An Astrologer's Day

This blog is written as a response to a task assigned by Megha ma'am, Department of English MKBU. In this blog there is discussion about Socrates. In the task students are supposed to read story An Astrologer's Day and a short film made on the story. There are some changes that are discussed in the blog. For further information click here.

How faithful is the movie to the original short story?

There are many differences between the original short story and short film. 

In the short story it is described that the Astrologer does his business with the light of a nut seller that sells nuts beside Astrologer but at night we don't find the same in short movie.

In the short story there is no description about the wife before the last scene but in the short film there is a scene in which Astrologer and his wife talk about the sweet and their child.

In the short story the name of the astrologer's wife is not mentioned but in the short film the name is given, that is Usha.

In the short story R.K. Narayan doesn't mention the gender of the child but in the film it is shown that he has a girl child.

In the story when Guru Nayak meets Astrologer gives ashes to him but in the short film he does Tilak to him.

The major change that we find is that the short story is originally written in English whereas the short film is in Hindi.

At night the green light is missing in the film that is mentioned in the short story.

In the short story astrologer gets anna as a reward but in the film it is in rupees.

The dialogue between and his other customers is added in the short film.

After watching the movie, has your perception about the short story, characters or situations changed?

The setting that described in the short story feels little different from the short story description. Character description and dialogues have some changes but it is improved according to the contemporary setting.

Do you feel ‘aesthetic delight’ while watching the movie? If yes, exactly when did it happen? If not, can you explain with reasons?

Personally, I didn't feel aesthetic delight because before watching a short film I knew the story. I read the short story before so I didn't get that level of delight but it was well made, and watching a visualised version of the short story invoked some emotion. It also gave a better understanding of the story and characters.

Does screening of movie help you in better understanding of the short story?

Yes, It gave me better understanding of characters, plot and setting. 

Was there any particular scene or moment in the story that you think was perfect?

The turning point in the story that occured when an astrologer meets Guru Nayak. That scene is nicely performed in the short film. That shows the facial expressions and heat.of the conversation in the story.

If you are the director, what changes would you like to make in the remaking of the movie based on the short story “An Astrologer’s Day” by R.K.Narayan?

I would like to change some scenes and add more background understanding of the characters in the film. 

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Sunday reading: Socrates- Life and Trial

This blog is written as a response to a task assigned by Dilip Barad sir, Department of English MKBU. In this blog there is discussion about Socrates. In the task students has supposed to watch four video and write down their understanding of the videos in the blog. For further information click here.

Socrates was an ancient Greek philosopher who lived in Athens around 470 to 399 BC. He's considered the founder of Western philosophy and one of the first thinkers to focus on ethics. Unlike many philosophers, Socrates didn't write down his ideas; we know about him from writings by his students Plato and Xenophon. They wrote dialogues, where Socrates and others discuss ideas through questions and answers. This created a style called Socratic dialogue.

There are different views on what Socrates believed because of these writings, making it hard to know his exact philosophy—the "Socratic problem." In Athens, Socrates was controversial. In 399 BC, he was accused of disrespecting the gods and influencing young people negatively. He was found guilty after a quick trial and chose to die rather than flee from prison, where he was held until his execution.

In this video there is a discussion about the life of Socrates. The video starts with saying of Socrates “Crito, I owe the sacrifice of a rooster to Asklepios”. In the end of the video we get an answer to that. He was a soldier and how he became the philosopher here is a wonderful story. One person went to the oracle and asked who was the most intelligent man in the world and the answer was socrates. When Socratese got to know about that and started asking people about what they know and then he emerged the new method that is called “Socratic Method”. The quote of him ”The unexamined life is not worth living” says a lot about his character and knowledge. The disputes with 30 Tyrants episode also give the essence that he was not afraid of anything he was rather ready to give his life for the truth. His death also remains the wonderful episode that he also wanted to know about. That is why he praised Asklepios that life was a disease and he gave liberty from it. So he was also asking the question of death and the afterlife. He thought that those are the fools who are afraid of death. Beauty competition episode also gives the insight of his way of thinking, which changes the whole concept of beauty by asking the question about it. And at the last Cicero’s view on him “Socrates was the first to call philosophy down from the heavens”.

In the second video the technique is rather different, there is a first person explanation about his story and that is Socrates himself while he was in the jail of Athens. He told the background story. The first thing in his teaching is to be sceptical ,don't believe in something that is told, always ask questions to know more, or to find the truth. There are two metaphor that is used in the video those are tree and a stone, stone is static while the tree is a always growing and for growing one has to ask the questions. There is a question about the virtue and love so what do we mean by the virtue and love then how can we love someone or be virtuous for the gods. It would become a repetition of the words rather than any meaning of it. There is also a reference of his disciple Plato, Plato’s disciple Aristotle, Alexander the great and the Roman empire. Throughout the generation his knowledge system was spread across the world until the Dark Ages came and his knowledge stopped spreading, But after the Renaissance period his method was again adapted by the people. The quote that is mentioned in the video I liked “The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing”.

