Match the List I with List II and select the correct answer from the code given below:

List I - Poetry	List II - Writer
I. Sharecropping	1. R.K. Narayan
II. The Frog and the Nightingale	2. Khushwant Singh
III. A Writer’s Nightmare	3. Vikram Seth

Correct option is A

Explanation:

Sharecropping – Khushwant Singh:

Sharecropping is a poem written by Khushwant Singh, where he discusses the struggles of the farmers and their socio-economic conditions. Singh often wrote about social and political issues in his works, and this poem is an example of his focus on humanism and inequality.

The Frog and the Nightingale – Vikram Seth:

The Frog and the Nightingale is a narrative poem written by Vikram Seth, which is a fable about a frog who manipulates a nightingale’s singing abilities. Seth’s playful tone and moral lesson on exploitation and deception make this poem stand out.

A Writer’s Nightmare – R.K. Narayan:

A Writer’s Nightmare is a poem by R.K. Narayan, in which he humorously explores the difficulties and frustrations of being a writer. This poem reflects Narayan’s wit and his realistic portrayal of the life of a writer, often focusing on the mundane aspects of writing.
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Information Booster:

Sharecropping:

• Khushwant Singh (1915–2014) was a renowned Indian writer, journalist, and editor. He is most famous for his novels, short stories, and commentary on contemporary politics and social issues.
• Singh often explored the complex relationships between individuals and society and was known for his humanistic approach in depicting the lives of marginalized groups.
• Sharecropping: This poem written by Singh portrays the struggles of the Indian peasantry, particularly those working under the sharecropping system.
• In the poem, he describes the hardship faced by farmers who work the land but are subject to the exploitative nature of landowners.
• The poem highlights the economic inequality that perpetuates the cycle of poverty among peasants. Singh brings social awareness to the plight of farmers by emphasizing the injustice in the economic system. His realistic and compassionate approach to these issues reflects his belief in humanism, which often sought to expose and criticize the systemic issues that led to the exploitation of the poor.
• Singh’s literary contributions went beyond his novels like Train to Pakistan; his short stories, essays, and poetry often addressed issues like poverty, gender inequality, and political corruption. His works remain essential in understanding the social fabric of modern India.

The Frog and the Nightingale:

• Vikram Seth is one of India’s most celebrated writers, known for his novels, poetry, and children’s books.
• Seth’s literary work has been praised for its versatility and depth, ranging from epic novels like A Suitable Boy to short, narrative poetry and humorous verse. Seth’s ability to capture complex emotional landscapes with clarity and poise makes his writing particularly engaging for a wide audience.
• The Frog and the Nightingale: This narrative poem is a fable about a frog who deceives a nightingale into singing for him. He manipulates her into believing that his guidance will help her become a better singer, while in reality, he seeks to benefit from her beautiful voice.
• The poem offers a satirical critique of exploitation and manipulation, especially in relationships where one party takes advantage of the other’s talents or vulnerabilities.
• The moral of the poem serves as a warning against blind obedience and self-deception, urging individuals to trust their own judgment and avoid exploitation by others.
  
• Seth’s fables, such as The Frog and the Nightingale, are often laced with humor, yet deeply philosophical, as they convey lessons about human nature and society.
• His use of verse allows him to deliver these insights in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Seth’s work in children’s literature is also notable for its engaging narrative style, which appeals to both younger and adult audiences.
  
  

A Writer’s Nightmare:

• R.K. Narayan (1906–2001) is one of India’s greatest English-language novelists, known for his simple yet profound writing style.
• His work often reflects the everyday lives of ordinary people, focusing on their struggles and triumphs within the context of Indian society.
• Narayan is most famous for his series of novels set in the fictional town of Malgudi, where characters confront personal dilemmas, societal expectations, and cultural change. Narayan’s writing is marked by its quiet humor, insightful observations, and deep empathy for human beings.
  
• A Writer’s Nightmare (published in 1999): This poem humorously captures the frustrations and fears of a writer, particularly the creative block and the self-doubt that often plague the writing process.
• Narayan portrays the nightmare of a writer’s struggle with inspiration, expressing the anxiety that comes with the demand for constant productivity and the fear of failure. The poem serves as a metaphor for the difficulties faced by writers who must deal with the pressures of publishing, criticism, and the often unpredictable nature of creativity.
  
• Narayan's ability to write with humor about such universal challenges makes this poem resonate with anyone who has ever dealt with the pressure of creation, be it writing, art, or any form of self-expression. His reflective and self-deprecating style offers insight into the inner world of the writer, while also highlighting the joys and struggles inherent in the process of creating art.