The Doctor's Feelings when the Snake Coiled around the Arm in "The Snake and the Mirror"

The short story "The Snake and the Mirror" by Vaikom Muhammad Basheer tells the tale of a doctor who encounters a snake while sitting in front of a mirror in his room. Let's delve into the doctor's feelings when the snake coiled around his arm.

Initial Surprise and Fear:
When the snake suddenly appears and coils around the doctor's arm, his initial reaction is one of surprise and fear. The unexpected presence of a snake in his room catches him off guard, and the fear of being bitten or harmed by the snake creates a sense of panic within him.

Terror and Helplessness:
As the doctor realizes the seriousness of the situation, he experiences a heightened sense of terror and helplessness. The snake's grip tightens around his arm, restricting his movements and making it difficult for him to escape its hold. The doctor becomes acutely aware of the potential danger he is in and feels powerless to free himself from the snake's clutches.

Physical Discomfort:
With the snake wrapped around his arm, the doctor also experiences physical discomfort. The snake's scaly body pressing against his skin may cause a tingling sensation or even mild pain. The weight of the snake's coils can be burdensome, making it harder for the doctor to maintain his posture or move freely.

Mental Turmoil:
In addition to the physical discomfort, the doctor undergoes mental turmoil during this encounter. Thoughts of the snake's venom and the potential consequences of a snakebite may race through his mind. He grapples with the fear of death or severe injury, leading to a state of heightened anxiety and distress.

Desperation and Primal Instincts:
As the doctor's struggle to free himself intensifies, he may experience a sense of desperation. His primal instincts kick in, prompting him to use any means necessary to escape the snake's grip. The fight-or-flight response may flood his body, further heightening his senses and pushing him to take swift action.

Relief and Triumph:
If the doctor manages to free himself from the snake's hold, he would experience an overwhelming sense of relief and triumph. The release from the dangerous situation would bring about a rush of emotions, perhaps leaving him with a newfound appreciation for life and a deeper understanding of the fragility of human existence.

In conclusion, the doctor's feelings when the snake coiled around his arm in "The Snake and the Mirror" range from initial surprise and fear to terror, helplessness, physical discomfort, mental turmoil, desperation, and ultimately, relief and triumph. The encounter with the snake serves as a catalyst for a roller-coaster of emotions, highlighting the doctor's vulnerability and the strength of the human spirit in the face of danger.