CBSE Class 12 English A Roadside Stand Summary

In the first line of the poem, the roadside stall owner has made an effort to improve his stall. The poet calls it a “house” to show how important it is to the owner. The stall not only looks like a small house but is also the owner’s only source of income. The stall owner desperately hopes to earn some money—not just a small handout of food that would only last for one meal.

The poet notes that city money is usually spent on making cities bigger and wealthier, benefiting city people. The traffic passing by the stall consists of polished, expensive cars owned by city dwellers. Sadly, these people rarely stop to spend any money to help the poor in the countryside.

The traffic occasionally stops, but only to criticize the messy art and graffiti on the walls, to look at the wild berries for sale, or to admire the golden squash with silver warts. Some simply pause to enjoy the scenic beauty before moving on. The poet speaks with sympathy for the poor roadside sellers and expresses frustration with the passersby. He bluntly suggests that if they don’t plan to spend any money, they should just keep driving.

Highlighting the deep sadness in the lives of these poor people. They set up their stalls outside the city, hoping to earn enough money to improve their lives and achieve the comfort they’ve seen in movies. However, their dreams are blocked by the politicians who control the area, preventing them from reaching their goals.

The poet paints a picture of how poorly politicians treat the poor. News reports claim that these people will be lifted out of poverty and moved to better villages, where they will have access to theaters, stores, and a comfortable life. But in reality, none of this happens. The politicians who make these promises are actually exploiting the poor rather than helping them. They create luxury for themselves, doing nothing but lazing around, staying awake at night, and sleeping during the day, completely ignoring the needs of the poor. The poet is deeply disgusted by these politicians, calling them “greedy good-doers” and “beneficent beasts of prey” to express his anger at their actions.

Deeply saddened by the innocent longings of the road vendors for some luck at earning money. The long wait of the poor vendors for the sound of an approaching customer – a squeal of brakes or the sound of a stopping car seems like a vain wish to the poet. Among the thousands of cars that pass by, only an occasional one might stop to make a turn or ask for directions. Occasionally, a car might stop to inquire about buying some gas. The poet views this as a harsh example of ignorance and lack of sympathy towards the roadside vendors. It seems absurd to him that people would expect to buy gas from someone who has so little to offer.

The much-needed development and fulfillment of aspirations have never truly reached the countryside. The poor who live there constantly face a lack of resources and necessities. They struggle to achieve the comfort and sophistication that city people enjoy. The poet sharply contrasts the lives of the rural poor with those in the cities, emphasizing that the poor are unable to change their fate.

In a moment of deep despair, the poet wonders if ending the lives of these poor people would be a way to relieve them from their suffering. He considers mercy-killing as a desperate solution to their endless poverty and pain. However, after this intense moment of anguish, he regains his composure and questions how he would feel if someone offered to end his life to ease his own suffering.

Conclusion of A Roadside Stand

In conclusion, the poem starkly highlights the disparity between the lives of the poor in the countryside and the affluent city dwellers. It underscores the persistent struggle and lack of opportunity faced by those in rural areas, who remain trapped in a cycle of poverty despite their efforts. The poet’s reflection on the idea of mercy killing reveals the depth of his despair over the seemingly insurmountable problem of poverty. Ultimately, the poem calls attention to the need for genuine compassion and effective solutions, rather than empty promises and superficial aid. The poet’s personal contemplation on the value of life further emphasizes the profound emotional and moral impact of such systemic injustices.

We trust that this summary of the CBSE Class 12 English Flamingo Poetry, “A Roadside Stand,” has provided you with a quick grasp of the poem. Stay connected with GK Publications for the latest updates on CBSE and study materials. Explore sample papers and question papers from various years to enhance your preparation for the Board exams.