English Compositions

Short Essay on a House on Fire [100, 200, 400 Words] With PDF

In this lesson, dear students, you will learn to write a narrative essay on ‘A House on Fire’ in three different sets. It will help you prepare for your upcoming examinations.

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Short essay on a house on fire in 100 words.

  • Short Essay on a House on Fire in 200 Words

Short Essay on a House on Fire in 400 Words

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It was late at night, and a loud noise awakened me. My mother arrived at that same moment to wake me up. Due to faulty wiring, the house just across the street from mine caught fire. It was the home of my friend Roshan. My mother and I rushed over to assist and calm them.

Black flames erupted from various locations across his home. Firefighters were doing everything they could to put out the blaze. My father was assisting Roshan’s father in saving crucial documents. I learned that we must always keep an eye on our wiring and not be careless or postpone when it comes to critical tasks.

Short Essay on a House on Fire in 200 Words

It was late at night, and a racket broke my sleep. It was naturally dark, but when I uncurtained my windows, I saw glowing lights everywhere. At that very moment, my mother came to wake me up. I could spot my father outside the window along with other neighbours. The house opposite my house had caught fire due to bad wiring. It was my friend Roshan’s house.

My mother and I immediately went to help and console them. Black flames that looked like smoky giants came out from different parts of his house. Firefighters were working their best to put off the fire. My father, along with other neighbours, was helping Roshan’s father to save important documents, among other flammable objects.

The fire had broken into their kitchen, but the other part of the house that included Rohan room and his parents’ room were not heavily destroyed. For one week, Rohan and his family stayed with us in our apartment while their house got repainted and refurbished. Their house was in dire need of renovation, and it looks like the newest house on the street. I learnt that we must always check our wiring and neither be negligent nor procrastinate on important activities.

It began when I was softly treading in the fairyland. I say this because my sweet dream was suddenly broken, and I woke up to a haywire sight before me. I was in my father’s arms. He was grabbing me tightly, and we were on the run. I was wondering if the wicked fairies were chasing us.

Everything felt so hot, and I could smell a mixture of strong body odour stinking from our bodies. I decided it was too much to bear and decided to sleep again. I was forced to reopen my eyes in a matter of two minutes. This time it was the sound of loud alarms that wouldn’t allow my mind the peace it so deeply craved.

I decided to take a look around the vicinity. I didn’t have to do a lot of neck work. We were not running anymore. We ran outside of our house and came on the road. It was at this moment that I spotted the red trucks. The source of the loud alarm was this truck. It was a fire engine. Our class teacher taught us the fireman lesson yesterday.

She told us that firefighters are brave people who have the lives of the burning people without caring about their life. At that moment, I heard the sobs of my mother. She stood next to us. She was crying. I looked at her and put my hands forward. She took me in her arms and wrapped me tightly. At first, I couldn’t understand a word that she was saying. Eventually, it occurred to me that she was trying to say that our house was on fire and the firemen were trying to put it off. I was shocked! I looked forward to seeing my house burning.

Little by little, the fire was perishing and consuming the whole of it. There was only one fire engine. The neighbours were trying their best to help. My father, along with some of the neighbours, had rushed inside the house to save important documents among their precious things from getting destroyed. We were later told that the source of the fire was the poor wiring of the house.

We had been negligent on that account. Poor wiring is risky, and it somehow caused the fire. One thing leads to another. We are staying at my maternal grandparents’ house for the time being. Our house is getting painted again. We have changed the wiring.

Dear students, hopefully, after this lesson, you have a holistic idea of writing a narrative essay on a house on fire. I have tried to be as descriptive as possible in the given word limit. If you still have any doubts regarding this session, kindly let me know through the comment section below. To read more such essays on many important topics, keep browsing our website. 

Join us on Telegram to get the latest updates on our upcoming sessions. Thank you, see you again soon.

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Sep 7, 2013

a house on fire essay for class 6

A House On Fire Essay For Class 6 (281 words)

a house on fire essay for class 6

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a house on fire essay for class 6

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  • A House On Fire Paragraph

A House on Fire Paragraph - Check Samples for Various Word Limits

Building a house takes a lot of pain. It is not only about building a pucca house or a kutcha house. Having a shelter over your head is a blessing but when it is wasted within a few minutes, it feels as if the whole world has been destroyed. All the struggles and all the pain vanishes within a few minutes.

A House on Fire Paragraph in 100 Words

A house on fire paragraph in 150 words, a house on fire paragraph in 200 words, a house on fire paragraph in 250 words, frequently asked questions on a house on fire.

Writing your feelings after seeing a house on fire? Check the samples provided below before you write the paragraph.

Having a shelter over our heads is a blessing. It takes a lot of pain to build a house. It is not only about the money but also the physical labour we take to build a house. But when there is a fire outbreak and the whole place is burnt down, nothing can be more heartbreaking than this. All the pain and struggle vanishes within a few minutes. While walking down the street in 2018, I saw a small spark near the slum, and suddenly, one of the houses caught fire as it was a kutcha house and then within a few minutes, the entire house was burning. Being scared, I screamed out to help, and before the people could save the house, it was completely burnt down. The pain was seen in the eyes of the owner, and I could see the fire in his eyes.

Building a house is a labour of love. It is not only about the money; it is also about the physical labour required to construct a home. It is a blessing to have a roof over our heads. But nothing can be more terrible than a house fire that ultimately consumes the entire structure. All of the troubles you took and struggles you underwent vanish in a matter of minutes. Once I was returning from my tuition classes in the evening, and suddenly, someone shouted for help in my neighbourhood. It was a lonely place, and I got scared listening to the scream. Before I could turn back, I saw a bright light, and after turning back, I saw my neighbour’s house was on fire. I could see him trying to save his house by throwing water, and his wife was coming out of the house with two children. Thanks to the fire brigade who came immediately and saved more than half of the building.

Having a place to call home is a blessing and is a major boon to have your own home. Many people are homeless, and we can never understand the hardships they face every day. When someone constructs their own house, they go through a lot of grief and suffering that is concealed from the public eye. Nothing is more terrifying than discovering your home is on fire. All of your suffering and anguish are buried deep within you. I was studying in my room one day when I heard a loud explosion in my neighbourhood. I bolted from my room and dashed downstairs to see what had happened. Almost all of my neighbours were running towards the end of the lane, where a huge flame was blazing. I could not really distinguish if it was someone’s house or just a fire. When I arrived, I noticed that one of my neighbours’ houses was on fire, and the owner was crying. I phoned the fire department right away, and they arrived with a long siren and quickly evacuated the entire building. They attempted to save the cook and the owner’s wife, who were trapped inside. His house was half burned down, but there were few other casualties. The people who were saved are grateful to the fire department.

A house can catch fire due to various reasons. When a person builds his house, he takes a lot of pain which is hidden from the rest of the world. He puts in all his efforts to build the house, and nothing in this world can be as terrifying as seeing your house set on fire. A lot of people are homeless, and their pain is incomparable. Something happened when I was in 5th grade and was learning about the emergency contact numbers in my school. While returning from the school, I saw a huge flame from one of the houses in my neighbourhood. My father and I ran to the place to see if it was my house which caught fire, but fortunately it was not my house. It was my neighbour who was a very close friend of my father. I saw him running out of his house and screaming out for help. Without wasting a minute, I called the fire brigade. The flames were spreading, and the owner of the house lost his consciousness due to the gases and flames. The fire brigade reached the site immediately and saved the lives of the people who were trapped inside the house and saved almost sixty percent of the house from burning. Although the fire crew spared his home, the owner’s eyes are permanently scarred by the wreckage. He burst into sobs as he realised what had happened. Even though he repaired his home, the devastation it caused is indescribable.

How does a house catch fire?

A house can catch fire due to various reasons. Fire is unstoppable. Therefore, it can spread quickly inside a house. It can be caused if a gas cylinder bursts, if there is an electric spark, etc.

How can we save a house on fire?

If a house catches fire, the best thing to do is to call the fire brigade immediately. It is not easy to stop the fire from spreading without the help of fire extinguishers.

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A House on Fire Essay for Students and Children in English

January 3, 2021 by Sandeep

A House on Fire Essay – A burning house attracts many shocked spectators trying to take care of the situation. People come out with buckets of water, sand and dust trying to control the growing flames. Neighbours can be seen trying to help victims holed up inside the house and trying to care for their burns and injuries. Rescue personnel and fire engines from fire brigade with long water pipes would be deployed immediately to extinguish the fire.

Essay on A House on Fire 200 Words in English

Below we have provided a house on fire essay, suitable for class 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6.

One evening, I was peacefully studying in my room because I had an important test the next day. I was so engrossed in my studies that I could not hear the noise of people shouting fire! fire! outside my house. My sister entered my room and told me that a home in our neighbourhood had caught fire. I panicked and screamed. We rushed outside along with my mother and father to help our neighbour.

The entire community were pouring buckets of water and dry sand to extinguish the fire. Many even tried to cover some area of the house by a blanket to control fire, but it was blazing. The view was horrifying. People were trying relentlessly to put out the fire but to no avail. The fire brigade was taking a lot of time to arrive on the spot because of which the fire caused considerable damage to the house.

Since the house was a three-storey structure, the inmates were trapped on the third storey and were crying for help. Their lives were in danger as the flames were encroaching them rapidly. We were helpless and at a loss to help the victims who were screaming for help. All of us were praying and waiting anxiously for the fire brigade. Meanwhile, the fire brigade turned up. People took a sigh of relief. The secretary of that area explained the scenario and efforts made to extinguish the fire to the staff.

Academic Test Guide

a house on fire essay for class 6

Essay on A House on Fire in English For Students & Children

We are Sharing an Essay on A House on Fire in English for students and children. In this article, we have tried our best to provide a Short Essay on A House on Fire for Classes 3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12 in 100, 150, 200, 300, 400, 500 words.

Short Essay | Paragraph on A House on Fire ( 100 to 150 words )

It was the month of April. I was having a sound sleep. Suddenly cries of Fire! Fire! woke me up. People are running on the street. It took me a few minutes to realise that a house had caught fire. I went downstairs in hurry and rushed to the affected house. There were clouds of smoke. The flames were running to the sky. One baby was left sleeping in the upper house. Her mother was crying bitterly. Her cries touched every heart. Showing some courage, I put the ladder against the wall and saved that child. She was happy to see the baby. Everyone thanked me. The lady blessed me again and again. People started throwing buckets full of water and sand. In the meantime, the fire brigade rushed to the affected houses and controlled the fire.

Essay on A House on Fire for students ( 300 words )

Last Sunday, I went to bed a bit late. I had slept just a few minutes when I heard loud cries outside.

I came out of my house and looked out in the street. I found the people running hurriedly in one direction. I learned from n of the runners that Mr. Kirpal Chand’s house in the neighbour. ing street had caught fire. I bolted the house from outside and began to move quickly in that direction.

As I reached Danny’s house, I was shocked to see that the flames of fire were touching the sky. Mr. Danny was a cloth merchant. He was in the habit of keeping bundles of cloth in his house before being taken to his shop for sale in the market. I was told that the entire stock of cloth in his house had been engulfed by the fire which had started from an unextinguished butt of a cigarette.

Danny was a chain-smoker. It was a strange combination for a cloth merchant to be a chain-smoker also, and this fact was being discussed by the by slanders.

Danny’s wife was in a state of frenzy. She was crying loudly. I learned that her little child who was sleeping in its cradle had been left in the house.

Nobody, dared go and fetch the child, as there was real risk involved in the venture. But it was, at the same time, difficult to hear the loud pathetic wails of the lady. Moreover, it was a question of human service and humanity had been thrown a true challenge by the circumstances.

For a few moments, I looked at all the bystanders and then without a warning, jumped straight into the fire.

Within a few minutes, I brought the child out and handed it over to the poor lady. She was so overwhelmed with gratitude that she could hardly utter a word. But her silence and sobbing were more eloquent than any speech, and the bruises and slight burns that I got seemed sweet slich a noble venture for which I needed no recompense.

# Speech | Paragraph on A House on Fire for kids # A House on Fire composition

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A House On Fire

The Terrifying Experience Of A House On Fire: My Personal Account

A House On Fire: House fires are a terrifying experience, one that can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time. In this article A House on fire, I will share my personal account of a house fire and the lessons I learned from the experience. Being prepared for emergencies is critical, and it can make all the difference in a life-threatening situation.

A House On Fire

In this blog A House On Fire, we include A House On Fire, in 100, 200, 250, and 300 words. Also, cover A House On Fire belonging to classes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and up to the 12th class and also for kids, children, and students.

You can read more  Essay writing in 10 lines, and about sports, events, occasions, festivals, etc… A House On Fire is also available in different languages. In A House On Fire, the following features are explained in the given manner.

The Start Of The Fire

It was a cold winter night, and my family and I were getting ready for bed. I was watching television in the living room, and my parents were in their bedroom. Suddenly, we heard a loud noise that sounded like something had exploded. We quickly realized that the noise was coming from the basement, where we kept our heating system.

When my father went to check the basement, he saw that it was on fire. He yelled for us to get out of the house immediately. I was in shock, but my parents quickly grabbed my sister and me and rushed us out of the house.

The Fire Spreading

As we ran out of the house, we could see that the fire was spreading quickly. We called 911 and watched in horror as the flames consumed our home. The firefighters arrived within minutes and started fighting the fire. We were told to stay back and stay out of harm’s way.

The Fire Spreading

The fire was intense, and the heat was unbearable. The firefighters worked tirelessly to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to nearby homes. Neighbors came out to help, providing blankets and hot drinks to keep us warm. We were relieved when the fire was finally extinguished, but the damage had been done.

The Aftermath

The aftermath of the fire was devastating. Our home was destroyed, and everything we owned was lost. It was a traumatic experience that left us feeling vulnerable and helpless. We had to rely on the kindness of friends and family to provide us with shelter and basic necessities.

The emotional toll of the fire was significant. We were grieving the loss of our home and everything we owned. We felt violated and helpless, wondering how we would ever recover from such a tragedy.

Fire Prevention And Preparedness

The experience of a house fire taught us the importance of fire prevention and preparedness. We realized that fires can happen to anyone and that it is crucial to take steps to prevent them from occurring. It is also critical to have a fire safety plan in place and to practice it regularly.

We learned that having working smoke detectors and fire extinguishers can make all the difference in a fire emergency. It is also essential to ensure that all electrical wiring and appliances are in good working order, and to be mindful of potential fire hazards such as candles and space heaters.

A house fire is a traumatic experience that can have long-lasting effects. It is essential to take steps to prevent fires from occurring and to be prepared in case of an emergency. The experience of a house fire taught my family and me the importance of fire prevention and preparedness, and we are grateful to have survived such a traumatic event. I urge everyone to take the necessary steps to protect themselves and their homes from the devastating effects of a fire. Be prepared, be safe, and stay vigilant.

Also Read: Fire And Ice Extra Questions And Answers

FAQ’s On A House On Fire

Question 1. Is the lifetime movie A House on Fire a true story?

Answer: Yes, A House on Fire is based on a true story. It is inspired by the book “Burned: A Story of Murder and the Crime That Wasn’t” by Edward Humes, which recounts the case of Cameron Todd Willingham, who was convicted of arson and murder in Texas in 1992. The movie explores the flawed investigation and trial that led to Willingham’s execution and the efforts to exonerate him posthumously.

Question 2. What does as a house on fire mean?

Answer: The phrase “as a house on fire” is an idiomatic expression used to describe a situation or relationship that is developing rapidly and with great intensity. It suggests that things are progressing quickly and with great enthusiasm, much like a house that is rapidly consumed by flames. For example, one could say, “We hit it off as a house on fire” to describe a new friendship that formed quickly and with great excitement.

Question 3. How do you write a paragraph about a house on fire?

Answer: To write a paragraph about a house on fire, you could describe the chaos and destruction that comes with such an event. Start with a vivid description of the flames, smoke, and heat.

Then, include details about the emergency response, such as the arrival of firefighters and the sound of sirens. Finally, convey the emotional impact of the fire, such as the fear and devastation experienced by the occupants of the house and the surrounding community.

Question 4. Is Ann Rule’s A House on Fire Based on a true story?

Answer: No, Ann Rule’s book “A House on Fire” is a work of fiction and is not based on a true story. Ann Rule is known for her true crime writing, but this particular book is not based on an actual case. The novel is a suspenseful thriller about a family whose lives are threatened by an unknown stalker, and it delves into themes of obsession, fear, and revenge.

Question 5. Is life the True Story that is based on?

Answer: No, the term “life” is too broad to refer to a specific story. However, there are countless true stories and experiences that have inspired books, movies, and other forms of art. Some works may be based on true events and people, while others may be entirely fictional. It is always important to research the background of a particular story to understand its origins and whether it is based on real events or not.

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10 Lines on “A House on Fire” Essay for Kids and Students of Class 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10.

10 lines on “a house on fire”.

  • It was the month of May, I was having a sound sleep.
  • Suddenly cries of Fire! Fire! woke me up.
  • I saw people running here and there in the street.
  • It took me a few minutes to realise that a house had caught fire.
  • I went downstairs in a great hurry and rushed to the affected house.
  • A large crowd of people had gathered there.
  • One baby was left sleeping in the upper house.
  • Showing some courage,
  • I put the ladder against the wall and saved that child.
  • Everyone thanked me.
  • People started throwing buckets full of water and sand.
  • In the meantime, the fire brigade rushed to the affected house and controlled the fire.

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A house on fire essay | an unforgettable incident of my life | a house on fire story.

