Assignment Code: BEGE-141/TMA/2023-24

Course Code: BEGE-141

Assignment Name: Understanding Prose

Year: 2023-24

Verification Status: Verified by Professor

Section A

Q.I Write short notes on the following in about 200 words each:

(i) Image and symbol as figures of speech.

Ans) Image and symbol are two powerful figures of speech that writers use to convey complex ideas, emotions, and themes in a more vivid and profound manner.

Image:

An image is a figure of speech that involves the use of vivid and sensory-rich language to create a mental picture or sensory experience for the reader. Images appeal to the reader's senses, allowing them to see, hear, taste, touch, or smell what the author describes. Well-crafted imagery can make the narrative more engaging and relatable. For example, a writer might use imagery to describe a scene as "the crimson sun sinking into the sapphire sea," creating a vivid visual and emotional impression.

Symbol:

A symbol is a figure of speech in which an object, person, or idea represents a deeper, often abstract, concept or theme. Symbols are used to convey complex meanings and add depth to a story or poem. They require readers to interpret the connection between the symbol and the broader context. For instance, a white dove is a commonly recognized symbol of peace, while a dark and stormy night can symbolize impending danger or conflict. Symbols are essential tools for conveying deeper layers of meaning and exploring universal themes in literature.

(ii) Narrative Prose.

Ans) Narrative prose is a fundamental form of literary expression characterized by the telling of a story or a sequence of events in a straightforward, non-poetic manner. It is a prevalent genre in literature, encompassing various subgenres and styles.

Storytelling: Narrative prose is primarily focused on storytelling. It allows authors to convey plots, characters, and events, making it an accessible and engaging way to communicate ideas, emotions, and experiences to readers.

Realism and Naturalism: Many narrative prose works aim to portray life and human experiences realistically. Realism and naturalism, popular in the 19th and 20th centuries, explore the everyday lives of ordinary people and often delve into social issues and human psychology.

Diversity of Subgenres: Narrative prose encompasses a wide range of subgenres, including the novel, novella, short story, autobiography, biography, and memoir. Each subgenre has its own unique characteristics and purposes.

Character Development: In narrative prose, characters are key components. Authors use prose to create well-rounded, relatable characters whose development is central to the story's progression.

Setting and Atmosphere: Effective narrative prose sets the stage by vividly describing settings and creating atmospheres that transport readers into the world of the story.

Point of View: The choice of the narrative's point of view (first-person, third-person, omniscient, etc.) greatly influences the reader's perspective and engagement with the story.

Plot Structure: Narrative prose typically follows a plot structure that includes exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution. This structure provides coherence and keeps readers engaged.

Themes and Messages: Narrative prose often explores universal themes and conveys moral or philosophical messages. It can serve as a vehicle for social commentary, introspection, and cultural exploration.

(iii) Art and craft of diary writing.

Ans) Diary writing is a deeply personal and creative form of self-expression, offering a unique platform for recording thoughts, experiences, and emotions.

a)     Self-Reflection: A diary serves as a reflective tool, encouraging individuals to examine their thoughts and feelings. It's an opportunity to gain insight into one's life, emotions, and personal growth.

b)     Authenticity: The essence of diary writing lies in honesty and authenticity. Writers should be unfiltered and true to their feelings, free from the fear of judgment.

c)     Emotional Outlet: Diaries provide a safe space to express emotions, whether they are joy, sadness, anger, or confusion. This emotional release can be therapeutic.

d)     Narrative Structure: Crafting a coherent narrative in a diary allows for a sense of continuity in one's life story. It helps individuals make sense of events, learn from experiences, and track personal development.

e)     Descriptive Detail: Writing with vivid descriptive detail can transport the writer back to the moment, enhancing the diary's immersive quality.

f)      Regularity: Consistency in diary writing is crucial. It establishes a routine of self-reflection and can lead to a more comprehensive and meaningful record over time.

g)     Intimacy: Diary writing is an intimate process. It's a conversation with oneself, a way to converse with one's inner thoughts and emotions.

h)     Record Keeping: Diaries serve as historical documents, offering a unique perspective on the writer's life and the historical context in which they lived.

i)       Creative Expression: Some diary writers infuse their entries with creativity through poetry, sketches, or fictional elements, turning their diaries into works of art.

