Answer:
Step-by-step explanation:
The essay 'What I Require from Life', written by J.B.S. Haldane, reflects socialistic convictions demanding democratic activities in work places. This essay is written in simple and lucid language.
Haldane starts his essay saying that he is required to accept the universe as it is. He cannot require the impossible. He then mentions the four things which are general human needs. They are interesting work, good health, friendship and freedom.
In the second section of the essay, Haldane associates his personal requirements with his hopes for the rest of humanity, taking himself to be a typical specimen. He says that he is against capitalism because, in times of economic depression, it leads to unemployment. In his opinion, the workers should control their conditions of work and freedom should begin in the workplace. As a socialist, he wants every man and woman should enjoy equal economic benefits.
The subject at first appears to be personal. In the second part of the essay, it becomes obvious that the essayist is putting forward a political argument. Freedom, for example, is not also a personal preference but also a universal necessity. This means that society should be organized to maximize freedom for everyone. He considers that for the society in which he lives he requires socialism.
Understanding the text
Answer the following questions.
a. How does the writer distinguish between a peaceful age and a heroic age?
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b. Why does the writer want more freedom of speech than most people?
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c. According to the writer, what are the four general human needs?
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d. What is the difference between desire and demand according to the writer?
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e. Why does the writer demand security??
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Reference to the context
Explain the following lines with reference to the context:
a. “The satisfaction of adventure is something much more solid than a thrill.”
The given line shows Haldane’s preference for adventure. He demands adventure. He thinks it enriches people with solid experience. Love of adventure doesn’t mean love of thrills. He compares thrill with amusement getting from reading Rimbaud's poetry. This happens when he spent in Madrid for 6 weeks during the siege.