end suggests that despite the heroic act, nothing has really changed. Custard is still regarded as the “little pet dragon,” and the others probably continue to make fun of him. The poem ends on a note of gentle irony — the true hero remains humble and underappreciated.

Stanza 15

Belinda is as brave as a barrel full of bears,
And Ink and Blink chase lions down the stairs,
Mustard is as brave as a tiger in a rage,
But Custard keeps crying for a nice safe cage.

Explanation: The poem ends with a repetition of the fourth stanza. Everyone goes back to boasting about their bravery, and Custard goes back to crying for a nice safe cage. The poet uses the change in tense from “was” to “is” and from “cried” to “keeps crying” to show that this situation is ongoing. The message is clear: despite proving his courage, Custard remains humble and continues to be mocked. The poem’s final irony is that those who are truly brave do not need to boast, while those who are actually cowardly never stop boasting. Things go back to the way they were, and the true hero remains unrecognised.

Central Idea of the Poem

The central idea of “The Tale of Custard the Dragon” revolves around the contrast between appearance and reality, particularly regarding bravery. Through the humorous story of Belinda and her pets, the poet Ogden Nash conveys the message that true courage is revealed only in times of real danger, not through empty boasting. While all the other characters boast about their bravery and mock Custard for being a coward, when actual danger arrives in the form of a pirate, it is Custard alone who rises to the occasion and defeats the threat. The poem teaches us that we should not judge others based on appearances or words alone. Those who talk the most about being brave are often the first to run when danger strikes. Real bravery lies in action, not in words. The poem also highlights the themes of bullying, hypocrisy, and ingratitude — after Custard saves everyone, the other pets immediately begin to downplay his heroism and claim they would have been even braver.

Thinking about the Poem (NCERT Textbook Questions and Answers)

Q1. Who are the characters in this poem? List them with their names.

Ans: The characters in the poem are:

Belinda — a little girl who lives in a small white house.
Ink — a little black kitten.
Blink — a little grey mouse.
Mustard — a little yellow dog.
Custard — a little pet dragon, described as cowardly.
A Pirate — the antagonist who invades Belinda’s house.

Q2. Why did Custard cry for a nice safe cage? Why is the dragon called “cowardly dragon”?

Ans: Custard cried for a nice safe cage because he was timid and fearful by nature. Despite having a fearsome appearance with big sharp teeth, spikes, scales, and toes like daggers, Custard was always scared and wanted the safety of a cage to protect himself. He is called the “cowardly dragon” because while all the other pets — Ink, Blink, and Mustard — boasted about their bravery and appeared courageous, Custard was the only one who openly showed fear and constantly asked for security. Everyone in the house mocked him for his timidity, which is why Belinda named him “Custard,” a soft name that reflects his gentle, fearful nature.

Q3. “Belinda tickled him, she tickled him unmerciful…” Why?

Ans: Belinda tickled Custard mercilessly because she found his cowardly behaviour amusing and ridiculous. Custard, despite being a dragon with terrifying physical features, was always scared and kept crying for a nice safe cage. This made Belinda and the other pets laugh at him. Tickling Custard was Belinda’s way of teasing and mocking the dragon for his lack of bravery. She tickled him “unmerciful” (without any mercy), showing that she had no sympathy for his fears and found them funny rather than understandable.

Q4. The poet has used many interesting images and poetic devices in this poem. Can you list some of them? (Simile, Repetition, Alliteration, Onomatopoeia, etc.)

Ans: Yes, the poet has used several interesting poetic devices in this poem:

Simile: “Mouth like a fireplace,” “Belinda was as brave as a barrel full of bears,” “Mustard was as brave as a tiger in a rage,” “snorting like an engine,” “clashed his tail like irons in a dungeon,” “went at the pirate like a robin at a worm,” “sharp as Mustard.”
Repetition: The word “little” is repeated many times in the opening stanzas. The phrase “realio, trulio” is also repeated throughout the poem.
Alliteration: “Belinda was as brave as a barrel full of bears” (repetition of the ‘b’ sound).
Onomatopoeia: “Weeck” (the sound of a mouse giggling), “Meowch” (the kitten’s cry), “clatter,” “clank,” “jangling” (sounds made by Custard).
Metaphor: “Chimney for a nose” (comparing the dragon’s nose to a chimney).
Hyperbole: “Belinda giggled till she shook the house.”

Q5. Read stanza three again to know how the poet describes the dragon’s appearance.

Ans: In stanza three, the poet describes Custard the dragon as having a very fearsome and formidable appearance. The dragon has big, sharp teeth and spikes on top of his body with scales underneath. His mouth is compared to a fireplace, suggesting that he can breathe fire. His nose is compared to a chimney, implying that smoke comes out of it. His toes have sharp, dagger-like claws, described as “realio, trulio daggers.” Despite this terrifying physical description, Custard is ironically the most timid character in the poem. The contrast between his fearsome looks and his cowardly behaviour is the source of much of the poem’s humour.

Q6. Can you find out the rhyme scheme of two or three stanzas of the poem?

Ans: The rhyme scheme of the poem is aabb. This means that the first two lines of each stanza rhyme with each other, and the last two lines rhyme with each other. For example:

Stanza 1: house/mouse (a), wagon/dragon (b) — aabb
Stanza 2: Ink/Blink (a), Mustard/Custard (b) — aabb
Stanza 3: teeth/beneath (a), nose/toes (b) — aabb

However, in stanza 13, the rhyme scheme changes to aabbcc (Mustard/flustered, Blink/think, agree/me), which draws special attention to the irony of the other pets claiming they would have been braver.

Q7. Writers use words to give us a “picture” or “image” without actually drawing one. This is called imagery. Can you trace some images used in the poem?