The third video is about the book by Plato “Apology”. The word apology does not mean to apologize but it is to defend. In the video there is a detailed analysis of the last trial of Socrates, and by line to line we get to know about the defence that Socrates gave in the jury. Here we can also find that during that time there is a democratic law system that is rather good then the monarchy where the king takes decisions alone. Socrates first accused those who say that he is wise. He says that he is ot wise and he only knows that. The very good quote “ When I do not know neither do I think I know.” The wonderful thing we find in the video is that Socrates is not afraid of death and he says that he would continue the same work after death that he was doing when he was alive. His only purpose is to know the truth, not taking anything else that is said is true. So he says that after death he would do the same thing. He also takes death positively, which is a rare thing to see because whenever we look at death we look at it negatively but he shows the immense possibilities after death also. He says "That a good man cannot be harmed either in life or in death, that his affairs are neglected by the gods”. At his last time he is not angry with people but he gives the message that always questions the people who killed the innocent. 

The fourth video is from Ted.ed that makes animated videos to make learning fun. In the Socrates's method it is likely to be seen that he does no do a debate nor is he give advise, he just  asks more questions from the answers. In the example we find the conversation between Euthydemus and Socrates about justice, in that conversion we find that Socrates evokes the knowledge of others by asking more and more questions. He describes himself as a midwife who gives birth to other’s ideas through inquiry. His method is now used in various fields like medical science, astronomy, mathematics, law and teaching in school. His reasoning is useful in logical discussion and to get to the roots of the problem or the truth.

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How to Deconstruct a Text

This blog is written as a response to a task assigned by Dilip Barad sir, Department of English MKBU. In this blog there is brief introduction of Derridean deconstruction theory. 

Deconstruction Theory is given by Jacques deridda, the theory is also known as Derridean theory. It emerged in the 1960s, and has influenced many other academic fields like history, philosophy, literature, anthropology and so on. 

It came after the theory of structuralism, which studies the structure of language and culture. Derrida critiques its rigidity and gives the concept of Deconstructionism. Mostly deconstructuralism is all about trying to find new meaning that is different from the conventional one. According to Derrida the language is free play and one can give so many meanings to the words. Deconstruction happens only from the text itself. 

The meaning of the words changes with the different context. So one can read a language in two different ways and it could be vice versa. For example this quote “The pioneers have to take arrows in their back”. If we look at this sentence that says metaphorically, one who does some good work others would try to draw him back because of jealousy. 

However If we see it historically then that is connected with American History. When colonization happened and the colonizers were enriching their boundaries in America. Native people were fighting against them to save their land with bows and arrows. So the two different meanings can be seen in a sentence. 

Let’s try to apply this theory in three different poems: 

Sonnet 18: Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?

By William Shakespeare

Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?

Thou art more lovely and more temperate:

Rough winds do shake the darling buds of May,

And summer’s lease hath all too short a date;

Sometime too hot the eye of heaven shines,

And often is his gold complexion dimm'd;

And every fair from fair sometime declines,

By chance or nature’s changing course untrimm'd;

But thy eternal summer shall not fade,

Nor lose possession of that fair thou ow’st;

Nor shall death brag thou wander’st in his shade,

When in eternal lines to time thou grow’st:

So long as men can breathe or eyes can see, 

So long lives this, and this gives life to thee.

Analysis:

The poem is celebrated in British culture wildly. The traditional meaning that is associated with the poem is lover expresses his lover to his beloved through comparison of summer’s day. But in the deconstruction we try to look at it with different lenses. We try to find various meanings of the text from within the text. When the post-structuralist theory is applied, one has to look at it as what is the centre or main point in the poem. 

In the conventional way the centre is the lover if one looks at it differently so there are words like “I” that mean that there is also importance of the poet. It seems like there is a condition if the “I’ write the poem then and then the lover would become eternal. In another dimension if we see then there is a line “When in eternal lines to time thou grow’st:” In this lion the importance is given to the poem itself. So there are various meanings that are there in the text, deconstruction theory just try to see it and find it with a new approach.

Ezra Pound’s poem ‘On a Station in the Metro’

The apparition of these faces in the crowd;

Petals on a wet, black bough.

Analysis: 

In the poem firstly it seems that the poem is about the contrast between nature and the modern world. If we try to look at it differently then we find different interpretations. The word “apparition” seems to suggest the anonymity of the people in the crowd,while in the second line we find the image is clear the petals are visible on the black bough. 