(iv) What is autobiography?

Ans) An autobiography is a written account of a person's life, narrated by the subject themselves. It is a form of literary expression that provides a firsthand and intimate insight into the author's experiences, thoughts, and emotions. Autobiographies are typically written in the first person and encompass a wide range of topics, including personal history, significant events, relationships, achievements, and challenges.

a)     Self-Reflection: Writing an autobiography allows individuals to reflect on their life journey, gain insights into their own character, and make sense of their experiences.

b)     Historical Record: Autobiographies are valuable historical documents that capture a specific time, place, and culture, offering a unique perspective on the past.

c)     Inspiration: Many autobiographies inspire readers by showcasing the author's resilience, achievements, and personal growth, often in the face of adversity.

d)     Catharsis: Writing an autobiography can be a therapeutic process, helping authors confront and overcome traumas or difficult life events.

Prominent examples of autobiographies include "The Diary of a Young Girl" by Anne Frank, "The Story of My Experiments with Truth" by Mahatma Gandhi, and "The Long Hard Road Out of Hell" by Marilyn Manson. These works provide diverse insights into the lives of their authors, demonstrating the versatility and impact of the autobiography as a literary form.

Section B

Q. II Answer the following questions in about 350 words each:

Q1) Justify the comment, “Be strong before people, only weep before God”, from the story ‘Mother’.

Ans) The comment, "Be strong before people, only weep before God," from the story 'Mother,' encapsulates the complex role and expectations placed upon individuals in society, particularly women, and reveals the author's commentary on the contrast between public and private personas.

a)     Societal Expectations: In many societies, there is a prevalent expectation for individuals, especially women, to maintain a facade of strength and composure when facing the outside world. This expectation stems from traditional gender roles and societal norms that often equate vulnerability with weakness. Women are often pressured to present a composed and resilient front to society, regardless of the challenges they may be grappling with.

b)     The Public Persona: Being "strong before people" signifies the need to wear a mask of confidence and stoicism in the public sphere. This image is often necessary to navigate social and professional environments, where revealing vulnerability may be seen as a liability. People are expected to project an image of competence and control.

c)     Private Vulnerability: "Only weep before God" acknowledges the importance of a private, safe space for individuals to express their vulnerabilities, fears, and emotions. This implies that the façade presented to the world may not reflect the true emotional state of the person. In private, individuals can reveal their true selves and seek solace or catharsis through personal, spiritual, or emotional outlets.

d)     The Dual Nature of Humanity: This comment highlights the duality of human existence. We all have inner struggles, doubts, and moments of weakness, which we often keep hidden from the judgmental eyes of society. The private moments of weeping before God or in solitude can be a source of genuine emotional release and self-acceptance.

'Mother,' this comment may reflect the struggles of the central character, or the societal pressures and expectations placed upon her. The story may reveal her internal conflicts, her attempts to maintain a strong facade, and the moments of vulnerability or despair that she only shares with her inner self or a higher power.

Ultimately, this comment underscores the complex interplay between the public persona and private emotions, shedding light on the human condition and the coping mechanisms individuals employ to navigate societal expectations while still finding a space for their authentic, unguarded selves.

Q2) What do you learn about the life of the English people in Burma from Orwell’s essay, ‘Shooting an Elephant’?

Ans) George Orwell's essay "Shooting an Elephant" provides valuable insights into the complex dynamics of British colonial rule in Burma and the impact on the lives of both the English and Burmese people.

Orwell, an English police officer stationed in Burma, depicts a tense atmosphere of oppression and subjugation. The English residents, despite being far from home, lived in a distinctly stratified society. They were isolated from the native population, living in a European enclave where they engaged in social rituals and practices reminiscent of England. This separation created a sense of alienation from the Burmese and fostered feelings of isolation among the English residents.

