STORY
6. The Half-closed Eyes of the Buddha and the Slowly Sinking Sun
by Shankar Lamichhane
SUMMARY
"The
Half-closed Eyes of the Buddha and the Slowly Sinking Sun," written by
Shankar Lamichhane, presents an unconventional narrative approach, focusing on
the inner monologues of two characters—a foreign tourist and a local Nepali
tourist guide—in the Kathmandu Valley. This unique story eschews traditional
action-based storytelling in favor of delving into the characters' thoughts and
experiences using a stream of consciousness technique.
The
story opens with a confident female tourist who boasts an in-depth
understanding of Nepal, surpassing even the guide's knowledge. Having grown up
amidst plains, mountains, and the sea, she relishes the tranquility and natural
aroma of the lush green valley in Kathmandu. The captivating allure of the
Swoyambhu Temple's Buddha statue, with its half-closed eyes, evokes a sense of
calm within her. The tourist appreciates the cultural contributions of the
East, including ancient tools and writings etched onto palm leaves and
copperplate inscriptions.
The
narrative shifts as the guide begins to share insights with the tourist. He
recounts the legend of Manjushri's sword strike at Chobhar, which allowed for
the settlement of the Kathmandu Valley. Delving into culinary delights, the
guide introduces the concept of momo, a beloved traditional dish, and recalls
his grandmother narrating the tale of Brikuti while indulging in hookah.
The
focus then transitions to the guide's inner thoughts. Standing atop Chobhar
Hill, he weaves the historical account of its formation by Manjushri's sword,
an integral part of the valley's lore. During their return journey, they pause
before a house that starkly contrasts with the tourist's prior experiences. The
house serves as a poignant reminder of life's diverse realities. Within, they
encounter a child afflicted by polio, rendering him immobile. The child's gaze,
akin to the samyak gaze, symbolizes an Eastern quality—the ability to endure
silence and stillness without complaint.
In
a moment of deception, the guide falsely claims to be a doctor, evoking elation
from the child's parents who interpret her as a potential savior. Their
expressions reflect intimacy, kindness, and gratitude. The guide showcases the
child's healthy sister, emphasizing her ability to engage in age-appropriate
activities. The contrasting sparkle in the paralyzed child's eyes as he watches
his sister reinforces the harsh realities he faces.
Amidst
these musings, the guide perceives a welcoming warmth in the tourist's eyes—a
veil concealing the enigma of life's eventual end. He likens her eyes to the
exquisite reflection of the setting sun in the Buddha's eyes, mirroring the
beauty and transience inherent in existence.
"The
Half-closed Eyes of the Buddha and the Slowly Sinking Sun" captivates
readers through its introspective narrative, steering away from typical plot
progression. By exploring the inner worlds of the characters, the story delves
into their perceptions of the Kathmandu Valley's beauty, history, contrasts,
and the profundities of human experience. This unconventional approach allows
readers to contemplate the layers of meaning woven into the interplay between
sight, history, and the essence of life.
Understanding the text
Answer the following questions.
a. How does the tourist describe his initial impression of the
Kathmandu valley?
The
tourist's initial impression of the Kathmandu valley is one of profound beauty
and vivid imagery. The valley's landscape is characterized by neatly arranged
rectangles, dotted with clay homes adorned in vibrant hues of red, yellow, and
white. The scent of earth and mountains permeates the atmosphere, immersing the
senses in a unique sensory experience. This environment exudes an old-fashioned
serenity that captivates the tourist's senses, transporting them to a realm
untouched by the frenetic pace of modern life. The picturesque blend of colors,
scents, and tranquility weaves a tapestry of sensory delight, inviting the
tourist to connect with the valley's natural essence.
b. According to the tourist, why is the West
indebted to the East?
The
tourist posits that the West owes a debt of gratitude to the East due to the
valuable cultural contributions that have flowed from the East to the West.
This indebtedness stems from the East's provision of diverse cultural treasures
such as Puranas, ancient narratives of myths and legends, brass figures
reflecting artistic finesse, and intricate ivory decorations showcasing
craftsmanship. Furthermore, the East's contribution of palm-leaf manuscripts
and copperplate inscriptions has preserved historical knowledge and
intellectual traditions. Through these offerings, the East has enriched the
West's understanding of history, art, and heritage. This reciprocal exchange of
cultural artifacts signifies the interconnectedness of civilizations and
emphasizes how the West benefits from the multifaceted legacy bestowed upon it
by the East.
c. How does the tourist interpret the gaze of
the monks and nuns?