One can connect it with the Modernist poem and it can be connected with various other modern works of literature. One can also find the binaries of present and absent. The ghostly faces are not present and in other images petals are visible. On one side there are human beings and the other side there is nature. At the metro station there would be lots of noise that is missing ith the poem.

William Carlos William’s ‘The Red Wheelbarrow’

a red wheel

barrow

glazed with rain

water

beside the white

Chickens

Analysis: 

The red wheelbarrow poem firstly seems about a farm where there is a wheelbarrow and chickens. When one deconstructs the poem then we find that the poem seems rather superficial. The wheelbarrow is used in farms that should be filthy with mud but it seems rather clean and glazed with rain water, it rather seems that the picture is not real but taken from some book. 

There only the wheelbarrow seems more colourful and neat. This image hides the real struggle of the farmer, it seems different from reality. The present in the poem says that is not present in the poem, that is reality of country life is missing from the poem. We also find the binaries of country and city life.

Words: 850

References: 

Barad, D. (2023, July 23). How to Deconstruct a Text. Bhavngar, Gujarat, India: DoEMKBU YouTube Channel. Retrieved 7 3, 2024, from https://youtu.be/JDWDIEpgMGI?si=WnmtixfH9lFYj-bJ

Ketkar, S., & Barad, D. (2012, July). Derrida and Deconstruction: Short Video Playlist. Bhavnagar, Gujarat, India: DoE-MKBU YouTube Playlist. Retrieved 7 3, 2024, from https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSmZQVxjN9_igmTIuaOKYkmb-mT3H6wDx

Pound, E. (1913, April). In a Station of a Metro. Poetry: A Magazine of Verse. Retrieved 7 3, 2024, from https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poetrymagazine/poems/12675/in-astation-of-the-metro

Williams, W. C. (1938). The Red Wheelbarrow. In C. MacGowan (Ed.), The Collected Poems of William Carlos Williams, Volume I, 1909-1939. New Directions Publishing Corporation. Retrieved 7 3, 2024, from https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/45502/the-red-wheelbarrow

Jacques Derrida: Deconstruction

This blog serves as a response to a task given by Dilip Barad sir, Department of English at MKBU. It delves into Derrida's theory of deconstruction. For Further Info Click Here.

Jacques Derrida

1.1. • Why is it difficult to define Deconstruction?

It is not that only Deconstruction is difficult to describe but Derrida argues that everything id difficult to define. Because when one tries to define something that very definition of the defined object becomes questionable, now this is the theory of deconstruction when one tries to define the theory it self it becomes problematic.

1.2. • Is Deconstruction a negative term?

No, It is not. Deconstruction does not mean to destroy something but it is to inquire the foundation the philosophy. In that inquiry one has to study every element in particular language minutely.

1.3. • How does Deconstruction happen on its own?

This concept is quite difficult to understand for me. But I try to define it by what I got from the video. So when we try to inquire something that is in the language and in that foundational inquiry one has to dig deeper to find out the hidden meaning of the language, one has to decode the written text. When one does that Deconstruction happens on its own.

2.1. • The influence of Heidegger on Derrida

Heidegger was the one from whom the deconstruction theory gets influenced. Because he questioned the western philosophy and argued that man is not the centre of the speech but language is. he said that language plays vital role in what people say.

2.2. • Derridean rethinking of the foundations of Western philosophy

Derrida thought that western philosophy is all about the ideas about ideas. He argues that western philosophy has not given importance to being of being. He argues that wester philosophy has given more importance to the words rather then the real thing itself.

3.1. • Ferdinand de Saussureian concept of language (that meaning is arbitrary, relational, constitutive)

Ferdinand de Saussure argues that language arbitrary means that every word has its given meaning. It is just a random word that is used to describe something. He also pointed out that the word has its relational with the situation then one can get meaning out of that. For example the word Duster has two significance one is inside the classroom the object that is used to rub the board and the second is a car model that is produced by the Nissan company. So when we understand the word and its meaning it is situational it is where we use that word. In what context one uses that word that becomes more significant.

3.2. • How Derrida deconstructs the idea of arbitrariness?

In his concept of arbitrariness Ferdinand de Saussure argues that one gives one meaning to the word for oneself. Derrida argues that any word if we see it does not have any meaning. For example in the dictionary to explain a certain word there are other similar words but there is perfect meaning of that word. In that concept we do not get any meaning from the word but we just pretend that we understand the word. but in finding the meaning of any particular word there is always a postponing of the meaning of particular word.