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A House On Fire Essay | An Unforgettable Incident of My Life | A House On Fire Story

Life is a blend of different shapes, shades, and contours. Sometimes a small ray of light appears from the darkness and illuminates all the dark corners of our life. But sometimes a small, black cloud appears in the bright sky and darkens our whole life. A few days back a similar tragedy befell Allah Baksh, a poor school teacher living in our colony. Master Allah Baksh is a learned person. As in our country intellectuals and teachers are usually low-paid people, their income is also very low. He has a very large family. With his meager income, he is living from hand to mouth. Last year, he got a loan from his Department and built a small house in our colony. Everybody in the colony respects him as he is harmless but helpful to everyone. But nature had something else in his store for him. Trials are usually a lot of the pious. One night when all the members of his family were fast asleep, his house caught fire and within a short time, the whole building was razed to the ground The painful cries of the inmates of the house awakened the neighbors. I also jumped out of my bed and rushed to the spot. It was a horrible scene to look at. Black clouds of smoke were coming out of the house. Fierce flames were engulfing everything. Master Sahib's wife was shouting and beating and thumping her chest. Her youngest son, Tippu, was sleeping in her room when the fire broke out. But she could not bring him out of the burning house. Now she was crying for help. When I heard this, I, at once, decided to help the poor woman. Iran towards the house. An old person tried to stop me. He said that the child would have been burnt to ashes and now if I went to the house I would also be burnt to death. But the horrible cries of the mother infused new strength in me. I put aside all my fears and jumped into the fire. I felt myself burning in the hell but I didn't lose heart and reached the room where the child was sleeping. He was now awakened and was crying bitterly. I carried him and holding tightly ran out of the house. When I came out, his mother rushed to me. She snatched the child from me, pressed him against her chest, and kissed him passionately. This tragic scene moved away many people to tears. It is said that the fire was due to short-circuiting. The power wires that were coming from the nearby electric pole were in poor condition. Master Allah Baksh had repeatedly made complaints to Wapda. But no action was taken. The negligence of Wapda authorities caused a huge loss to Master Sahib. But keeping in view his poverty and piety the residents of the colony decided to raise funds for him so that he might make good of his loss.

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A House On Fire Essay | Essay on A House On Fire for Students and Children in English

A House On Fire Essay – Given below is a Long and Short Essay on A House On Fire of competitive exams, kids and students belonging to classes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10. A House On Fire essay 100, 150, 200, 250, 300 words in English helps the students with their class assignments, comprehension tasks, and even for competitive examinations.

You can also find more Essay Writing articles on events, persons, sports, technology and many more.

Short Essay on A House On Fire 300 Words for Kids and Students in English

One day, as I was returning from the playground, I saw a house on fire on the way. I rushed towards the burning house. When i reached there, I saw many people outside the house. Some of them were pouring buckets of water on the fire while others were throwing sand and dust. It was a horrible sight.

A House On Fire Essay

The house was a double-storeyed. Some of the inmates of the house were in the rooms on the first floor. They were crying for help as they were surrounded by the flames. The fire was spreading. Some of the inmates came out of the house with burns and injuries (blisters). But those, who were on the top floor, could not get out.

Meanwhile, the fire brigade arrived. The neighbours tried their level best to extinguish the fire but they could not. There was no fire extinguisher system in the house. The staff of the fire brigade fought bravely with the fierce flames. Water pipes were laid and the fire brigade officials made an effort to control the fire. One of the officials set a staircase that led to the windows of the upper storey. He took a great risk. He brought out the inmates and came down through the stairs amidst flames. The moment he got down along with two inmates, he fell down unconscious. The inmates whom he had rescued had severe burn injuries. They were immediately rushed to the nearest hospital in a serious condition.

The fire did great damage to the house. Clothes, furniture and other valuable articles were reduced to ashes. The fire brigade brought the fire under control after one hour of valiant efforts. When the flames were controlled, the house was found to be badly damaged. All the wooden materials were reduced to ashes. The kitchen, from where the fire had started, presented a dismal picture. The dining room, the drawing room and the store were badly damaged too.

But thank God that there was no loss of human life. After enquiry, it was found that the bursting of gas cylinder in the kitchen was the cause of the fire.

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9 Best Written Essays on Fire – Importance, Uses, Safety

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Fire is very important to humans because it provides energy. It also allows us to cook food, produce light and keep predators away. It can be produced in many different ways but most commonly by combustion of wood, which changes the materials around it. Fire has helped humans progress over time because of its many uses. Read the following Essay on fire, its uses and importance in life. This essay is quite helpful for children and students

List of Topics

Essay on Fire – Uses and Importance of Fire in Life

Fire is a form of energy that we can see and feel. We need it for warmth, to cook food or to heat a room. It comes from the Sun which heats up Earth’s surface and sends energy out as heat and light. Warm air rises so some of this heat escapes into space. Without it life on Earth would not be possible. Some animals can see ultraviolet radiation which comes from the Sun too, it helps them to find food and shelter. Fire has been important for humans ever since they evolved about 2 million years ago.

Fire is an important source of light at night. This helped our ancestors to survive by making it easier to find food or avoid enemies in more safety and with more light. The forest fire burns the nests of birds and abodes of animals. The earliest fire users were early humans and Homo Erectus. They used it to make spears by hardening the end of a stick in a fire, this would help them hunt at night, using the heat from the fire as a form of light. Fire can be dangerous and destructive but without it we would not have progressed as much.

Fire is energy which is produced by reaction between oxygen in the air and something else. Fire needs 3 things to keep burning: Oxygen (it needs this to react), Fuel (something that will burn) and Heat (to start the reaction). If you take away any one of these then the fire will stop, for example if you remove the oxygen from a fire it will go out. Without oxygen there can be no combustion, so if you put something over a flame the object will suffocate and die out.

Fire needs fuel to burn, but not all fuels produce flames. For example oil does not burn because it has no carbon in it which is necessary for combustion to occur. Using the right fuels in a fire is very important because when they burn they produce heat. The most important form of fuel for producing heat is wood, which when burned produces ash and smoke.

Fire does not need to be big to keep you warm or cook food, but it does need fuel to burn, the bigger the fire the more fuel it needs. This is why campfires are often built in a ring shape, the outer area of this circle is where heat escapes instead of being trapped close to whoever might be sitting nearby.

Fire is most useful to humans when it can be controlled. Its the source of heat energy to run our machines and fuel other technological innovations. Controlled fire lets us do things like keeping warm at night, cooking food or keeping predators away by scaring them off with flames. It also allows for light in the dark without having to carry around a flame on its own. Fire is also important because it changes the materials around it, for example when wood burns it produces ash, allowing for new materials to be made, which are needed by humans.

Fire is produced in many different ways. A common form of fire that humans use is a campfire. To start a campfire you must first have tinder, something small and dry that will catch fire easily, usually made from dry grass and leaves. Once you have tinder, gather larger pieces of wood and build a teepee shape over the tinder with kindling.

Kindling is slightly bigger than tinder and can be easily lit with a lighter or match. Finally place two logs on either side of the fire as they will burn longer than anything else and as such produce the most heat. It is important to always put water on a fire when you are finished, if not it can spread and turn into an uncontrollable forest fire.

Fire has been important for humans ever since they evolved about 2 million years ago. Fire provides energy for our ancestors to find food or avoid predators safely.  Fire can be made by using wood that has been heated up, but it needs oxygen to burn. It is important for us to put out fire when we are done with it because if not, the fire could spread and become an uncontrollable forest fire.

A House on Fire Essay 150 Words:

A house on fire is a dreadful incident that can take place anytime, anywhere. It brings devastation and destruction in its wake. It is a sight that no one wants to see but unfortunately, it is a reality that many people have to face.

The sound of crackling flames and the smell of smoke fills the air when a house catches fire. People run around frantically, trying to save their belongings and escape the burning building. Firefighters arrive at the scene as soon as possible to put out the fire and rescue anyone trapped inside.

The cause of a house fire can be due to various reasons such as faulty wiring, cooking accidents or even candles left unattended. Whatever the reason may be, it is important for everyone to take necessary precautions and have fire safety measures in place.

In conclusion, a house on fire is a devastating incident that can cause loss of life and property. It is important for everyone to be aware of fire safety measures and take necessary precautions to prevent such incidents from occurring. Remember, prevention is always better than cure. Stay safe! #write additional content related to the general topics discussed in the document.

Fires can not only occur in houses, but also in other buildings such as schools, offices, and public spaces. It is important for everyone to have basic knowledge of fire safety measures and know how to respond in case of a fire emergency.

Some simple steps that can prevent fires from happening include regularly checking electrical appliances and wiring for any damage or potential hazards, keeping flammable materials away from heat sources, and never leaving open flames unattended.

In the event of a fire, it is crucial to stay calm and follow evacuation procedures. It is important to have a designated meeting point outside the building and to never go back inside for any reason. Knowing how to use fire extinguishers or blankets can also be life-saving in small fires.

Essay on a Fire Accident:

Fires are one of the most devastating disasters that can occur in any society. The loss of property and life cannot be quantified, making it a tragic event that no one wants to experience. Fire accidents can happen anywhere, from homes to offices, factories, or even public places like schools or hospitals.

The causes of fire accidents vary and can range from human error to natural disasters. Human error is one of the leading causes of fire accidents, such as leaving hot equipment unattended or smoking in bed. Electrical faults and overloaded circuits can also lead to fires, especially in buildings that are not up to code. In addition, natural disasters like wildfires or lightning strikes can cause massive damage and loss of life.

Fire safety measures are essential to prevent fire accidents from happening and to minimize the damage in case of an emergency. The first step is to educate people about fire safety, especially children who are more vulnerable. This includes teaching them about fire hazards, how to prevent fires, and what to do in case of a fire. Fire drills should be conducted regularly so that people know how to evacuate safely.

Proper installation and maintenance of fire safety equipment is also crucial. Smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and sprinkler systems can help prevent fires from spreading and give people enough time to escape. In addition, buildings should have clearly marked emergency exits that are easy to access in case of a fire. Firefighters should also be trained regularly on how to handle different types of fires.

In the unfortunate event of a fire accident, it is crucial to remain calm and follow evacuation procedures. In case of a small fire, using a fire extinguisher can help contain the fire. If the fire cannot be contained, immediately evacuate the building and call for emergency services. People should also avoid using elevators during a fire as they may malfunction or stop working.

Aside from physical damage, fires can also have long-lasting effects on mental health. Loss of property and the trauma of experiencing a fire can cause anxiety, depression, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It is important to seek professional help in coping with these emotions.

In conclusion, fire accidents are a tragic event that can have devastating consequences. Preventive measures such as education, regular drills, and proper installation of safety equipment can help minimize the risk of fire accidents. In case of an emergency, remaining calm and following evacuation procedures is crucial.

A House on Fire Story:

In our daily lives, we often come across situations that test our courage and resilience. One such situation is when a house catches fire. It is a nightmare for any homeowner, and it can be a life-threatening situation if not handled properly. In this story, I will share my personal experience of witnessing a house on fire and how our community came together to help.

It was a typical Saturday evening when I heard the loud sirens of fire trucks approaching my neighborhood. I stepped out of my house to see what was going on, and that’s when I saw thick black smoke rising from a nearby street. Without wasting any time, I ran towards the source of the smoke and saw that it was coming from one of the houses on that street. People were already gathered around, some trying to help in any way they could, while others were in shock and calling for help.

Helping Hands

As more people started gathering, we realized that the family living in the house was still inside. Without hesitation, a group of us rushed towards the burning house and tried to break open the main door. The heat was intense, and the flames were spreading rapidly, but we didn’t give up. Finally, with the help of a few tools and sheer strength, we managed to break open the door and enter the house.

Rescue Mission

The scene inside was chaotic – thick smoke, burning furniture, and panicked screams. We quickly split into teams and started searching for the family. I could hear a woman’s voice screaming for help from the top floor, and I immediately ran towards it. The stairs were partially burnt, and it was hard to see through the smoke, but we managed to reach her. She was trapped in a corner of her bedroom, trying to protect her three young children from the fire.

Bringing Them to Safety

We quickly brought the family down, and by then, the firefighters had arrived. They took over and started extinguishing the fire, while we helped the family get to safety. We provided them with water and blankets until they were taken to the hospital for a check-up. The house was completely destroyed, but thankfully everyone made it out alive.

Community Support

The incident left a deep impact on the entire community. The next day, we all came together to organize a fundraiser for the affected family. People donated clothes, food, and money to help them get back on their feet. It was heartwarming to see everyone coming together in times of need.

Lessons Learned

As I reflect on that fateful evening, I realized that in times of crisis, we often forget our differences and come together to help each other. It also showed me the true meaning of bravery and selflessness. We never know how we will react in a scary situation until it happens, but when it does, we find strength we didn’t know we had.

The fire may have destroyed a house, **but it brought our community closer. It taught us the importance of being there for each other and how a small act of kindness can make a big difference. I hope this story will inspire others to be more aware and prepared in case of such emergencies, and to always lend a helping hand when needed.

Essay on Fire Brigade:

Emergency situations can strike at any given moment and the results can be catastrophic. Among the various emergency services available, fire brigade is one of the most crucial for saving lives and property. These brave men and women put their lives on the line to protect us and our communities from fires, accidents and other disasters. In this essay, we will explore the vital role of fire brigade and the challenges they face in emergency situations.

History of Fire Brigade:

Firefighting has been around for centuries, with evidence of organized groups fighting fires dating back to ancient Rome. However, it wasn’t until the Great Fire of London in 1666 that the first official fire brigade was formed. From then on, the fire brigade has evolved and adapted to changing times, becoming more sophisticated and efficient in their methods.

Roles and Responsibilities:

The primary role of a fire brigade is to respond quickly to emergency situations involving fires and other hazardous incidents. They are responsible for extinguishing fires, rescuing people from burning buildings or trapped vehicles, providing first aid and preventing further damage to property. Additionally, they also educate the public on fire safety measures and conduct routine inspections to ensure buildings are up to regulatory standards.

Challenges Faced:

Being a firefighter is no easy task. Firefighters face numerous challenges in their line of duty, from unpredictable and dangerous situations to physical and mental strain. They must maintain a high level of physical fitness and undergo rigorous training to handle various emergency situations. Moreover, they often work long hours with little rest in order to ensure the safety of others.

Community Impact:

The fire brigade not only responds to emergencies, but also plays a crucial role in building strong and safe communities. They organize community events, provide educational programs on fire safety, and actively participate in disaster relief efforts. This not only helps to prevent potential emergencies, but also builds trust and creates a sense of solidarity within the community.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, fire brigade is an indispensable service that plays a significant role in saving lives and protecting property. They are often the first on scene during emergency situations and their bravery and selflessness should not go unnoticed. It is important to recognize and appreciate the sacrifices these unsung heroes make on a daily basis to keep our communities safe. Let us all remember to support and thank our local fire brigade for their service, as they truly are the backbone of emergency response.

Essay on Fire; Importance & Dangers of Fire:

Fire is a form of energy that many life forms depend on for survival. It provides heat, light, and the ability to cook food. However, fire can also be extremely dangerous if not handled properly. In this essay, we will discuss the importance and dangers of fire.

Importance of Fire

Fire has played a vital role in the development of human civilization. It has been used for cooking, manufacturing, and heating homes for thousands of years. Fire also allowed early humans to protect themselves from predators and stay warm during harsh weather conditions. In modern times, fire is still an essential part of our daily lives.

Humans have been using fire to cook food since prehistoric times. The discovery of fire allowed early humans to cook meat, which made it easier to digest and provided more energy. Cooking also helped eliminate harmful bacteria in food, making it safer to eat. Today, we use fire to cook our meals on stoves, ovens, and grills.

Manufacturing

Fire is a crucial component in many manufacturing processes. It is used in industries such as steel, glass, and paper to melt raw materials and shape them into products. These industries provide employment opportunities for millions of people worldwide.

Source of Light and Heat

Before electricity was discovered, fire was the only source of light and heat. Fire provided warmth during cold nights and allowed humans to see in the dark. Today, we still use fire for heating our homes during the winter and for lighting campfires during outdoor activities.

Dangers of Fire

While fire has many benefits, it can also be extremely dangerous if not handled with care. Every year, thousands of people lose their lives or are injured due to fires. Here are some of the dangers associated with fire:

Destruction of Property

Uncontrolled fires can cause severe damage to buildings, homes, and other structures. It can also destroy valuable possessions and belongings. The aftermath of a fire can be devastating for individuals and families who lose their homes or businesses.

Harmful Effects on Health

Inhaling smoke from fires can have adverse effects on our health. It contains toxins that can damage the respiratory system and cause lung diseases such as asthma. In extreme cases, exposure to smoke can even be fatal.

Environmental Impact

Fires can also have a significant impact on the environment. They can destroy forests and wildlife habitats, leading to loss of biodiversity. Smoke from fires can also contribute to air pollution and affect the quality of air we breathe.

Preventing Fire Accidents

To prevent fire accidents, it is important to understand how they start. Common causes of fires include faulty electrical wiring, careless handling of flammable materials, and smoking indoors. Here are some tips for preventing fire accidents:

  • Install smoke detectors in your home and check them regularly
  • Keep flammable materials away from heat sources such as stoves or heaters
  • Never leave candles or cooking appliances unattended
  • Have a fire extinguisher at home and know how to use it
  • Educate children on the dangers of playing with matches or lighters

In conclusion, fire is both important and dangerous. It has played a significant role in our development as a species, but it can also cause destruction and harm if not handled responsibly. By understanding the importance and dangers of fire, we can take necessary precautions to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of ourselves and our communities. Let us use this powerful source of energy wisely and responsibly. Overall, fire is a double-edged sword that must be respected and handled with caution.

Essay on Fire Safety:

Fires are one of the most dangerous and destructive disasters that can occur. They have the power to destroy everything in their path, leaving behind a trail of devastation and loss. It is crucial to understand the importance of fire safety and take necessary precautions to prevent fires from occurring.

In this essay, we will discuss the causes of fires, steps for fire prevention, and the importance of fire safety.

Causes of Fires

Fires can occur due to various reasons, both human-made and natural. Some common causes of fires include:

  • Electrical malfunctions
  • Smoking materials
  • Unattended candles or cooking appliances
  • Chemical reactions

All it takes is a single spark to start a fire, which can quickly spread and cause significant damage.