For the Burmese people, life was marked by a deep resentment towards the colonial powers. They were subjected to racism, exploitation, and cruelty at the hands of the English officials. The Burmese harboured deep-seated animosity, and Orwell describes a palpable undercurrent of hostility and simmering tensions.

Orwell's experience of being an English policeman tasked with maintaining order further illuminates the intricacies of colonial life. He faced immense pressure to uphold the authority of the British Empire and was often called upon to perform actions that went against his personal values. The title of the essay, "Shooting an Elephant," refers to the moral dilemma he faced when he had to kill an elephant to appease a crowd, demonstrating the dehumanizing effects of colonialism on both the colonizers and the colonized.

Orwell's essay reveals the dehumanizing impact of imperialism on the English people who were complicit in maintaining the colonial regime and the suffering endured by the Burmese population. It underscores the alienation, frustration, and moral conflict experienced by the English in Burma and the deep-seated resentment among the Burmese towards their colonial oppressors. Overall, "Shooting an Elephant" provides a poignant portrayal of the life and dynamics of the English people in Burma during the colonial era, highlighting the moral and ethical challenges that colonization presented.

Q3) What is the theme of the essay ‘On seeing England for the First Time’?

Ans) Jamaican American writer Jamaica Kincaid's essay "On Seeing England for the First Time" explores the theme of colonialism, cultural identity, and the impact of British imperialism on the Caribbean. In this essay, Kincaid reflects on her first encounter with England and the stark contrast between her idealized expectations of the "mother country" and the reality she experienced.

One central theme of the essay is the disillusionment that often accompanies the encounter with the colonial power. Kincaid grew up in Antigua, a former British colony, and she was raised on British literature, customs, and a glorified image of England. However, when she finally visits England, she is confronted with the harsh reality of a country that does not live up to her romanticized ideals.

This theme of shattered illusions highlights the impact of colonial education and indoctrination on the colonized, where the colonizer's culture is imposed as superior, creating a sense of cultural dislocation and inferiority among the colonized.

Kincaid also delves into the theme of cultural identity and the erasure of the Caribbean's indigenous culture through colonial education and influence. She points out how the British education system enforced English culture and discouraged Caribbean cultural expressions. The loss of her Antiguan heritage is symbolized by the "X" in her name, which stands for the English name she was given instead of her original name.

Moreover, the essay examines the power dynamics inherent in colonial relationships. Kincaid acknowledges the cultural dominance of England over her homeland and how this control extends to language, education, and even the aesthetics of the landscape. The theme of power and control is interwoven with the broader theme of colonialism and its enduring legacy.

"On Seeing England for the First Time" by Jamaica Kincaid explores themes of colonialism, cultural identity, disillusionment, and the lasting impact of British imperialism on the Caribbean. Through her personal experience and reflections, Kincaid provides a thought-provoking critique of the complex relationship between colonizer and colonized, shedding light on the profound effects of colonialism on identity and culture.

Q4) Outline the portrait of Queen Victoria as seen in Strachey’s biography Queen Victoria.

Ans) Lytton Strachey's biography "Queen Victoria" provides a distinctive and captivating portrait of Queen Victoria, capturing both her public persona and her private life. The book presents a multifaceted view of the long-reigning monarch, who left an indelible mark on British history.

The Young Victoria:

Strachey begins by depicting Victoria as a young, sheltered princess who ascended to the throne at the age of 18. He highlights her initial inexperience and vulnerability, setting the stage for her transformation as a monarch.

The Strong-Willed Monarch:

Strachey portrays Queen Victoria as a strong-willed and determined ruler. He emphasizes her ability to assert her authority and make her presence felt, even in a male-dominated society. She is shown as a queen who played an active role in governing the nation and making important decisions.

The Icon of the Victorian Era:

Queen Victoria's reign defined the Victorian era, and Strachey captures her as the embodiment of the values and sensibilities of the time. She is seen as a symbol of morality, family values, and conservative traditions.

