5 Questions
What does the thief say about robbing a greedy man versus a careless man?
The thief finds it easier to rob a greedy man because he can afford to be robbed. However, robbing a careless man takes the pleasure out of the work as he may not even notice.
Why does the thief find it difficult to rob Anil?
Anil is a trusting and careless person, making it difficult for the thief to take advantage of him.
What does the thief plan to do with the money he steals?
The thief plans to catch the 10.30 Express to Lucknow with the money.
Describe Anil's reaction when the thief steals the money.
Anil remains asleep and peaceful, not aware of the theft happening right beside him.
How does the thief justify stealing from Anil?
The thief justifies stealing by thinking that if he doesn't take the money, Anil will waste it on his friends as he doesn't even pay the thief.
Study Notes
Introduction to the Story
- The story begins on a chilly November night, with the narrator, a 15-year-old thief, feeling uncomfortable and wet due to the rain.
The Theft
- The narrator steals money from Anil, their employer, and feels guilty, knowing they have broken Anil's trust.
- The stolen money is damp from the rain, and the narrator thinks about how they could have earned a few rupees from Anil the next morning but now have it all.
The Narrator's Past
- The narrator, 'I', is a 15-year-old thief with experience, having been in the profession for a while.
- They have been using different names every month to evade the police and former employers.
Meeting Anil
- The narrator meets Anil, a 25-year-old, while watching a wrestling match.
- Anil appears kind, simple, and easy-going, making the narrator think they can take advantage of him.
- The narrator introduces themselves as 'Hari Singh', a fake name, and flatters Anil by saying he looks like a wrestler.
Starting Work with Anil
- The narrator asks to work for Anil, who initially refuses to pay them, making the narrator rethink their approach.
Regret and Guilt
- The narrator feels guilty about stealing from Anil and thinks about returning the money, but is scared of being caught.
- They decide to return the money, sneaking into Anil's room, and managing to put the money back without waking him up.
Anil's Trust
- Anil trusts the narrator completely, employing them, and even making tea for them the next morning.
- The narrator is torn between their desire to be a big, respected man and their life as a thief.
Test your understanding of 'The Thief's Story' by answering questions about the events in the text, such as the thief's encounter with the rain and the money he stole. See how well you remember the details of this short story.
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