Summary
A humorous poem that describes how to “identify” wild animals based on funny and exaggerated actions - like being eaten by a tiger or hugged by a bear. It plays with language and absurd logic.
Themes
- Wordplay and humor
- Imagination vs. reality
- Wild animals and exaggeration
Comprehension Questions with Answers
-
Does ‘dyin’ really rhyme with ‘lion’?
Not exactly, but the poet uses a humorous forced rhyme to match the rhythm and playful tone of the poem.
-
How does the poet suggest you identify the lion and the tiger?
If a roaring, tawny beast kills you, it’s a lion. If a striped animal eats you,
it’s a tiger. -
Why are the words ‘lept‘ and ‘lep’ spelt like this?
The poet intentionally misspells them for comic effect and to maintain rhyme and rhythm. It adds to the poem’s light-hearted tone.
-
What is a ‘bearhug’?
A strong, tight embrace. In the poem, it humorously refers to the deadly hug of a bear.
-
How would you rewrite “A novice might nonplus”? Why is the poet’s version better?
Correct: “A novice might be nonplussed.”
But the poem’s version fits the rhyme and meter better, making it funnier and more memorable.
