The Tale of Custard the Dragon-CBQA

 

The Tale of Custard the Dragon

Competency-based Questions & Answers

 

1.Custard humbly accepts that other animals are braver than him. Give a reason to support your stance that humility is a virtue worth possessing.

Custard’s acceptance that the other animals were braver than him highlights the quiet strength found in humility. Humility allows individuals to acknowledge their limitations without feeling inferior. This virtue keeps a person grounded and open to learning. Humble people do not feel the need to boast or exaggerate their abilities; instead, they work silently and allow their actions to speak for them. In the poem, Custard never argues, competes, or seeks attention the way Ink, Blink, and Mustard do. 

He accepts their judgment without resentment. Ironically, this humility becomes his greatest strength because when the moment of crisis arrives, he does not hesitate or boast—he simply acts. His courage is authentic, not exaggerated. Humility also prevents jealousy and helps build healthy relationships, because humble individuals appreciate the abilities of others. Through Custard, the poet shows that true greatness is often hidden behind modest behaviour, and that humility allows people to rise in difficult situations with sincerity and confidence. Thus, humility proves to be a virtue worth possessing because it enables genuine growth, emotional balance and grace under pressure.

 

2. The usage of words like ‘realio trulio’ creates a wonderful poetic effect. How?

The use of playful expressions such as “realio trulio” adds a distinctive charm to the poem. These words, though nonsensical, create a rhythmic musicality that lightens the tone and makes the poem enjoyable for readers of all ages, especially young students. Such whimsical phrases are reminiscent of nursery rhymes and ballads, giving the poem a lyrical sing-song quality. They also contribute to the imagery of a fairy-tale or fantasy world where exaggeration and imagination are welcomed. The repetition of sounds in “realio trulio” enhances the pacing of the poem and acts almost like a refrain that holds the verses together. 

Additionally, these invented words help build humour by breaking the seriousness of the situation and reminding readers that the poem is intended to be fun and light-hearted. They support the poem’s playful nature by making even the descriptions of bravery and cowardice sound humorous rather than judgmental. Therefore, the usage of such words deepens the poetic effect by combining sound, rhythm and imagination to create an engaging and memorable reading experience.

 

3.Why is it fair to say that Custard could be the ‘poster-boy’ for the belief that the real nature of a person is revealed at times of the greatest difficulty?

Custard exemplifies the idea that people’s true qualities emerge during the most challenging moments. Throughout the poem, he is teased and labelled a coward because he prefers a quiet life and admits his fears honestly. Meanwhile, the other pets constantly boast about their bravery, creating an impression that Custard is the weakest among them. However, when the pirate breaks into the house, all the so-called brave creatures run away in terror while Custard fearlessly steps forward. His natural courage appears not through words, but through action. This shift reveals that bravery is not measured through outward show or loud claims, but through the ability to respond calmly and decisively in critical situations. Custard may have lacked self-confidence or interest in proving himself earlier, but his instinctive reaction during the crisis demonstrates his inner strength. People often hide their real qualities—sometimes even from themselves—until adversity forces them to act. Thus, Custard becomes the “poster-boy” for the belief that a person’s real nature is revealed not in comfort or routine but in moments of genuine difficulty.

 

4.State the reason you think the poet named the animals Ink, Blink, Mustard and Custard?

The poet’s choice of names—Ink, Blink, Mustard and Custard—adds a delightful element of whimsy to the poem. Each name reflects a characteristic or visual feature of the creature it represents: Ink is suitable for a black kitten, while Blink captures the quick, almost invisible movement of a mouse. Mustard, the yellow dog, gets a name associated with a yellow-coloured condiment, and Custard, the dragon, earns a soft, pudding-like name that contrasts humorously with his fierce appearance. 

These names help develop a playful tone that complements the ballad-like style of the poem. Rhyme also plays an important role; "Mustard" and "Custard" rhyme naturally, giving the poem a musical balance. Such imaginative names appeal to younger audiences and make the characters memorable. They also reflect the humorous contrast between expectation and reality, especially in Custard’s case—his soft-sounding name contrasts with his ultimate bravery. Therefore, the poet uses these creative names to strengthen the poem’s rhythm, humour and thematic irony.