The
tourist's interpretation of the gaze of monks and nuns is founded upon their
distinctive appearance. The tourist articulates that encountering the samyak
gaze, which translates to a "right" or "correct" gaze, is a
rare feat. This perspective suggests that monks and nuns possess a unique
ability to see the world unadulterated by biases or distractions. The samyak
look embodies a pure form of sight, allowing them to perceive reality without
contamination from personal prejudices or external influences. This
interpretation underscores the monks' and nuns' dedication to transcending
mundane distractions and attaining a state of clarity that grants them the
capacity to perceive the world in its unfiltered and authentic state.
d. Why do the tourists think
Nepali people are wonderful and exceptional?
The
tourists hold the belief that Nepali people are extraordinary and praiseworthy
due to their distinctive way of life. This conviction is primarily rooted in
the architectural marvel of Nepali homes, which resemble temple-like
structures. These houses are adorned with an array of intricate ornamentations
and artistic styles, brought to life through the skillful use of a chisel. The
tourists perceive the embodiment of devotion and craftsmanship in these wooden
creations, mirroring the devotion found in temples. The harmony of design and
the mellifluous rhythm of the chisel's work evoke a sense of wonderment,
reflecting the Nepali people's unique ability to infuse artistry and spiritual
resonance into their everyday living spaces. This interpretation aligns their
cultural practices with a sense of awe, making the Nepali people stand out as
remarkable and exceptional.
e. What are the different kinds of communities in the Kathmandu
valley and how do they co-exist with each other?
The
Kathmandu Valley is a melting pot of diverse communities, attracting
individuals from various corners of the world. It serves as a convergence point
for an assortment of ethnicities, encompassing Aryans, non-Aryans, Hindus, and
Buddhists. The valley's significance as a sacred land draws these disparate
groups, providing them a common ground for connection. This shared spiritual
reverence fosters an environment where different races and belief systems can
harmoniously coexist. The Valley's allure as a destination for rebirth
resonates with individuals seeking spiritual growth and renewal, transcending
the boundaries of culture and religion. The coexistence of these communities is
facilitated by the overarching thread of reverence for the holy land,
transcending differences and harmonizing the diverse tapestry of people that
populate the Kathmandu Valley.
f. What does the tourist feel about the temple
of Adinath?
The
tourist holds a sense of awe and admiration for the temple of Adinath in the
Kathmandu Valley. The temple stands as a remarkable testament to the
coexistence of diverse beliefs. Amidst the presence of a Shiva shrine, the
temple boasts an array of Buddha statues and multiple prayer wheels adorned
with the sacred mantra "Om mani padme hum." This confluence of
deities and symbols embodies the ethos of Nepali tolerance and harmony.
Visitors, unburdened by concerns over individual gods, faiths, or ideologies,
experience a carefree joy as they engage in playful activities on the temple
grounds. The temple of Adinath becomes a visual representation of how people
from various backgrounds can peacefully and joyfully share a sacred space,
transcending religious differences and embracing the beauty of coexistence.
g. Why does the guide take the tourist to the
remote village?
The
guide's decision to lead the tourist to a remote village stems from a profound
intention to unveil the realities of life that may be unfamiliar to the
tourist. By introducing the tourist to a severely disabled child hailing from
an impoverished family, the guide seeks to provide a stark contrast to the
tourist's experiences. This encounter serves as an opportunity to enlighten the
tourist about the challenges faced by individuals who exist on the fringes of
society, a reality that might remain hidden from the tourist's usual
perspective. In doing so, the guide endeavors to foster compassion and empathy
within the tourist's perception of the beautiful country. By revealing this
aspect of life, the guide aims to offer a more comprehensive understanding of
the nation, showcasing its compassionate spirit alongside its physical beauty.
h. What does the innocent village couple think
of the doctor?
The
innocent village couple, influenced by the guide's falsehood, wholeheartedly
believes that the tourist is a doctor. Unaware of the deception, they perceive
the tourist as their eldest son, imbued with the ability to bring a
life-reviving remedy from distant shores. This imagined restorative elixir from
the seven seas becomes a symbol of hope and healing, embodying the couple's
faith in their son's capabilities. Their eyes brim with intimacy, kindness, and
profound gratitude, reflecting the depth of their trust in the tourist's role
as a compassionate healer. The couple's genuine acceptance of the tourist as
their son who has undertaken this lifesaving mission underscores the power of
belief and the human capacity for empathy, casting a poignant light on the
guide's ruse and the unexpected connections it has forged.
i. What are the differences between the
paralyzed child and his sister?