3.3. • Concept of metaphysics of presence

In this Concept of Metaphysics of presence Derrida argues that western philosophy is about the present, It takes the presence of any particular thing as the proof of that the thing exists. By doing that one makes the things inferior that is not present. To explain this concept he gives an example of woman that how the women are seen that that there is absence of manliness. So the language is based on the negative opposition or binary opposition. When we want to know white, one has to know that there is black and which is not white that is black. In that understanding through language many things are privileged and other things are seen inferior to something else.

4.1. • Derridean concept of DifferAnce

In western philosophy the speech is considered more present way of communication than the writing, because it can be done actively. When speaker and listener both are present. Derrida points out that some words like "DifferAnce" can only be understood or differentiated when written, in speaking that can not be done. So the word is a pun to prove that writing can be considered as the more significance tool of communication than the speech.

4.2. • Infinite play of meaning

In the video speaker tries to simplify this concept through the example of the dictionary. When one looks into the dictionary to find the meaning of the word there are other similar words not the meaning of that particular word. So there is infinite loop  of postponing the meaning. Derrida argues there are no particular meaning of the word. It is an illusion that one believes that one understands the word.

4.3. • DIfferAnce = to differ + to defer

Through this word Derrida make a pun that whenever one communicates there is differentiation of the words that make meaning of the communication. In that communication the word "differ" and "defer" can be differentiated when written or spelled, otherwise those are the same word. He tries to give more emphases in written language unlike traditional western philosophy that gives more importance to spoken language.

5.1. • Structure, Sign and Play in the Discourse of the Human Sciences

While discussing the anthropology of Claude Lévi-Strauss, Derrida argues that the language itself is the problematic, when one tries to critique other text the critique itself becomes the open for criticism. According to Derrida language does not have a center than whatever the arguments or discussion happens it is always asks for the further discussion. So ultimately the Deconstruction theory itself seeks criticism of oneself because it is using the language.

5.2. • Explain: "Language bears within itself the necessity of its own critique."

As Derrida pointed out that there is always a postponed meaning in the language. So when any theory is applied or critique is done with the use of language it can not be done without the language. And language is uncapable of giving the final meaning, so it requires further explanations and never ending chain of postponed meaning begins. So when to language is used there is always a possibility for further critique.

6.1. • The Yale School: the hub of the practitioners of Deconstruction in the literary theories

The theory of Deconstruction was the philosophical aspect but when it was practiced at the Yale University it enters in the field of literature and comes out as a idea of "The Yale School". They focused on the metaphor that are used in the literature . According o the scholar at Yale School that the literature can have the multiple meaning. School also question the the Romanticism, in which subjectivity is transcended into objectivity as in the poetry of Romanticism. scholars asked that that can be read in different ways too, it is up to the reader to get meaning from that.

6.2. • The characteristics of the Yale School of Deconstruction

1. Seeing literature as Metaphor

2. Preoccupation with Romanticism

3. Historical and sociologist approach to literature

7.1. • How other schools like New Historicism, Cultural Materialism, Feminism, Marxism and Postcolonial theorists used Deconstruction?

New Historicism used the Derridean theories to identify the textuality of history and the history of the text because the language itself also reflects the history and the language is the proof of history and without language history can not be written.

Cultural materialism finds the materiality of language in this theory, through that different cultures can be studies through the language.

Feminism finds the binary opposition and the patriarchy in the language system that provides wider way to understand the privileged language.

Post colonial finds the text that is written by the masters, the rulers what type of language they used to describe the history of colonies.

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Image: 01

The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde" by Robert Louis Stevenson is a novella that delves into the duality of human nature. Written in 1886, it has since become a classic in English literature, renowned for its exploration of the battle between good and evil within the human soul. This blog will explore the story's plot, characters, themes, title significance, background, moral, and narrative technique, while also providing some insights into the life of its author.

Author Information

Robert Louis Stevenson was born on November 13, 1850, in Edinburgh, Scotland. He was a prolific writer, best known for his novels "Treasure Island," "Kidnapped," and "The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde." Stevenson's works often reflect his interest in human psychology and the moral struggles individuals face. His own struggles with health and his nomadic lifestyle greatly influenced his writing. Stevenson spent much of his later life traveling, eventually settling in Samoa, where he passed away on December 3, 1894.

Plot Summary

The story begins with Mr. Gabriel John Utterson, a lawyer, and friend to Dr. Henry Jekyll, becoming concerned about the will of his friend, which strangely leaves all his possessions to a Mr. Edward Hyde. Utterson's concern deepens when he hears about a violent incident involving Hyde, who tramples a young girl. As Utterson investigates further, he learns of Hyde's connection to Jekyll and suspects blackmail.