The Personal Side:

Strachey delves into Victoria's personal life, shedding light on her relationships, particularly her passionate and enduring love for Prince Albert. He depicts a queen who was deeply attached to her husband and devastated by his early death.

The Widowed Queen:

After Prince Albert's death, Victoria is portrayed as a bereaved and withdrawn monarch who mourned her husband for a prolonged period. Strachey explores the impact of this loss on her reign and her role as a mother to their numerous children.

The Reclusive Widow:

As Queen Victoria withdrew from public life during her prolonged mourning, Strachey offers a glimpse into her secluded existence at Osborne House and Balmoral Castle, highlighting her retreat from the public eye.

The Longest-Reigning Monarch:

Strachey emphasizes the significance of Queen Victoria's reign, making it the longest in British history up to that time. Her influence on the nation's political, social, and cultural developments is portrayed as immense.

The Legacy:

Strachey concludes by reflecting on Queen Victoria's legacy, not only as a monarch but as an icon of the era. He discusses how her reign shaped the British Empire and left a lasting impact on the country and the world.

Section C

Q. III Answer the following questions in about 600 words each:

Q1) What is the significance of the title ‘Misery’ in the story of the same name.

Ans) Stephen King's novella "Misery" tells the harrowing tale of acclaimed novelist Paul Sheldon and his gruesome ordeal at the hands of his self-proclaimed number one fan, Annie Wilkes. The title "Misery" carries profound significance in the story, representing various layers of suffering, torment, and addiction, both physical and psychological.

Physical Misery:

The most obvious and immediate interpretation of the title relates to the physical suffering that Paul Sheldon endures at the hands of Annie Wilkes. After a car accident leaves him severely injured, he is rescued by Annie, who claims to be his biggest fan. However, her obsession takes a dark turn as she keeps him captive in her remote home. She forces him to endure excruciating pain as she "treats" his injuries. Paul's agony is vividly described in the narrative, and the title "Misery" underscores the relentless physical torment he endures throughout the story.

Psychological Misery:

Beyond the physical pain, "Misery" highlights the deep psychological torment experienced by both Paul and Annie. Paul is trapped in a never-ending nightmare, isolated from the outside world, and constantly fearing for his life. Annie, too, suffers from severe psychological issues, and her obsession with Paul Sheldon is a manifestation of her own misery. Her deteriorating mental state and her inner turmoil contribute to the overall atmosphere of dread in the story. The title encapsulates the mental anguish that permeates the narrative.

Emotional Misery:

The title "Misery" also alludes to the emotional distress that characterizes the relationship between Paul and Annie. Paul is emotionally battered by the trauma of his captivity and the constant threat to his life. Annie's erratic behaviour and violent outbursts further contribute to his emotional misery. On the other hand, Annie's obsession with Paul and her inability to cope with her emotions cause her own emotional turmoil. This emotional turbulence is a central theme of the novella, and the title signifies the profound emotional suffering experienced by the characters.

Addiction and Creative Misery:

"Misery" extends beyond the physical and psychological dimensions to encompass addiction, specifically in the context of Paul's writing career. His misery is compounded by his dependence on the character Misery Chastain, whom he despises but has been forced to write about to cater to his fanbase. He feels creatively stifled, unable to pursue his own artistic aspirations. The title highlights the creative misery that comes from being trapped in a cycle of producing work that is unfulfilling and against his artistic vision.

Cyclical Misery:

Throughout the story, the characters find themselves trapped in a cyclical pattern of misery. Paul is repeatedly subjected to physical and emotional torment, only to find momentary relief before the cycle begins anew. The cyclical nature of his suffering is a central aspect of the plot, and the title "Misery" reflects this recurring, inescapable cycle.

Reader's Perspective:

The title also resonates with the reader's perspective. As readers, we witness the misery of both the characters, making the title a reflection of the overall atmosphere and emotional impact of the novella. King masterfully draws the audience into the characters' misery, immersing them in the story's tension and horror.