Ans: The poem is rich in imagery. Some notable images include:

“Mouth like a fireplace, chimney for a nose” — This creates a vivid visual image of the dragon’s face looking like a furnace, with fire in his mouth and smoke coming out of his nose.
“Realio, trulio daggers on his toes” — This creates an image of extremely sharp, blade-like claws.
“Brave as a barrel full of bears” — This creates an image of a barrel overflowing with fierce bears to convey extreme bravery.
“Pistol in his left hand, pistol in his right, And he held in his teeth a cutlass bright” — This paints a vivid picture of the dangerous pirate.
“Snorting like an engine” — This creates an image of the dragon charging forward powerfully, like a steam engine.
“Went at the pirate like a robin at a worm” — This image shows how easily and confidently Custard attacked the pirate, just as a bird pounces on a worm.
“Clashed his tail like irons in a dungeon” — This creates a sound image of heavy chains clashing in a prison.

Q8. Do you find “The Tale of Custard the Dragon” to be a serious or light-hearted poem? Give reasons to support your answer.

Ans: “The Tale of Custard the Dragon” is definitely a light-hearted and humorous poem. There are several reasons to support this view:

Funny names: The pets have amusing names like Ink, Blink, Mustard, and Custard, which immediately set a playful tone.
Made-up words: The poet uses invented words like “realio, trulio,” “Weeck,” and “Meowch” that add to the fun and humour.
Deliberate misspellings: Words like “winda” (window) are deliberately misspelled to maintain the rhyme, which adds to the comic effect.
Consistent rhyme scheme: The regular aabb rhyme scheme makes the poem sound like a nursery rhyme, giving it a fun, sing-song quality.
Irony and humour: The central irony of a fearsome dragon being a coward, and the supposedly brave characters running away from danger, creates a consistently comic effect.
Exaggeration: The hyperbolic descriptions of bravery (“brave as a barrel full of bears”) and the pirate being swallowed whole add to the humour.
Ballad-like structure: The poem reads like a fairy tale or a children’s story, making it entertaining and enjoyable for all ages.

However, despite its light tone, the poem carries a deeper message about true bravery, hypocrisy, and the tendency of people to mock those who are different while claiming virtues they do not actually possess.

Short Answer Questions (2-3 Marks)

Q1. What is the name of the poem and who is the poet?

Ans: The name of the poem is “The Tale of Custard the Dragon.” It is written by the famous American humorous poet Ogden Nash. The poem is a ballad that tells the story of a little girl named Belinda and her pets, particularly her cowardly pet dragon Custard.

Q2. Where did Belinda live and who were her companions?

Ans: Belinda lived in a little white house. Her companions were her four pets: a little black kitten named Ink, a little grey mouse named Blink, a little yellow dog named Mustard, and a pet dragon named Custard. She also had a little red wagon.

Q3. How does the poet describe the physical appearance of the dragon?

Ans: The poet describes Custard the dragon as having big, sharp teeth, spikes on top of his body, and scales underneath. His mouth is compared to a fireplace, suggesting he could breathe fire. His nose is compared to a chimney, implying smoke could come out of it. His toes are described as sharp as daggers. Despite this terrifying appearance, the dragon is ironically a coward.

Q4. How did everyone react when the pirate came?

Ans: When the pirate entered the house, everyone who had claimed to be brave panicked. Belinda turned pale and cried for help. Mustard fled with a terrified yelp. Ink trickled down to the bottom of the household. Blink strategically disappeared into a mouse hole. Only Custard, the supposedly cowardly dragon, stood his ground and faced the pirate bravely.

Q5. How did Custard fight and defeat the pirate?

Ans: Custard jumped up bravely, snorting like an engine. He clashed his tail like irons in a dungeon, making sounds of clatter, clank, and jangling. He charged at the pirate like a robin at a worm. The pirate fired two bullets at Custard, but they missed. Custard then gobbled up the pirate completely, eating every bit of him.

Q6. How did Belinda and her pets behave after Custard killed the pirate?

Ans: After Custard killed the pirate, Belinda embraced him and Mustard licked him. Ink and Blink danced around the dragon in glee. However, soon the other pets began to downplay Custard’s bravery. Mustard claimed he would have been twice as brave if he had not been flustered. Ink and Blink said they would have been three times as brave. They were ungrateful and tried to diminish Custard’s heroic deed.

Q7. What is the significance of the name “Percival” in the poem?

Ans: In the poem, Ink, Blink, and Mustard rudely call Custard “Percival.” The name Percival is an allusion to Sir Percival, one of the Knights of the Round Table in Arthurian legend. The other pets use this name mockingly and sarcastically to make fun of Custard’s cowardice. By calling a cowardly dragon by the name of a legendary knight, they are teasing him about his lack of bravery.

Q8. Describe the pirate in your own words.

Ans: The pirate is described as a dangerous and menacing figure. He carries a pistol in each hand and holds a bright cutlass (a short curved sword) between his teeth. He has a thick black beard and one wooden leg, which are typical features of pirates in stories. His appearance makes it very clear that he has come with evil intentions. He is a stereotypical pirate figure who represents real danger in the poem.

Q9. What does the poet mean by “Ink trickled down to the bottom of the household”?

Ans: The line “Ink trickled down to the bottom of the household” means that Ink, the little black kitten, ran away to hide at the lowest part of the house when the pirate appeared. The poet cleverly uses the word “trickled” because ink (the liquid) trickles or flows downward. This is a pun or play on words — the kitten named Ink moves the way actual ink would, trickling downward. It shows that despite claiming to be brave, Ink fled in fear at the sight of real danger.

Q10. What does “Blink strategically mouseholed” mean?

Ans: The phrase “Blink strategically mouseholed” means that Blink, the little grey mouse, ran and hid inside a mouse hole when the pirate appeared. The word “strategically” is used with humorous irony — it makes Blink’s act of running away sound like a well-planned military retreat rather than a panicked escape. The word “mouseholed” is a made-up verb meaning “to hide in a mouse hole.” This humorous description shows that Blink was actually a coward who disguised his fear as a strategic decision.