As the plot progresses, Utterson discovers that Jekyll and Hyde are the same person. Dr. Jekyll, a respected scientist, concocts a potion that transforms him into Mr. Hyde, allowing him to indulge in immoral acts without tarnishing his own name. Eventually, Hyde becomes uncontrollable, and Jekyll finds it increasingly difficult to revert to his original form. The story reaches its climax when Utterson and another friend, Dr. Hastie Lanyon, break into Jekyll’s laboratory and find Hyde dead, having committed suicide. A letter from Jekyll reveals the full truth, explaining his experiments and the resulting tragedy.

Characters

1. Dr. Henry Jekyll: A respected doctor and scientist who creates a potion to separate his good and evil sides. His experiments lead to the creation of Mr. Hyde, his malevolent alter ego.

2. Mr. Edward Hyde: The embodiment of Dr. Jekyll's darker impulses. Hyde is violent, cruel, and unrestrained, representing the pure evil that exists within Jekyll.

3. Mr. Gabriel John Utterson: A lawyer and close friend of Dr. Jekyll who becomes suspicious of Hyde and seeks to uncover the truth. He is the story's main protagonist.

4. Dr. Hastie Lanyon: A friend and colleague of Dr. Jekyll who is horrified by Jekyll's experiments. His shock at witnessing the transformation leads to his death.

5. Mr. Poole: Dr. Jekyll's loyal butler who assists Utterson in discovering the truth about Jekyll and Hyde.

6. Sir Danvers Carew: A well-respected gentleman who becomes a victim of Hyde's brutality, highlighting the extreme danger Hyde represents.

Themes

1. Duality of Human Nature: The central theme of the novella is the dual nature of humanity. Stevenson explores how every individual harbors both good and evil within themselves. Dr. Jekyll's experiments and transformation into Mr. Hyde illustrate this duality vividly.

2. Good vs. Evil: The struggle between good and evil is personified in the characters of Jekyll and Hyde. Jekyll represents the moral and socially acceptable side of a person, while Hyde embodies the immoral and destructive impulses.

3. The Limits of Scientific Exploration: Stevenson raises questions about the ethical boundaries of scientific experimentation. Dr. Jekyll's pursuit of separating his dual nature through science leads to disastrous consequences, suggesting that some aspects of human nature should remain unexplored.

4. The Victorian Society and Repression: The novella also reflects the repressive nature of Victorian society, where individuals were often forced to conceal their darker impulses and desires. Jekyll's transformation into Hyde represents an escape from societal constraints.

Title Significance

The title "The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde" is significant as it encapsulates the mystery and intrigue surrounding the dual identities of Jekyll and Hyde. The word "strange" emphasizes the unusual and extraordinary nature of the events, while "case" suggests a legal or medical investigation. This title immediately informs the reader that the story involves a peculiar and complex situation that requires unraveling.

Background

Stevenson wrote the novella during a time when there was significant interest in the study of human psychology and the concept of the duality of the self. The 19th century saw the rise of psychological theories that explored the conscious and unconscious mind, as well as the conflict between an individual's public persona and hidden desires. Stevenson's own fascination with these ideas, combined with his vivid imagination, resulted in a story that resonated deeply with readers of his time and continues to do so today.

The novella was also influenced by the gothic literary tradition, which emphasizes dark, mysterious, and supernatural elements. Stevenson's depiction of the foggy, eerie streets of London and the sinister transformation of Dr. Jekyll into Mr. Hyde are quintessentially gothic, adding to the novella's haunting atmosphere.

Moral of the Story

The moral of "The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde" can be interpreted in several ways:

1. The Danger of Unchecked Ambition: Dr. Jekyll's ambition to separate his good and evil sides through scientific means ultimately leads to his downfall. The story serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of overreaching in the pursuit of knowledge and power.

2. The Importance of Accepting One's Whole Self: The novella suggests that attempting to deny or suppress aspects of one's personality can have destructive consequences. Jekyll's refusal to acknowledge and integrate his darker impulses results in the uncontrollable emergence of Hyde.

3. The Inevitability of Consequences: Every action has consequences, and the novella illustrates that trying to escape these consequences by creating a separate identity is futile. Jekyll's actions as Hyde ultimately catch up with him, leading to his tragic end.

Narrative Technique

1. Multiple Perspectives: The novella is primarily narrated from the perspective of Mr. Utterson, but it also includes letters and testimonies from other characters, such as Dr. Lanyon and Dr. Jekyll. This multi-perspective approach allows readers to piece together the story gradually, heightening the sense of mystery.

2. First-Person Narration: The use of first-person narratives, particularly in Dr. Lanyon's and Dr. Jekyll's letters, provides an intimate glimpse into the characters' thoughts and feelings, making the revelations more impactful.

