MP Board · Class 8 · English · Another ChaceContrast the attitude of a person who gives up in despair after failing with that of a person who embraces the message of hope in 'Another Chance'. How does the poem guide us to overcome despair and keep moving forward?

In the poem 'Another Chance', Helen Steiner Rice contrasts two fundamental human responses to failure: surrendering to despair versus embracing hope and striving for a new start. The poem serves as a guiding light for anyone navigating setbacks.

Attitude of a Person Who Gives Up in Despair

• Dwelling on Regrets: A person who gives up allows past mistakes to define their present and future. They stay trapped in feelings of guilt, anger, and helplessness.
• Belief in Finality: Such individuals view failure as permanent. They assume that since an attempt failed, all future efforts will also yield bad results.
• Loss of Hope: Giving up in despair leads to mental exhaustion, loss of confidence, and an inability to see new opportunities around them.

Attitude of a Person Embracing the Poem's Message

• Viewing Failure as a Lesson: A hopeful person understands that making mistakes is a natural part of being human. They seek "another chance" to correct past errors.
• Living with Optimism: Guided by the poem, such individuals continuously work on "adding a little sunshine" to their lives and forgiving themselves and others.
• Unshakable Faith in Tomorrow: They firmly believe in the poet's advice: "So never give up in despair and think that you are through, for there's always a tomorrow and the hope of starting new."

How the Poem Guides Us\nThe poem encourages us to develop emotional resilience. It teaches us never to consider failure as the end of the road. By maintaining strong willpower, practicing forgiveness, and holding onto hope, we can always overcome despair and create a meaningful, successful life.