 

 

5. The poet could have included a burglar or an intruder in the poem, but chose to include a pirate. Explain this choice.

The inclusion of a pirate instead of an ordinary burglar adds drama, adventure and fantasy to the poem. Pirates are often associated with danger, excitement, and larger-than-life personalities. Their exaggerated characteristics—such as swords, beards, earrings and fierce expressions—match the poem’s whimsical, exaggerated tone. While a burglar would represent a realistic threat, a pirate instantly elevates the conflict, making Custard’s bravery seem more impressive. A pirate fits naturally into the world of pets with fanciful names and storybook adventures. 

The exaggerated features of the pirate are also humorous and allow the poet to maintain the poem’s light-hearted mood even while presenting danger. Additionally, the pirate’s presence highlights the theme of true bravery more effectively because defeating a pirate feels heroic, not just defensive. Children and young readers, the poem’s primary audience, are also more fascinated by pirates than ordinary criminals, making the poem more engaging. Thus, the poet’s choice reinforces the poem’s playful fantasy and creates a far more memorable climax.

 

6.Belinda shares a post on Instagram with the following hashtags #Ink #Blink #Mustard #Bravehearts #My family #My world. She doesn’t mention Custard in her post. As a friend of Belinda, what would your advice be to her and why?

If I were Belinda’s friend, I would gently advise her to include Custard in her post because recognition is essential for emotional wellbeing and fairness. Custard had always been mocked for his supposed cowardice, yet he was the one who showed real courage when it mattered. Leaving him out of her post unintentionally reinforces the same exclusion and teasing he faced earlier. Appreciating those who support or protect us, even quietly, strengthens relationships and builds a positive environment. 

I would also remind her that courage does not always wear the loudest voice; sometimes, the quietest and most humble individuals are the true heroes. Including Custard would also show maturity and gratitude on her part. People often need acknowledgement to feel valued and accepted, especially after proving themselves. Highlighting only the others in her post might make her appear biased or insensitive. Therefore, I would encourage her to give Custard the respect he deserves by mentioning him alongside Ink, Blink and Mustard.

 

7.The poem is a light-hearted ballad with a powerful message. If the poem was written in any other style, do you think it would have created the same effect on readers? Justify your response with reason(s).

The poem’s ballad form plays a significant role in shaping its light-hearted yet meaningful tone. Written with rhythmic lines, repetitive phrases and humorous imagery, the poem feels almost like a children’s song. This makes the message about hidden courage accessible and enjoyable rather than preachy. If the poem were written in a different style—such as a serious narrative or a formal, moral-driven piece—it might lose the charm and humour that make it memorable. The ballad form softens the seriousness of the theme and encourages readers to reflect on bravery in a fun and effortless way. 

The exaggerated descriptions, rhythmic sounds and playful names blend naturally with the ballad structure. A more formal poem would likely focus too heavily on moral instruction and reduce the imaginative appeal. The ballad style allows humour and wisdom to coexist, ensuring that the message about inner strength and humility reaches readers gently but effectively. Therefore, the poem’s impact depends heavily on its ballad-like presentation.

  

8.Imagine that Custard writes a blog on ‘Overcoming fears’. A part of the blog focuses on ways to overcome the fears within. As Custard, write this part of the blog. You may proceed like this:

 While we agree that fear is like a big monster that resides within us. This monster shall continue to overpower us if we do not overpower it. To begin with, ……

While we agree that fear feels like a huge monster living inside us, I have learned that this monster grows only when we keep running from it. To overcome fear, the first step is to acknowledge it instead of denying its presence. When I admitted that I was afraid, others mocked me, but accepting the truth made me honest with myself. The second step is preparation—quietly observing, learning and staying aware of your strengths. 

Courage is not something that appears suddenly; it builds slowly through understanding and self-belief. Third, it is important to act at the right moment. When danger arrived at Belinda’s house, I did not have time to think; I simply trusted my instincts. That trust came from accepting who I was. Fear loses power when you confront it directly. Remember, bravery does not mean a lack of fear—it means taking action despite fear. Every creature has courage hidden deep within; you only need to recognise it.

 

9.Blowing one’s trumpet is a well-known idiom. Disagree with a friend’s opinion in the context of this idiom.

