The Tale of Custard the Dragon [Poem]

This poem is written in the style of a ballad — a song or poem that tells a story. You must be familiar with ballads that narrate tales of courage or heroism. "This poem is a humorous ballad close to a parody. Read it aloud, paying attention to the rhythm.

Belinda lived in a little white house,

With a little black kitten and a little grey mouse,

And a little yellow dog and a little red wagon,

And a realio, trulio, little pet dragon.

Now the name of the little black kitten was Ink,

And the little grey mouse, she called him Blink,

And the little yellow dog was sharp as Mustard,

But the dragon was a coward, and she called him Custard.

Custard the dragon had big sharp teeth,

And spikes on top of him and scales underneath,

Mouth like a fireplace, chimney for a nose,

And realio, trulio daggers on his toes.

Belinda was as brave as a barrel full of bears,

And Ink and Blink chased lions down the stairs,

Mustard was as brave as a tiger in a rage,

But Custard cried for a nice safe cage.

Belinda tickled him, she tickled him unmerciful,

Ink, Blink and Mustard, they rudely called him Percival,

They all sat laughing in the little red wagon

At the realio, trulio, cowardly dragon.

Belinda giggled till she shook the house,

And Blink said Weeck! which is giggling for a mouse,

Ink and Mustard rudely asked his age,

When Custard cried for a nice safe cage.

Suddenly, suddenly they heard a nasty sound,

And Mustard growled, and they all looked around.

Meowch! cried Ink, and ooh! cried Belinda,

For there was a pirate, climbing in the winda.

Pistol in his left hand, pistol in his right,

And he held in his teeth a cutlass bright,

His beard was black, one leg was wood;

It was clear that the pirate meant no good.

Belinda paled, and she cried Help! Help!

But Mustard fled with a terrified yelp,

Ink trickled down to the bottom of the household,

And little mouse Blink strategically mouseholed.

But up jumped Custard, snorting like an engine,

Clashed his tail like irons in a dungeon,

With a clatter and a clank and a jangling squirm,

He went at the pirate like a robin at a worm.

The pirate gaped at Belinda's dragon,

And gulped some grog from his pocket flagon,

He fired two bullets, but they didn't hit,

And Custard gobbled him, every bit.

Belinda embraced him, Mustard licked him,

No one mourned for his pirate victim.

Ink and Blink in glee did gyrate

Around the dragon that ate the pirate.

But presently up spoke little dog Mustard,

I'd have been twice as brave if I hadn't been flustered.

And up spoke Ink and up spoke Blink,

We'd have been three times as brave, we think,

And Custard said, I quite agree

That everybody is braver than me.

Belinda still lives in her little white house,

With her little black kitten and her little grey mouse,

And her little yellow dog and her little red wagon,

And her realio, trulio little pet dragon.

Belinda is as brave as a barrel full of bears,

And Ink and Blink chase lions down the stairs,

Mustard is as brave as a tiger in a rage,

But Custard keeps crying for a nice safe cage.

OGDEN NASH

SUMMARY

This humorous ballad tells the story of Belinda, who lives with her pets—a kitten named Ink, a mouse named Blink, a dog named Mustard, and a dragon named Custard. Custard, though fearsome in appearance, is a coward and is afraid of danger. When a pirate threatens them, the pets scatter, but Custard finds courage and defeats the pirate. In the end, Custard is still a timid dragon, while Belinda and her other pets continue their adventures in the little white house. The poem is a playful parody with a light-hearted tone and a playful rhythm.

Answers:

1. Characters and Pet Names:

   • Belinda (owner of the pets)

   • Ink (little black kitten)

   • Blink (little grey mouse)

   • Mustard (little yellow dog)

   • Custard (the pet dragon)

2. Why Custard Cried for a Nice Safe Cage and "Cowardly Dragon":

   • Custard cried for a nice safe cage because apparently, he was a timid and fearful dragon, unlike the typical fierce image of dragons. He was dubbed a "cowardly dragon" because he displayed fear and hesitancy in the face of danger.

3. Tickling Custard Unmercifully:

   • Belinda tickled Custard unmercifully to encourage him to face his fears and be brave, attempting to help him overcome his cowardice. May be she just wanted to tease him in playful manner.

4. Poetic Devices:

   • Simile: "Clashed his tail like iron in a dungeon" is a simile, comparing the tail movement to the clashing of iron in a dungeon.

   • Alliteration, Assonance, Consonance, and Rhyme are other poetic devices used in the poem.

5. Description of the Dragon:

   • The dragon is described as having "big sharp teeth," "spikes on top of him," "scales underneath," and "daggers on his toes," portraying a fearsome and formidable appearance.