3. Gothic Elements: Stevenson's descriptive language and atmospheric setting contribute to the gothic tone of the novella. The dark, foggy streets of London and the eerie, hidden laboratory create a sense of foreboding and tension.

4. Symbolism: The transformation of Dr. Jekyll into Mr. Hyde serves as a powerful symbol of the duality of human nature. Hyde's physical appearance, smaller and more sinister than Jekyll's, symbolizes the way evil can consume and diminish a person.

'The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde' remains a timeless and compelling exploration of human nature. Robert Louis Stevenson's novella captures the complexities of the human psyche, the struggle between good and evil, and the consequences of unchecked ambition and scientific experimentation. Through its memorable characters, gothic atmosphere, and profound themes, the story continues to resonate with readers, offering valuable insights into the duality that exists within us all.

Stevenson's masterful narrative technique, combined with his deep understanding of human nature, ensures that "The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde" will remain a significant work in the literary canon. Its exploration of the darker aspects of the human soul and the moral questions it raises are as relevant today as they were in the 19th century, making it a story that will continue to be studied, analyzed, and appreciated for generations to come.

Quality by John Galsworthy

'Quality' is a short story written by John Galsworthy that delves into the life of a dedicated shoemaker and his struggle to maintain his craftsmanship in a rapidly industrializing world. Galsworthy, a renowned British writer, used this story to highlight the importance of quality and dedication to one's craft, themes that resonate deeply with readers.

Writer's Information

John Galsworthy (1867-1933) was a prominent English novelist and playwright, best known for his series of novels collectively called "The Forsyte Saga." He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1932 for his distinguished art of narration which takes its highest form in "The Forsyte Saga." Galsworthy's works often reflect his concern with social issues and his desire to depict the life and struggles of the common man.

Plot Summary

The story is narrated by a customer of the Gessler brothers, who are skilled shoemakers. The Gessler brothers, particularly the elder, are passionate about their craft, producing shoes of the highest quality. However, they struggle to compete with larger, industrialized manufacturers who can produce shoes more quickly and cheaply. Over the years, the narrator observes the decline of the Gessler brothers' business despite their unwavering commitment to quality. The story ends on a poignant note, highlighting the cost of maintaining high standards in a world driven by profit and mass production.

Characters

1. Narrator: The unnamed narrator serves as a loyal customer and admirer of the Gessler brothers. Through his eyes, we see the dedication and struggle of the shoemakers.

2. Mr. Gessler (Elder Brother): The elder Gessler is the embodiment of dedication and craftsmanship. His entire life is devoted to making high-quality shoes, and he takes great pride in his work.

3. Mr. Gessler (Younger Brother): Although less prominently featured, the younger Gessler shares his brother's passion for shoemaking. He too is deeply committed to the craft.

Themes

1. Dedication to Craftsmanship: The primary theme of "Quality" is the dedication to one's craft. The Gessler brothers represent artisans who take immense pride in their work, focusing on the quality of their products rather than profit.

2. Struggle Against Industrialization: The story contrasts the high-quality, hand-made shoes of the Gessler brothers with the mass-produced shoes of larger manufacturers. It highlights the challenges faced by small artisans in an industrialized economy.

3. Integrity and Pride: The Gessler brothers maintain their integrity and pride in their work despite the financial difficulties they face. Their commitment to quality remains unwavering until the end.

4. The Cost of Quality: The story also explores the personal and financial costs of maintaining high standards. The Gessler brothers' refusal to compromise on quality leads to their eventual downfall, highlighting the sacrifices made by true craftsmen.

Title Significance

The title "Quality" is significant because it encapsulates the essence of the Gessler brothers' lives and work. It reflects their commitment to producing shoes of the highest quality, a standard they refuse to compromise even in the face of financial hardship. The title also serves as a critique of a society that values quantity and profit over quality and craftsmanship.

Background

John Galsworthy wrote "Quality" during a time when industrialization was rapidly changing the economic landscape. The rise of factories and mass production threatened the livelihood of skilled artisans who could not compete with the lower prices and faster production times of larger manufacturers. Galsworthy, who was known for his social conscience, used the story to shed light on the struggles of small craftsmen and the value of maintaining high standards.

Moral of the Story

The moral of "Quality" is a poignant reminder of the importance of dedication, integrity, and the pursuit of excellence. It encourages readers to appreciate the true value of craftsmanship and to recognize the sacrifices made by those who refuse to compromise on quality. The story also serves as a critique of a society that prioritizes profit over the well-being and artistry of individuals.