The title "Misery" in Stephen King's novella serves as a multi-faceted symbol that encapsulates the physical, psychological, and emotional suffering experienced by the characters, as well as the creative misery resulting from addiction. It underscores the cyclical nature of their torment and engages the reader in the palpable sense of dread and horror that permeates the narrative. Ultimately, "Misery" is not just a title; it is a thematic anchor that shapes the entire narrative, making it a powerful exploration of human suffering and resilience in the face of extreme adversity.

Q2) Outline the horrors of the Holocaust and the persecution of the Jews as seen from Anne Frank’s diary.

Ans) Anne Frank's diary, "The Diary of a Young Girl," provides a poignant and personal account of the horrors of the Holocaust and the persecution of the Jews during World War II. Through Anne's perspective, readers gain insight into the experiences of one young Jewish girl and her family as they lived in hiding to escape the Nazi regime.

The Background and Context:

Anne Frank's diary begins in 1942, during the early years of World War II. She and her family, German Jews living in Amsterdam, go into hiding to avoid persecution and deportation by the Nazis. Anne's diary serves as a historical document that reflects the broader context of Nazi anti-Semitism and the systematic persecution of Jews.

Fear and Dehumanization:

Anne's diary vividly conveys the fear and dehumanization experienced by Jews under Nazi rule. She describes the degrading restrictions imposed on Jews, such as wearing the yellow star of David, being forced to turn in their bicycles, and enduring public humiliations.

Life in Hiding:

Anne, her family, and another Jewish family live in hiding in a secret annex above her father's office. They are cut off from the outside world, living in cramped conditions and complete isolation. Anne's diary captures the daily struggles, the scarcity of food, and the constant fear of discovery.

The Holocaust's Impact on Families:

Anne's diary provides insight into the impact of the Holocaust on families. The Franks and the Van Pelses (the other family in hiding) face constant stress and tension. Relationships are strained, and the close quarters intensify conflicts. Anne's diary reflects the strain on her relationship with her mother, as well as the changing dynamics within the annex.

Anne's Personal Growth:

Anne's diary also documents her personal growth and development. She writes about her dreams, her ambitions, and her desire to become a writer. Her diary serves as an outlet for her emotions and a source of comfort in a hostile world. Anne's experiences reflect the resilience and hope that many Jewish individuals held onto in the face of unimaginable adversity.

The External World:

Anne's diary reflects her limited knowledge of the atrocities occurring outside the annex. She hears about deportations and concentration camps through clandestine radio broadcasts and the testimonies of other Jewish people in hiding. The diary gives readers a glimpse of the uncertainty and dread that characterized the Jewish community during the Holocaust.

The Holocaust's Toll on Identity:

Anne grapples with issues of identity and self-discovery in her diary. She writes about the struggle to retain her Jewish identity while yearning for a normal life outside of hiding. Her experience is a microcosm of the broader Jewish struggle to preserve their culture and identity in the face of persecution.

The End of Hiding:

The diary's narrative takes a tragic turn when the annex's residents are betrayed and arrested in 1944. Anne, her family, and the Van Pelses are sent to concentration camps. Anne's final entry in the diary is dated August 1, 1944, just before their capture. The sudden end of her diary symbolizes the abrupt and devastating consequences that befell many Jews during the Holocaust.

Legacy and Remembrance:

Anne Frank's diary, which was found and published after the war, serves as a lasting testament to the Holocaust's horrors. It has become a symbol of the six million Jewish lives lost and a reminder of the need to remember and learn from the past. The diary's global impact in promoting Holocaust education and awareness underscores its significance in preserving the memory of this dark chapter in history.

Anne Frank's diary offers a personal and deeply moving perspective on the Holocaust and the persecution of Jews during World War II. It conveys the fear, isolation, and suffering that she and her family experienced while in hiding, as well as the broader context of Nazi anti-Semitism and the atrocities of the Holocaust. Anne's diary serves as a powerful and enduring account of the human cost of hatred and discrimination, reminding us of the importance of tolerance, remembrance, and the preservation of history.

Q3) Laurence was committed to the cause of nuclear disarmament. Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer.