6. Rhyme Scheme:

   • The rhyme scheme in stanza three is AABB, where the first two and last two lines rhyme.

7. Images in the Poem:

   • "Mouth like a fireplace," "chimney for a nose," and "realio, trulio daggers on his toes" create vivid images of the dragon's features.

   • "Custard gobbled him, every bit" paints a picture of how the dragon consumed the pirate.

8. Serious or Light-hearted Poem:

   • The poem is undoubtedly light-hearted. It uses humour, playful language, and a whimsical storyline. The exaggerated descriptions of the dragon and the humorous reactions of the characters make it a light-hearted and amusing read.

9. Modern Song/Lyric That Tells a Story:

   • An example of a modern song that tells a story is "Piano Man" by Billy Joel. It narrates the lives of various characters at a bar, weaving a tale through its lyrics.

Writing

Have fun writing your ballad. Gather information (choose/decide an idea/theme), organise your materials under characters and story and then write. Revise and edit your ballad to make it entertaining. Use the following guidelines to write your ballad. 

·       Purpose of writing the ballad: to entertain and interest

·       To whom I am writing: decide for whom you are writing

·       How should I structure features?

Ø  Tell a simple narrative

Ø  A few major characters

Ø  A strong rhythm and rhyme

Ø  May have a refrain (single or two line(s) repeated often)

Ø  Divide into verses

Let's create a fun and entertaining ballad following the provided guidelines:

Idea/Theme: A mischievous leprechaun causing playful trouble in a small village.

Characters and Story:

Characters:

1. Finnegan McGee - a mischievous leprechaun with a twinkle in his eye.

2. Molly O'Malley - a kind-hearted villager and the primary target of Finnegan's mischief.

A leprechaun [ UK /ˈlep.rə.kɔːn/ US  /ˈlep.rə.kɑːn/ ] is a mythical creature from Irish folklore and mythology, particularly prevalent in Irish culture. It is typically depicted as a small, mischievous, and solitary fairy or sprite. Leprechauns are often portrayed as old men, usually wearing green clothing and a hat, and they are known for their shoemaking skills.

One of the defining features of leprechauns is their association with hidden pots of gold, said to be buried at the end of a rainbow. According to legend, if you capture a leprechaun, they will grant you three wishes in exchange for their release. However, leprechauns are known for their cunning and trickery, often finding a way to escape capture or manipulate the wishes to their advantage.

Leprechauns have become a popular symbol of Irish culture, particularly around St. Patrick's Day, a cultural and religious holiday celebrated on March 17th. During this time, leprechauns are often associated with good luck, merriment, and festivities, and their images are used in various decorations and celebrations.

It's important to note that leprechauns are a product of folklore and myth, and their existence is purely a part of traditional Irish storytelling and imagination.

Story:

In a small village of old, where stories are told,

Lived Finnegan McGee, a leprechaun bold,

With a hat of green and a mischievous grin,

He'd play tricks on Molly, the sweet lass within.

Finnegan was small, with a twinkle in his eye,

Always causing mischief, as the days rolled by,

He'd paint rainbows crooked and hide Molly's shoe,

Leaving her puzzled, wondering what to do.

Molly O'Malley, a kind soul so fair,

With a heart full of love and flowing red hair,

She'd laugh at Finnegan's pranks, good and bad,

For his tricks were never meant to make her sad.

Every morning, as the sun kissed the dawn,

Finnegan would giggle and carry on,

He'd sprinkle gold dust and make the roosters crow,

While Molly chuckled, for she loved the show.

The Ballad:

(Verse 1)

In a village quaint and small,

Lived Finnegan, short and tall,

Mischievous gleam within his eye,

Playing tricks beneath the sky.

(Chorus)

Oh, Finnegan, with laughter so free,

A leprechaun as mischievous as can be,

Dancing through the emerald green,

Causing laughter, a merry scene.

(Verse 2)

Molly, with her heart so wide,

Always took it all in stride,

Finnegan's pranks, a daily delight,

In the morning's golden light.

(Chorus)

Oh, Finnegan, with laughter so free,

A leprechaun as mischievous as can be,

Dancing through the emerald green,

Causing laughter, a merry scene.

(Verse 3)

Painted rainbows in a playful hue,

Hid her shoe, a trick or two,

Molly laughed, a hearty cheer,

For Finnegan, always near.

(Chorus)

Oh, Finnegan, with laughter so free,

A leprechaun as mischievous as can be,

Dancing through the emerald green,

Causing laughter, a merry scene.