Narrative Technique

Galsworthy employs a first-person narrative technique, allowing the story to be told from the perspective of a loyal customer. This approach creates a sense of intimacy and respect for the Gessler brothers, as the narrator provides a personal account of their dedication and struggles. The use of detailed descriptions and a reflective tone enhances the emotional impact of the story, making the reader more invested in the fate of the characters.

Analysis

Craftsmanship vs. Commercialization

One of the central conflicts in "Quality" is the clash between craftsmanship and commercialization. The Gessler brothers symbolize the old world of artisans who took immense pride in their work. Every shoe they made was a testament to their skills and dedication. In contrast, the industrial manufacturers represent the new world, where the primary focus is on speed, efficiency, and profit. This theme is particularly relevant today, as we continue to grapple with the tension between handmade and mass-produced goods.

The Gessler Brothers' Dedication

The elder Gessler's dedication is depicted in several poignant scenes. For instance, when the narrator returns to the shop after many years, he finds the elder Gessler still immersed in his work, despite the obvious signs of struggle. This dedication is further emphasized when the elder Gessler explains the meticulous process of making a single pair of shoes. His hands-on approach, the careful selection of materials, and the attention to detail are all indicative of a craftsman who lives and breathes his trade.

The Impact of Industrialization

The impact of industrialization on the Gessler brothers' business is a slow and painful decline. Despite the superior quality of their shoes, they are unable to compete with the lower prices and faster production times of factory-made shoes. This struggle is evident in the narrator’s observations over the years. The brothers’ shop, once bustling with activity, becomes quieter and emptier. The story poignantly captures the inevitable decline of traditional craftsmanship in the face of industrial progress.

The Personal Cost of Maintaining Quality

Galsworthy also explores the personal cost of maintaining high standards. The Gessler brothers' refusal to compromise on quality leads to their financial ruin. They lose customers who are drawn to cheaper, mass-produced shoes. The elder Gessler’s physical appearance deteriorates over time, a reflection of the toll that constant work and financial stress take on his health. The younger Gessler’s death and the elder brother’s subsequent solitary struggle highlight the sacrifices made by true craftsmen in a world that values profit over quality.

Integrity and Pride

Despite their hardships, the Gessler brothers never lose their integrity or pride in their work. This unwavering commitment is both their greatest strength and their tragic flaw. They embody the ideal of the artisan who values the quality of his work above all else. This integrity is ultimately what makes their story so moving. The narrator's admiration and respect for the brothers underscore the theme of the nobility of true craftsmanship.

The Role of the Narrator

The narrator plays a crucial role in "Quality." His admiration for the Gessler brothers and his detailed observations provide a window into their world. The first-person perspective allows readers to connect with the story on a personal level. The narrator’s reflections on his interactions with the Gesslers highlight the contrast between the world of craftsmanship and the world of mass production. His loyalty as a customer and his sorrow at their decline make the story’s themes more poignant.

The Ending

The ending of "Quality" is deeply moving and reflective. The narrator returns to find the elder Gessler alone, still dedicated to his craft despite the obvious signs of struggle. When the narrator learns of the younger Gessler’s death and sees the elder Gessler's deteriorating condition, it is a heartbreaking moment. The final revelation that the elder Gessler has also passed away, leaving behind a legacy of unmatched craftsmanship, is a poignant commentary on the cost of maintaining high standards in a world that does not always value them.

"Quality" by John Galsworthy is a timeless story that continues to resonate with readers due to its exploration of themes such as dedication to craftsmanship, the impact of industrialization, and the personal cost of maintaining high standards. Through the Gessler brothers, Galsworthy portrays the nobility of true artisanship and the tragic consequences of a world increasingly driven by profit and mass production. The story’s first-person narrative, reflective tone, and detailed descriptions create a powerful and emotional reading experience. As we continue to navigate a world where the balance between quality and quantity is ever more tenuous, "Quality" serves as a poignant reminder of the value of dedication, integrity, and the pursuit of excellence.

'The Postmaster' by Rabindranath Tagore

Rabindranath Tagore, the first non-European Nobel laureate in Literature, is known for his profound and versatile literary works. One of his most beloved short stories is "The Postmaster." Written in simple yet evocative language, this story captures the essence of human relationships and the pain of unfulfilled attachments. "The Postmaster" is a poignant narrative that resonates deeply with readers, touching on themes of loneliness, love, and the bittersweet nature of human connections.

Writer's Information

Rabindranath Tagore was born on May 7, 1861, in Calcutta, India, into a prominent Bengali family. A polymath, Tagore was a poet, novelist, playwright, composer, and philosopher. His literary career spanned over sixty years, during which he produced an impressive body of work that includes poetry, short stories, novels, plays, and essays. Tagore's profound influence on Bengali literature and music, as well as his contributions to Indian and world literature, earned him the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913 for his collection of poems, "Gitanjali."

