Andrew's Dilemma in the Chapter "Birth"

Andrew, the protagonist of the chapter "Birth" in the Class 11 English Snapshot book, faces a dilemma that revolves around his conflicting emotions and the societal expectations placed upon him. The story explores the themes of identity, family relationships, and the impact of societal pressure on individuals.

The Expectations and Pressure
Andrew is a young boy who is eagerly awaiting the birth of his sibling. However, his excitement is overshadowed by the societal expectations and pressure he faces. His family, friends, and even strangers constantly remind him of the responsibilities he will have as an elder brother. They expect him to be responsible, caring, and protective towards the new arrival.

Conflicting Emotions
Despite the external expectations, Andrew experiences conflicting emotions internally. He is unsure about his true feelings towards the upcoming arrival of his sibling. On one hand, he is excited about having a playmate and someone to share his experiences with. On the other hand, he fears that his parents might not have enough time for him once the baby is born.

Feeling Neglected and Insecure
Andrew's dilemma deepens as he starts feeling neglected and insecure due to his parents' preoccupation with the impending birth. He notices that his mother is occupied with preparing for the baby, and his father is busy with work and other responsibilities. This further fuels his fear that he will lose his parents' attention and affection once the baby arrives.

Seeking Affirmation
In search of affirmation and reassurance, Andrew tries to seek attention from his parents. He deliberately behaves in a mischievous manner, hoping to gain their attention and affection. However, his attempts are met with scolding and reprimands, making him feel even more neglected and misunderstood.

Resolution and Acceptance
Towards the end of the chapter, Andrew's dilemma is resolved as he witnesses the birth of his sibling. The sight of the newborn baby fills him with joy and a sense of responsibility. He realizes that the arrival of the baby does not diminish the love his parents have for him, but rather expands the love within the family. Andrew embraces his role as an elder brother and looks forward to nurturing a bond with the new family member.

Overall, Andrew's dilemma in the chapter "Birth" revolves around his conflicting emotions, the pressure of societal expectations, and his fear of being neglected. Through his journey of self-discovery and acceptance, he learns to embrace his new role as an elder brother while maintaining his own identity and importance within the family.