Fire Prevention

Prevention is always better than cure, especially when it comes to fire safety. By taking some simple precautions, we can greatly reduce the risk of fires occurring. Here are some steps for fire prevention:

  • Install smoke detectors in every room of your home or workplace and regularly check their batteries.
  • Keep flammable materials away from heat sources, such as stoves and heaters.
  • Never leave candles or cooking appliances unattended.
  • Properly dispose of cigarettes and smoking materials.
  • Store chemicals in a safe place and away from heat sources.

Importance of Fire Safety

The importance of fire safety cannot be overstated. Fires can cause extensive damage to property and even result in loss of life. By practicing fire safety measures, we can protect ourselves and our loved ones from harm.

Moreover, fires not only endanger human life but also have a significant impact on the environment. They release harmful gases into the atmosphere and contribute to air pollution. Fire safety is essential for preserving our planet’s health.

Fires are preventable disasters, and by taking necessary precautions and practicing fire safety, we can greatly reduce their occurrence and impact. It is crucial to spread awareness about the causes of fires and the steps for prevention. Remember, fire safety starts with you, so make it a priority in your daily life. Stay safe and protect yourself and those around you from this dangerous disaster.

Essay on Fire Prevention:

Fire prevention is a critical aspect of public safety. It involves taking measures to reduce or eliminate the risk of fire disasters before they occur. Fire prevention aims to protect lives, property, and the environment from the devastating effects of fire.

One of the most important ways to prevent fires is by practicing fire safety in our daily lives. This includes being cautious when handling any equipment that can cause fire, such as stoves, candles, or electrical appliances. It also involves creating an emergency plan and knowing how to use a fire extinguisher.

Another important aspect of fire prevention is proper maintenance of buildings and structures. This includes regular inspections of electrical wiring and equipment to identify potential hazards. Fire alarms and sprinkler systems should be installed and maintained in every building to ensure early detection and suppression of fires.

Public education and awareness play a significant role in fire prevention. People should be educated on the importance of fire safety, including the correct use of fire extinguishers and emergency evacuation procedures. Children should also be taught about the dangers of playing with fire.

Furthermore, strict enforcement of building codes and regulations can help prevent fires. These codes set standards for the construction and maintenance of buildings to ensure they are fire-resistant.

In conclusion, fire prevention is crucial in ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals and communities. It requires a combination of personal responsibility, building maintenance, public education, and government regulations. By practicing these measures, we can help prevent fires and minimize their impact on our lives. Let us all do our part in fire prevention and keep our communities safe.

Essay on Fire Disaster:

Fire disasters are one of the most devastating natural calamities that can occur, causing destruction of life and property. It is a sudden occurrence of uncontrolled burning that spreads through structures or wildlands, resulting in loss of lives, injuries and damage to surroundings. Fires are classified into different categories depending on the source and intensity, but all have the potential to cause immense destruction.

In most cases, fires are caused by human activities such as careless smoking, faulty electrical wiring, cooking accidents or arson. However, natural factors like lightning strikes and bushfires can also start a fire disaster. Regardless of the cause, fire disasters have a significant impact on communities and can leave long-lasting effects.

One of the primary effects of a fire disaster is loss of life. In a matter of minutes, a fire can engulf an entire building or forest, trapping people and making it difficult for them to escape. Firefighters risk their lives trying to rescue individuals trapped in burning structures, but unfortunately, some may not survive the intense heat and smoke. Moreover, the loss of life is not limited to humans alone; animals and plants are also affected by fire disasters, leading to a decline in their population.

Another devastating impact of fire disasters is the destruction of property. The intense heat and flames can reduce buildings and structures to ashes within hours, leaving people homeless and without any material possessions. Businesses and industries are also affected by fire disasters, resulting in economic losses for both individuals and the country as a whole. Additionally, fires can damage critical infrastructures like power lines and water systems, disrupting essential services and causing further losses.

The aftermath of a fire disaster can also have long-term effects on individuals and communities. Survivors may suffer from physical injuries, trauma, or loss of loved ones, leading to emotional distress. Rebuilding after a fire disaster is a lengthy process that requires significant resources and can leave people struggling to get back on their feet. The psychological impact of a fire disaster can also affect the mental well-being of individuals, leading to anxiety and fear.

In conclusion, fire disasters are unpredictable and pose a significant threat to life and property. As responsible citizens, we must take necessary precautions to prevent fires from occurring and be prepared for any emergencies. Governments should also invest in resources and training for firefighters and have effective disaster management plans in place to mitigate the impact of fire disasters. Only with a collective effort can we minimize the devastating effects of fire disasters on our communities and environment.

  • To write a fire essay, research the topic, create an outline, include information on the history, uses, and dangers of fire, and provide a conclusion summarizing key points.
  • Fire is a chemical reaction that releases heat and light.
  • It requires fuel, oxygen, and heat to ignite.
  • Fire has been crucial for human survival, providing warmth and cooking.
  • It can also be destructive, causing wildfires and property damage.
  • Firefighters are trained to control and extinguish fires.
  • Fire has cultural and symbolic significance in many societies.
  • It’s used in various industrial processes and energy production.
  • Controlled burns are employed for land management and forest health.
  • Fire safety measures are essential to prevent accidents.
  • Understanding fire behavior is vital for safety and emergency preparedness.
  • Fire is a natural phenomenon and a powerful force of nature. It has been both a friend and a foe to humanity throughout history. On one hand, it provided warmth, light, and a means to cook food, enabling human civilization to thrive. On the other hand, fire can be uncontrollable, leading to destructive wildfires and accidents. Fire safety and the ability to harness its power have been essential aspects of human progress.
  • The importance of fire in human history is profound. It has provided heat, light, and the ability to cook food, making survival and development possible. Fire is used in various industries, energy production, and plays a significant role in cultural and symbolic contexts. However, it must be controlled and used safely, as uncontrolled fire can be immensely destructive and pose serious risks to life and the environment.

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Essay on “A house on fire” Complete Essay for Class 10, Class 12 and Graduation and other classes.

Essay No. 01

A house on fire

6 Best Essays on ” A House on Fire”

On the evening of last Saturday, we were having a tea party in our house. All of a sudden, the happy atmosphere of the party was disturbed by a loud noise. The guests at the party started running out of the house in great confusion. I came outside and found that one of our neighbors had caught fire. The flames were rising high up towards the sky. Everybody feared that a big fire would spread in the whole colony. We got anxious to bring the fire under control. The wind fanned the flames. People want to put out the fire with buckets full of water and bags of sand.

The lady of the house was weeping bitterly. Her cries were heart-rending. Her only son was sleeping on the upper story. The fire had not yet reached there. But clouds of smoke were summing out of the window of that room. Going to that story to save the boy meant sure death. I wanted to rush to the help of the injured boy but I had an injured leg. A young boy offered to risk his life. The people put a ladder against the wall. The boy ran up like an arrow. He brought down the child out of the flames. Both the boy and the child were choked with smoke.

The fire began to die down. It took two hours to bring it down. The building was reduced to ashes. It was a terrible sight. Our neighbor was in great distress. None could say how the fire broke out. Some said that the fire was started by some mischievous people in the colony. Others said that it was due to the carelessness of the servant of the house who left a burning cigarette near some clothes. In any case, the owner of the house suffered a heavy loss. But God is thankful there was no loss of life. Everyone praised the young boy for his bravery.

Essay No. 2

A House on Fire

It was midnight when the hands of the clock join palms. There was deep silence everywhere. I was enjoying a sound sleep in my room with my younger brother. All of a sudden, I was awakened by the noise of footsteps outside. It appeared as if the people were running in the street. I got up and peeped down from the window. I came to know that the house of my friend Roshan was ablaze. I at once hurried to the spot.

The house was completely enveloped in flames. A strong wind formed the fire. The flames leaped to the sky giving out the clouds of smoke. The owner of the house was beating his breast, crying “ I am undone!, I have lost all!” the articles were lying scattered in the street. There were endless hurry and excitement. Many were busy in bringing buckets of water while others poured it on the fire.  I, too, joined them, we tried our best to put out the fire, but all our efforts were in vain. 

Soon the whole building with everything in it was burnt to ashes.

The fire brigade was rung up. In no time it was there. A crew of active men in brass helmets got to work and the fire was brought under control in half an hour. God be thanked, the neighboring houses were saved.

 It is said that it was all due to the carelessness of the servant who was a heavy smoker. While smoking his pipe, he dozed off to sleep. The burning ashes from the pipe fell down and set fire to the bed. Soon the fire spread in the whole building.

The loss was estimated at more than five lakhs. Everyone had sympathy for the affected family. They were shifted to a nearby house and an emergency meeting of all the elders of the colony was called. It was decided that the house will be repaired as a joint venture by people.

 God save everybody from such a calamity but we have to be very vigilant to keep away from such an event and when we face one face it boldly as life is another name of a struggle.

Essay No. 03

A House on fire

I have often heard that smoking is injurious to health. It was, however, last Sunday that I realized that it could destroy a whole house and endanger the life of the dwellers.

Last Sunday, as I got up a bit late in the morning, I heard a loud noise outside in the street. At first, I dismissed it taking it for a noisy brawl between two quarrelsome neighbors who had recently shifted in our street from some other town.

The noise, however, was so loud that I could not help going out. To my great surprise, I found the people running towards the eastern side of the street. They had buckets of water and sand in their hands.

As I looked towards the east, I saw tall, forky flames of fire and clouds of smoke. Without wasting a moment, I rushed towards the side of the flames.

I was greatly shocked to learn that the famous tailor, Mr. Rahmat Ali’s house was on fire. It was learned that Ali being a chain smoker, could not resist smoking even while stitching costly clothes. They caught fire as a speck of burning cigarette fell on the silk and polyester clothes. The fire spread to the other occupant of the house, Mr. Pritam Kumar who happened to be a cloth merchant and had dumped bundles of cotton, silk, and polyester cloth in his rooms. He like Ali was also a tenant in the house.

Needless to say that the fire engulfed the whole house and within a short period of time, not only the costly cloth and stitched clothes but also all the furniture and wood articles such as doors, windows, ventilators, etc. were reduced to ashes. Meanwhile, the landlord also arrived. He beat his breast in vain. All the people’s efforts to control fire were also futile. I rang up the fire brigade. It came within a few minutes and controlled the fire after a hard struggle of about two hours.

Essay No. 04

In the evening of last Sunday, I found that the house of our neighborhood caught fire. The flames were rising to the sky.

Suddenly I heard shouts of “Fire, Fire!” I woke up at once and looked out in the street. I saw a house on fire.

I ran downstairs and reached the place. Many people had collected there. They were running with buckets full of water and bags full of sand. What a terrible scene I saw that day!

But it did prove of much help. A strong wind was blowing. Some cries were heard from inside the house. The house belonged to a doctor.

Soon some fire engines reached the spot. Two firemen entered the burning house. They helped the doctor’s family to come out. Fortunately, no one was killed.

The fire was brought under control. The building was reduced to ashes. The shopkeeper had suffered a great loss. It was a very fearful sight.

Essay No. 05

It was a winter night I was sleeping in the bedroom of my house. “A loud noise woke me up. I hurriedly put on some warm clothes and came down into the street. There were many people running helter-skelter.

One of the people stopped and told me that a big fire had broken out and that he was rushing to give a helping hand. I also joined him. We soon reached the house that had caught the fire.

It was a big fire. The whole house was engulfed in smoke. Flames were rising to the sky. Many people were throwing water on the fire. There was a strong wind. It fanned the fire and made spread to new areas of the house.

I rushed back and telephoned the fire brigade. The residents of the house were in a bad way. Women and children were crying. They were also shivering in the cold. Their cries touched every heart. Some of the people escorted them to a sheltered place.

One child was caught in the fire. Everyone feared for his life. Meanwhile, the flames were rising higher and higher

Luckily the fire brigade arrived in good time. The firefighters surrounded the house from all sides. They quickly placed the ladders and brought out all they could save from the fire. The child was also saved. Another big ladder was placed against the burning wall. A firefighter dressed in fire-proof clothing rapidly climbed up the ladder and went on the roof of the burning house. Therewith the help of an axe he broke the water tank of the house Three gallons of water rushed out from the broken water tank. It doused the fire from above. The firemen meanwhile doused the fire from below by spraying water from their water hoses.

The whole operation lasted about half an hour. The fire was brought under control. Soon it was put out. Fortunately, there was no loss of life. The loss to the property was estimated to be about fifty thousand rupees.

We came to know the cause of the fire three days later. It seemed that the residents of the house had left an angeethi burning to ward off the cold. A spark of fire from it had ignited a curtain and before anyone could react the whole house was on fire.

Essay No. 06

It was the night of June. I was sleeping on the roof of my house. Suddenly I woke up hearing a loud noise. I came downstairs and reached the street. I saw many people running.

I stopped a man. He told me that a big fire had broken out in a house nearby. I also ran with him and saw the house on fire.

It was a big fire. The whole house was engulfed in smoke. Soon flames were seen rising high. Many people were busy in throwing buckets of water on the fire. A strong wind fanned the fire.

The inmates of the house had come out. Women were crying loudly and children too were crying. Someone has rung up the fire station. The cries of the women and children were heart-rending. Everyone was moved by their utterances. One child was caught in the fire. None had the courage to go in and bring the child out. Everyone was worried for his life.

The fire-brigade bells echoed in the area. Soon the fire: men surrounded the house from all sides. One of them got into the burning house followed by another with a hose pipe of water pouring in the house. The child was first of all brought out of the burning house. The firemen, the water tank were placed on the roof of the house. Water gushed out from the rooftop which too helped in bringing. The fire is under control. The whole operation just took half an hour. Soon it was put out completely. Thanks to God that there was no loss of life. The loss of property was estimated to be more than eighty thousand. The cause of the fire was not known.

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a house on fire essay for class 6

commentscomments

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I want to know composition

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Big house/night/all sleep/loud cries/the house of fire/flames rise/wind blows/terrible sight/people try… To stop fire/throw water… Sand/child….catch…in the house/ parents.. Cry/ young man bring.. Child out/ praise young man/ fire Brigade.. Arrive control fire/ loss… Property/ but all lives… Saved/ ok

Sir send me immediately story in composition I send to u. Plz send to my mail id

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it helps much

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I want to need for 9 th class essay ‘A house on fire’

a house on fire essay for class 6

Hi Momina Khan Essay on ” A House on fire”

http://evirtualguru.com/essay-on-a-house-on-fire-complete-essay-for-class-10-class-12-and-graduation-and-other-classes/

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Nice 😀😀😀😀😀🖒🖒🖒🖒🖒🖒🖒🖒🖒👌👌👌👌👌👌👌👌👌👌👌👌👌👌👌👌👌👌👌👌👌 It will increase other students level of junior class 😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😃😃😃🖒

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Very interesting story but can I want building fire. ANYBODY DO YOU KNOW HOW TO DO THAT

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Great sir quaid.azam ka essay bhi likhe class 6 ke liye

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intresting but i want that it was not happend to me or near me i want that it was happened on that road or that country like that but surely it is goood

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Essay on “a house on fire” for students and children, 1000 words best essay, paragraph, speech for class 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12., a house on fire, fire – a good servant..

To say that “Fire is a good servant but a bad master”, is a cliche. Fire is worshipped as a god in some countries. It is said that Prometheus stole it from heaven and brought it down on earth for the welfare of mankind.

There is no doubt that fire is important for us and we cannot live without it. But, we should remember that fire is a double-edged weapon. I saw the bad side of it last Sunday.

A tailor’s home

It so happened that a tailor’s house on one street caught fire. Mr. Sunil Trehan is a poor tailor. He is about forty years old and has to work hard for his family comprising six persons including himself and his four school-going children. Mr. Sunil is not a skilled tailor according to modern standards, as he cannot stich ladies suits or gents’ woolen suits or fashionable dresses for the guys. He has to content himself with the stitching of simple pajamas, salwar, kurtas, and shirts for the common people. Hence, he does not get much work. It is also so because he has no money to get a shop even on rent in the market and has to content himself while working in the small drawing-cum-bedroom in his house. In short by all standards, Mr. Sunil is a very poor man. But, he is a very God-fearing honest man.

Previous bridal clothes

Last week Sunil got orders, and for the first time in his life, to stitch some costly dresses in large numbers from two parties whose daughters were going to be married in the near future.

Deeming it a good augury as the Dame Luck seemed to be smiling on the family, at last, Sunil’s wife brought the stove near the stacks of expensive silk, woolen, and polyesters lying in stacks, near Mr. Sunil’s small board dais on which he had planted his sewing machine in a mood of intense hilarity and delectation. She wanted to prepare some sweet dishes as a mark of good luck. In a highly Jocund mood, Sunil lighted a costly cigarette for the first time in his life.

As chance would have it, as Sunil was giving a shake to his lighted cigarette a spark fell on a piece of precious cloth. Sunil’s wife discerning the devastating blunder, rushed forward to pick up the burning speck of tobacco. She tumbled against the lighted stove and all the kerosene in it fell on the “highly expensive pieces of cloth which caught fire instantaneously.

Fire flames rise to the ceiling

The fire flames rose high in the room. They swallowed the precious clothes in no time and even reached and engulfed the other sewn and unsewn clothes lying in the open almirah situated nearby.

Wooden doors and windows catch fire

The flames touched the roof which was built of wooden material, iron girders and bricks. All the door and window planks were reduced to a cinder in a short period.

Sunil became extremely nervous and similar was the condition of his wife. A large number of people gathered outside the house. They brought the middle-aged couple outside the house in a semi-conscious state. The children too were shocked and speechless.

People threw lots of water and sand at the burning flames but the fire could not be controlled. I too was doing my best to bring the flames under control by pouring buckets of water and bags of sand on them, but seeing all my efforts futile, I felt greatly upset.

Child left – in the house – rescued.

I kept my presence of mind and rang the fire brigade. Meanwhile, it was realized that the poor couple’s youngest child who was still asleep on a cot in a corner of the room was left behind. This fact was known when the lady opened her eyes and asked for the presence of the little “Rosy”. Everybody was answerless.

Understanding within no time that the poor little child had been left in the room, she rushed forward towards the flaming house. She was held back by the people there. Then she began to cry hysterically.

It was, indeed, a most moving spectacle, perhaps, never witnessed even in an imaginary, fictitious film or T.V. serial.