Ans) Margaret Laurence, the renowned author, transitioned from the realm of fiction writing to become a passionate advocate for various social causes, with nuclear disarmament taking centre stage in her commitment during the final decade of her life. Her speech "My Final Hour" reflects her unwavering dedication to addressing nuclear issues and the moral urgency that propelled her activism.

Laurence firmly believed that as individuals grow older, they should not become less radical but more so. This belief became the driving force behind her transformation from a novelist into an activist. Her dedication to social causes like nuclear disarmament, social justice, and environmental protection was marked by didactic lectures, essays, and even direct-mail fundraising campaigns. Driven by moral and religious urgency, Laurence lent her prestigious name and voice to various causes, all guided by her deep-seated commitment to making the world a better place.

Laurence's stance on nuclear issues was straightforward and rooted in her moral compass. She argued that in a nuclear war, there are no winners; there are only survivors, if the Earth itself survives the nuclear holocaust. To her, the nuclear issue was paramount, as it had the potential to wipe out humanity, rendering all other problems moot. She believed that unless the threat of nuclear attack was addressed, issues like poverty, disease, and suffering in different parts of the world would remain unresolved. In her words, "For the price of one Trident nuclear submarine, malaria could be wiped off the face of the earth. That gives me pause. These two issues, the old one of the needless sufferings in the world, and the building of nuclear weapons, are very closely tied together."

Laurence pinpointed a "crisis in the imagination" as the root cause of the nuclear arms race. She criticized world leaders, particularly the superpowers, for discussing "megadeath" without realizing that these were real human lives at stake, including their children. She believed that empathizing with the reality of others is what prevents people from becoming so desensitized that they can commit acts of brutality, such as torture and murder.

Laurence also emphasized the power of ordinary people in halting the nuclear arms race. She believed that if individuals recognized their uniqueness and value as human beings, they could collectively compel their governments to work towards global nuclear disarmament. To her, each person was extraordinary, and it was this collective force of ordinary people that could drive change.

Even as a writer, Laurence remained committed to addressing the nuclear issue. While she found it challenging to directly address the question or tackle it through her literary works, she imbued her characters with her life-view. Her writing was a celebration of life itself, a reflection of her deep-seated values and her commitment to making the world a more compassionate and humane place.

In "My Final Hour," Margaret Laurence's commitment to resolving the nuclear issue is powerfully expressed. She decries the use of nuclear arms and the enormous financial resources allocated to their production.

She unequivocally advocates for global nuclear disarmament, driven by the understanding that the fate of humanity hinges on taking action to prevent the horrors of nuclear warfare. Laurence's words serve as a reminder of the moral imperative to work towards a world free from the threat of nuclear destruction, urging us all to recognize the shared responsibility to ensure a more peaceful and just future for the world.

Q4) Comment on the distinctive style of Nehru’s letter-writing as seen in ‘The Quest of Man’.

Ans) Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India and a prominent figure in the Indian independence movement, was known not only for his political leadership but also for his eloquence and distinctive style of letter-writing. His collection of letters, essays, and speeches, including "The Quest of Man," reflects his unique literary approach. In this context, it is important to explore the distinctive style of Nehru's letter-writing as seen in "The Quest of Man."

Clarity and Eloquence:

Nehru's letter-writing style in "The Quest of Man" is marked by a remarkable clarity and eloquence. His letters are composed with great care, making them accessible to a wide range of readers. He had a gift for conveying complex ideas in a straightforward and understandable manner. This clarity of expression is a hallmark of his style and allows readers to engage with his ideas and perspectives.

Humanism and Empathy:

Nehru's letters in "The Quest of Man" reveal a deep sense of humanism and empathy. He was a leader who was genuinely concerned about the well-being and progress of all people. His letters reflect his belief in the essential dignity of every human being, irrespective of their background or circumstances. He often wrote with empathy and compassion, addressing the concerns and aspirations of individuals and communities.