Q11. Why does Custard agree that everyone is braver than him?

Ans: After defeating the pirate, when the other pets claim they would have been even braver, Custard humbly agrees by saying, “I quite agree that everybody is braver than me.” This shows Custard’s modesty and gentle nature. He does not feel the need to boast about his achievement or argue with the others. His humility is in sharp contrast to the boastful nature of the other pets. It also suggests that truly brave people do not need to show off their bravery — their actions speak for themselves.

Q12. What is the moral or message of the poem?

Ans: The poem conveys several important messages. First, it teaches us that we should not judge anyone by their outward appearance or words. Those who boast the loudest about being brave are often the first to run away in times of real danger. Second, true courage is shown through actions, not words. Custard, who was mocked for being a coward, was the only one who actually showed bravery when it mattered. Third, the poem highlights the themes of bullying and hypocrisy — the other pets bully Custard but then prove to be cowards themselves. Fourth, it shows that truly brave people are often humble and do not seek recognition for their deeds.

Q13. How is the poem “The Tale of Custard the Dragon” a ballad?

Ans: A ballad is a poem that tells a story, usually in short stanzas with a regular rhyme scheme. “The Tale of Custard the Dragon” qualifies as a ballad because it narrates a complete story about Belinda, her pets, and the pirate in verse form. It uses short quatrains (four-line stanzas) with a regular aabb rhyme scheme. The story moves quickly, focusing on a single dramatic event — the pirate’s attack and Custard’s heroic response. Like traditional ballads, it has a simple, song-like quality that makes it easy to recite or sing.

Q14. Why did the poet use made-up words like “realio, trulio” and “winda” in the poem?

Ans: Ogden Nash used made-up words like “realio, trulio” and deliberate misspellings like “winda” (for window) as examples of poetic license. “Realio, trulio” adds a whimsical, playful quality to the poem and emphasises that the dragon is real and true, not imaginary. The word “winda” is used instead of “window” to maintain the rhyme with “Belinda.” These made-up words are a hallmark of Ogden Nash’s humorous style and contribute to the fun, fairy-tale-like atmosphere of the poem. They make the poem sound like a children’s story and add to its entertainment value.

Q15. How does the poem highlight the theme of hypocrisy?

Ans: The poem highlights hypocrisy through the behaviour of Belinda, Ink, Blink, and Mustard. Before the pirate’s arrival, they all boast about their bravery — Belinda is “as brave as a barrel full of bears,” Ink and Blink “chase lions down the stairs,” and Mustard is “as brave as a tiger in a rage.” They constantly mock and tease Custard for being a coward. However, when the pirate actually comes, all of them flee in terror while the “cowardly” Custard fights and defeats the pirate. Even after being saved, the pets have the audacity to claim they would have been braver than Custard. This shows their hypocritical nature — they are quick to boast but lack the courage to back up their words.

Q16. What role does humour play in the poem?

Ans: Humour is a central element of the poem. The poet uses humour through funny character names (Ink, Blink, Custard), made-up words (realio, trulio, Weeck), deliberate misspellings (winda), exaggerated descriptions of bravery, ironic contrasts between appearance and reality, and the comic reversal where the coward becomes the hero and the “brave” characters become cowards. The consistent aabb rhyme scheme gives the poem a sing-song quality that adds to its lightness. However, beneath the humour lies a serious message about true bravery, bullying, and hypocrisy, making the poem both entertaining and meaningful.

Q17. What is the irony in the poem “The Tale of Custard the Dragon”?

Ans: There are several layers of irony in the poem. First, the biggest irony is that Custard, who looks the most fearsome with his sharp teeth, spikes, scales, and dagger-like toes, is the most timid and always cries for a safe cage. Second, the smaller and seemingly weaker characters (a kitten, a mouse, a dog, and a little girl) claim to be extremely brave. Third, when real danger appears in the form of the pirate, it is the “cowardly” Custard who shows true bravery while all the “brave” characters run away. Fourth, after being saved by Custard, the other pets immediately downplay his heroism and claim they would have been even braver. The poem is a masterful use of irony to convey its message.

Long Answer Questions (5-6 Marks)

Q1. Describe the character of Custard the dragon. How is Custard different from the other pets? What lesson does his character teach us?

Ans: Custard the dragon is the most complex and interesting character in Ogden Nash’s poem. Physically, Custard is the most formidable creature in Belinda’s household. He has big sharp teeth, spikes on top, scales beneath, a mouth like a fireplace, a nose like a chimney, and toes as sharp as daggers. Despite this fearsome appearance, Custard is portrayed as a timid and gentle creature who constantly cries for a “nice safe cage.”

Custard is fundamentally different from the other pets. While Belinda, Ink, Blink, and Mustard constantly boast about their bravery and mock Custard for his cowardice, they are only brave in comfortable situations. When the pirate arrives, all of them flee in panic — Belinda cries for help, Mustard runs away yelping, Ink hides at the bottom of the house, and Blink disappears into a mouse hole. Custard, on the other hand, is the only one who actually faces the danger. He charges at the pirate snorting like an engine, clashing his tail like irons, and ultimately swallows the pirate whole.

What makes Custard even more admirable is his humility. After his heroic act, when the other pets claim they would have been even braver, Custard simply agrees with them, saying, “I quite agree that everybody is braver than me.” He does not seek praise or recognition for his bravery.

Custard’s character teaches us several important lessons. First, we should never judge anyone by their outward behaviour or words — those who seem timid may possess great inner courage. Second, true bravery is demonstrated through actions, especially in times of real danger, not through empty boasting. Third, humility is a virtue — truly brave people do not need to advertise their courage. Custard represents the quiet hero who proves his worth when it matters most.

