NCERT Solutions For Class 8 English Chapter 8 The Magic Brush Of Dreams (2025-26)

The Magic Brush of Dreams Question Answer – Let us do these activities before we read (Page 122)

I. Work in pairs. Discuss the following questions. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher.

1. Mention a magical object that you would like to have. Give a reason for your choice.

Answer:
I wish I had a magical notebook that could write answers by itself. It would help me finish my homework faster and learn more effectively with smart suggestions.

2. What would you draw for yourself, if you had a magic paint brush? Why?

Answer:
I would draw a large library filled with books because I enjoy reading and discovering new things.

3. Would you use the magic paint brush to draw for someone else? If yes, why? If no, why not?

Answer:
Yes, I would use it to help poor people by drawing food, clothes, and homes for them, because everyone deserves a happy life.

II. Work in pairs. Discuss instances of acts of kindness that you have heard, read, or experienced. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher.

I once read about a boy who created a small food bank in his community to help people who were hungry. I also remember my friend giving his new shoes to a child who needed them. Another time, I helped an injured bird and took it to the vet. These small acts of kindness help make the world a better place.

Now, arrange these words into different categories as given below.
Things: _________________________
______________________________

Actions: _________________________
______________________________

Emotions: _________________________
______________________________

Answer:
Meaning of the words

1. Paintbrush – A tool with bristles used to spread paint on a surface, commonly used for artwork or painting walls.

2. Joy – A powerful emotion of joy and delight.

3. Fortress – A big, sturdy structure built for protection from attacks, similar to a castle.

4. Feast – A big, special meal usually prepared for celebrations.

5. Fear – A feeling of fear or being afraid of something.

6. Winding – Something that bends and twists, like a winding road or pathway.

7. Twig – A small, slender branch from a tree or bush.

8. Bows – Ribbons tied into loops, like hair bows, or a curved tool used to shoot arrows, depending on the context.

9. Drawing – A picture created using a pen, pencil, or crayon, usually drawn on paper.

10. Cold – A low temperature that feels chilly, basically the opposite of warm.

Arranged into categories:

Things: Paintbrush, Fortress, Twig,
Actions: Bows, Winding, Drawing
Emotions: Joy, Fear, Cold
Events: Feast

The Magic Brush of Dreams Class 8 Question Answer – Let us discuss (Pages 127-128)

Arrange the events in order of occurrence in the poem. The last one has been marked for you. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher.

Answer:

II. Fill in the blanks by choosing the correct answer from the box given below.

III. Fill in the blanks by choosing the correct option from within the brackets.

1. The poem mostly follows a simple rhyme scheme, _________________, which adds a rhythmic flow. (ABCB, ABBA, ABAB)
2. This poem belongs to the _________________ poetry genre, which tells a story through verse. (descriptive, narrative or ballad, free style)

Answer:
1. ABCB
2. narrative or ballad

IV. Give examples from the poem for the following explanations.

1. The poem is rich in imagery, creating clear pictures in the reader’s mind. For example, _________________.

2. What is the effect of repetition in the line—‘On you, and you and you!*?

Answer:
1. “Gopi paints a mighty river wide, its currents fast and deep.”

This line paints a strong image of a broad river with swiftly moving, deep currents.

2. It highlights the danger and builds suspense and fear, showing how serious Gopi’s warning to the Zamindar and his men is.

V. Match the phrases from the poem in Column 1 with what they symbolise in Column 2.

Answer:

VI. Identify whether the following statement is true or false.
While Gopi uses the magic brush to help others, the Zamindar wants to use it for personal gain. This contrast drives the moral of the story.

Answer:
True

Class 8 English The Magic Brush of Dreams Question Answer – Let us think and reflect (Pages 128-130)

Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow.

1. But on a stone there sits a man,

A brush is in his hand.
He looks around. He calls to Gopi.
“Come here!” he whispers. “Hush!
We mustn’t let the village know
About this magic brush. ”
He slips the brush into her hand
And tells her to be sure,
“Paint not for the wealthy ones,
But only for the poor.”

(ii) What is the significance of the man slipping the brush into Gopi’s hand?
Answer:
It shows that. he trusts Gopi and believes she will use the magic brush wisely and with kindness.

(iii) Complete the following sentence with a suitable reason.
The most likely reason the man instructs Gopi to ‘Paint not for wealthy ones but only for the poor’ is because he _________________

Answer:
wants the brush to be used for helping those in need, not for greed or selfish gain.

(iv) Select the most appropriate title for the extract from the two given below.
A. The Magic Brush’s Secret
B. Gopi’s Special Gift

Answer:
A. The Magic Brush’s Secret

2. And soon the news spreads far and wide,

Through forests, fields, and plains,

Until the Zamindar himself

Hears of these magic gains.