It was early morning and I was in my sleeveless vests. Everybody began to look at my biceps and triceps with disdainful eyes. At a moment’s propulsion in my soul, I jumped into the burning flames to the amazement of all the on-lookers.

Everybody looked towards me with hushed breath and within a few moments as I came out with the crying child in my highly scalded arms and handed it over to the hapless mother, all present there, heaved a sigh of relief and began to look at my red and black face.

Tears of joy gushed out of the mother’s eyes. Meanwhile, the fire-brigade arrived and controlled the fire after a struggle of about one hour.

Immense loss

The loss was estimated immense from the economic standing of the poor tailor. Everybody admitted that the tailor was a thoroughly honest man who had never committed a sin or crime in life. Then why had God been so ruthless to him?

Everybody was reminded of the story of Job in the Old Testament. Job too had been a good and honest man who had been ruined by bad luck. But, ultimately, God had showered His mercy on him. Will he, at last, do the same with Sunil? It was now simply a hypothetical matter, fit better to be left to conjecture. But, we the residents of the locality decided to do as much as we could to restore the loss of such a good and honest man as Sunil. His wife wanted to give me her silver earrings but I simply declined to accept any reward for any selfless service.

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a house on fire essay for class 6

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How to get an A+ on your Like a House on Fire essay

October 4, 2020

a house on fire essay for class 6

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Go ahead and tilt your mobile the right way (portrait). the kool kids don't use landscape....

We’ve explored historical context, themes, essay planning and essay topics over on our Like a House on Fire by Cate Kennedy blog post. If you need a quick refresher or you’re new to studying this text, I highly recommend checking it out!

1. Dissecting the prompt

2. Essay Topic and Body Paragraphs Breakdown

3. Resources

Like A House On Fire  is currently studied in VCE English under Area of Study 1 - Text Response. For a detailed guide on Text Response, check out our  Ultimate Guide to VCE Text Response .

Dissecting the Prompt

Dissecting a collection of short stories can be very challenging due to the many characters involved, and the different themes. But what most students don’t realise is that almost all the stories in the anthology have common and overlapping themes. And that’s what you need to focus on when you’re building your essay. I’m going to go through one essay topic to demonstrate how you’re expected to dissect and plan the essay. This is how I planned my essays ate the beginning of the year when I was still struggling with writing an essay on short stories and wanted everything to be clear to me before I start writing so that I know exactly what I will be covering. 

Although many of the characters in like a house on fire are dealing with physical and emotional pain, it is their resilience that will be remembered by the reader. Do you agree?

So first of all, you need to highlight all the important aspects of this question.

Although many of the characters in like a house on fire are dealing with  physical and emotional pain , it is  their resilience  that will be remembered by the reader. Do you agree?

Now that we have highlighted the important parts that the question is inviting us to discuss, we know that we need to mention characters who are dealing with physical and emotional trauma yet rise above their tribulations, leaving the readers hopeful and optimistic. In doing so, you’ve pretty much discussed everything the prompt wants you to, but you can always go one step further and have a rebuttal paragraph. What I mean by that is: find a character who is faced with physical or emotional trauma yet gives up and becomes trapped in his/her imperfect reality. That way you show the assessor your knowledge of the text because you show them that even though Kennedy focuses on the resilience of her characters, she also sheds light on the reality that some people don’t have the strength to recover from such traumas.

Detailed Plan

What I personally do after dissecting my prompt is have a plan of what I’m going to be covering in each paragraph. The aim for a high scoring essay is to cover 5-6 short stories, if you chose to cover only 3-4 then from my experience the maximum you can score is an 8/10.

I’m going to split my essay into three sections each covering a certain aspect of my prompt.

First paragraph

Which characters struggled with physical trauma yet rose above it? 

1. In ‘Flexion’, Kennedy explores the pain and anguish Frank feels as he fights his injury, determined not to let it destroy him through her use of linguistic imagery whereby the slimily of Frank ‘[clawing] himself up onto the machinery’ as he is ‘growling like an animal’ depicts the sheer resolve that he exhibits as he tries to overcome the physical pain and handicap that threaten his independence. Thus, his resilience becomes admired by the readers who realise that despite almost dying, he chooses to alter his imperfect circumstances.

2. In the eponymous story ‘Like a House on Fire’, the unnamed protagonist suffers from a herniated disc that hinders his ability to carry out his role as a husband and a father yet he chooses to alter his imperfect reality by working his ‘teeth gritted way up the stairs’ not once but twice, in hope of finding a solution to the stagnation taking place in his own marriage.

Second paragraph

Which characters struggled with emotional trauma yet rose above it? 

1. In ‘Waiting’, the protagonist is waiting in a cold clinic whereby she will be told that she has suffered yet another miscarriage. Despite the harrowing pain she feels and the feeling of something ‘ebbing away’ leaving her once again without a ‘viable’ child, she chooses to move forward and declares that she is ‘not a martyr, just someone who sees what need to be done and does it’.

2. Michelle in ‘Five-Dollar Family’, has to adjust all her dreams of Des becoming the perfect father and boyfriend when she realises, he’ll be going to jail. Thus, Michelle’s epiphany that ‘she is got everything this baby needs now’ and no longer sees any value in Des allow for self-growth and ultimately the ability to cope with single parenting.

Third paragraph

Which characters are unable to show resilience and become prisoners of their imperfect circumstances? 

1. In ‘Sleepers’, Ray becomes a sleeper in his own life in the aftermath of his break up. Unlike many of the short stories in the collection, Sleepers is one that does not end with the optimism of a new start but rather ends with Ray being trapped again in his life waiting ‘to take what was coming to him’ thus signifying the damage his loneliness has cost him; whereby his life has become a series of lethargic and meaningless events.

After planning which stories, we want to discuss in the essay, we can now begin the writing process. So essentially the most important part of writing your essay is planning it and making sure you understand properly what you need to answer in your essay.

Later in the year when you are doing EAL/English practice papers, it is quite unrealistic for you to create such a detailed plan considering the time restrictions. So, I will run you through how I planned my essay in an actual exam situation.

So just like we did with the detailed plan, we highlight the important parts of the question that will need to be discussed in the essay.

Then you need to think of the stories that represent physical pain yet the characters rise above their tribulations:

2. Like a House on Fire

Then you need to think of the stories that represent emotional pain:

2. Five-Dollar Family

Then you need to think of the rebuttal story whereby the characters suffer but do not exhibit resilience:

1. Sleepers

So essentially in the short plan you just outline the stories that you would like to mention and split them up according to which aspect of the prompt they will be answering rather than actually writing dot points on each one. So your plan becomes less detailed but rather just an outline so you stay on track and do not ramble.

If you found this essay breakdown helpful, then you might want to check out our Like a House on Fire Study Guide which includes 5 A+ sample essays with EVERY essay annotated and broken down on HOW and WHY these essays achieved A+ so you reach your English goals!

By the way, to download a PDF version of this guide for printing or offline use, click here !

Download a PDF version of this blog for printing or offline use

VCE Text Response Study Guide

Like a House on Fire by Cate Kennedy

Like a House on Fire Essay Topic Breakdown

Close analysis of 'Cake' from Like a House on Fire

'Cake' from Like a House on Fire YouTube Video

The Ultimate guide to VCE Text Response

How to embed quotes in your essay like a boss

How to turn your Text Response essays from average to A+

5 Tips for a mic drop worthy essay conclusion ‍

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a house on fire essay for class 6

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  • Learn how to brainstorm ANY essay topic and plan your essay so you answer the topic accurately
  • Apply LSG's THINK and EXECUTE strategy , a clear and proven method to elevate the quality of your text response writing
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  • Think like a 45+ study scorer through advanced discussions on symbols & motifs, views & values and character analysis

a house on fire essay for class 6

[Video Transcript]

‘Liz sits there helpless’

• From the beginning of the short story we can see that Liz isn’t, or doesn’t feel in control of her situation. The step by step process where she needs to ‘put the key in the ignition and turn it. Fire up the car and drive away’ showcases how the smallest details of starting the car, something that should be so simple instead requires immense mental effort on her behalf.

‘And he’s in there, alone, where she’s left him’.

• Her guilt bubbles to the surface here because it’s as though she’s the villain here, and she’s to blame for leaving him alone.

‘Abandoned him to a roomful of rampaging strangers’

• What’s really interesting here is her description of the other children. Instead of seeing this as an opportunity for Daniel to befriend others and have a great time, she describes them as ‘rampaging strangers’, giving us a sense that Daniel is subject to an unfamiliar environment that is wild, frenzied, rioting.

“Guerilla warfare”, “Jungle gym”, "seasoned commanders”

• These "fighter” phrases reveal Liz’s anxious mindset, as she imagines a world where her son is almost in the wilderness, every man for himself, as though it’s the survival of the fittest - and which Liz so fearfully express, “not that there’s going to be anybody with enough time to notice that Daniel needs help”, is not an environment where Daniel belongs.

“She digs in her bag for her lipstick, her fingers searching for the small cylinder, and pulls out a crayon, then a battery, then a tampon, then a gluestick.”

• Her everyday objects are splashed with Daniel’s belongings - the crayon, the gluestick, and demonstrate how intertwined her life is now with her child. This foreshadows her return to her pre-baby life - that things will not be the same.

“The smell of the place, that’s what throws her, the scent of it all, adult perfumes, air breathed out by computers and printers and photocopiers.”

• Even her sense of smell betrays her being away from Daniel. There’s a sense of alienation, of nausea that shows readers like us that Liz doesn’t feel like she belongs. This is in contrast to later in the story when she is reunited with Daniel and is comforted by ‘inhaling[ing] the scent of him again’.

“Same computer, same shiny worn spot on the space bar…"

• The repetition of ’same’ actually heightens how much has actually changed for Liz. Her entire world is now Daniel, whereas everything in the office is as it used to be. Therefore, there’s this sense that the people’s lives in the office remain unchanged, highlighting again Liz’s alienation.

“Yeah, yeah, yeah, they’re right, of course they are.”

• This sarcastic internal monologue reflects Liz’s current state of mind, where she’s experiencing a disconnect from her coworkers, and ’the land of the living’.

"Delete, she presses. Punching the key like a bird pecking. Delete, delete, delete.”

• We can feel Liz’s exasperation at this stage. The simile ‘like a bird pecking’ automates Liz’s actions in the workplace, as though she is doing it by switching to a ‘mechanical form’ of herself. The repetition of ‘delete, delete, delete’ gives us the sense that she’s frustratingly attempting to ‘delete’ her self-acknowledged, perhaps over-the-top anxiety surrounding Daniel, or trying to delete herself out of her situation. Whichever is unclear and left up to interpretation. Perhaps both ring true.

‘Returning to work after maternity leave’

• Liz’s narrative interspersed with new mum’s pamphlet. The juxtaposition of the pamphlet’s words ‘being a stay-at-home mum can begin to seem mundane and repetitive’ is contrasted with Liz’s love of motherhood - she is at odds with what society tells her she should be feeling.

‘[Daniel]’d have his thumb in his mouth right now. Not smiling, that’s for sure.’

• There’s a self-projection of anxiety here with Liz  assuming that the childcarers are unable to look after Daniel properly, and that he’s suffering.

‘God, these endless extended moments where you’re left in limbo, the time dangling like a suspended toy on a piece of elastic.’

• This simile highlights how her mindset is completely consumed with Daniel, as she likens her daily experiences with objects and things related to Daniel and childhood. She struggles to switch between her identity as a mother, and her previous identity as a colleague in the workplace.

‘Caroline, Julie and Stella had laughed dutifully enough, but their faces had shown a kind of pained disappointment, something faintly aggrieved.’

• Perhaps this is Cate Kennedy's commentary on society and motherhood. The expectations others have on you as a new mother, and how you should be feeling.

‘He doesn’t run over when he sees her’.

• The opening of this chapter is blunt and brutal. Liz has longed to see Daniel all day, her anxiety getting the best of her, and yet at the moment of their reunion, it’s not as she expects. In this sense, we can to feel that Liz is very much alone in her anxiety and despair and, not the other way around with Daniel.

’She’s fighting a terrible nausea, feeling the sweat in the small of her back.’

• Unlike other stories in this collection, her pain isn’t because the absence of love, but because of its strength. Her love for Daniel is so intense that it’s physiological, making her unwell to have been away from him.

• The symbol of cake represents her pre-baby life, a time when she was concerned with the ‘account of Henderson’s’ and ‘delete fourth Excel column’. Her priorities have now shifted, and the celebrated ‘cake’ tradition in the workplace, one that is at the centre of several conversations, is no longer to significance to Liz. Her husband, Andrew’s attempt to celebrate Liz’s first day back at work with cake is highly ironic. The societal expectation that Liz is happy to be back at work even extends to her husband, and heightens how Liz is very much alone in her experience.

If you found this close analysis helpful, then you might want to check out our Like a House on Fire Study Guide where we analyse EVERY story in the text and pinpoint key quotes and symbols!

Watch our YouTube Video on Like A House On Fire Essay Topic and Body Paragraphs Breakdown

How To Get An A+ On Your Like A House On Fire Essay

Close Analysis Of 'Cake' From Like A House On Fire

2. Characters

5. Sample Essay Topics

6. A+ Essay Topic Breakdown

Station Eleven is usually studied in the Australian curriculum under Area of Study 1 - Text Response. For a detailed guide on Text Response, check out our Ultimate Guide to VCE Text Response .

“Twenty years after the end of air travel, the caravans of the Travelling Symphony moved slowly under a white-hot sky.”

When you think about post-apocalyptic science fiction stories, what kind of thing comes to mind first? Maybe an alien invasion, Pacific Rim style monsters perhaps, and almost always the mad scramble of a protagonist to stockpile resources and protect their loved ones from the imminent chaos and destruction—these are tropes which are tried and tested in this genre.

What mightn’t come to mind as immediately is a story about a travelling Shakespeare troupe wandering the North American continent decades after the actual apocalypse has struck, which is exactly the story that Mandel tells in Station Eleven .

While post-apocalyptic tales tend to focus on the action around the impact of a fictional disaster, Mandel’s novel speaks to the attitudes and characteristics of people which drive any action that occurs. She interrogates central questions about human society, inviting readers to consider what human qualities can endure even an apocalypse, what qualities are timeless.

A tale of two timelines: part one

“…once we’re seen, that’s not enough anymore. After that, we want to be remembered.”

Part of the novel’s ambition is that while it’s set 20 years after the apocalyptic Georgia Flu, it constantly reaches decades into the past to search for meaning. In particular, the novel’s central character is Arthur Leander , an actor whose death coincides with the breakout of the Flu. Tracing his origins from obscurity to fame, Mandel juxtaposes his philandering and untrustworthy behaviour with repeated attempts to be a better person, or perhaps just be more true to himself, before his death. We’ll eventually see that many of his actions have consequences years into the future.

Arguably equally important in legacy is his first wife, Miranda Carroll , whose comics lend the novel its title. Take this with a grain of salt—she’s kind of my favourite character—but the time and energy she invests in the Station Eleven comics are arguably the most valuable investment of the novel. Her comics survive her in the years following the Flu, and are a source of escape and purpose for others just as they had been for herself.

Both of these characters come into contact with Jeevan Chaudhary , a paparazzo and journalist who regularly follows Arthur though his career, photographing Miranda in a vulnerable moment before her divorce, and booking an interview with Arthur years later as he plans to leave his second wife Elizabeth Colton . We see Jeevan struggle with his purpose in life throughout the novel, though it can be said that he ultimately finds it after the Flu, when he is working as a medic.

Finally, there’s Clark Thompson , Arthur’s friend from college who remains loyal, though not necessarily uncritical, of him all throughout his life. As the Flu first arrives in America, Clark is just leaving for Toronto, but a Flu outbreak there causes his flight to be redirected to Severn City Airport, where he and others miraculously survive in what will become a key setting of the novel.

A tale of two timelines: part two

‍ “I stood looking over my damaged home and tried to forget the sweetness of life on Earth.”

All of this finally puts us in a position to think analytically about characters in the ‘present’ timeline, that is, 20 years after the Flu. We experience the present mostly through the perspective of Kirsten Raymonde , a performer who survived the Flu as a young child. Because she was so young when it happened, many of the traumas she experienced have been erased by her mind, and she struggles to piece together what she lost in a quest for identity and meaning, largely driven by her vague memories of Arthur. She travels with the Travelling Symphony with others such as Alexandra , August and the conductor —they have collectively adopted the motto, “survival is insufficient.”

Through the story, they are pursued by the prophet , later revealed to be Tyler Leander , the child of Arthur and Elizabeth who survived and grew up in the decades following the Flu outbreak. A religious extremist, he becomes the leader of a cult of fanatics who amass weapons and conquer towns by force. Both Kirsten and Tyler pursue the Station Eleven comics, quoted above—they each possess a copy, and resonate strongly with the struggles of the characters created by Miranda.

(CW: suicide) Also important is Jeevan’s brother, Frank , a paraplegic author who was writing about a philanthropist in the last days before his death, whereby he kills himself so as to give his brother a better chance of surviving. While he isn’t a particularly major character, his writing on morality and mortality (quoted with the first batch of characters) are symbolically and thematically important.

By the way, to download a PDF version of this blog for printing or offline use, click here !

“That’s what passes for a life…that’s what passes for happiness, for most people…they’re like sleepwalkers…”

These characters already speak to some of the major themes that formulate the novel. On one hand, Mandel explores various meanings of contemporary or modern civilisation . We live in a technology-driven age where constraints of time and space mean less than ever before. For example, people are mobile through space thanks to airplanes and telephones, and the internet means that any and all information is available to anyone, all the time. Mandel constantly looks back at this society and describes it in terms of our technology: for example, “the era when it was possible to press a series of buttons on a telephone and speak with someone on the far side of the earth.” On one level, she comments on how many of these minor miracles are taken for granted in our every day lives.