Structure Features:

• Narrative: The ballad tells the tale of Finnegan the mischievous leprechaun and Molly, the good-hearted villager.

• Characters: Finnegan McGee and Molly O'Malley are the central characters, bringing the story to life.

• Rhythm and Rhyme: A consistent rhythm and rhyme scheme maintain the musicality of the ballad.

• Refrain: The chorus serves as a refrain, repeating throughout the ballad to create a catchy and memorable element.

• Verses: The ballad is divided into verses, each presenting a part of the story or a facet of the characters.

The ballad aims to entertain and engage the readers or listeners, providing a light-hearted, delightful narrative filled with humour and whimsy.

Assessment questions based on the poem about Custard the Dragon:

1. Who are the main characters in the poem, and what are their respective pet names?

2. Describe Custard's physical appearance as portrayed in the poem.

3. Why did Custard cry for a nice safe cage, and how is he described as a dragon?

4. What tricks and mischief does Belinda play with her pets in the poem?

5. How did Custard react when faced with danger, specifically when the pirate climbed in?

6. Identify and explain one poetic device used in the poem and provide an example.

7. Describe the pirate and the events that transpire when he encounters Custard.

8. How does the poet use humour and playfulness in the poem to entertain the reader?

9. Do you think Belinda's treatment of Custard is fair and kind? Explain your answer.

10. In your opinion, is Custard truly a cowardly dragon, or is there more to his character? Justify your response using evidence from the poem.

Here are the answers to the assessment questions based on the poem about Custard the Dragon:

1. Main Characters and Pet Names:

   • Main Characters: Belinda, Custard (the dragon), Ink (kitten), Blink (mouse), Mustard (dog), and the pirate.

   • Pet Names: Ink (little black kitten), Blink (little grey mouse), Mustard (little yellow dog), and Custard (the dragon).

2. Custard's Physical Appearance:

   • Custard is described as having "big sharp teeth," "spikes on top of him," "scales underneath," and "daggers on his toes."

3. Reason for Custard's Cry for a Safe Cage and Description as a Dragon:

   • Custard cried for a safe cage because he was a timid and fearful dragon, hence described as a "cowardly dragon" in the poem.

4. Tricks and Mischief Played by Belinda:

   • Belinda tickled Custard unmercifully and engaged in playful acts with Ink, Blink, and Mustard, encouraging them to chase lions and laugh at Custard.

5. Custard's Reaction to Danger (Pirate Encounter):

   • Custard initially cried for a safe cage when faced with the pirate. However, when the pirate threatened, Custard bravely faced the danger and gobbled up the pirate.

6. Poetic Device - Simile:

   • Example: "Clashed his tail like iron in a dungeon." (Simile: comparing tail movement to clashing iron)

7. Description of the Pirate and the Encounter with Custard:

   • The pirate had a pistol, a cutlass, a black beard, and a wooden leg. When the pirate encountered Custard, he fired two bullets, but Custard gobbled him up.

8. Use of Humour and Playfulness by the Poet:

   • The poet employs playful language, exaggeration, and whimsical descriptions of the dragon and the antics of the characters, creating a light-hearted and amusing tone that entertains the reader.

9. Belinda's Treatment of Custard - Fair and Kind?

   • Belinda's treatment of Custard is portrayed as playful and loving. While she teases Custard, it is all in good fun, and she embraces him in the end. The intention is light-hearted and meant to encourage Custard to be brave.

10. Is Custard Truly a Cowardly Dragon?

    • Custard's initial fear and desire for a safe cage might label him as cowardly. However, when faced with danger, he displays courage by facing and defeating the pirate, revealing a more complex aspect of his character.

Here are five value-based questions related to the poem "Custard the Dragon":

1. Empathy and Understanding:

   • How does Belinda demonstrate empathy and understanding towards Custard's fears and insecurities? How is this important in building relationships with others, especially those who may lack confidence or face challenges?

2. Bravery and Courage:

   • Discuss the theme of bravery in the poem, focusing on Custard's transformation from fear to courage. How does this highlight the importance of overcoming fears and standing up to challenges in life?

3. Compassion and Kindness:

   • In your opinion, how does Belinda's compassionate treatment of Custard exemplify the values of kindness and love? How can such acts of compassion positively impact the lives of others, including those who may lack confidence?

4. Perseverance and Growth:

   • Analyse how Custard's character undergoes growth and change throughout the poem. How does his perseverance to face danger and protect his friends demonstrate the value of personal growth and resilience in difficult situations?

5. Teamwork and Friendship:

   • Explore the role of teamwork and friendship in the poem, considering how Belinda and her pets support and encourage each other. How does this emphasize the value of teamwork in overcoming challenges and achieving a common goal?

