English Language & Literature — CBSE Class 10 board question

"A Triumph of Surgery" as a Lesson in Thoughtful Parenting

Mrs Pumphrey's excessive love for Tricki mirrors the mistakes of over-indulgent parents. She fed him cream cakes, chocolates, and malt between meals, mistaking indulgence for affection. This turned Tricki into an obese, listless dog unable to move or enjoy life.

Mr Herriot, like a wise and firm parent figure, took charge. He put Tricki on a strict regime — no food initially, then controlled diet and gradual exercise. He resisted Mrs Pumphrey's anxious phone calls, understanding that tough love was necessary for real recovery.

The story teaches that genuine care requires discipline, not just pampering. Giving a child — or pet — everything they desire does more harm than good. True love means making difficult but responsible decisions for their well-being, even at the cost of temporary displeasure.

Source: A Triumph of Surgery, Chapter 1, Footprints Without Feet

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• Examiners look for a thematic link between Mrs Pumphrey's behaviour and parenting — this is the core demand of the question.
• Use specific story details (cream cakes, malt, no exercise, strict diet at surgery) to support your argument — vague answers lose marks.
• Structure: problem (over-indulgence) → solution (disciplined care) → lesson (thoughtful love). This 3-part flow keeps your answer focused.
• The textbook's "Talk about it" section explicitly asks if there are parents like Mrs Pumphrey — your answer should reflect that connection.
• Stay within 120–150 words; padding loses you nothing but wastes time.