“I order you to paint for me,

A fortress tall and grand.

Paint treasures, jewels, and riches rare,

Enough to rule this land. ”

The news of Gopi’s magic 1 msh spreads ‘through forests, field , and plains’ because of its _________________

Answer:

miraculous ability to turn drawings into real things that help people.

(ii) Why does the poet refer to things painted by Gopi’s paintbrush as ‘magic gains’?

Answer:
Because everything Gopi paints with his brush comes to life and brings happiness or help to others, especially the poor, making it seem magical and precious.

(iii) Which of the following statements given below is false? Rectify the false statement.
A. Gopi’s magic brush draws the attention of the powerful Zamindar.
B. The Zamindar requests Gopi to paint a grand fortress and jewels.

Answer:
False Statement B: The Zamindar requests Gopi to paint a grand fortress and jewels.

Rectification: The Zamindar orders, not requests, Gopi to paint a grand fortress and jewels.

(iv) What does the Zamindar’s demand for a grand fortress and jewels reveal about his character?

Answer:
It shows that the Zamindar is greedy, selfish, and eager for power. He wants to use the magic brush solely for his own wealth and control.

II. Answer the following Questions.

1. Explain why Gopi made the right decision by refusing to paint for the Zamindar.

Answer:
Gopi made the right choice because the Zamindar was greedy and intended to misuse the brush for his own benefit. She stayed true to her promise to use the brush only to help the poor and needy.

2. Gopi threatens to draw a beast to scare away the Zamindar. Justify her action. How would you have dealt with the situation differently?
Answer:
Gopi’s actions were justified because she was protecting herself and preventing the Zamindar from misusing the brush. She used her cleverness to frighten him away without causing harm. If I were in her place, I might have done the same or tried to encourage the villagers to unite against the Zamindar.

3. What is the significance of Gopi celebrating with the villagers at the end of the poem?
Answer:
It demonstrates that goodness and kindness triumph in the end. It also highlights Gopi’s love for her village and her selfless use of the brush to bring joy to others.

4. Compare Gopi’s use of the magic brush to how the Zamindar would have used it.
Answer:
Gopi used the brush to help the poor and spread happiness, while the Zamindar wanted it for his own wealth and power. Gopi’s use was generous and kind, whereas the Zamindar’s would have been selfish and harmful.

5. What can be inferred about Gopi’s character based on her refusal to follow the Zamindar’s orders?
Answer:
Gopi is courageous, honest, kind, and determined. She prioritizes helping others over fear or pressure and remains true to her values even when facing threats.

6. Justify the appropriateness of the title of the poem.
Answer:
The title “The Magic Brush of Dreams” fits perfectly because the brush makes the dreams of poor people come true, turning helpful drawings into reality. It brings hope and positive change through kindness and imagination.

7. If you had the magic brush, how would you use it in today’s world?
Answer:
I would use the brush to paint food for the hungry, homes for the homeless, medicines for the sick, and books for children who don’t have access to education. I would aim to make the world a better place for those in need.

The Magic Brush of Dreams Class 8 Questions and Answers – Let us learn (Pages 130-132)

I. The verb ‘draw’ has different meanings in different contexts. Match the sentences in Column 1 with their appropriate meanings in Column 2.

Answer:

II. Fill in the crossword. Clues have been given below. You will find the words in the poem.

Answer:

III. There are certain expressions that convey a sudden feeling or reaction. They can be used to express a variety of emotions and thoughts.

Example: … he whispers. “Hush!”
(‘Hush’ denotes the act of silencing someone)

Now, match the expressions in Column 1 with what emotions or reactions they convey, in Column 2.

Answer:

Now, create sentences using any five expressions:

1. Phew! I finished the exam just in time.
2. Eek! There’s a mouse under the table!
3. Ouch! I accidentally bit my tongue while eating.
4. Yippee! We’re going on a school picnic tomorrow!
5. Oops! I dropped the glass while washing dishes.

The Magic Brush of Dreams Question Answer Class 8 – Let us listen (Page 132)

I. You will listen to five speakers speak about a magical power they wish for. As you listen, match statements 1-7 with speakers (i)-(v). There are two statements you do not need. (Refer to the NCERT Textbook Page 152 for transcript.)

Speaker (i): If I could have any magical power, I’d choose the ability to predict the future. Imagine being able to see profis and losses before time. I could make better savings and secure my business. Plus, I’d use it to help others make wise fiancial decisions as well.

Speaker (ii): I think having the power to learn instantly would be amazing! Exams would be easy, and I’d have more time for activities I enjoy, like playing cricket. If I could remember everything,itwouldmakelifesomucheasier!