Q2. “The Tale of Custard the Dragon” is more than just a funny poem — it carries deep messages about human behaviour. Discuss the themes of the poem.

Ans: While “The Tale of Custard the Dragon” appears to be a simple, humorous narrative poem, it carries several profound themes about human behaviour:

1. Appearance vs. Reality: The central theme of the poem is the contrast between appearance and reality. The characters who appear brave (Belinda, Ink, Blink, and Mustard) turn out to be cowards, while Custard, who appears cowardly, turns out to be the bravest. This teaches us that we should not judge people based on how they present themselves. True character is revealed only in testing situations.

2. True Bravery: The poem redefines bravery. It shows that real courage is not about boasting or making grand claims. It is about standing up when real danger arrives. Custard’s bravery is real because it is demonstrated through action, unlike the empty bravado of the other characters.

3. Bullying and Discrimination: Custard is constantly bullied, mocked, and teased by Belinda and the other pets because he is different from them — he does not boast about being brave. The poem shows how those who are different are often targeted and ridiculed by others, even though they may possess qualities that their tormentors lack.

4. Hypocrisy and Ingratitude: After Custard saves everyone, the other pets immediately begin to claim they would have been even braver. They are ungrateful to their saviour and try to diminish his achievement. This reflects a common human tendency to downplay others’ contributions and take credit for things we did not do.

5. Humility: Custard’s humble acceptance of the others’ claims — “I quite agree that everybody is braver than me” — highlights the virtue of humility. The poem suggests that true heroes do not seek recognition; their actions speak for themselves.

Through humour and irony, Ogden Nash has crafted a poem that entertains readers while also holding a mirror up to common human flaws like boastfulness, hypocrisy, bullying, and ingratitude.

Q3. How was Custard’s reaction different from that of others on seeing the pirate? What does this tell us about the characters?

Ans: The arrival of the pirate is the decisive moment in the poem that reveals the true nature of every character. When the pirate climbs in through the window with pistols in both hands, a cutlass between his teeth, a black beard, and a wooden leg, the reactions of Belinda and her pets are dramatically different from their earlier boasts of bravery.

Belinda, who was described as being “as brave as a barrel full of bears,” turns pale with fear and can only cry “Help! Help!” She is completely paralysed by fear and cannot take any action. Mustard, who was supposedly “as brave as a tiger in a rage,” flees with a terrified yelp, showing that his bravery was nothing more than empty talk. Ink, the kitten who claimed to chase lions down the stairs, trickles down to hide at the bottom of the house. Blink, the mouse who also claimed to chase lions, “strategically mouseholed” — he ran and hid in a mouse hole, pretending it was a calculated retreat.

In stark contrast, Custard — the very dragon everyone had mocked as a coward — springs into action. He jumps up snorting like an engine, clashes his tail like irons in a dungeon, and charges at the pirate with great courage. He faces the pirate’s bullets without flinching and ultimately swallows the pirate whole.

This tells us several things about the characters. Belinda, Ink, Blink, and Mustard are boastful hypocrites whose bravery is limited to comfortable, safe situations. They are quick to talk about courage but lack the ability to act when courage is needed. Custard, on the other hand, is genuinely brave but modest. His crying for a safe cage does not mean he lacks courage — rather, he is honest about his feelings and does not pretend to be something he is not. When the moment of truth arrives, he proves that his courage, though hidden, is real and far greater than the others’ hollow boasts.

Q4. Is “The Tale of Custard the Dragon” a ballad or a fable? Give reasons to support your answer.

Ans: “The Tale of Custard the Dragon” has features of both a ballad and a fable, making it a unique and versatile poem.

Features of a Ballad: A ballad is a narrative poem that tells a story in verse, typically using short stanzas with a regular rhyme scheme. The poem fulfils these criteria: it tells the complete story of Belinda, her pets, and their encounter with a pirate. It uses short four-line stanzas (quatrains) with a consistent aabb rhyme scheme. The language is simple and direct, making it easy to recite or sing. The narrative moves quickly, focusing on a single dramatic event — the pirate’s attack and Custard’s response. Like traditional ballads, it combines elements of adventure, humour, and drama.

Features of a Fable: A fable is a short story, often with animal characters, that conveys a moral or lesson. The poem also shares these features: the main characters are animals (a kitten, a mouse, a dog, and a dragon) who behave like humans — they talk, boast, laugh, and feel emotions. The poem conveys clear morals: true bravery is shown through actions not words; appearances can be deceiving; we should not bully or mock others; and hypocrisy is a common human flaw.

Ultimately, the poem is best described as a humorous ballad with fable-like elements. It uses the narrative structure of a ballad to tell an entertaining story while incorporating the moral lessons typical of a fable. Ogden Nash’s unique contribution is the addition of humour, irony, and wordplay, which make the poem both entertaining and thought-provoking. It is this combination that has made the poem a classic of children’s literature and a favourite in classrooms around the world.

Q5. “Custard was discriminated against, bullied, and made fun of.” Discuss the treatment of Custard by the other characters and its relevance to real life.

Ans: In the poem, Custard is subjected to constant mockery, discrimination, and bullying by Belinda and the other pets. Despite being the largest and most formidable creature in the household, Custard is treated with contempt because he does not conform to the expected standard of bravery. He openly expresses his fear and desires safety, which makes him an easy target for ridicule.

The bullying takes several forms: Belinda tickles him “unmerciful” (without mercy), which is a form of physical teasing. Ink, Blink, and Mustard rudely call him “Percival” as a sarcastic nickname. They ask his age mockingly, implying that he behaves like a baby. They all sit in the little red wagon laughing at him. This constant mockery creates an atmosphere where Custard is always the outsider, the one who is different and therefore deserving of ridicule.