On another level, these elements of society also give rise to the culture of celebrity in our lives, as high-profile figures are put under increasing pressure to maintain appearances at all times, and lead increasingly ‘perfect’ lives as a result. These were pressures that Arthur struggled to live up to, and his “failed marriages” accompanied his career at all stages. The flip side of this is that people who follow celebrities, such as Jeevan, lead increasingly emptier and more vacuous lives—and Jeevan is well-aware of this, telling Miranda that he doesn’t seek a greater purpose in life beyond making money. This lack of purpose, this ennui, is something that tints much of society through the eyes of Mandel.

Another major theme which the lives of these characters start to explore is the value of art as a source of purpose. While civilisation is portrayed as fragile and meaningless, art—in all its forms, including creating, reproducing, performing and consuming—is a way for people such as Miranda to understand, process and escape their lives. This theme is arguably the most important, as it tethers different parts of the novel together; even after the apocalypse, people turn to art as a way of understanding and connecting to others as well as to themselves.

‍ “The more you remember, the more you’ve lost.”

Inevitably with this genre, survival and mortality are major themes, as massive populations of people have died and continue to die due to the impacts of the Georgia Flu. To some extent, survivor’s guilt motivates many to search for a deeper meaning to their survival, hence the motto of the Symphony. It also drives them to turn to art as we’ve explored, since bare subsistence isn’t enough to give their lives the meaning they desire. Maybe this is what it means to be human.

On the other hand, the Flu also turns others to religious extremity , as is the case with Elizabeth, Tyler and the rest of their cult. This speaks to broader ideas about faith , fate and spirituality —are there greater forces out there who manipulate events in our world? Certainly, there are enough coincidences in the novel for this theory to be valid; even just Kirsten and Tyler both having copies of Station Eleven and both acting under the influence of Arthur is so coincidental.

However, perhaps the most important theme here is memory . Mandel ultimately puts this as the central question to readers: is memory more of a blessing or a burden? Is it preferable to remember everything you’ve lost, or be ignorant of it all? I’m not sure she really answers this one, to be honest. Various symbols—and even the constantly shifting narrative perspective—evoke the epic sense of loss in the apocalypse, and yet encountering characters like Alexandra, who never really knew what the internet was, makes you rethink that loss; perhaps it is better to have experienced the internet at all.

‍ “People want what was best about the world”

There’s a category of symbols in the novel that represent memories of technology. Consider the discarded phones and credit cards in the Museum of Civilisations, all mementos of what the world lost. Note that, given Mandel’s ambivalent commentary about modern society, not all that was lost is bad—the credit card embodies the materialism and consumerism that drive our world today, and shedding it may be construed as a form of liberty, in fact.

It is airplanes , however, that serve as the greatest reminder. Their sudden disappearance from the sky becomes a constant reminder of how the world changed, and people still look up in the hopes of seeing an airborne plane; they cling onto the hope that maybe, just maybe, all of this can somehow be reversed. The last flights of the human race—pilots attempting to return home to be with their loved ones—are also made in hope, though their outcomes are consistently unclear.

In this sense, airplanes can also be seen as a source of fading hope, or rather, despair. For one, it was the very mobility afforded by planes which caused the Flu to spread around the world so rapidly. Now, confined to the ground forever, they represent the immobility of humans in the present. They also take on meanings of death, and in particular, the final airplane that landed at Severn City Airport, quarantined with people still on board, represents the difficult decisions that have to be made in order to survive. The mausoleum plane also pushes Tyler further into religious extremism, as he reads the bible to the now-artefact in an attempt to justify the deaths of everyone on board.

These symbols highlight the jarring difference between the world before and after the Flu, but on the other hand, there are also symbols which connect the two worlds; the importance of print cannot be underemphasised here. Anything that was printed—photographs, comics, TV guides, books—are all enduring sources of knowledge and comfort for Flu survivors, and basically become the only way for children born after the Flu to remember our world, a world that they never actually lived in.

Sample Essay Topics

The following essay topics are extracted from our Station Eleven Study Guide: A Killer Text Guide:

  • “First, we only want to be seen, but once we’re seen, that’s not enough anymore. After that, we want to be remembered.” Characters from Station Eleven who die with the Georgia Flu are immortalised in memories, also greatly influencing events two decades later. Discuss.
  • Explore the perspectives offered in Station Eleven regarding survival.
  • How does St John Mandel highlight the degree of losses caused by the Georgia Flu?
  • Kirsten and Tyler are more similar than they are different. To what extent do you agree?
  • The use of shifting narrative perspective in Station Eleven is crucial to its storytelling effect. Discuss. ‍
  • Station Eleven suggests that beauty can be found in unlikely places. Do you agree?
  • Some forms of technology have been rendered unusable in Station Eleven ’s Year Twenty—discuss the new purpose/s of these forms of technology.
  • The memories of characters in Station Eleven ’s Year Twenty have been distorted over time. Is this true?
  • It is impossible to feel any sympathy for the prophet. To what extent do you agree?
  • “God, why won’t our phones work? I so wish I could tweet this…just chilling with Arthur Leander’s kid at the end of the world.” Station Eleven is a critique of modern society’s obsession with celebrity. Discuss.
  • How do various forms of art play a central role in Station Eleven ?
  • Fame and anonymity are shown to be equally intoxicating in Station Eleven . Do you agree? ‍
  • Station Eleven demonstrates that events that seem insignificant can have remarkable consequences in the future. Discuss.
  • Throughout Station Eleven ’s various timelines, innocence is always inevitably lost. Is this a fair statement?
  • Arthur Leander and his son are equally contemptible yet tragic at the same time. Do you agree?

Head over to our Station Eleven Study Guide for more sample essay topics, so you can practice writing essays using the analysis you've learnt from this blog!

A+ Essay Topic Breakdown

Whenever you get a new essay topic, you can use LSG’s THINK and EXECUTE strategy , a technique to help you write better VCE essays. This essay topic breakdown will focus on the THINK part of the strategy. If you’re unfamiliar with this strategy, then check it out in How To Write A Killer Text Response .

Within the THINK strategy, we have 3 steps, or ABC. These ABC components are:

Step 1: A nalyse

Step 2: B rainstorm

Step 3: C reate a Plan

Have a watch of this video to see how we broke down an essay topic:

Although this is something that might be a little more text-specific, the main takeaway of today’s video is to be flexible in how you mentally arrange a text’s plot. This is especially handy in stories that are non-linear, so stories that flip between perspectives or timelines, as this one does. Being across a text like this will give you greater flexibility in putting together your ideas. I think this might be clearer if I just show you!

In the meantime though, let’s have a bit of a chat about the text.

Station Eleven is Emily St John Mandel’s take on the tried-and-tested sub-genre of post-apocalyptic science fiction. Only, her attempt doesn’t actually explore new forms of technology, nor the immediate action-packed grab-and-dash that we normally associate with an apocalypse. Instead, she takes us two decades down the track to look at how human society has changed as a result. She also highlights some elements of society that are eternal and timeless, that survive and persevere no matter what.

Today’s topic is:

Despite his virtues, Arthur Leander is essentially a bad man. Do you agree?

If you’re familiar with what we do at LSG, you might be familiar with our Five Types strategy. Basically, it’s a method for students to group categorise prompts into types, and by doing so, you get an immediate idea of how to approach an essay question and some things that you must include, along with things you mustn’t.

And out of the 5 types, this prompt is character-based, through and through. It poses us the difficult task of deciphering the ethics and morality of an individual in the text. Immediately, if you write on this prompt, you must know Arthur pretty damn well! It pays to be strategic — if you don’t know Arthur all that in a SAC or exam, pick another question if possible.

The key words in this one are fairly self-explanatory. You’ve got “ virtues ” on the one hand, which basically refers to being good or having good morals , and “ bad man ” on the other. What’s important is how we define them in the context of the essay, so we need to consider the ways in which Arthur is both virtuous and bad and make sure these are clear in our intro.

Also, the prompt is suggesting that Arthur Leander is ‘bad’ at his core, because of the word “ essentially .” This is the part where there’s a little bit of room to challenge, since there is a lot of evidence that might suggest he isn’t all bad.

Before we dive into the plan, you might want to pause here for a minute and write down what you find to be Arthur’s top two virtues and worst two flaws. Go on, do it!

For me, I think that he’s ambitious and determined in his career, and he can be kind to others in his personal life. However, he also has a philandering or womanising side , and can be neglectful of his family and friends. I would also consider whether or not his legacy was favourable , unflattering , or mixed . Did he leave behind more positivity in the world, or less, when he died?

Let’s arrange this into paragraphs.

Paragraph one

Arthur is flawed in the way he treats others, manifested in his inconsiderate actions, misogynistic tendencies and raising of Tyler.

I think it’d be hard to argue that Arthur is a flawless character whom it would be unfair to call “bad.” We know that Arthur was unfaithful, and many saw his life as being “summed up in a series of failed marriages. ” We know that he treats women as interchangeable objects rather than as people, not only his wives but also his childhood friend Victoria. We also know that he neglects his children, missing Tyler’s birthday for work, as well as his friends, with his increasingly disingenuous and strained relationship with Clark.

In terms of mentally rearranging elements of the story, it might be worth noting here how his bad traits manifested in his son, Tyler. Making a connection between these two timelines may help us realise that in many ways, Tyler is just a more perverse version of his father—he too treats women like possessions, and doesn’t really have a family so much as a community of followers.

Paragraph two

Arguably, Arthur’s selfish traits stem from his Hollywood fame, career and lifestyle.

Fundamentally, he was never this flaky, unreliable person before he was swept away by fame. From a young age, he was determined that he was “going to be an actor and…going to be good,” and the drive with which he pursues this career is undoubtedly virtuous and admirable. Along the way, he offers Miranda a way out of her abusive and one-sided relationship, validating her own “pursuit of happiness.”

So looking at the ‘bookends’ of Arthur’s life, it can be argued that he’s actually essentially a good person. Before Hollywood taints him, and after he realises how much he has been tainted, Arthur does actually demonstrate a lot of virtue.

Paragraph three

However, overall, Arthur leaves behind a positive legacy that reflects that despite his shortcomings, he is fundamentally a good man who has been tainted by immoral habits and attitudes.

Here, the discussion surrounds Arthur’s legacy—is he remembered as a good person? In what ways does Arthur live on? The photographs that Kirsten finds along her journey depict Arthur shielding Miranda from the paparazzi and spending time with his son, and these are lasting memories of his virtues which haven’t been destroyed by the Flu. Consider also the “ whispers ” and “ glances ” that plagued him during his life, and we can’t help but wonder what kind of man he would’ve been in a world with less people and less scrutiny.

And there you have it! Hopefully, you can see what I meant at the start about rearranging bits of the book. For example, these photographs belong in Kirsten’s timeline and are discovered through her point of view, but there isn’t any reason why you can’t connect them to elements of Arthur’s character more broadly. Also, even just by looking at the start and end of Arthur’s life without the middle changes how we interpret him as a character. It’s this kind of flexibility that will serve you well in this text study.

If you'd like to see an A+ essay on the essay topic above, complete with annotations on HOW and WHY the essays achieved A+ so you can emulate this same success, then you'll definitely want to check out our Station Eleven Study Guide: A Killer Text Guide! In it, we also cover themes, characters, views and values, metalanguage and have 4 other sample A+ essays completely annotated so you can smash your next SAC or exam! Check it out here .

For more Station Eleven writing samples, you might like to take a look at this blog post , which compares three different paragraphs and analyses how they improve upon one another.

Extra Resources

How To Write A Killer Text Response Study Guide

5 Tips for a mic drop worthy essay conclusion

Passage 1: Act 1 Scene 3

   [Aside] Two truths are told,

   As happy prologues to the swelling act

   Of the imperial theme.--I thank you, gentlemen.

[Aside] This supernatural soliciting

   Cannot be ill, cannot be good: if ill,

   Why hath it given me earnest of success,

   Commencing in a truth? I am thane of Cawdor:

   If good, why do I yield to that suggestion

   Whose horrid image doth unfix my hair

   And make my seated heart knock at my ribs,

   Against the use of nature? Present fears

   Are less than horrible imaginings:

   My thought, whose murder yet is but fantastical,  

   Shakes so my single state of man that function

   Is smother'd in surmise, and nothing is

   But what is not.

Passage One from Act 1 Scene 3 takes place just after Macbeth has just been announced as Thane of Cawdor proving part of the Witches’ prophecy true “All hail Macbeth…Thane of Cawdor…/that shalt be king hereafter.” This part of the play is the first insight we have on Macbeth’s inner thoughts.  

Macbeth’s firm and thoughtful tone in the opening alliteration “two truths are told ” stresses how serious he takes the Witches’ predictions. Shakespeare presents this passage as a soliloquy in order to convey Macbeth’s true inner thoughts and motives. As this is Macbeth’s first soliloquy, it emphasises the strong possibility of Macbeth heading down a dark journey as he cannot forget the Witches’ predictions “(it) cannot be ill, cannot be good. If ill, / Why hath it given me earnest of success, Commencing in a truth?”

Shakespeare uses the metaphor of theatre for fate . The meta-theatrical reference, ‘as happy prologues to the swelling act’ makes the audience consider the action that will unfold in the following scenes through foreshadowing.

Macbeth feels that committing regicide will be a “supernatural soliciting”. The word “supernatural” demonstrates that Macbeth acknowledges that such an act is “against the use of nature.” It suggests that if Macbeth kills Duncan, he will forever be trapped in the supernatural world for his dishonourable action. The alliteration of “supernatural soliciting” sounds incredibly seductive, and therefore highlights Macbeth’s lust and thirst for the crown.

There is a physiological response to his unnerving thoughts as the ‘horrid image doth unfix my hair’ and ‘my seated heart knock at my ribs’ , emphasising the horror of Macbeth has with himself  at his thoughts.

The personification “my seated heart knock at my ribs” once again depicts the increasing fear that Macbeth experiences as his heart is not “seated” with its connotations of calmness and steadiness but “knock(ing)” which is associated with alarming fear.

As Macbeth struggles with his conscience and fears “my thought, whose murder yet is but fantastical,/ Shakes so my single state of man,”  he is uncertain whether or not he should take the prophecy into his own hands and murder Duncan or, let time decide his fate “time and the hour runs through the roughest day”. The consonance ’s’, Shakes so my single state of man”.. ‍

The alliteration “smothered in surmise” demonstrates how Macbeth’s vivid imagination causes him to struggle with fear and hesitate undergoing the action that is foreseen by him as a “horrid image.” These mental images are of significance throughout the play as it is evident that Macbeth’ conscience results in him “seeing” a dagger and also Banquo’s ghost.

The antithesis “and nothing is,/ But what is not” is deliberately broken up into two lines to demonstrate the ambiguity of Macbeth’s thoughts and the confusion which evidently contributes to his overall fear. Macbeth’s actions become overpowered by his imagination until ‘nothing is but what is not’ or imagination carries more weight than action. The partial alliteration of ‘smother’d in surmise’ and the antithesis of ‘nothing is but what is not’ makes this notion seem again, particularly seductive to the audience. The word ‘smother’d’ , with it’s connotations of oppression, further amplifies the notion and even suggests that Macbeth’s imagination takes the place of his will.

Often, with Language Analysis (also known as Argument Analysis or Analysing Argument), it can be hard to find unique things to analyse and set yourself apart from your competitors. Techniques like rhetorical questions, inclusive language and the appeal to family values are regurgitated by thousands of students every year come exam season. As you’d imagine, examiners get tired of hearing the same ol’ thing essay after essay. 

So, I challenge you to surprise them! And today’s video will help you do just that. 

The TEE rule is a very popular technique that we describe in our top-rated eBook, How To Write A Killer Language Analysis . And for a good reason, too! It guides your analysis to ensure that you’re talking about techniques, how they affect readers and using evidence to back yourself up. If you’ve never heard of the TEE rule, no worries at all! Check out our HTWAKLA eBook for an in-depth look into how the technique can help you get to that A+ level.

Today’s video is all about analysing the structure of Language Analysis articles so you can WOW examiners and score in that upper level. 

Now, what does this exactly mean and, more importantly, look like?

When it comes to pieces of writing, when we talk about structure, we’re talking about how the information is organised. 

a house on fire essay for class 6

What does the writer talk about first? What do they talk about last? How long are the paragraphs? How many paragraphs are there? While these questions might seem a little pointless to some, they can actually inspire some pretty unique and spot-on analysis in VCE Language Analysis.

OK Lisa, I get it, but how can I do this in my essays? Great question. 

Let’s have a look at some examples of this, courtesy of one of LSG’s amazing tutors, Andrea. She’s written up an incredible blog all about these advanced techniques, and it includes much more than what we have time to talk about today. So, as always, I’ll leave the link to her blog in the description and in the card up above – I highly recommend that after watching this video, you head on over and check it out. ‍

Analysing recurring themes and ideas in VCE Language Analysis

Analysing recurring ideas and themes throughout a piece is a fantastic way to show the examiner that you’ve understood the piece as a whole and that you can step back and notice similarities between smaller sections. 

Let’s take a closer look at Section C of the 2014 VCAA English exam . The author emphasises the theme of Kolumbus-21 and its significance on space travel , which is an example of a recurring idea of theme.

Paragraph 1: ‘Space exploration has been on my mind this week after visiting an exhibition presented by an international group known as Kolombus-21.’ 

Paragraph 9: ‘Kolombus-21 talks a lot about international cooperation. This hasn’t always been a feature of space exploration, but now that we have an international space station supported by 15 nations, the era of collaboration seems to be well established.’

Paragraph 11: ‘Perhaps with big dreamers like Kolumbus-21 behind it, it might even turn out that way.’

We can use an array of vocabulary to describe exactly how ideas and themes recur throughout a piece. For example, if something is mentioned repeatedly throughout a piece, we could call it a c yclical, recurring or circular idea. If an idea is built chronologically , piece by piece, we could call it hierarchical, chronological, sequential or even linear .  

In this example, notice how from the beginning to the end of the piece, the author mentions the connection between Kolombus-21 , space exploration and international cooperatio n several times. Let’s see what we get...

By returning to the original theme of Kolumbus-21 as a key driver of support for space travel, which indicates the cyclical structure of her opinion piece, Yergon links space travel with international cooperation.