Speaker (iii): I would want the power of fling. Imagine being able to see the world from up above clearly. I would be able to go from one place to another quickly without using any means of transport. It would be a dream come true.

Speaker (iv): At my age, I’d love to have the power of healing. There are so many aches and pains that come with growing old, but it’s not just for me. If I could heal others too, I’d help my family stay healthy and happy.

Speaker (v): If I had a magical power, I’d want control over the weather. We depend so much on the rains. With this power, I could ensure that crops always get the right amount of rain and sunshine.

Answer:

Class 8 English Chapter 8 Question Answer – Let us speak (Page 133)

I. Intonation is the rise and fall of the pitch of tone while speaking.

The ‘falling’ tone is the fall in the pitch of the voice from a high level to a low level. It is marked [ ]. The falling tone is generally used in imperative sentences. Such sentences are used in speech for different communicative purposes— to express a command or an instruction, to ask for a favour or to give a warning.

Read the following sentences from the text with the falling tone.

• Come here!

• Seize this magic brush…

• Paint my fortress tall!

• Go and fetch some rice.
  
  

II. Work in pairs. Take turns to make requests for the following formal and informal situations.

Formal Requests

Formal Requests – Sample Answers:

Situation 1: Ma’am, would it be possible to arrange a class picnic next month?

Situation 2: Would you kindly give us an extra sports period to make up for the one we missed last week?

Situation 3: I would like to request you to consider me for the upcoming inter-school event, if a spot is available.

Informal Requests

Informal Requests – Sample Answers:

Situation 1: Hey, could you help me complete my project today? I’m running behind schedule.

Situation 2: Mom, could you please enroll me in that new dance class? I really want to join.

Situation 3: Hey! Can you come over this weekend? It’ll be so much fun spending time together!

You may use the following phrases when you make the request.

NCERT Class 8 English Poorvi Chapter 8 Question Answer – Let us write (Pages 134 & 135)

I. Imaginative essay is a type of creative writing where the writers use their imagination. An imaginative essay can be based on real-life events, observation, or experiences. It is usually a descriptive piece or a personal reflection.

Read the sample of an imaginative essay.

My Life as EcoFlash

Imagine an ordinary 13-year-old student who is also a secret superhero protecting the environment. That’s my life as EcoFlash! By day, I’m Meenu, a regular Grade 8 student. By evening, I use my powers to keep my neighborhood green and clean.

As EcoFlash, I can grow plants, purify water, and clean polluted air with just a wave of my hand. I wear a green suit with a glowing leaf symbol and carry a small seed pouch filled with magic seeds to restore damaged areas. My mission is to fight pollution, save trees, and teach people how to take care of our planet. My friends often wonder why I’m always carrying a plant in my bag or why my shoes are muddy, but I can never reveal my secret.

Once, my little brother saw me transform a garbage dump into a beautiful garden and almost told our parents. I had to convince him it was just a magic trick!

Being EcoFlash is not just about powers, it’s about responsibility. Every time I see clean streets, blooming flowers, and children playing in green parks, I feel proud. I know that even small actions can make a big difference, and that’s what keeps me going.

II. Complete the given checklist based on your observations and understanding of what an imaginative essay includes. Share the answers with your classmates and teacher.

1. Title — A relevant title

2. Introduction

• Captivating opening sentence to catch the reader’s attention

• Clear statement of the setting, situation, or main idea

• Establishes the tone (e.g., playful, serious, and adventurous)

• Introduces the narrator briefly (if applicable)

3. Setting and Context

• Description of the setting to create a mental picture

• Clear time frame (past, present, or future)

• Brief explanation of any unique or imaginative elements (e.g., powers, fantasy world)

4. Characters

• Main character introduced with unique traits

• Supporting characters briefly described (if relevant)

5. Central Idea
Clear focus on a single powerful- idea or narrative

6. Language and Style

• Use of sensory details (sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste) to enhance the narrative

• Creative metaphors or similes to enrich descriptions

7. Resolution

• Key turning point or moment of realisation

• Resolution of the main idea

• Clear takeaway message

8. Conclusion

• Ends on a reflctive or thought-provoking note

• Summarises the main message or leaves the reader with a strong final impression

Answer:
The sample essay on “My Life as EcoFlash” demonstrates how to write an imaginative essay. Below is a checklist based on the given essay:

Checklist for “My Life as EcoFlash”

1. Title

• Creative and relevant (e.g., “My Life as EcoFlash”).
  
  

2. Introduction

• Engaging opening sentence that introduces EcoFlash’s dual life.

• Clear main idea and setting.

