The Snake and the Mirror Summary

The story "The Snake and the Mirror" by Vaikom Muhammad Basheer is a humorous and thought-provoking tale that revolves around the protagonist's encounter with a snake in his room while he is practicing medicine in a remote village in Kerala, India.

The Introduction

The story begins with the narrator, a young doctor, who is renting a room in a dilapidated building. The room has a mirror hanging on the wall, which becomes the central object in the story. The doctor is shown as a resourceful and practical person who enjoys his solitude and finds solace in his own company.

The Encounter with the Snake

One day, as the doctor is sitting in front of the mirror, he notices a snake coiled on top of his mirror. Initially, he is terrified and tries to shoo it away, but the snake doesn't move. Eventually, the doctor realizes that the snake is not harmful and poses no threat to him. He observes the snake's behavior and becomes fascinated by its actions.

The Reflection on Life

As the doctor watches the snake, he starts contemplating the similarities between the snake's actions and the behavior of humans. He reflects on how people often act out of fear and aggression, just like the snake initially did. He also ponders on the transient nature of life and the inevitability of death.

Humorous Elements

The story is laced with humor, which lightens the otherwise serious theme. The doctor's interactions with the snake, his attempts to communicate with it, and his humorous observations add a touch of levity to the narrative.

Conclusion

In the end, the doctor realizes that the snake is just as scared of him as he is of the snake. He decides to leave the snake alone, acknowledging its right to coexist peacefully. The story ends on a note of introspection, highlighting the importance of empathy and understanding in our interactions with others.

Overall, "The Snake and the Mirror" is a thought-provoking tale that explores human nature, fear, and the need for compassion. It reminds us to look beyond our initial judgments and embrace the diversity of life.