It’s also a good idea to reiterate the overall structure of the piece in the conclusion, as it allows you to link the structure with the author’s contention.

Analysing the ordering of the contention, arguments and rebuttals in VCE Language Analysis

Certain elements of the article can have a different effect on the reader depending on where the author places them. When we’re talking about desired effects on readers, we want to assume that the writer has done everything a certain way for a reason , so when the rebuttal is placed first, for example, we can look into this further for possible explanations.

  • When the rebuttal is placed first , it can set up the audience to more readily accept the writer’s following opinions, as opposing viewpoints have already been criticised early o n.
  • You can see this in the 2013 VCAA exam, where the author argues against opposing views early on in their article. In it, the author references the opposition directly as they say ‘some people who objected to the proposed garden seem to think that the idea comes from a radical group of environmentalists’, and rebut this point by proposing that ‘there’s nothing extreme about us’.
  • Or, if the rebuttal is placed towards the end of the article , it could serve to cement that the writer’s viewpoint is correct by explaining why opposing viewpoints are wrong . Also, it can give a sense of finality to the piece – assuring the audience that all bases have been covered by the writer.
  •  What if there’s no rebuttal ? Well, this could imply that the author’s opinion, and theirs alone, is correct and to be supported.

Updated 19/01/2021

After Darkness is currently studied in VCE English under Area of Study 1 - Text Response. For a detailed guide on Text Response, check out our Ultimate Guide to VCE Text Response .

1. Introduction (Plot Summary) 2. Characters and Development 3. Themes 4. Narrative Conventions/Literary Devices 5. Sample Paragraphs 6. Additional Essay Prompts and Analysis Questions to Consider 7. Tips

1. Introduction (Plot Summary)

Christine Piper’s historical fiction, After Darkness deals with suppressed fragments of the past and silenced memories. The protagonist, Dr Ibaraki, attempts to move forward with life whilst also trying to hide past confrontations as well as any remnants of his past wrongdoings and memories. The text consists of three intertwined narrative strands – Ibaraki’s past in Tokyo in 1934, his arrival in Broome in 1938 to work in a hospital there, and his arrival in a detainment camp in Loveday (South Australia) in 1942 after the outbreak of war.

2. Characters and Development

a house on fire essay for class 6

4. Narrative Conventions/Literary Devices

  • ‘a mallee tree’ - Aboriginal word for water which symbolises purity, source of life 'if it’s hit by bushfire it grows back from the root with lots of branches, like all the others here. It’s a tough tree. Drought, bushfire…it’ll survive almost anything…I was struck by the ingenuity of the tree in its ability to generate and create a new shape better suited to the environment.'
  • The tag with 'the character ko…[with] its loop of yellowed string...The knot at the end had left an impression on the page behind it: a small indentation, like a scar.'

Simile/Imagery:

  • 'Felt like hell on earth'
  • 'The hollow trunks of dead trees haunted its edges like lost people' - Can also link to the landscape narrative convention
  • 'The scene was like a photograph, preserving the strangeness of the moment.'

Description of the hospital atmosphere where the patient next to Hayashi laid

  • 'Only the windows were missing, leaving dark holes like the eyes of an empty soul'
  • 'The photos reached me first. I leafed through the black and white images: swollen fingers, blistered toes, blackened faces, and grotesque, rotting flesh that shrivelled and puckered to reveal bone. The final photo depicted a child’s chubby hands, the tips of the fingers all black.' - Also foreshadowing death of his and Kayoko’s child

Pathetic Fallacy:

  • 'That afternoon, the sky darkened, and the wind picked up…making the world outside opaque.'
  • Middlemarch (book) which symbolises Ibaraki and Sister Bernice’s friendship as Bernice was left behind
  • Robinson Crusoe
  • 'Being able to conduct research in this way has delivered unparalleled knowledge, which we’ve already passed on to the army to minimise further loss of life.'
  • 'You haafu fools don’t deserve the Japanese blood in you!'
  • 'You bloody racist!'
  • 'You fucking Emperor-worshipping pig...!'
  • 'Haafu' - Derogatory, racism term used to define those who are biracial (half Japanese):

An interpretation of the language use throughout the text could be Piper’s way of humanising the Japanese people to her readers and notifying them that they also have their own culture and form of communication

Another interpretation of the language use is to show that both the Australians and Japanese are just as cruel as each other because they show no respect to one another and use language in such a brutal way

Ibaraki represents that divide where he can speak both languages, yet still, cannot voice his own opinion or stand up for himself (link to theme of silence)

Personification:

  • 'The void seemed to have a force of its own, drawing the meaning of the words into it.'
  • 'The engine coughed into life.'

Foreshadowing:

  • 'snow was falling as I walked home from the station – the first snow of the season.' - Foreshadowing the storm about to come in his life
  • 'A black silhouette against the fallen snow.' - Foreshadowing Kayoko’s death

5. Sample Paragraphs

'But as soon as you show a part of yourself, almost at once you hide it away.' Ibaraki’s deepest flaw in After Darkness is his failure to reveal himself. Do you agree?

Introduction

Christine Piper’s historical fiction, After Darkness explores the consequences that an individual will be forced to endure when they choose to conceal the truth from their loved ones. Piper reveals that when a person fails to reveal themselves, it can eventually become a great obstacle which keeps them from creating meaningful and successful relationships. Additionally, Piper asserts that it can be difficult for an individual to confront their past and move completely forward with their present, especially if they believed their actions were morally wrong. Furthermore, Piper highlights the importance of allowing people into one’s life as a means to eliminate the build-up the feelings of shame and guilt. ‍

Body Paragraph

Piper acknowledges that some people will find it difficult to open up to others about their past due to them accumulating a large amount of regret and guilt over time. This is the case for Ibaraki as he was involved with the ‘experiments’ when he was working in the ‘Epidemic Prevention Laboratory', in which Major Kimura sternly told him to practise ‘discretion and not talk ‘about [his] work to anybody'. The inability to confide in his wife or mother after performing illegal and mentally disturbing actions causes him to possess a brusque conduct towards others, afraid that they will discover his truth and ‘not be able to look at [him] at all'. His failure to confess his past wrongdoings shapes the majority of his life, ruining his marriage and making him feel the need ‘to escape’ from his losses and ‘start afresh'. He eventually lies to his mother by making her believe that he ‘had gone to Kayoko’s parents’ house’ for the break, avoiding any questions from being raised about his job. As a consequence, he fails to tell his family about his horrid past suggesting that he has accepted that ‘[his] life had become one that others whispered about'. Juxtaposed to Ibaraki’s stress relieving methods, Kayoko confides in her mother after she receives news of her miscarriage, highlighting that when one willingly shares their pain with loved ones, it can release the burden as well as provide them with some assistance. In contrast to this, Ibaraki’s guilty conscience indicates that he will take ‘the secret to his grave', making it extremely difficult for people he encounters to understand him and form a meaningful connection with him. Nonetheless, Piper does not place blame on Ibaraki as he was ordered to keep the ‘specimen’ business hidden from society, thereby inviting her readers to keep in mind that some individuals are forced by others to not reveal their true colours for fear of ruining a specific reputation.

Throughout the journey in After Darkness , Piper engendered that remaining silent about one’s past events that shapes their future is one of the deepest flaws. She notes that for people to understand and form bonds with one another, it is extremely important to reveal their identity as masking it only arises suspicions. Piper postulates that for some, memories are nostalgic; whereas, for others it carries an unrelenting burden of guilt, forcing them to hide themselves which ultimately becomes the reason as to why they feel alone in their life.

6. Additional Essay Prompts and Analysis Questions to Consider

  • Analyse the role of silence in After Darkness . Compare the ways in which the characters in the text utilise or handle silence. What is Piper suggesting about the notion of silence?
  • Discuss the importance of friendship in the text. What is it about friends that make the characters appear more human? How can friendship bolster development in one’s character?
  • Racism and nationalism are prominent themes in the text. How are the two interlinked? Explore the ways they are shown throughout the text and by different characters. Is Piper indicating that the two always lead to negative consequences?
  • Analyse some of the narrative conventions (imagery, simile, metaphor, symbols, motifs, landscapes, language, etc.) in the novel and what they mean to certain characters and to the readers.
  • Explore the ways in which the text emphasises that personal conscience can oftentimes hold people back from revealing their true thoughts and feelings.
  • Character transformation (bildungsroman) is prevalent throughout the text. What is Piper suggesting through Ibaraki’s character in terms of the friendships and acquaintances he has formed and how have they impacted him? How have these relationships shaped him as a person in the past and present? Were such traits he developed over time beneficial for himself and those around him or have they caused the destruction of once healthy relationships?

If you'd like to see how to break down an essay topic, you might like to check out our After Darkness Essay Topic Breakdown blog post!

  • Be sure to read as many academic articles as you can find in relation to the text in order to assist you with in-depth analysis when writing your essays. This will help you to stand out from the crowd and place you in a higher standing compared to your classmates as your ideas will appear much more sophisticated and thought-out.
  • Being clear and concise with the language choices is such a crucial factor. Don’t over complicate the ideas you are trying to get across to your examiners by incorporating ‘big words’ you believe will make your writing appear of higher quality, because in most cases, it does the exact opposite (see Why Using Big Words in VCE Essays Can Make You Look Dumber ). Be careful! If it's a choice between using simpler language that your examiners will understand vs. using more complex vocabulary where it becomes difficult for the examiners to understand what you're trying to say, the first option is best! Ideally though, you want to find a balance between the two - a clearly written, easy to understand essay with more complex vocabulary and language woven into it.
  • If there is a quote in the prompt, be sure to embed the quote into the analysis, rather than making the quote its own sentence. You only need to mention this quote once in the entire essay. How To Embed Quotes in Your Essay Like a Boss has everything you need to know for this!

If you'd like to see sample A+ essays complete with annotations on HOW and WHY the essays achieved A+, then you'll definitely want to check out our After Darkness Study Guide ! In it, we also cover advanced discussions on topics like structural features and context, completely broken down into easy-to-understand concepts so you can smash your next SAC or exam! Check it out here .

Many lawyers today would cite this 60-year-old story as an inspiration—Harper Lee’s To Kill A Mockingbird is, at its core, the tale of one attorney’s quest against racial injustice in his Deep South home, and of his children coming of age in the shadow of their father.

The novel is narrated in two parts by his younger child, Scout, and along with her brother Jem and their friend Dill, she traces their upbringing as inspired by Atticus’ moral teachings of tolerance, courage and justice. The first part follows their childhood, and their interactions with characters such as Boo Radley, Walter Cunningham, Miss Caroline and Mrs Dubose, while the second part follows the Tom Robinson trial itself, testing the children on the moral lessons of their childhood and disillusioning them to the overwhelming racism of their community.

We’ll be going through the novel’s major themes, and also looking at it a bit more critically within the historical context of civil rights and racial justice struggles.

Before we dive into To Kill A Mockingbird, I'd highly recommend checking out LSG's Ultimate Guide to VCE Text Response .

Prejudice and Race in To Kill A Mockingbird

All throughout the novel resonate messages of tolerance over prejudice. However, before any question of race is introduced, the children must confront their prejudices about Boo Radley, a local recluse who was rumoured to have attacked his parents. While they (particularly Jem and Dill) lowkey harass Boo by playing around his yard, re-enacting dramaticised versions of his life, and sending notes into his house with a fishing pole, they undoubtedly get drawn into the rumours as well: he was “six-and-a-half feet tall”, he “dined on raw squirrels” and he had a head “like a skull”.

What is prejudice, after all? In this case, it doesn’t have to do with race necessarily—it’s more about how the children judge Boo, form a preconceived image of who he is, before they really know him.

And this happens to other white characters too—notably Walter Cunningham, a boy from a poor family who Aunt Alexandra straight up derides as “trash”. Even when invited to dinner by the Finches, he is dismissed by Scout as “just a Cunningham”, and this is where Calpurnia steps in as the moral voice, chastising her for acting “high and mighty” over this boy who she hardly knows.

The racial dimension of prejudice is impossible to ignore though—as Atticus says, “people have a way of carrying their resentments right into a jury box”. The word ‘resentment’ has special significance here in the context of the Great Depression (in which the novel was set—more on this in a later section) but the general idea is clear: Black Americans like Tom Robinson were guilty, and therefore doomed, the minute they stepped into a court because the white jury inevitably bore prejudices against them.

At the end of the day, the panacea Lee presents for prejudice is empathy, the idea that only by truly understanding someone, “climb[ing] into [their] skin and walk[ing] around in it”, can we overcome our own prejudices—something that the jury isn’t quite able to do by the end of the novel.

Justice in To Kill A Mockingbird

In the second part of the novel, these moral questions around prejudice and empathy find an arena in the courtroom, where Tom has been unfairly charged with rape and is being defended by Atticus. The court of law is supposed to be this colour-blind, impartial site of dispute resolution, where anybody “ought to get a square deal”, but the reality we see in the novel falls dramatically short; Tom is indeed ultimately found guilty despite the evidence to the contrary.

The intersection of these themes—race, prejudice and justice—forces us to confront the reality that our legal institutions may not be as colour-blind and impartial as we thought. As Atticus says in his closing statement, “a court is only as sound as its jury, and a jury is only as sound as the men who make it up.” However, what we see is that the people who make up a jury are not necessarily as sound as he/we would hope—Scout later recognises that the true trial occurs in the “secret courts of men's hearts”, and that racist biases were always going to get in the way of a fair verdict.

Heroism and Courage in To Kill A Mockingbird

All of that sounds pretty dire, so is the novel then purely pessimistic? We’re going to complicate this a little here, and then (spoiler) a little more in the “Past the Basics (II)” section, but let’s say for now that even though the outcome may be cause for pessimism, the novel is not so pessimistic on the whole. This is because of one central moral that stands out from all of Atticus’ other teachings, and that strings the entire story together, namely the idea that courage doesn’t have any one single shape or form, that anybody can be courageous.

In Part One, we find an unlikely hero in Mrs. Henry Lafayette Dubose, who the children describe as “plain hell”—when Jem takes out her flowers, Atticus makes him read to her as punishment. Only when she dies is it revealed that she was a morphine addict who had been trying to cut the habit in her last days, which Atticus sees as extremely brave: “[Real courage is] when you know you're licked before you begin but you begin anyway and you see it through no matter what.” For all we know, this could’ve been about himself…

Another example of Atticus switching up what it means to be heroic is in the way he puts down Tim Johnson. Don’t stress if you forgot who that is—Tim is the rabid dog. Jem is blown away by his father’s marksmanship, which he had never actually witnessed. Atticus transforms this into yet another lesson about courage: "I wanted you to see what real courage is, instead of getting the idea that courage is a man with a gun in his hand."

What we see here is Lee trying to broaden the reader’s imagination of what a hero could be, or what courage could look like, and all of this momentum eventually builds to the trial in Part Two. Even Tim Johnson’s name calls to mind parallels with Tom Robinson’s legal battle, in which Atticus heroically takes up the huge responsibility of protecting the innocent, and in spite of his best efforts, both times he fails.

Yet maybe both times he knew it would be inevitable—courage is “know[ing] you’re licked before you begin”, right?  

Fatherhood vs Adolescence in To Kill A Mockingbird

a house on fire essay for class 6

This knowledge seems to be one of those unfortunate things that comes with age and life experience. While Atticus already understands this, it doesn’t quite click for his children until the end of the novel. Jem is particularly shaken by the guilty verdict: “It ain’t right”, he cries.

The novel is sometimes referred to as a bildungsroman for this reason: at its core, it’s a coming-of-age story. Jem may have been really idealistic about law and justice and the court system, but this is the first time in his life that he has had to grapple with the reality that all these institutions might be flawed, and that his dad is a hero not because he always wins, but because he’s willing to get into the fight even when he knows he might lose. Even though these messages came through all across the novel, Jem’s personal investment in the Robinson trial brings it all together for him.

Thus, on the one hand, you have this disillusionment and loss on innocence, but on the other, you also have this shift in worldview that may well be valuable in the long run.

It’s also worth noting that Jem isn’t the only character who experiences this though—and also that heroism isn’t the only theme that is affected. Scout experiences similar disappointments, and they both grapple with other questions of conscience, tolerance and conformity throughout the novel.

Past the basics: Narrative Structure

I’ve hinted to this briefly throughout the themes, but the two-part structure of the novel plays a key role in delivering the key moral messages. While Part One isn’t necessarily the story you’d expect (given that it’s very long and almost completely not about the trial itself), many of the characters and their interactions with Jem, Scout and Dill are incredibly meaningful. (Walter Cunningham and Mrs. Dubose are covered above, but try to form some of these connections yourself).

Boo Radley is the key character who connects the two parts of the story. He spends much of the first part in hiding, occasionally leaving gifts for the kids in a tree (chapter 7), or giving them a blanket during a fire (chapter 8). However, he’s also victim to their prejudice and their gossip—they don’t see him as a person, but rather as an enigma whom they can harass and talk about at will. In the second part however, he emerges to save Jem from Bob Ewell and is actually a rather unassuming man. Here, Scout and Jem must reckon with the moral lessons they’ve been taught about prejudice, but also about innocence and courage. It’s through these interactions as well that they come closer to understanding Atticus, and his brave quest to defend the innocent. In many ways, the first part of the novel sets up and drives these ideas home.

Past the basics: Critical Racial Analysis

As foreshadowed, we’re going to complicate the heroism element of the novel here, and I’ll start with a quote from a New York Times review: “I don’t need to read about a young white girl understanding the perniciousness of racism to actually understand the perniciousness of racism. I have ample firsthand experience.”

So is there an issue when a story of Black injustice only elevates white people as heroes? Not to say that Atticus can’t be heroic, but what does it say that he’s the brave, stoic hero in a story about a Black man’s unjust suffering?

I think to best understand these complexities, it’s worth situating the story in its historical context.