• Sets a playful and adventurous tone.

• Introduces the narrator (Meenu / EcoFlash).
  
  

3. Setting and Context

• Describes the neighbourhood, nature, and EcoFlash’s secret powers.

• Time frame is present day.

• Includes imaginative elements like “magic seeds.”
  
  

4. Characters

• Main character (EcoFlash) with special traits.

• Supporting character: little brother.
  
  

5. Central Idea

• Focus on protecting the environment.

• Logical flow of events (e.g., garden rescue, keeping the secret).
  
  

6. Language and Style

• Uses sensory details (sight, smell, sound).

• Includes metaphors and similes like “wave of hand” and “green suit.”
  
  

7. Resolution

• Has a turning point (secret almost revealed).

• Shows responsibility.

• Message: Small actions can make a big difference.
  
  

8. Conclusion

• Reflective ending; EcoFlash feels proud of her contribution.

• Leaves a strong final impression.
  
  

III. Write an imaginative essay on any one of the following.

1. Imagine you were a scarf that flew away from a clothesline. Describe the places you travelled to and how you came back. Also write about what you thought was the most valuable experience.

Answer:

The Flying Scarf’s Journey

One windy afternoon, I — a bright red scarf — was drying peacefully on a clothesline when a sudden gust of wind swept me into the sky! I soared above rooftops, trees, and roads like a bird without wings.

My first stop was a quiet village, where a little girl picked me up and wrapped me around her doll. But soon, I slipped away and flew onward. Next, I landed in a busy market and served as a shade for an old vendor. I felt proud, knowing I helped someone stay cool.

Then came my favorite moment — landing on a hilltop during sunrise. The view was magical! Birds chirped around me, and for once, I felt like I was part of the sky.

Finally, a kind boy found me, tied me to his bicycle, and rode back to the house I had flown from. I was home!

My most valuable lesson was that even a simple scarf can bring joy, comfort, and color to many lives.

2. Imagine you stumbled upon a magical book in the library. The book transported you to a different time period. Describe your experience and an important learning.

Answer:

The Book of Time

One evening, while browsing in the library, I noticed a dusty, golden-covered book glowing faintly. Curious, I opened it—and suddenly, everything spun around me! I found myself in the middle of an ancient forest, where people rode horses and carried scrolls.

I had traveled back to the 15th century! The clothes were unusual, but the people were kind. I watched a village scribe teach children by drawing letters on the sand. There were no laptops or pens—only chalk, leaves, and patience.

I learned that knowledge was shared through stories and songs, and books were treasured possessions. One old teacher said, “The more you write, the more you remember.”

Before I could ask more, the pages turned again, and I landed back in the library.

My most important lesson was never to take books for granted. They are windows to the past, bridges to the future, and doors to endless discovery.

Class 8th English Chapter 8 The Magic Brush of Dreams Question Answer – Let us explore (Pages 136)

I. Have you heard of India’s famous magician, P. C. Sorcar Sr.? He is known as one of the ‘World’s Greatest Magician’ and performed live magic shows in front of audiences and on television, internationally.

He was awarded Padma Shri on 26 January 1964 for his contribution to the world of magic.

II. Words can also play tricks. Read the riddles about things that seem to be unreal and And what they refer to.

2. The more you take, the more you leave behind. What am I?
Answer: Footsteps

3. I have cities but no houses,
I have forests but no trees.
What am I?
Answer: A map

4. I’m tall when I’m young and short when I’m old, in a dark room, my story is told.
Answer: A candle

III. You are asked to create a magical object. What object would you create? Make a drawing with all its details and mention its special quality on the same sheet. Put up the sheet on the display board.

Answer:
Object Name: GlowSphere

Drawing Suggestion: A glowing crystal ball with stars and swirling mist inside.

Special Quality: The GlowSphere grants one wish each day—but only if the wish is kind and helps someone else. It shines even brighter every time a good deed is done.

Mastering The Magic Brush of Dreams: Key Concepts & NCERT Solutions

The chapter Magic Brush of Dreams from Class 8 English Poorvi delivers inspiring lessons on compassion and responsibility. By working through detailed NCERT solutions, students develop a clear understanding of the poem’s sequence and symbolism, ensuring strong exam preparation and improved comprehension skills.

Regular practice with these NCERT question answers for Class 8 English Chapter 8 builds confidence and strengthens analytical thinking. Students should focus on the significance of key events and characters’ motives, as questions often revolve around moral values and poetic techniques discussed in this chapter.

Consistent revision and a clear grasp of the MCQs, match the following, and creative essay sections will help you score higher. Always read the poem thoroughly, break down questions, and review answers for a strong performance in your Class 8 English exams.