Intellectual Rigor:

Nehru's letters demonstrate a commitment to intellectual rigor. He was a well-read and thoughtful individual, and his correspondence in "The Quest of Man" reflects his intellectual depth. He engaged with a wide range of ideas and issues, offering insightful analyses and perspectives. His approach to letter-writing was not merely emotional but also intellectually stimulating.

Vision and Idealism:

Nehru's letters are imbued with a sense of vision and idealism. He had a clear vision for a free and progressive India and a deep commitment to its development. His letters often convey his aspirations for India's future, filled with hope and a strong belief in the potential of the Indian people. His idealism is an inspiring aspect of his letter-writing style.

Cultural Richness:

Nehru's letters in "The Quest of Man" also exhibit a cultural richness. He drew upon his knowledge of history, philosophy, and literature to communicate his ideas effectively. His references to cultural and historical aspects provide depth to his writing and show his appreciation for India's diverse heritage.

Global Perspective:

Nehru's letters reflect a global perspective. As a leader with a strong international presence, he corresponded with world leaders and individuals from various countries. His letters often touch on international issues, demonstrating his commitment to promoting global peace, cooperation, and understanding.

Inspirational Tone:

Nehru's letters frequently adopt an inspirational and motivational tone. He aimed to inspire people to strive for progress, freedom, and social justice. His letters often serve as a call to action, encouraging readers to engage in the quest for a better world.

Effective Communication:

Nehru's letter-writing style is highly effective in conveying his thoughts and ideas. He knew how to use words to convey his message persuasively. His letters could be persuasive and moving, making them powerful tools for communication and advocacy.

Q5) How does Aitken make fun of Indian politicians? Base your answer on your reading of the excerpt from his travelogue.

Ans) In Bill Aitken's travelogue, "Travels by a Lesser Line," the author explores the length and breadth of India, using a narrative prose marked by rare simplicity and elegance. Aitken's descriptive style is factual and photographic, offering readers a vivid portrayal of diverse landscapes, towns, and cultural nuances. The excerpt suggests that Aitken approaches his travel writing with a camera-like precision, capturing the essence of each location.

The travelogue features Aitken's fascination with rail travel, particularly on the meter gauge with a steam engine. He describes this experience as the "poetic diction of steam," conveying an almost ecstatic enthusiasm for the unique and unhurried journey that provides him with insights into the vastness and beauty of India.

One aspect of Aitken's narrative is his gentle and observational humour. He playfully characterizes passengers from the North who grumble about paying for using toilets as "passengers from the free-peeing North." Additionally, he humorously refers to a bus driver from the South as "a great gobber" who marks each furlong with spit. These gentle digs, as described, serve to lighten the narrative, and provide a humorous touch to the otherwise prosaic account of the bus journey to Rameshwar am.

Aitken also integrates cultural observations into his travelogue, particularly highlighting differences between Northern and Southern perspectives. He notes the verbal bickering between Northern pilgrims and Tamil staff regarding punctuality, hygiene, and even the charge for using toilets. Aitken remains objective and light-hearted in his portrayal, avoiding severe criticism and displaying a sympathetic understanding of these cultural divides.

The author's fascination with the temple town of Tiruchendur is evident in his vivid descriptions. The railway station, remodelled in the temple style, is depicted as having aesthetic appeal similar to that of the temple itself. Aitken uses metaphorical language, comparing the giant lance on the temple tower to the hour-hand of a clock, emphasizing its strength and radiance.

Aitken's journey is not merely a physical exploration but a reflective and contemplative experience. In the concluding chapter, "The Poetic Diction of Steam," he pays tribute to the steam engine for providing him with a leisurely and inexpensive journey through fourteen states on a single meter gauge line. This slower pace allows him to absorb the beauty of the land, engage in conversations with co-passengers, and experience a sense of repose akin to the sublime tranquillity found in poetry.

Bill Aitken's travelogue portrays a unique blend of keen observation, gentle humour, and a profound appreciation for the diverse landscapes and cultures of India. His narrative style, described as simple and unpretentious, captures the essence of his explorations, and adds a personal touch to the travelogue, making it a compelling and engaging read.