This treatment is highly relevant to real life. In schools, workplaces, and society, people who are different — whether they are quiet, sensitive, or do not conform to popular standards of behaviour — are often bullied and mocked. Like Custard, they are judged unfairly based on outward appearances rather than their true character. The poem shows that those who bully others are often compensating for their own weaknesses. When real challenges arise, it is often the quiet, humble individuals who step up, while the boastful ones retreat.

The most painful aspect of Custard’s treatment is the ingratitude shown after his heroic act. Even after saving everyone, the other pets immediately downplay his bravery and claim they would have done better. This mirrors real-life situations where people’s contributions are ignored or minimised by those who feel threatened by someone else’s success. The poem reminds us to treat everyone with respect, to recognise true courage, and to be grateful to those who help us, instead of being hypocritical and ungrateful.

Q6. Describe the events that took place when the pirate came to Belinda’s house. How did Custard prove that he was the real hero?

Ans: The arrival of the pirate at Belinda’s house is the climax of the poem and the moment that reveals the true nature of every character.

The pirate climbs in through the window, presenting a fearsome sight. He carries a pistol in each hand, holds a bright cutlass between his teeth, has a black beard, and walks on one wooden leg. It is immediately clear that he has come with evil intentions.

The reaction of Belinda and her pets is one of complete panic and cowardice. Belinda, who was supposed to be “as brave as a barrel full of bears,” turns pale white and cries out “Help! Help!” Mustard, who was “as brave as a tiger in a rage,” runs away with a terrified yelp. Ink, who used to “chase lions down the stairs,” trickles down to the bottom of the house to hide. Blink, who also claimed to chase lions, “strategically mouseholed” — he quickly disappeared into a mouse hole.

But Custard, the dragon everyone had laughed at and called a coward, rises to the occasion magnificently. He jumps up, snorting like a powerful engine. He clashes his tail like irons in a dungeon, creating a tremendous noise of clatter, clank, and jangling. With fearless determination, he charges at the pirate “like a robin at a worm,” showing that to him, the pirate is nothing more than easy prey. The pirate, stunned and scared, tries to defend himself — he gulps some grog from his pocket flask to steady his nerves and fires two bullets at Custard. But both bullets miss their target. Before the pirate can do anything else, Custard gobbles him up completely, eating “every bit” of him.

Through this sequence of events, Custard proves beyond doubt that he is the real hero. While others only talked about bravery, Custard demonstrated it through action. He faced real weapons (pistols and cutlass) without flinching, dodged bullets, and single-handedly eliminated the threat. His heroism is made even more admirable by his humility — after the battle, when others claim they would have been braver, Custard quietly agrees, showing that he does not seek glory or recognition for his courageous deed.

Q7. What values does the poem “The Tale of Custard the Dragon” teach us? How can we apply these values in our daily lives?

Ans: The poem “The Tale of Custard the Dragon” by Ogden Nash teaches us several important values that are highly relevant to our daily lives:

1. Do not judge by appearances: The poem teaches us never to judge anyone based on their outward appearance or behaviour. Custard appeared cowardly but turned out to be the bravest. In our daily lives, we should not dismiss or underestimate people based on how they look, speak, or behave on the surface. Everyone has hidden strengths that may surprise us.

2. Actions speak louder than words: The other pets boasted endlessly about their bravery but failed when tested. Custard never boasted but acted courageously when needed. In school and in life, we should focus on demonstrating our abilities through actions rather than making empty claims.

3. Do not bully or mock others: The poem shows the cruelty of bullying through the treatment of Custard. Belinda and the pets constantly mocked him for being different. In our schools and communities, we should be kind and respectful to everyone, especially those who are different from us. The one we mock today may be the one who helps us tomorrow.

4. Be humble: Custard’s humility after defeating the pirate is admirable. He did not seek praise or boast about his achievement. In our daily lives, we should learn to be modest about our accomplishments and let our work speak for itself.

5. Be grateful: The other pets showed ingratitude by downplaying Custard’s heroism after he saved them. In our lives, we should always acknowledge and appreciate those who help us, rather than being ungrateful or trying to diminish their contributions.

6. True courage is rare: The poem reminds us that genuine courage — the willingness to face real danger — is rare and precious. Most people are brave only in comfortable situations. We should cultivate true inner courage that stands firm even in the face of genuine challenges.

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Q1. Who is the poet of “The Tale of Custard the Dragon”?
(a) Robert Frost
(b) Ogden Nash
(c) Walt Whitman
(d) Carolyn Wells

Ans: (b) Ogden Nash

Q2. What colour was Belinda’s house?
(a) Red
(b) Yellow
(c) White
(d) Brown

Ans: (c) White

Q3. What was the name of Belinda’s little black kitten?
(a) Blink
(b) Ink
(c) Mustard
(d) Custard

Ans: (b) Ink

Q4. Why was the dragon called “Custard”?
(a) Because he was yellow
(b) Because he was sweet
(c) Because he was a coward
(d) Because he liked custard

Ans: (c) Because he was a coward

Q5. Which poetic device is used in “Belinda was as brave as a barrel full of bears”?
(a) Metaphor
(b) Personification
(c) Simile and Alliteration
(d) Onomatopoeia

Ans: (c) Simile and Alliteration

Q6. What did Custard always cry for?
(a) Food
(b) A friend
(c) A nice safe cage
(d) Freedom

Ans: (c) A nice safe cage

Q7. What name did the other pets rudely call Custard?
(a) Arthur
(b) Lancelot
(c) Galahad
(d) Percival

Ans: (d) Percival

Q8. How did the pirate enter Belinda’s house?
(a) Through the door
(b) Through the window
(c) Through the chimney
(d) Through the roof

Ans: (b) Through the window

Q9. What did the pirate hold between his teeth?
(a) A knife
(b) A rope
(c) A bright cutlass
(d) A dagger

Ans: (c) A bright cutlass

Q10. What did Custard do to the pirate?
(a) Chased him away
(b) Scared him
(c) Gobbled him up
(d) Burned him

Ans: (c) Gobbled him up

Q11. Who mourned over the pirate’s death?
(a) Belinda
(b) Custard
(c) Ink
(d) No one

Ans: (d) No one

Q12. What is the rhyme scheme of the poem?
(a) abab
(b) abba
(c) aabb
(d) abcd

Ans: (c) aabb

Extract-Based Questions

Extract 1

“Belinda lived in a little white house,
With a little black kitten and a little grey mouse,
And a little yellow dog and a little red wagon,
And a realio, trulio, little pet dragon.”