The
paralyzed child and his sister share a striking contrast in their physical
abilities. While they exhibit similarities, such as their familial bond, a
fundamental difference exists between their capacities. The paraplegic child's
body is constrained, limiting his movement to only one organ—the eyes. This
singular mobility emphasizes his immobility and the challenges he faces due to
his condition. In contrast, his sister possesses a fully functioning body. She
showcases a wide range of physical capabilities, including speech, crawling,
and engaging in playful interactions with her surroundings and peers. This
juxtaposition underscores the profound disparity between their experiences and
highlights the sister's ability to engage with the world, setting her apart
from her paralyzed sibling. Their unique circumstances poignantly capture the
complexities of life, celebrating the sister's vitality while drawing attention
to the challenges faced by the paraplegic child.
j. Why does the guide show the instances of
poverty to the tourist?
Motivated
by the allure of the Samyak stare and the picturesque landscape, the guide
deliberately exposes the tourist to instances of poverty in order to impart a
holistic understanding of the country's essence. By showing the tourist the
Samyak look—a gaze devoid of self-expression—the guide aims to convey a
profound yet unspoken aspect of the human experience. Simultaneously, he
directs the tourist's attention towards the coexisting beauty that lacks
alternative expressions. In presenting the contrasts within the country's
richness, the guide seeks to unveil the shadow side that resides alongside its
splendor. By showcasing poverty, he provides a nuanced perspective, revealing
the complex layers of life and emotion that form an integral part of the
nation's tapestry. This deliberate juxtaposition invites the tourist to delve
beneath the surface, appreciating both the luminous and the obscured facets of the
country's reality.
Reference to the context
a. Which narrative technique is used by the author to tell the
story? How is this story different from other stories you have read?
The
author, Shankar Lamichhane, employs the narrative technique of "stream of
consciousness" in presenting the story of "The Half-closed Eyes of
the Buddha and the Slowly Sinking Sun." This technique involves delving
into the uninterrupted flow of the characters' thoughts, sensory experiences,
memories, and inner monologues. Unlike traditional narratives, this story's
distinction lies in its utilization of the stream of consciousness method to
reveal the characters' perspectives. Rather than depicting actions and events,
the story delves into the characters' introspections, capturing their innermost
musings. Moreover, this story diverges from conventional narratives by
presenting the viewpoints of two characters solely through their thoughts,
offering an intimate exploration of their minds. This distinctive approach
aligns with the characters' introspective journeys, making "The
Half-closed Eyes of the Buddha and the Slowly Sinking Sun" stand out among
the stories that primarily focus on external events and dialogues.
b. How is the author able to integrate two
fragments of the narration into a unified whole?
In
"The Half-Closed Eyes of Buddha and the Slowly Sinking Sun," the
author adeptly melds two fragments of narration into a cohesive whole by
employing recurring motifs and thematic connections. He achieves this by weaving
instances of eyes and linking them to two distinct realms—the realm of farmers
and traditional beliefs. The author skillfully interconnects these fragments
with vivid descriptions of the local neighborhood and its inhabitants'
livelihoods. As the guide accompanies the tourist on a journey, their
narratives are intricately intertwined through the guide's utilization of the
stream of consciousness technique. The repeated references to eyes and the
narrative methods employed to depict various locations and activities unify the
seemingly disparate worlds of the East and the West. Through this narrative
approach, the author prompts readers to embrace a broader perspective and
discern the deeper significance that binds these two worlds together.
c. The author brings some historical and legendary references in
the story. Collect these references and show their significance in the
story.
