Why did Custard cry for a 'nice safe cage', and how did the other pets react to him?
Answer
Custard cried for a safe cage because he was fearful and sought safety, while the other pets mocked him for his apparent cowardice.
Step-by-step solution
- Identify Custard's behaviour in the poem: he constantly cried for a 'nice safe cage' because he preferred safety and security over fighting.
- Examine the reaction of Belinda and her other pets: they mocked him ruthlessly, with Belinda laughing till she shook the house, and Ink, Blink, and Mustard tickling him unmercifully and calling him Percival.
Common mistake: Thinking Custard was forced into a cage by Belinda, rather than asking for one himself.
Concept tested: Character contrast and behavior
Published · How this solution was prepared and checked
Related questions
- 1 In Ogden Nash's poem "The Tale of Custard the Dragon", which pet claims to be the bravest?
- 2 In Ogden Nash's poem "The Tale of Custard the Dragon", which pet declares “I can roar like a lion” when the pirate appears?
- 3 Describe how Belinda and her other pets reacted when the pirate suddenly broke into the house.
- 4 What was the name of Belinda's pet dragon in Ogden Nash's poem 'The Tale of Custard the Dragon'?
- 5 'The Tale of Custard the Dragon' presents a humorous contrast between boasting and actual bravery. Elaborate on this theme with reference to the characters in the poem.
- 6 Write a short paragraph (80‑100 words) explaining how the poet uses humor to contrast the pets' attitudes toward danger.