(a) Name the poem and the poet.

Ans: The poem is “The Tale of Custard the Dragon” and the poet is Ogden Nash.

(b) Where did Belinda live?

Ans: Belinda lived in a little white house.

(c) Who were Belinda’s companions?

Ans: Belinda’s companions were a little black kitten, a little grey mouse, a little yellow dog, and a little pet dragon.

(d) What is the meaning of “realio, trulio”?

Ans: “Realio, trulio” are made-up words that mean “really, truly.” The poet uses them to emphasise that the dragon is a real and genuine pet, not an imaginary one. These words are examples of poetic license used to create humour.

(e) Which poetic device is used in the repetition of the word “little”?

Ans: The repetition of the word “little” is an example of the poetic device called Repetition. It creates a fairy-tale-like atmosphere, emphasises the smallness and innocence of the setting, and establishes the light-hearted tone of the poem.

Extract 2

“Belinda was as brave as a barrel full of bears,
And Ink and Blink chased lions down the stairs,
Mustard was as brave as a tiger in a rage,
But Custard cried for a nice safe cage.”

(a) How brave was Belinda according to the poet?

Ans: According to the poet, Belinda was as brave as a barrel full of bears. This is a simile that compares her bravery to the collective fierceness of many bears packed in a barrel.

(b) What did Ink and Blink do to show their bravery?

Ans: Ink and Blink chased lions down the stairs, showing that they were so brave that even the king of the jungle was afraid of them. This is, of course, a humorous exaggeration.

(c) How is Mustard’s bravery described?

Ans: Mustard’s bravery is described through a simile: he was “as brave as a tiger in a rage.” This compares his courage to the ferocity of an angry tiger.

(d) Why did Custard cry for a nice safe cage?

Ans: Custard cried for a nice safe cage because he was a coward who was always afraid. Despite having a terrifying physical appearance, he constantly sought safety and protection.

(e) What is the poetic device used in “brave as a barrel full of bears”?

Ans: The poetic devices used are Simile (comparison using “as”) and Alliteration (repetition of the ‘b’ sound in “brave,” “barrel,” and “bears”).

Extract 3

“But up jumped Custard, snorting like an engine,
Clashed his tail like irons in a dungeon,
With a clatter and a clank and a jangling squirm,
He went at the pirate like a robin at a worm.”

(a) What did Custard do when the pirate appeared?

Ans: When the pirate appeared, Custard jumped up bravely, snorting like an engine. He clashed his tail like irons in a dungeon and charged at the pirate fearlessly.

(b) What does “snorting like an engine” mean?

Ans: “Snorting like an engine” is a simile that compares the powerful, loud breathing of the dragon to the sound of a steam engine. It suggests that Custard was breathing heavily and powerfully, full of fury and determination as he prepared to fight the pirate.

(c) Identify the examples of onomatopoeia in this stanza.

Ans: The words “clatter,” “clank,” and “jangling” are examples of onomatopoeia. These words imitate the actual sounds made by Custard’s tail and body as he prepared to attack the pirate. They create vivid sound imagery, making the reader feel as if they can hear the dragon charging into battle.

(d) What does “like a robin at a worm” suggest about Custard’s attack?

Ans: The simile “like a robin at a worm” suggests that Custard attacked the pirate with great ease and confidence. Just as a robin swoops down effortlessly to catch a worm, Custard charged at the pirate as if defeating him was the simplest task in the world. It shows that despite his earlier timidity, Custard was supremely confident and capable when facing real danger.

(e) How does this stanza contrast with Custard’s earlier behaviour?

Ans: This stanza presents a dramatic contrast with Custard’s earlier behaviour. Earlier, Custard was shown as a coward who constantly cried for a nice safe cage and was mocked by everyone. In this stanza, however, Custard transforms into a fearless warrior — snorting like an engine, clashing his tail powerfully, and attacking the pirate without hesitation. This reversal is the central irony of the poem, showing that Custard’s apparent cowardice masked genuine bravery that emerged when it was truly needed.

Extract 4

“But presently up spoke little dog Mustard,
I’d have been twice as brave if I hadn’t been flustered.
And up spoke Ink and up spoke Blink,
We’d have been three times as brave, we think,
And Custard said, I quite agree
That everybody is braver than me.”

(a) What did Mustard claim after the pirate was defeated?

Ans: After the pirate was defeated, Mustard claimed that he would have been twice as brave as Custard if he had not been flustered (confused and nervous). This was clearly an empty boast, as Mustard had actually run away from the pirate with a terrified yelp.

(b) What did Ink and Blink say?

Ans: Ink and Blink claimed that they would have been three times as brave as Custard. They added “we think” at the end, which shows some uncertainty in their claim. However, like Mustard, they had also fled when the pirate appeared — Ink trickled to the bottom of the house and Blink hid in a mouse hole.

(c) How did Custard respond to these claims?

Ans: Custard responded with great humility, saying, “I quite agree that everybody is braver than me.” Instead of arguing with the other pets or reminding them that they had all run away, Custard humbly accepted their claims. This shows his modest and gentle nature.

