The author did not jump, tremble and cry because a snake had fallen on his shoulders.

The Snake and the Mirror: Why did the author not jump, tremble, and cry?

The author in the story "The Snake and the Mirror" did not jump, tremble, or cry when he saw the snake because he managed to keep his composure and remain calm in a situation that could have easily caused panic. There are several reasons why the author did not react in a fearful manner:

1. Curiosity:
The author's initial reaction upon seeing the snake was curiosity. He observed the snake's movements and appearance with interest, rather than immediately succumbing to fear. This curiosity allowed him to maintain a level-headedness and prevented him from panicking.

2. Awareness of the Snake's Harmlessness:
The author quickly realized that the snake was not dangerous or venomous. He noticed that it had a "nondescript look" and lacked the triangular head shape associated with venomous snakes. This awareness reassured the author and prevented him from becoming frightened.

3. Reflection on the Snake's Beauty:
Instead of being terrified, the author found himself fascinated by the snake's beauty. He admired its shiny skin, graceful movements, and the way it coiled itself. This aesthetic appreciation helped him to stay calm and composed.

4. Previous Experience:
The author had encountered snakes before and had learned to control his fear. He mentions that he had become a "veteran" and had faced snakes while working in the hospital. This past experience helped him to develop a sense of confidence and composure when faced with the snake in his room.

5. Self-control:
The author displayed a great deal of self-control throughout the incident. Instead of giving in to fear, he decided to maintain his calm and assess the situation. This self-control allowed him to think clearly and take appropriate action without panicking.

6. The Mirror:
The presence of a mirror in the room played a significant role in the author's reaction. Seeing his own reflection in the mirror made him realize that his fear was irrational and baseless. It served as a reminder that he was the one in control of his emotions and that there was no need to panic.

In conclusion, the author did not jump, tremble, or cry when he saw the snake because of his curiosity, awareness of the snake's harmlessness, reflection on its beauty, previous experience, self-control, and the presence of a mirror. These factors allowed him to remain calm and composed in a situation that could have easily provoked fear.