Tagore's writing often reflects a deep empathy for human suffering and an appreciation for the beauty of the natural world. He was a proponent of social reform and had a significant impact on education and cultural renaissance in India.

Plot Summary

"The Postmaster" is set in a small village called Ulapur, where the protagonist, a young postmaster from Calcutta, has been transferred. The story begins with the postmaster's struggles to adapt to the rural environment. Used to the bustling life of the city, he finds it difficult to connect with the villagers and feels a deep sense of isolation.

The only person who provides him with some companionship is Ratan, an orphaned village girl who does odd jobs for him. Ratan develops a deep affection for the postmaster, viewing him as a father figure. She eagerly assists him with his chores and learns to read and write from him.

Despite the budding bond between them, the postmaster's longing for his home and familiar city life grows stronger. Eventually, he falls ill and, feeling even more isolated, decides to request a transfer back to Calcutta. When his request is denied, he resigns from his job and prepares to leave the village.

Ratan is heartbroken when she learns of his departure. She hopes that he will take her with him, but the postmaster, oblivious to her emotional attachment, dismisses the idea. He leaves the village, and Ratan is left behind, devastated and alone.

Characters

1. The Postmaster: A young man from Calcutta who finds himself in a rural village, struggling with isolation and homesickness. His character reflects the urban-rural divide and the difficulty of adjusting to an unfamiliar environment.

2. Ratan: An orphaned village girl who forms an emotional bond with the postmaster. Her character embodies innocence, loyalty, and the pain of unreciprocated affection.

Themes

1. Loneliness and Isolation: The postmaster's experience in the village highlights the universal theme of loneliness. Despite being surrounded by people, he feels isolated due to the cultural and social differences between him and the villagers.

2. Human Connection and Detachment: The story explores the fragile nature of human connections. While Ratan forms a deep emotional bond with the postmaster, he remains detached, viewing her as merely a temporary companion in his time of need.

3. Urban vs. Rural Life: The contrast between the postmaster's city life and the rural setting of Ulapur underscores the challenges of adapting to a different lifestyle and environment.

4. Unfulfilled Desires and Emotional Pain: Ratan's unfulfilled desire to be with the postmaster and her subsequent pain highlight the theme of unreciprocated love and the emotional turmoil it brings.

Title Significance

The title "The Postmaster" is significant as it centers the story around the protagonist's role and identity. The postmaster's position in the village is not just a job but a symbol of his transient presence and his ultimate detachment from the rural life and people around him. It underscores the temporary nature of his stay in Ulapur and the superficial connections he forms there.

Background

"The Postmaster" was written by Rabindranath Tagore during the late 19th century, a time when India was under British colonial rule. The story reflects the socio-cultural dynamics of rural Bengal and the impact of colonial administration on Indian society. Tagore’s experiences and observations of rural life, combined with his empathy for the common people, are evident in the story's realistic portrayal of village life and human emotions.

Tagore's own life, marked by frequent travel and a deep connection to both urban and rural settings, influenced his depiction of the postmaster’s struggles and Ratan’s innocence. The story is part of Tagore's larger body of work that often explores the complexities of human relationships and the intersection of different worlds.

Moral of the Story

The moral of "The Postmaster" lies in its exploration of human relationships and the pain of emotional disconnection. It teaches us about the transient nature of life and the importance of empathy and understanding in human interactions. The postmaster's inability to recognize and reciprocate Ratan’s affection serves as a reminder of the impact our actions and decisions can have on others. The story encourages readers to be mindful of the emotional needs of those around them and to value genuine human connections.

Narrative Technique

Tagore employs a simple yet evocative narrative technique in "The Postmaster." The third-person omniscient point of view allows readers to gain insight into the thoughts and feelings of both the postmaster and Ratan. This perspective creates a sense of empathy and understanding for both characters, despite their different emotional experiences.

The story's language is straightforward, reflecting the simplicity of rural life and the purity of Ratan's emotions. Tagore’s use of descriptive imagery brings the village of Ulapur to life, immersing readers in the natural beauty and tranquility of the setting. The narrative's pacing is slow and reflective, mirroring the gradual development of the bond between the postmaster and Ratan and the eventual heartbreak that ensues.

Conclusion

"The Postmaster" by Rabindranath Tagore is a timeless story that continues to resonate with readers due to its universal themes and emotional depth. Through the experiences of the postmaster and Ratan, Tagore captures the complexities of human relationships and the pain of unfulfilled desires. The story's simple yet powerful narrative, combined with its evocative depiction of rural life, makes it a poignant exploration of loneliness, love, and the bittersweet nature of human connections.