(d) What does this stanza reveal about the character of the other pets?

Ans: This stanza reveals that the other pets are hypocritical, boastful, and ungrateful. Despite being saved by Custard, they immediately try to diminish his bravery and claim they would have done better. They refuse to give credit to Custard and try to restore their own false image of bravery. They are more concerned about their reputation than about being truthful or grateful.

(e) How is the rhyme scheme of this stanza different from the rest of the poem?

Ans: While the rest of the poem follows an aabb rhyme scheme (four-line stanzas with rhyming couplets), this stanza has six lines with an aabbcc rhyme scheme: Mustard/flustered (aa), Blink/think (bb), agree/me (cc). The change in the rhyme scheme draws the reader’s attention to this stanza, highlighting the irony and the ungrateful behaviour of the other pets. It also reflects the unusual nature of the situation — after a heroic act, instead of gratitude, there is empty boasting.

Literary Devices Used in the Poem

Ogden Nash employs a wide variety of literary and poetic devices in “The Tale of Custard the Dragon” to create humour, vivid imagery, and deeper meaning. Here is a comprehensive list:

1. Simile

A simile is a comparison between two unlike things using “like” or “as.” The poem is rich in similes:

“Mouth like a fireplace” — compares the dragon’s mouth to a fireplace.
“Belinda was as brave as a barrel full of bears” — compares Belinda’s bravery to that of many bears.
“Mustard was as brave as a tiger in a rage” — compares Mustard’s bravery to a furious tiger.
“Sharp as Mustard” — compares the dog’s alertness to mustard’s sharpness.
“Snorting like an engine” — compares Custard’s breathing to an engine’s sound.
“Clashed his tail like irons in a dungeon” — compares the sound of the tail to clashing chains.
“Went at the pirate like a robin at a worm” — compares Custard’s easy attack to a bird catching a worm.

2. Metaphor

A metaphor is a direct comparison without using “like” or “as”:

“Chimney for a nose” — the dragon’s nose is directly called a chimney, suggesting smoke and fire.
“Daggers on his toes” — the dragon’s toes are directly called daggers, emphasising their sharpness.

3. Alliteration

Alliteration is the repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of nearby words:

“Belinda was as brave as a barrel full of bears” — repetition of the ‘b’ sound.
“Clashed… clatter… clank” — repetition of the ‘c/cl’ sound.
“Realio, trulio… red” — repetition of the ‘r’ sound.

4. Onomatopoeia

Onomatopoeia is the use of words that imitate sounds:

“Weeck” — imitates the giggling sound of a mouse.
“Meowch” — imitates the cry of a kitten.
“Clatter,” “clank,” and “jangling” — imitate the metallic sounds of the dragon’s movements.
“Growled” — imitates the sound a dog makes.

5. Repetition

Repetition is the repeated use of words or phrases for emphasis:

The word “little” is repeated multiple times in the opening stanzas, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere.
“Realio, trulio” is repeated throughout the poem, adding playfulness.
“Suddenly, suddenly” — emphasises the urgency of the pirate’s arrival.
The first and last stanzas mirror each other, creating a circular structure.

6. Irony

Irony is the use of words or situations to convey the opposite of what is expected:

Custard, the most fearsome-looking creature, is the most timid — until real danger arrives.
The “brave” characters all flee when the pirate comes.
After being saved, the others claim they would have been even braver.
Custard, who proved his bravery, agrees that everyone is braver than him.

7. Hyperbole

Hyperbole is deliberate exaggeration for emphasis or humour:

“Belinda giggled till she shook the house” — an exaggeration for comic effect.
“Ink and Blink chased lions down the stairs” — an exaggeration of their supposed bravery.

8. Oxymoron

An oxymoron combines contradictory terms:

“Pet dragon” — dragons are traditionally wild and dangerous creatures, so calling one a “pet” is contradictory.
“Cowardly dragon” — dragons are traditionally associated with fierceness, so a cowardly dragon is a contradiction.

9. Allusion

An allusion is a reference to a well-known person, place, or event:

“Percival” — a reference to Sir Percival, one of the Knights of the Round Table in Arthurian legend. The other pets call Custard “Percival” mockingly, sarcastically comparing the timid dragon to a legendary knight.

10. Poetic License

Poetic license is the freedom taken by a poet to deviate from standard language for artistic effect:

“Realio, trulio” — made-up words for “really, truly.”
“Winda” — deliberate misspelling of “window” to rhyme with “Belinda.”
“Weeck” — a made-up word for a mouse’s giggle.
“Mouseholed” — a made-up verb meaning “to hide in a mouse hole.”

11. Personification

Personification gives human qualities to animals or objects:

All the animals in the poem — Ink, Blink, Mustard, and Custard — are personified. They speak, laugh, boast, and display human emotions like fear, pride, and humility.

Character Sketches

Custard the Dragon

Custard is the central character of the poem and its unlikely hero. Physically, he is the most formidable creature in Belinda’s household, with big sharp teeth, spikes, scales, a mouth like a fireplace, a chimney-like nose, and dagger-sharp toes. However, despite this fearsome appearance, Custard is meek, gentle, and apparently timid. He constantly cries for a “nice safe cage,” which makes everyone laugh at him and call him a coward.

Custard endures constant mockery and bullying from Belinda and the other pets. They tickle him mercilessly, call him “Percival” sarcastically, and laugh at him. Yet Custard never retaliates or becomes angry. He quietly accepts their teasing.

When the pirate invades, Custard’s true character is revealed. While everyone else flees in panic, Custard alone stands his ground. He attacks the pirate with tremendous courage and strength, snorting like an engine, clashing his tail, and ultimately gobbling up the pirate completely. This shows that his apparent cowardice was merely a surface trait — beneath it lay genuine, formidable courage.