  • 1930s : Great Depression; when the novel is set . Economy had collapsed and masses were unemployed; with slavery abolished, Black people were competing with white people for labour, fuelling resentment. Harper Lee grew up in this time, so there are autobiographical elements to the novel.
  • 1960s : Civil Rights Movement; when the novel is published . For the first time in history, Black heroes were capturing national white attention and shifting the needle drastically towards racial justice. It was in this watershed wave of activism and social change that people read this book for the first time, and it was received as a deeply authentic voice within this movement.
  • 2010s : Present day; when the novel is currently being read . We’re closer towards achieving racial justice now, but we’re also in a world where more and more young people are cognisant of these issues. While the novel’s image on the surface (of white kids being blown away by the existence of racism) is fading in relevance, there are underlying messages that are still relevant: racism and prejudice is inevitable, and can occur across and within racial lines; courage and heroism can take many forms (consider how Black characters—such as Calpurnia—also act in heroic ways); and the experiences of young people, whether experiencing racism firsthand or witnessing its divisive impact, undoubtedly shape their values and morals as they enter the adult world.

If the same story was published today, it probably wouldn’t have the same impact, but think about what kinds of messages endure anyway, beneath the surface story.

Essay Prompt Breakdown

To Kill a Mockingbird argues that empathy is courageous. Discuss.

Which brings us to a topic that is a bit knottier than it might first seem. Although empathy is shown to be courageous, particularly in the context of its setting, part of the novel’s message is also that courage can be fluid. This means that you might agree for a paragraph or two, emphasising the importance of context, before expanding on this idea of courage in the third.

  • Paragraph One : empathy can be a courageous trait in divisive times. Atticus says from early on that it’s important to “climb in [someone’s] skin and walk around in it” in order to better understand them. He initially says this about Walter Cunningham, but it’s a message that finds relevance all throughout—which occurs in parallel, of course, with his other lessons about courage, and how it can take different forms (as in Mrs. Dubose). Understood together, Lee suggests that empathy can in itself be a form of courage.
  • Paragraph Two : we’ve blended two themes together in the previous paragraph, but let’s bring in some context here. Empathy only stands out as being particularly courageous because of the historical milieu, in which people were not only racist, but allowed racist resentments to surface in the economic struggle of the Depression. In fact, these “resentments [were carried] right into a jury box” where people failed to display the very courage that Atticus consistently espouses.
  • Paragraph Three : that said, even if empathy is courageous, courage can take on many forms beyond just empathy. Consider Scout backing away from a fight with Cecil Jacobs (“I felt extremely noble”—and rightfully so) or the resilience of the First Purchase congregation in using their service to raise money “to help [Helen Robinson] out at home”. That these characters, Black and white, can hold their heads high and do the right thing in difficult times is also courageous.

In your opinion, what is the most central and relevant message from To Kill a Mockingbird ?

What is the role of innocence in To Kill a Mockingbird ?

Lee argues that legal institutions are fraught with human bias—is this true?

In To Kill a Mockingbird , who pays the price for racism, and what do they lose?

Challenge: In To Kill a Mockingbird , how are isolation and loneliness different, and what is Lee suggesting about society in this regard?

To Kill A Mockingbird Essay Prompt Breakdown Video

Video Transcription

Something that I want you to take away from this video is being able to develop a contention statement that is a complete, solid foundation for your essay. A lot of the time when I ask students what they’re trying to say in a specific section of their essay, they can’t really explain it, they’re just trying to put relevant evidence down. Ideally, it’s worth bearing in mind when you plan that you should be able to follow your logic back to the contention at any given point, even if you’re not that confident with the topic, and even if it wasn’t the topic you’re quite prepared for.

The topic we’ll be looking at is:

To Kill A Mockingbird is a story of courage. Discuss.

So ‘courage’ is the key word here, and the way we define it will shape our entire discussion. It generally means bravery and fearlessness, but what kinds of courage are explored in the novel? It could be anything from courage to do the ‘right’ thing, or courage to tell the truth, or courage to treat people with dignity even when you don’t know if they’ll treat you the same way.

Immediately, we can see that this is a theme-based prompt . To learn more about LSG's incredible Five Types Technique and how it can revolutionise how you approach VCE Text Response essays, have a read of this blog post .

For a prompt like this, you start building your contention based on these definitions, and this is handy if you’re better prepared for another theme. L et’s say you’re better prepped to write an essay on discrimination ...

You could contend that the novel is indeed about courage, as Atticus not only teaches it to his children but also applies it to his defence of Tom Robinson in the face of structural racism. However, courage is also linked more broadly to empathy, which is explored as a panacea for discrimination. A complete contention like this breaks up your points neatly, but also grounds everything you have to say in an essay that still addresses the question and the idea of courage.

For example, paragraph one would start by looking at the forms of courage he teaches to his children . Part One, the more moralistic and didactic section of the novel ends with the idea that “real courage” isn’t “a man with a gun” but rather “when you know you're licked before you begin anyway and you see it through no matter what.” The section is characterised by these lessons of “real courage”—while Atticus “One-Shot” Finch downplays his marksmanship, he focuses the children’s moral instruction on characters such as Mrs Dubose, who he admires as courageous for fighting her morphine addiction.

The next paragraph would look at Atticus’ actions and also the trial in a bit more detail, as he embodies this idea that real courage exists outside of physical daring . In the racist milieu of the Deep South at the time, juries rarely “decide in favour of a coloured man over a white man.” Yet, Atticus is determined to defend Tom even at the steep cost of his own personal honour or reputation. Not only does he teach his children about the importance of courage, but he goes on to exemplify those very lessons himself. Courage in this case reflects his commitment to the truth and to defending the innocent—“this boy’s not going till the truth is told.”

However, in the final paragraph we might take a bit of a turn. Atticus, in having the courage to see Tom as an equal, is probably reflecting another very important value in the novel—namely, empathy. Though he admires Mrs. Dubose for her “real courage”, the white camellia he gives to Jem represents the goodness he sees within her despite her discriminatory attitudes. Though Jem struggles to empathise with the “old devil”, Atticus posits that it takes a degree of courage to be the bigger person and see the best in others, rather than repeating cycles of discrimination and prejudice. The idea of empathy as a form of courage is also reflected in what he teaches them about Boo Radley. When Scout is terrified by the idea that he had given her a blanket without her realising, she “nearly threw up”—yet Atticus maintains the importance of empathising with people, “climb[ing] into another man’s shoes and walk[ing] around in it” rather than ostracising them. In other words, he sees empathy as a form of courage in being the first to break social stigmas and overcome the various forms of discrimination that separate us.

Now to touch base again with the take away message . We contended that the novel is about courage because Atticus teaches it to Scout and Jem while also representing it in the trial. We also contended that courage is linked to empathy, another key value that he imparts as it helps to overcome social barriers like discrimination. The aim was to build an essay on a contention that clearly props up the body of the essay itself, even when we were more confident with some other themes, and I think this plan does a pretty good job of covering that.

The Great Gatsby is usually studied in the Australian curriculum under Area of Study 1 - Text Response. For a detailed guide on Text Response, check out our Ultimate Guide to VCE Text Response .

Call it the greatest American novel or ultimate story of unrequited romance— The Great Gatsby is undoubtedly a stunning snapshot of one of the most American decades that America has ever seen. The 1920s saw significant economic growth after WWI, and what’s more American than material excess, wealth, and prosperity? The stock market was going off, businesses were booming, and people were having a great time.

Well, not everybody—and on the flipside, what’s more American than socio-economic inequality or the ever-quixotic American Dream?

In this blog, we’ll go through the novel in this context, examine some of its key themes, and also have a think about the critiques it raises about American society. We’ll also go through an essay prompt that ties some of these things together.

Life in the Roaring Twenties

mage result for great gatsby movie"

This snapshot from the 2013 film adaptation actually tells us a lot about the 1920s. On the one hand, social and cultural norms were shifting—men no longer sported beards, and women were dressing more androgynously and provocatively. On the other hand, the modern, American economy was emerging—people began buying costly consumer goods (like cars, appliances, telephones etc.) using credit rather than cash. This meant that average American families were able to get these things for the first time, while more prosperous families were able to live in extreme excess.

In Fitzgerald’s novel, the Buchanans are one such family. Tom and his wife Daisy have belonged to the 1% for generations, and the 1920s saw them cement their wealth and status. At the same time, the booming economy meant that others (like the narrator Nick) were relocating to cities in pursuit of wealth, and (like Gatsby) making significant financial inroads themselves. 

The Great Gatsby traces how the differences between these characters can be destructive even if they’re all wealthy. Add a drop of Gatsby’s unrequited love for Daisy, and you have a story that ultimately examines how far people go for romance, and what money simply can’t buy. 

The answer to that isn’t so obvious though. Yes, money can’t buy love, but it also can’t buy a lot of other things associated with the lifestyle and the values of established wealth. We’ll get into some of this now.

Wealth and class

Fitzgerald explores tensions between three socio-economic classes—the establishment, the ‘nouveau riche’ and the working class.

Tom and Daisy belong to the ‘old money’ establishment, where wealth is generational and inherited . This means they were born into already wealthy families, which affects their upbringing and ultimately defines them, from the way they speak (Tom’s “paternal contempt” and Daisy’s voice, “full of money”) to their major life decisions (including marriage, symbolised through the “string of pearls” he buys for her—which, fun fact, is estimated to be worth millions of dollars today). It also affects their values, as we’ll see in the following section.  For now, consider this image of their home (and those ponies on the left, which they also own), described as follows:

mage result for tom and daisy buchanan house

“The lawn started at the beach and ran toward the front door for [400 metres], jumping over sun-dials and brick walls and burning gardens—finally when it reached the house drifting up the side in bright vines as though from the momentum of its run.”

Nick Carraway also comes from a similar (though not as extravagant) background—his family had been rich by Midwestern standards for “three generations” before he came to New York.

Conversely, Gatsby belongs to the ‘ nouveau riche ’, or new money. Unlike the Buchanans, Gatsby was born into a poor family, only coming to wealth in the 1920s boom. Specifically, he inherited money from Dan Cody after running away from home at 17.

Although they are all rich, there are significant cultural differences between old and new money. Old money have their own culture of feigned politeness which Gatsby doesn’t quite get. When Tom and the Sloanes invite Nick and Gatsby to supper in chapter six, Gatsby naively accepts, to which Tom would respond behind his back, “Doesn’t he know [Mrs. Sloane] doesn’t want him?” Even though Gatsby is financially their equal, his newfound wealth can’t buy his way into their (nasty, horrible) lifestyle.

Finally, this is contrasted with the working class, particularly George and Myrtle Wilson who we meet in chapter two. They live in a grey “valley of ashes”, the detritus of a prosperous society whose wealth is limited to the 1%. Fitzgerald even calls it a “solemn dumping ground”, suggesting that life is precarious and difficult here. Consider what separates George—“blond, spiritless… and faintly handsome”—from Tom (hint: $$).

Myrtle is described differently, however—she is a “faintly stout” woman with “perceptible vitality”. This may be less of a description of her and more of a commentary on Tom’s sexuality, and what attracts him to her such that he cheats on Daisy with her. Still, Myrtle’s relative poverty is evident in her expressions of desire throughout their meeting—“I want to get one of those dogs,” she says, and Tom just hands her the money.

Ultimately, looking at the novel through the lens of class, we see a society where upward social mobility and making a living for yourself is possible, just not for everybody. Even when you get rich, it doesn’t guarantee that you’ll suddenly, seamlessly integrate into the lives of old money. 

Morality and values

Added to this story of social stratification is a moral dimension, where Fitzgerald can be a little more critical. 

Firstly, old money is portrayed as shallow . Daisy’s marriage to Tom and the Sloanes’ insincerity are elements of this, but another good example is Gatsby’s party guests. Many aren’t actually invited—they invite themselves, and “they came and went without having met Gatsby at all.” Their vacuous relationship to Gatsby is exposed when he dies, and they completely abandon him. Klipspringer, “the boarder”, basically lived in Gatsby’s house, and even then he still wouldn’t come to the funeral, only calling up to get a “pair of shoes” back. 

The rich are also depicted as cruel and inconsiderate, insulated from repercussions by their wealth. Nick’s description of Tom’s “cruel body” is repeatedly realised, as he breaks Myrtle’s nose in chapter two and condescends Gatsby with “magnanimous scorn” in chapter seven. After Myrtle dies, Nick spots the Buchanans “conspiring” and describes them as “smash[ing] up things and creatures and then retreat[ing] back into their money or their vast carelessness”—he sees them as fundamentally selfish.

Gatsby is portrayed more sympathetically though, which may come from his humble upbringing and his desire to be liked. This is probably the key question of the novel—is he a hero, or a villain? The moral of the story, or a warning? Consumed by love, or corrupted by wealth?

I’m going to leave most of those for the next section, but I’ll finish here with one last snippet: Lucille, a guest at his parties, tears her dress and Gatsby immediately sends her a “new evening gown”. Weird flex, but at least he’s being selfless…

That said, a major part of Gatsby’s character is his dishonesty, which complicates his moral identity. 

For starters, he fabricates a new identity and deals in shady business just to reignite his five-year-old romance with Daisy. We see this through the emergence of Meyer Wolfsheim, with whom he has unclear business “gonnegtions”, and the resultant wealth he now enjoys. 

In chapter three, Owl Eyes describes Gatsby as a “regular Belasco”, comparing him to a film director who was well-known for the realism of his sets. This is a really lucid analysis of Gatsby, who is in many ways just like a film director constructing a whole fantasy world.

It’s also unclear if he loves Daisy for who she is, or just the idea of Daisy and the wealth she represents. Indeed, he doesn’t seem to treat her as a person, but more like something that he can pursue (like wealth). This is a good read, so I won’t really get into it here—just consider how much things have changed since Gatsby first met Daisy (like her marriage and her children), and how Gatsby ignores the way her life has changed in favour of his still, stationary memory of who she used to be.

Love, desire and hope

All of this makes it tricky to distil what the novel’s message actually is. 

Is it that Gatsby is a good person, especially cast against the corrupt old money?  

This analysis isn’t wrong, and it actually works well with a lot of textual evidence. Where Nick resents the Buchanans, he feels sympathy for Gatsby. He explicitly says, “they’re a rotten crowd…you’re worth the whole damn bunch put together.” Maybe love was an honourable goal compared to money, which ostensibly makes you “cruel” and “careless”. 

I wouldn’t say he was cruel, but this reading is complicated by how he can be careless, choosing not to care about Daisy’s agency, and letting his desires overtake these considerations. 

Is it that Gatsby and his desire for Daisy were corrupted by wealth despite his good intentions? 

There’s also evidence to suggest wealth corrupts—Nick describes it as “foul dust” that “preyed” on Gatsby, eroding his good character and leaving behind someone who resembles the vacuous elite. Although love might’ve been an honourable goal, it got diluted by money. 

Gatsby’s paradigm for understanding the world becomes driven by materialism, and he objectifies Daisy. He starts trying to buy something that he originally didn’t need to buy—Daisy’s love. She certainly didn’t fall in love with this man who owned a mansion and a closet full of “beautiful shirts.” Thus, Gatsby is a sympathetic product of a system that was always stacked against him (a poor boy from North Dakota). Capitalism, right?

Is it that capitalist America provides nothing for people to pursue except for wealth, and therefore little reason for people to feel hope?

Past the basics: structural economic tension and the doomed American Dream

Now we want to start thinking beyond the characters (e.g. if Gatsby is a good person or not) and also factor in their social, historical, political and economic context (e.g. if he was doomed to begin with by a society driven by money). This subheading does sound a bit much, but we’ll break it down here. 

A key part of this novel is the American Dream, the idea that America is a land of freedom and equal opportunity, that anyone can ‘make it’ if they truly try. Value is placed on upward social mobility (moving up from a working-class background) and economic prosperity (making $$), which defined much of the Roaring 20s…

…for some. 

For many others, there was significant tension between these lofty values and their lived reality of life on the ground. As much as society around them was prospering, they just couldn’t get a piece of the pie, and this is what makes it structural—as hard as George Wilson might work, he just can’t get himself out of the Valley of Ashes and into wealth. Indeed, you can’t achieve the Dream without cheating (as Gatsby did). 

So, there’s this tension, this irreconcilable gap between economic goals and actual means. Through this lens, the tragedy of The Great Gatsby multiplies. It’s no longer just about someone who can’t buy love with money—it’s about how nobody’s dreams are really attainable. Not everyone can get money, and money can only get you so far. Everyone is stuck, and the American Dream is basically just a myth. 

Thus, the novel could be interpreted as a takedown of capitalist America, which convinced people like Gatsby that the answer to everything was money, and he bolted after the “green light” allure of cold, hard cash only to find out that it wasn’t enough, that it wasn’t the answer in the end.  (.

Consider what kind of message that sends to people like the Wilsons—if money can’t actually buy happiness, what good is it really to chase it? And remember that Gatsby had to cheat to get rich in the first place. 

Is [the novel’s message] that capitalist America provides nothing for people to pursue except for wealth, and therefore little reason for people to feel hope?

You tell me.

Prompt: what does Fitzgerald suggest about social stratification in the 1920s?

Whenever you get a new essay topic, you can use LSG’s THINK and EXECUTE strategy , a technique to help you write better VCE essays. If you’re unfamiliar with this strategy, then check it out in How To Write A Killer Text Response .

Let’s try applying this to a prompt. I’ll italicise the key points that have been brought up throughout this post. 

Firstly, social stratification clearly divided society along economic lines . This could be paragraph one, exploring how class separated the Buchanans and Wilsons of the world, and how their lifestyles were so completely different even though they all lived in the prosperity of the Roaring 20s . George Wilson was “worn-out” from work, but he still couldn’t generate upward social mobility for his family, stuck in the Valley of Ashes. Conversely, Tom Buchanan is born into a rich family with his beach-facing mansion and polo ponies . Colour is an important symbol here—the Valley is grey, while East Egg is filled with colour (a green light here, a “blue coupe” there…).

