4. Birth - Class 11 - Snapshots

BhashaLab
Jul 8
5 min read

Author: A.J. Cronin

Textbook: Snapshots

Genre: Short Story / Medical Fiction (adapted from the novel The Citadel)

Summary :

“Birth” narrates a gripping incident in the life of a young doctor, Andrew Manson, who has just started his medical practice. Late one night, he is called to attend the delivery of a child at the house of Joe Morgan, whose wife Susan is expecting their first child after 20 years of marriage. Though emotionally distracted by personal concerns, Andrew decides to stay until the delivery is complete. After a long and difficult labour, the child is born but appears stillborn, and Susan's life is also in danger. Andrew acts quickly, first saving the mother with an injection and then, despite everyone’s doubts, focusing on reviving the lifeless infant. Using a combination of hot and cold water baths, chest compression, and artificial respiration, Andrew works tirelessly for over 30 minutes. Just when he is about to give up, the child shows signs of life and begins to cry. The emotional impact of this success overwhelms Andrew. The story highlights the value of perseverance, presence of mind, and the deep satisfaction that comes from saving a life. It is a moving account of a doctor’s commitment to his duty.

Character Sketch

Dr. Andrew Manson:

A young and dedicated doctor, Andrew is newly out of medical school and working as an assistant in a small town. Despite being emotionally disturbed due to personal issues, he responds to an emergency call with full responsibility. He shows presence of mind, professional skill, and unwavering perseverance. His ability to stay calm under pressure and revive a stillborn baby marks a turning point in his career and personal identity. His success fills him with a profound sense of achievement and purpose.

Susan Morgan (The Mother):

Susan is a woman in her forties expecting her first child after twenty years of marriage. She is brave, trusting, and deeply attached to the unborn child. Though she remains unconscious during the climax, her emotional investment in the baby is conveyed through her mother.

Susan’s Mother:

A wise, experienced elderly woman, she shows understanding and support during the crisis. Her silent prayers and unwavering hope for her grandchild’s survival highlight the emotional depth of the moment.

The Midwife:

She is practical but loses hope when the baby is born still. Her helplessness contrasts with Andrew’s determination and highlights his heroism.

Themes :

Theme	Description
Medical Ethics and Dedication	Highlights the doctor’s sense of duty, skill, and persistence in saving lives.
Miracle of Birth	Emphasises the emotional and spiritual beauty of bringing a new life into the world.
Triumph over Despair	The story shows how hope, courage, and perseverance can overcome even the darkest moments.
Emotional Fulfilment in Duty	Andrew finds real satisfaction in his profession when he succeeds in saving both mother and child.
Conflict Between Heart and Mind	Andrew is torn between his emotional turmoil and professional responsibility, ultimately choosing the latter.

✨ Literary Devices

Device	Example	Effect
Imagery	“Like a strange, white fish”	Creates a vivid and emotional visual of the newborn.
Repetition	“I’ve done something… something real at last.”	Emphasises the doctor’s emotional fulfilment.
Irony	The child appears dead but is revived through desperate efforts.	Adds suspense and emotional intensity.
Symbolism	The child’s cry represents life and triumph over death.	Highlights the miracle of birth.
First-person narrative (limited)	Story told through Andrew’s perspective	Builds intimacy and tension.

Title Justification

The title “Birth” is simple yet deeply symbolic. It refers not only to the physical birth of the child but also to the spiritual rebirth of the doctor, Andrew. The incident marks the moment when Andrew feels truly fulfilled in his profession, experiencing a deep emotional connection with the miracle of life. The story reflects the drama, uncertainty, and beauty associated with childbirth. Thus, the title captures both the literal and metaphorical significance of the event.

One-Mark Questions

Why was Andrew called to the Morgans’ house?
Joe Morgan’s wife was expecting their first child after twenty years of marriage. She had gone into labour late at night, and Andrew was called for the delivery.
What did Andrew do first after the baby was born?
He noticed that the baby was stillborn and turned his attention to saving the mother. She was in a critical condition and needed immediate help.
Why did the midwife lose hope?
The baby was born lifeless and pale, showing no signs of breathing. She believed it was stillborn and beyond saving.
What method did Andrew use to revive the child?
He used a combination of hot and cold water baths and artificial respiration. He also applied chest compressions to stimulate breathing.
What does Andrew say at the end, and why?
He says, “I’ve done something real at last.” This reflects his deep emotional fulfilment after saving the baby’s life through his own effort.

Three-Mark Questions

How does the story show the importance of presence of mind in emergencies?Andrew, though exhausted and emotionally distracted, acts quickly and calmly during a medical emergency. Faced with a lifeless baby and an unconscious mother, he prioritises and treats both efficiently. His decision-making under pressure, especially using unconventional methods to revive the child, shows the value of presence of mind. He does not give up despite doubts from others. His calmness and perseverance save two lives.
Describe the emotional atmosphere in the house during and after the delivery.
The atmosphere was tense and filled with silent hope. The old woman and the midwife watched Andrew anxiously. When the baby was born lifeless, despair filled the room. Andrew’s desperate struggle added to the emotional weight. The baby’s final cry brought relief, joy, and even tears, turning the mood from hopelessness to gratitude.
What transformation does Andrew undergo by the end of the story?
At the beginning, Andrew is emotionally disturbed and doubtful about relationships. But during the delivery, he sets aside his personal thoughts and focuses on his duty. When he succeeds in saving both lives, he feels a sense of real achievement. It marks his emotional and professional growth. The incident renews his faith in life and purpose.

Value-Based Question

What message does the story give about dedication and professional responsibility?The story teaches that true success lies in commitment, perseverance, and compassion toward one’s duty. Despite emotional stress and exhaustion, Andrew gives his best effort and refuses to give up. His determination reflects the ethical and emotional strength required in medical professionals. The satisfaction he feels after saving a life shows that doing one’s job sincerely brings the greatest rewards. It reminds us to stay strong and act with humanity in times of crisis.

End

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