Most admirably, Custard remains humble even after his heroic act. When the other pets claim they would have been braver, he simply agrees. Custard represents the quiet, unassuming hero who proves his worth through actions rather than words. He teaches us that true bravery does not need to advertise itself, and that those who appear meek may possess the greatest courage of all.

Belinda

Belinda is a young girl who lives in a little white house with her four pets. She is described as being “as brave as a barrel full of bears,” which seems to suggest enormous courage. She is the leader of the household and takes the lead in mocking Custard for his cowardice. She tickles him “unmerciful” (without mercy) and laughs at him along with the other pets.

However, when the pirate climbs through her window, Belinda’s supposed bravery evaporates instantly. She turns pale with fear and can only cry “Help! Help!” She is completely unable to act and relies entirely on others to save her. After Custard defeats the pirate, Belinda embraces him, but the poem suggests that she, like the other pets, goes back to her old ways of boasting about her bravery and underestimating Custard.

Belinda represents people who are brave only in comfortable, safe situations and who bully those they perceive as weaker. She is hypocritical in her behaviour — boasting about courage she does not possess and mocking someone who is genuinely brave. Her character serves as a cautionary example of how empty boasting and bullying reveal a lack of true character.

Ink (The Black Kitten)

Ink is Belinda’s little black kitten. Along with Blink, he is described as being so brave that he chases “lions down the stairs.” He joins in the mockery of Custard and rudely calls him “Percival.” However, when the pirate appears, Ink’s bravery vanishes. He cries “Meowch!” in fear and “trickles” down to the bottom of the household to hide. The clever use of the word “trickled” connects to his name — just as ink flows downward, the kitten Ink runs downward to escape danger. After Custard’s victory, Ink dances around in glee and claims he would have been three times as brave. Ink represents those who are quick to boast and mock others but equally quick to hide when faced with real challenges.

Blink (The Grey Mouse)

Blink is Belinda’s little grey mouse. Like Ink, he boasts about chasing lions down the stairs and participates in teasing Custard. He says “Weeck!” — the mouse equivalent of giggling — when Custard cries for a cage. However, when the pirate arrives, Blink “strategically mouseholed” — he ran and hid inside a mouse hole. The word “strategically” is used with deliberate irony, making his panicked escape sound like a planned military manoeuvre. After the danger passes, Blink claims he would have been three times as brave as Custard. Blink, like Ink, represents fair-weather bravery — courage that exists only when there is no real danger.

Mustard (The Yellow Dog)

Mustard is Belinda’s little yellow dog, described as “sharp as Mustard” — a simile that plays on his name and suggests cleverness and alertness. He is said to be “as brave as a tiger in a rage,” which is the strongest description of bravery given to any of the pets. He joins the others in mocking Custard and rudely calling him “Percival.” However, when the pirate appears, Mustard is the first pet whose reaction is described — he “fled with a terrified yelp.” Despite his supposed tiger-like bravery, he runs away howling in fear. After the pirate is defeated, Mustard licks Custard affectionately but then claims he would have been “twice as brave if I hadn’t been flustered.” Mustard represents people who make the grandest claims about themselves but fail completely when put to the test, and then make excuses for their failure.

The Pirate

The pirate is the antagonist of the poem. He represents real danger and serves as the test that reveals the true nature of every character. He is described with stereotypical pirate features: a pistol in each hand, a bright cutlass between his teeth, a black beard, and a wooden leg. His appearance makes it “clear that the pirate meant no good.” He enters by climbing through the window, creating panic among the household’s supposedly brave residents. When faced with Custard, the pirate tries to defend himself — he gulps some grog from his flask for courage and fires two bullets — but he is no match for the dragon, who gobbles him up entirely. No one mourns the pirate’s death. He serves as a plot device that triggers the central reversal of the poem, where the coward becomes the hero and the heroes become cowards.

Important Word Meanings

Word	Meaning
Realio, trulio	Made-up words meaning “really, truly”
Wagon	A four-wheeled vehicle for carrying loads
Custard	A soft, creamy dessert; here used as a name suggesting softness/cowardice
Spikes	Sharp, pointed projections
Scales	Small, flat, overlapping plates covering a reptile’s body
Barrel	A large cylindrical container
Unmerciful	Without mercy; cruelly
Percival	A knight of King Arthur’s Round Table; used here as a sarcastic nickname
Rudely	In an impolite or offensive manner
Nasty	Unpleasant; threatening
Growled	Made a low, threatening sound
Cutlass	A short, broad sword with a slightly curved blade
Pirate	A person who robs at sea or on shores
Winda	Poetic spelling of “window” (to rhyme with Belinda)
Paled	Turned white or pale with fear
Yelp	A short, sharp cry of pain or fear
Trickled	Flowed slowly; here means moved quietly downward
Strategically	In a planned, tactical way (used ironically)
Mouseholed	Made-up word meaning “ran into a mouse hole”
Dungeon	A dark underground prison
Clatter	A rattling sound of hard objects
Clank	A sharp sound of metal striking metal
Jangling	Making a harsh, metallic ringing sound
Squirm	To twist and wriggle the body
Gaped	Stared with mouth open in surprise
Grog	An alcoholic drink, especially rum diluted with water
Flagon	A large bottle for wine or other drinks
Gobbled	Ate quickly and greedily
Embraced	Held closely in one’s arms; hugged
Mourned	Felt or showed deep sorrow for someone’s death
Glee	Great delight; happiness
Gyrate	To move in a circle or spiral; to dance around
Flustered	Agitated, confused, or nervous

Disclaimer: The questions and answers provided above are prepared for educational purposes to help students of ASSEB (Assam State Board of Secondary Education) Class 10 prepare for their HSLC examinations. The content is based on the NCERT First Flight textbook and various reference materials. Students are advised to also refer to their prescribed textbooks for complete preparation.