Friend: It’s important to recount your achievements whenever there’s an opportunity. People need to know about your qualities, accomplishments and awards. Always project yourself as superior.

You: Gosh! I disagree. What’s the point blowing one’s own trumpet? You see,

…………………………………………………………………………(continue).

Gosh! I disagree. What’s the point of blowing one’s own trumpet? You see, constantly advertising your achievements may attract attention for a moment, but it often drives people away. True accomplishment does not need loud announcements; it shines through actions, humility and consistent behaviour. When someone keeps talking about their success, others may feel uncomfortable or think the person is insecure. 

Genuine confidence is quiet, while insecurity is loud. Instead of boasting, it is far better to let your work reflect your capabilities. People who truly value you will notice your strengths without you having to remind them repeatedly. Moreover, humility helps build trust and meaningful relationships—qualities far more important than temporary admiration. When you blow your own trumpet too often, it loses its charm and becomes noise. So it’s wiser to stay grounded, focused and sincere, allowing your achievements to speak for you.

 

10.Custard was discriminated against, bullied and made fun of. Such behaviour often has a disastrous impact on the victims and etches a permanent scar on their minds. Write opinions of Bholi and Mandela on this issue.

Bholi: In my personal opinion, ……………………………….(continue)

Nelson Mandela: I strongly believe that…………………….(continue)

Bholi: In my personal opinion, mocking or bullying someone because of their weaknesses is deeply hurtful. I experienced this when people laughed at my looks and my stammer. It crushed my confidence and made me withdraw from the world. Such behaviour can scar a person emotionally for life. What helped me rise was kindness and encouragement. Every individual deserves respect, no matter how slow, quiet or different they may seem. We must uplift others, not break their spirits.

Nelson Mandela:I strongly believe that any form of discrimination—whether based on appearance, race or ability—is unacceptable. Bullying is a smaller version of the injustice I fought against all my life. It humiliates, isolates and destroys the dignity of human beings. A just society can exist only when we treat every person with equality and compassion. Strength lies not in dominating others but in giving them the freedom and respect they deserve.

11. Being impressed by Custard’s feat, the young seagull’s sister wrote a letter to Custard seeking advice on addressing the situation with her young brother. Write Custard’s response to this letter. Base the advice from his experiences. You may begin like this:

Dear Ms. Seagull

Thank you for seeking me out. I’m humbled. Based on my limited experiences, I feel…

Dear Ms Seagull,

Thank you for seeking me out. I am humbled that you value my experience. Based on what I have learned, your brother needs patience and reassurance more than criticism. I, too, was mocked for my fears, and it only made me feel smaller. Fear is natural; it does not disappear through teasing or pressure. Encourage him gently by helping him recognise small achievements. Show him that courage grows step by step, not all at once. Stand by him instead of comparing him to others. 

Most importantly, allow him the space to take his leap when he is ready. When the pirate attacked, I did not think—I simply acted, and that moment revealed my true strength. Your brother, too, will find his wings when his moment comes. Believe in him even when he does not believe in himself. Support can transform fear into courage.

Warm regards,

Custard

 

12. Custard, though mocked for his cowardice, displayed courage and was the one who saved the day in the end. Pick a character from any of the units (lessons/poems) in First Flight, who displayed similar characteristics, like Custard and overcame a troubling issue? What similarities and differences do you find between the character and Custard?.

A character from First Flight who shares similarities with Custard is the young seagull from “His First Flight.” Like Custard, the seagull is initially seen as timid and incapable. He is too afraid to fly and is mocked by his siblings for his hesitation. However, the moment he is pushed to the edge—literally and emotionally—he discovers his hidden strength. Similarly, Custard appears cowardly throughout the poem but displays extraordinary courage when danger arises. Both characters undergo a transformation that reveals their true potential at a critical moment.

The key difference lies in how they learn courage: the seagull gains confidence gradually through an act of necessity, while Custard acts instinctively without hesitation. The seagull’s family eventually supports him, whereas Custard continues to be teased despite saving the day. However, both stories highlight a common message: outward appearances and perceived weaknesses do not define a person’s real capability. True bravery emerges unexpectedly and often from those least expected.