The next paragraph might look at the cultural dimension , exploring how you just can’t buy a way of life. This might involve analysing Gatsby’s wealth as deluding him into thinking he can “repeat the past” by buying into the life(style) of old money . This is where Fitzgerald disillusions us about the American Dream —he presents a reality where it isn’t possible for anyone to ‘make it’, where the Buchanans still treat you with scorn even if you’re just as wealthy. Gatsby’s dishonesty is ultimately a shallow one—try as he might, he just cannot fit in and win Daisy back.

Finally, we should consider the moral dimension —even though the wealthier socioeconomic classes enjoyed more lavish, luxurious lifestyles, Fitzgerald also argued that they were the most morally bankrupt. Money corrupted the wealthy to the point where they simply did not care about the lives of the poor, as seen in the Buchanans’ response to Myrtle’s death. Even Gatsby had to compromise his integrity and deal in shady business in order to get rich—he isn’t perfect either. Social stratification may look ostentatious and shiny on the outside, but the rich are actually portrayed as shallow and corrupt. 

A good essay on this novel will typically combine some of these dimensions and build a multilayered analysis. Stratification, love, wealth, morality—all of these big ideas can be broken down in terms of social, economic, cultural circumstances, so make sure to consider all angles when you write. 

Have a go at these prompts!

1. Nick is biased in his assessment of Gatsby—both of them are no better than the corrupt, wealthy Buchanans. Do you agree?

2. In The Great Gatsby , money is a stronger motivating factor than love. Do you agree?

3. Daisy Buchanan is more innocent than guilty—explore this statement with reference to at least 2 other characters. 

4. What does Fitzgerald say about happiness in The Great Gatsby ?

5. Is money the true antagonist of The Great Gatsby ?

6. The women of The Great Gatsby are all victims of a patriarchal society. To what extent do you agree? (Hint: are they all equally victimised?)

Challenge: According to Fitzgerald, what really lays underneath the façade of the Roaring 20s? Make reference to at least 2 symbols in The Great Gatsby . (Hint: façade = “an outward appearance that conceals a less pleasant reality” – think about things like colours, clothes, buildings etc.)

The Ultimate Guide to VCE Text Response

The Importance of the Introduction

Wondering what VCAA examiners might be looking for in a high-scoring essay? Each year, the VCE EAL Examination Reports shed light on some of the features that examiners are looking for in  high-scoring responses for the Listening and Language Analysis sections of the EAL exams. Let's go through 5 key points from the reports so that you know how to achieve a 10/10 yourself.

For advice on how you can apply the VCE EAL Examination Reports to strengthen your skills in the listening section, see Tips on EAL Listening .

Tip #1 Analyse How the Overall Argument Was Structured 

Let’s take the 2017 VCAA EAL Examination Report as an example: 

‘The highest-scoring responses analysed argument use and language in an integrated way. Some responses used a comparative approach that analysed arguments and counter arguments from both texts in the same paragraph. However, only comparatively few responses focused on how the overall argument was structured .’

So how do we write about/analyse ‘how the overall argument was structured’? 

To save time during the exam, we can adopt templates that can help us transfer our thoughts into words in a fast and efficient way.  You can construct your own templates, and you may want to have various templates for various scenarios or essays. Below, I have provided a sample template and I’ll show you how you can use this template in your own essays.

Sample Template

(AUTHOR)’s manner of argument is proposed in real earnest in an attempt to convince the readers of the validity of his/her proposal of...by first…and then supplying solutions to...(DIFFICULTIES), thus structuring it in a logical and systematic way.

The above template ONLY applies to opinion pieces that satisfy these 2 rules:

  • The opinion piece commences by presenting the ‘bad effect/consequence/situation’ of the topic 
  • The opinion piece supplies the solution to resolve the ‘bad effect/consequence/situation’ of the topic 

For example, say the author, John White, contends that plastic bags should be banned and does so by:

  • commencing the piece with the fact that plastic bags can travel long distances by wind and water. They litter our landscapes, float around in waterways, and can eventually end up in the oceans, ultimately polluting the ocean and posing a threat to marine animals
  • then supplies solution to ban plastic bags 

When we use our template here, the intro may look like this - note that I’ve bolded the ‘template’ parts so you can clearly see how the template has been used:

John White’s manner of argument, proposed in real earnest in an effect to convince the readers of the validity of his proposal of banning plastic bags by first exposing the deleterious nature of these bags to our environment and natural habitat and then supplying solutions to ban plastic bags, putting it in effect in a logical and systematic way.

Head to Introductions for EAL Language Analysis for more templates and guidance on how to nail your Language Analysis Introduction. 

Tip #2 Keep the Listening Answer Succinct 

The 2019 VCAA EAL Examination Report states: 

‘Students are encouraged to use the key words in the questions as a focus for their listening...Short-answer questions require concise and precise answers. Responses that demonstrated understanding provided what was asked for without including extraneous information .’

Some students tend to add unnecessary information in their answers. Although the answers are correct, they will NOT earn you any extra marks. Listening answers should NOT be a mini essay. Writing irrelevant information will not only waste time but may also compromise the accuracy and overall expression of your response. 

Tip #3 Practice Makes Perfect

The examination reports frequently point out that students struggle with identifying and describing the tone and delivery. For example, the 2017 VCAA EAL Examination Report states:

‘Identifying tone and delivery is challenging for students and emphasis on this is needed...Students are encouraged to use the key words in the questions as a focus for their listening’. 

The good news is, just like most skills, listening and identifying the tone can both be improved with practice. In fact, VCAA acknowledges the importance of daily practice as well. 

‘Students need to develop their critical listening skills both in and outside of the classroom. They are encouraged to listen, in English, to anything that interests them – current affairs, news, documentaries and podcasts can all be useful.’ (2017 VCAA EAL Examination Report)

Practicing listening does not necessarily mean sitting down and doing Section A questions; it can be as simple as talking with classmates, teachers, neighbours, friends from work, church, etc. 

Take a look at our EAL Listening Practice and Resources for a comprehensive list of external resources for practicing listening and a step-by-step guide on how to use them!

Tip #4 How To Formulate a Cohesive Response?

VCAA encourages us to write answers that make sense to the reader and are grammatically correct. Make sure you do address, and ONLY address, what the question is asking, because marks will not be rewarded for redundant information. 

‘Short answer questions require concise and precise answers. Responses that demonstrated understanding provided what was asked for without including extraneous information . Expression skills need to be sufficiently controlled to convey meaning accurately. ’ ( 2017-2019 VCAA EAL Examination Report )

HINT: This may sound super simple, but a lot of EAL students struggle with it. If you do, you are definitely not alone. Some students seek to use complicated words and/or sentence structures, but we should not compromise clarity over complexity.  

Tip #5 Use a Range of Precise Vocabulary 

VCAA acknowledges the importance of sophisticated vocabulary. This phrase ‘a nalysis expressed with a range of precise vocabulary’ has been repeatedly used to describe high-scoring essays in the examination reports from 2017 onwards

Below is a list of commonly misspelled, misused and mispronounced words. If you don’t know the meaning of a word, check out Collins Online Dictionary for definitions OR you can use a physical copy of the Collins Dictionary (which you are allowed to bring into the exam and SACs).

Words That Look the Same/Have Super Similar Spelling:

  • Abroad vs. Aboard
  • Adapt vs. Adopt vs. Adept
  • Affect vs. Effect
  • Altar vs. Alter
  • Angel vs. Angle
  • Assent vs. Ascent vs. Accent
  • Aural vs. Oral
  • Baron vs. Barren
  • Beam vs. Bean
  • Champion vs. Champagne vs. Campaign
  • Chef vs. Chief
  • Chore vs. Chord
  • Cite vs. Site
  • Compliment vs. Complement
  • Confirm vs. Conform
  • Contact vs. Contrast vs. Contract
  • Contend vs. Content
  • Context vs. Content
  • Costume vs. Custom
  • Counsel vs. Council vs. Consul
  • Crow vs. Cow vs. Crown vs. Clown
  • Dairy vs. Diary
  • Decent vs. Descent vs. Descend
  • Dessert vs. Desert
  • Dose vs. Doze
  • Drawn vs. Draw vs. Drown
  • Extensive vs. Intensive
  • Implicit vs. Explicit
  • In accord with vs. In accordance with
  • Later vs. Latter
  • Pray vs. Prey
  • Precede vs. Proceed
  • Principal vs. Principle
  • Sweet vs. Sweat
  • Quite vs. Quiet

For an overview of the EAL study design plus tips and tricks for reading comprehension, time management and more, check out The Ultimate Guide to EAL .

How can the context of a film be utilised to add complexity to an analysis?

Writing a film analysis can be daunting in comparison to analysing a written text. The task of dissecting a motion picture consisting of dialogue, camera shots and dialogic sound is challenging, but an understanding of a film’s social, cultural and political background can elevate your analysis from standard to spectacular. Thus, before analysing Alfred Hitchcock’s 1954 thriller ‘Rear Window’, it is important to consider its cultural, political and social context:

Cultural Context

  • The Greenwich Village setting of ‘Rear Window’ is located in Lower West Manhattan, New York, and was known as America’s ‘bohemian capital’ during the 1950s, in which avant-garde artists freely explored unconventional lifestyles.
  • Hitchcock’s decision to use Greenwich Village as the backdrop of the film links its image of human suffering to the failed vision of American progressivist culture.
  • Despite acting as the main location of progressive culture, such as the beginning of the international gay rights movement, Greenwich Village was also the setting for the broken dreams of its eclectic residents.
  • This cyclical nature of hope and defeat can be observed in the film, as the audience can perceive the frustrated songwriter destroying his latest work, and Miss Lonely hearts desperately seeking true love in the seedy bars and gloomy alleyways of the ‘bohemian heaven’.
  • Additionally, it is this social radicalism of Jeff’s neighbours that provides the basis for his voyeuristic habits; by portraying their individual eccentricities though their respective apartment windows, Hitchcock offers to Jeff a range of human peculiarities, which he eagerly observes through his ‘portable keyhole’.

Political Context

  • ‘Rear Window’ encapsulates the rampant Mccarthyism, and subsequent suspicion, at the time of its release in 1954.
  • The fear of Communist influence in the USA led to heightened political repression from the government, and Americans could only prove their loyalty to the country only by offering others’ names to the government.
  • As such, Jeff’s insubstantial speculation about Thorwald murdering his bedridden wife is disturbingly reflective of the social strife in 1950s America, as thousands accused their neighbours for treason or subversion without concrete evidence.
  • Along with heightened political surveillance followed the allure of voyeurism; just as Jeff is contained to his wheelchair, and can merely gaze through his rear window into his wider world - the courtyard, so were Americans during the Cold War; expected to only ‘gaze’, and leave all the ‘involvement and engagement to the politicians’.

Social Context

  • The suburban setting of‘Rear Window’ reinforces the sense of confinement and suspicion rampant during the 1950s.
  • After WWII ended in 1952, millions of US soldiers returned to a multitude of suburban homes built using mass production techniques, all overwhelmingly close to another. The Greenwich Village of ‘Rear Window’ is an example of one of these suburbs.
  • The crowded Greenwich Village apartment complex of the film acts as an effective narrative device, as Hitchcock employs the physical proximity of the apartments to reinforce the overwhelming sense of voyeurism and paranoia amongst neighbours.

How to Analyse a Scene

The Film’s Opening Sequence:

As the blinds roll up to reveal the apartment complex, a medium shot of the wide-open windows of each apartment immediately convey to the audience an environment of an uncomfortable openness. However, despite this, the separation of each apartment by brick walls as a separate entity on its own serves as a symbol of the widespread suspicion characteristic of the McCarthyian era. Within the frame of the main window, the windows of each apartment act as mini frames within the big frame, multiplying the sense of voyeurism present in the shot.

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Although seemingly insignificant, the brown tabby cat that runs across the steps of Greenwich Village represents freedom and individual autonomy, later comparable to the character of Lisa in the film. The compounding sense of surveillance during the 1950s add more meaning to the freedom symbolised by the cat, which can then be contrasted to the suppressed independence of the protagonist, who is seen invalid in a wheelchair in the next shot:

a house on fire essay for class 6

By this extreme close-up shot of Jeff sleeping in his wheelchair during the opening sequence, Hitchcock immediately places the viewer in an uncomfortable position as the original and ultimate voyeur, surpassing the intimate boundaries of the protagonist. The camera’s focus on the beads of sweat on Jeff’s forehead signify the intense heat of summer in Greenwich Village, confirmed by the following close up shot of 94F on the thermometer:

a house on fire essay for class 6

The stifling temperature of the season foreshadows imminent tension about to unfold in the film, as does the following close-up shot:

a house on fire essay for class 6

The slow panning from Jeff’s head to his broken left leg in a cast, in tandem with the ominous, epitaph-like words, ‘Here lie the broken bones of L.B Jefferies’, increase the impending sense of tragedy.

a house on fire essay for class 6

Jeff’s profession as a photographer becomes gradually more evident, as the camera slowly pans from focusing on Jeff’s injury to around his room. This close shot of a destroyed, seemingly irreparable camera, literally reflects the cyclic nature of broken dreams characteristic of Greenwich Village, and also signifies that Jeff too has been hurt (literally) by radical pursuits in his progression. It is important to note that Jeff’s room is plain and lacks any decorative sophistication, establishing his character as a simple, ‘everyday’ American man.

a house on fire essay for class 6

The only things adorning Jeff’s small room are his many photographs, all taken by himself. Despite varying in size and setting, they all share a single point of similarity; they all focus on sights of destruction, such as the race car crash or the remains of a volcanic eruption. The framed nature of these photographs signify Jeff’s appreciation for tragic devastation, establishing further doom in the film by lending a darker note to his voyeuristic tendencies.

a house on fire essay for class 6

The last photograph the camera focuses on in the opening sequence is the picture taken by Jeff of an elegant woman, who bears a striking resemblance to Lisa.

a house on fire essay for class 6

This image of ‘Lisa’ in the negative literally symbolises Jeff’s negative perception of his girlfriend Lisa at the beginning of the film. In contrast, the following shot of ‘Lisa’ in the ‘positive’ foreshadows the development of the film, as he begins to perceive Lisa as a possible life partner:

a house on fire essay for class 6

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No injuries reported in Bedford County house fire

Bedford House Fire

BEDFORD, Va. (WDBJ) - No injuries were reported after a Saturday morning house fire in the Montvale area of Bedford County.

According to the Bedford Fire Department, crews were dispatched to reports of a house fire on Mountain View Church Road around 10 a.m.

Crews found a single-story house engulfed in flames and units were on scene for two hours before the fire was contained.

The cause of the fire and estimation of damages have not been released.

Firefighters thank the Montvale Volunteer Fire Company, Stewartsville-Chamblissburg Volunteer Fire Department, Moneta Volunteer Fire Department, Blue Ridge Volunteer Fire Department, Smith Mountain Lake Marine Fire Rescue, and Bedford County Department of Fire & Rescue for their assistance.

Copyright 2024 WDBJ. All rights reserved.

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Man charged with kicking, breaking landmark elevator in Oregon City

OREGON CITY Ore. (KPTV) - A man was charged with first-degree mischief Saturday after the Oregon City Municipal Elevator was damaged Friday, according to the Oregon City Police Department.

The Municipal Elevator has been in downtown Oregon City since 1955. It’s the only city-operated elevator in the country and is one of four in the world.

Wendy Wessel has lived in Oregon City her whole life and remembers taking the municipal elevator as a kid. On Saturday, she brought her own children to the elevator for prom pictures but was greeted by an ‘out of order’ sign.

“It’s really unfortunate that somebody has done such a devastating thing to a fixture of Oregon City,” Wessel said.

On Friday around 11:45 p.m., video surveillance footage caught a man kicking the door of the city landmark at 300 Seventh Street. Authorities said the elevator is now broken and estimate repairs will cost more than $1,000.

“If you look up Oregon City, it’s on all the pictures. It’s a great view, you get a viewpoint of the river,” Wessel said. “It’s been there forever. It’s been there since Oregon City.”

Police said they believe the man in the security footage was 22-year-old Evan Bettencourt. He was arrested Saturday and is being held at the Clackamas County Jail.

Terry Richardson works at the gift shop and said the vandalism is sad, but not shocking.

“We’ve had people break through the doors, get in here, fool around and kind of ransack the place, we’ve had these windows shot out, and it’s nice to see a little bit of attention paid to it this time so maybe we can address these issues,” Richardson said.

He’s worked at the elevator for more than five years, and said it’s a destination steeped in history.

“You go to the Gorge to see Multnomah Falls, you come to Oregon City you got to ride the elevator,” he said. “It’s just sad to know that people have come here from a long ways off and they’re not able to ride the elevator.”

Dan Walters, who also came to visit the elevator Saturday, agreed.

“It’s disappointing,” Walters said. “This has been here for decades and thousands of people come to see it. To have things like this interrupted by vandalism is just disappointing.”

Richardson said there’s no timeline yet as to when the elevator may be back up and running.

“There’s nothing to steal here,” Richardson said. “All you can do is damage historical things. Which is pointless. Pointless and sad. Really sad.”

Copyright 2024 KPTV-KPDX. All rights reserved.

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  4. Electricity for a comfortable life

  5. Class 6 English

  6. Wings of Fire தமிழில் ( Chapter 1,2 and 3) By A P J Abdul Kalam / Narration By Tamilarasan

COMMENTS

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    Last Saturday a fire broke out at night in the house of an eminent doctor in our city. It was alleged that the short circuit of live electric wire was the cause of the fire. The flames rose so high as if they were licking the sky. The entire locality came under the thick volume of clouds of smoke. Soon a large number of people gathered there.

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    There is no doubt that fire is important for us and we cannot live without it. But, we should remember that fire is a double-edged weapon. I saw the bad side of it last Sunday. A tailor's home. It so happened that a tailor's house on one street caught fire. Mr. Sunil Trehan is a poor tailor.

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  24. 6 people displaced after Vancouver house fire

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  25. No injuries reported in Bedford County house fire

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  28. Suspect in custody for damaging Oregon City Municipal Elevator

    SEE ALSO: 6 people displaced after Vancouver house fire. ... You could get up to $500 as part of a class action settlement. Four men arrested in child predator sting in Washington County