Abdul Kalam said, "Dream is not that you see in sleep, dream is something that does not let you sleep." Discuss.
Abdul Kalam's quote beautifully distinguishes between passive wishes and active ambitions. A dream seen in sleep is merely an illusion, much like those who wistfully say, “I wish I could be this or the other,” but never get beyond wishful thinking. In contrast, a true dream is an unstoppable force that keeps one awake, driven by a burning conviction coursing through their veins.
Such a dream demands action rather than complacency. It pushes a person to do something about it instead of trading their dream for security. It requires immense dedication because one has to chase the dream for years, knowing it will take a much longer time to realise.
Furthermore, a dream that does not let you sleep is not static but evolving. Life itself may change a person's dreams, but these new hopes and aspirations are no less significant than the original dream of younger days. To fulfil them, one must negotiate a maze of hurdles.
Ultimately, a relentless dream involves many participants in your dreamscape. It transforms from a solitary wish into a shared journey of perseverance, overcoming obstacles, and holding onto that burning conviction despite changing circumstances.
Explanation
The question asks students to discuss Kalam's quote by relating it to the themes of the chapter. The quote contrasts passive 'wishful thinking' (like a dream in sleep) with an active, relentless ambition (something that keeps you awake). The context supports this by mentioning 'burning conviction', the need to 'do something about it', and the willingness to navigate a 'maze of hurdles' rather than trading a dream for security. It also highlights that such dreams are 'evolving' and require the involvement of many 'participants in your dreamscape'.
Solution Steps
Step 1: Interpret the quote by contrasting passive 'wishful thinking' (dream in sleep) with active ambition (does not let you sleep) using the 'burning conviction' from the text.
Step 2: Explain that a true dream requires action ('do something about it') and dedication to 'chase the dream' rather than trading it for security.
Step 3: Discuss how real dreams are 'evolving' and require one to navigate a 'maze of hurdles' over a long time.
Step 4: Conclude by mentioning that fulfilling such a dream involves many 'participants in your dreamscape', making it a shared journey of perseverance.