Here are the answers to the value-based questions related to the poem "Custard the Dragon":

1. Empathy and Understanding:

   • Belinda demonstrates empathy and understanding towards Custard by recognizing and acknowledging his fears. She tries to comfort and encourage him, understanding that everyone has their own fears and insecurities. This empathy is crucial in building trust and rapport with others, particularly those who lack confidence or face challenges, as it creates a supportive environment where individuals feel understood and accepted.

2. Bravery and Courage:

   • The poem illustrates Custard's transformation from a fearful dragon to a courageous one when faced with danger. This transformation highlights the importance of overcoming fears and standing up to challenges in life. It teaches us that even the most timid individuals can find their inner courage and rise to face adversity when the situation demands it.

3. Compassion and Kindness:

   • Belinda's compassionate treatment of Custard showcases the values of kindness and love. By accepting Custard for who he is and showing care and concern for his well-being, Belinda helps Custard build confidence and overcome his fears. Such acts of compassion have a positive impact on the lives of others, especially those lacking confidence, by fostering a sense of belonging, love, and security.

4. Perseverance and Growth:

   • Custard's character undergoes growth and change as he musters the perseverance to face danger and protect his friends. His initial fear evolves into a brave act of defending them against the pirate. This transformation demonstrates the value of personal growth and resilience in difficult situations, emphasizing that facing challenges head-on can lead to personal development and a stronger, more confident self.

5. Teamwork and Friendship:

   • The poem emphasizes the role of teamwork and friendship in overcoming challenges. Belinda and her pets support and encourage each other, showcasing the power of unity and collaboration. This emphasizes the value of teamwork in achieving a common goal, as individuals, regardless of their differences or fears, can achieve great things when they come together, support one another, and work towards a shared objective.

Here are ten fill-in-the blanks questions based on the poem "Custard the Dragon":

1.     Belinda's little black kitten was named _________.

2.     The dragon, Custard, was described to have daggers on his _________.

3.     Ink, Blink, and Mustard laughed at Custard for being a _________ dragon.

4.     Mustard fled with a terrified _________ when the pirate appeared.

5.     The pirate had a black beard, one leg made of _________, and held a cutlass in his teeth.

6.     Custard went at the pirate like a robin at a _________.

7.     Custard gobbled up the pirate and belched out _________.

8.     Little dog Mustard stated that he would have been twice as brave if he hadn't been _________.

9.     Ink and Blink believed they would have been three times as brave if they were not so _________.

10.  Belinda is described as brave as a barrel full of _________.

Here are the answers to the fill-in-the-blanks questions:

1. Belinda's little black kitten was named Ink.

2. The dragon, Custard, was described to have daggers on his toes.

3. Ink, Blink, and Mustard laughed at Custard for being a cowardly dragon.

4. Mustard fled with a terrified yelp when the pirate appeared.

5. The pirate had a black beard, one leg made of wood, and held a cutlass in his teeth.

6. Custard went at the pirate like a robin at a worm.

7. Custard gobbled up the pirate and belched out his boots.

8. Little dog Mustard stated that he would have been twice as brave if he hadn't been flustered.

9. Ink and Blink believed they would have been three times as brave if they were not so rude.

10. Belinda is described as brave as a barrel full of bears.

Here are analogy-type questions based on the poem "Custard the Dragon":

1. Ink : Blink :: _________ : Mustard

   • (a) Dragon (b) Fire (c) Courage (d) Fear

2. Custard : Dragon :: _________ : Ship

   • (a) Belinda (b) Pirate (c) Ink (d) Blink

3. Pistol : Pirate :: _________ : Dragon

   • (a) Clank (b) Mustard (c) Spikes (d) Grog

4. Lion : Stairs :: _________ : Wagon

   • (a) Fire (b) Fear (c) Trulio (d) Glee

5. Custard : Coward :: Mustard : _________

   • (a) Brave (b) Lion (c) Mouse (d) Laugh

6. Belinda : Courageous :: Pirate : _________

   • (a) Frightening (b) Fearless (c) Crafty (d) Bold

7. Ink : Laughing :: Blink : _________

   • (a) Trembling (b) Giggling (c) Hiding (d) Meowing

8. Custard : Brave :: Pirate : _________

   • (a) Fearful (b) Cruel (c) Robust (d) Valiant

9. Fireplace : Mouth :: Chimney : _________

   • (a) Nose (b) Roof (c) Tail (d) Ear

10. Barrel : Bears :: Cage : _________

    • (a) Safety (b) Fear (c) Protection (d) Danger