Question

Explain the statement with reference to the attitude and behaviour of the government officials :

“Benefits that are calculated to soothe them out of their wits.” (A Roadside Stand)

Hint:

The officials only pretend to help. They exploit the villagers with benefits that keep them quiet.

Answer 1

Step 1: Who is meant:
The poet speaks of the city people and government officials who claim to make plans for the good of the poor villagers by the roadside.

Step 2: Their attitude and behaviour:
These officials pretend to help the farmers with promises and benefits, but they are really greedy and exploit the villagers. The poet calls them 'greedy good-doers' and 'beneficent beasts of prey'.

Final Answer:
The officials pretend to help the villagers but actually exploit them, and their so-called benefits only soothe the poor into silence.