Shankar
Lamichhane skillfully weaves historical and mythical references throughout
"The Half-Closed Eyes of the Buddha and the Slowly Sinking Sun,"
underlining Nepal's significance. The story showcases Nepal's rich cultural
heritage by invoking Puranas, exemplifying the Nepalese people's profound
connection to their own culture. References to brass and ivory representations,
manuscripts on palm leaves, and copperplate inscriptions underscore Nepal's
diverse cultural fabric. The narrative intertwines Manjushree's role in
Kathmandu Valley's settlement through his sword strike at Chobhar, which
unleashed the Bagmati River's flow. The Adinath temple symbolizes Nepal's
tolerance and unity, magnifying their significance. Buddhism's presence
surfaces with shaven monks and nuns representing 'the samyak gaze,' seeing
reality without distortion. Historical ties emerge through Princess Bhrikuti
and King Amshuvarma, linking Nepal to neighboring Tibet. Nepal, depicted as a
Buddhist haven, emanates hope and tranquility, mirrored by the sunset's radiant
reflection in the Buddha's eyes. Through these references, Lamichhane imparts
Nepal's historical depth, cultural richness, and spiritual essence, elevating
the story beyond its narrative scope.
d. The author talks about the eyes in many places: the eyes of
the shaven monks and nuns, eyes in the window and door panels, the eyes of
the Himalayas, the eyes of the paralyzed boy, the eyes of the welcoming
villagers and above all the half-closed eyes of the Buddha. Explain how
all the instances of eyes contribute to the overall unity of the story.
In
Shankar Lamichhane's narrative, "The Slowly Sinking Sun and Buddha's
Half-Closed Eyes," the recurrent motif of eyes serves to weave a tapestry
of unity throughout the story. The reference to "The Samyak Gaze,"
embodied by the monks' and nuns' eyes, signifies perceiving reality authentically.
This thematic thread connects the diverse instances of eyes, imbuing the
narrative with a sense of cohesion. The eyes of various entities—the Himalayas,
the paralyzed boy, the welcoming villagers—symbolize unique facets of culture,
religion, beauty, and Buddhism's legacy. These references mirror people's
yearnings and memories, highlighting their inner visions and emotional depths.
The eyes depicted in carved lattice windows and painted entrance panels capture
the essence of a country shaped by its rich history.
As
the narrative gathers momentum, the eyes represent more than just physical
organs; they embody the essence of a nation, revealing its culture and
civilization. Ultimately, the half-closed eyes of the Buddha encapsulate the
story's core. These references to eyes resonate as a collective symbol,
underlining Nepal's identity and its guardianship under the watchful gaze of
Buddha, uniting the story's diverse elements into a singular, impactful whole.
Reference beyond the text
a. Write an essay on Living Proximity to Nature.
Living
in proximity to nature
Nature,
in all its breathtaking grandeur, holds an indispensable role in our lives.
From the air we breathe to the water we drink, the animals that inhabit the
Earth, the warmth of the sun, and the serenity of the moonlit nights, nature is
an intricate tapestry that sustains our existence. This dynamic interplay of
life forms and elements, often taken for granted, is at the core of life's
delicate equilibrium on our planet.
Within
the embrace of nature, an intricate web of relationships thrives. Animals,
insects, and fish find their sustenance and shelter within its realms. Nature
offers us more than the material; it provides a harmonious environment where
life can flourish. As human beings, we are fundamentally linked to nature in a
myriad of ways. We rely on it for our most basic needs: sustenance, water,
shelter, and even clothing. Nature's resources not only fuel our survival but
also provide the foundation for our prosperity.
The
vibrant hues that adorn nature's canvas showcase its inherent diversity. The
varied landscapes, from the verdant forests to the azure skies and towering
mountains, form an ever-changing backdrop to life's unfolding drama. In nature,
the dance of living and non-living entities coalesces to create a symphony that
resonates across the globe.
Our
profound interdependence with nature is apparent in every facet of life. The
rhythm of our lives aligns with the rising and setting of the sun, the changing
of seasons, and the flow of water. From the food on our plates to the air we
breathe, nature envelops us in its nurturing embrace. It offers boundless
energy sources and the potential for sustainable practices like organic
farming. The wisdom gleaned from nature's intricate systems holds the keys to
innovative solutions for a harmonious coexistence.
However,
the delicate balance that sustains life on Earth is increasingly threatened by
human activities. To preserve this vital relationship, a global collective
effort is required. The imperative to reduce environmental stress, restore
equilibrium, and ensure the well-being of future generations is undeniable.
In
this pursuit, the three Rs—reduce, reuse, and recycle—assume greater
significance. By minimizing our ecological footprint, repurposing materials,
and recycling to create anew, we can pave the way for a more sustainable
future. Embracing green technologies, advocating for conservation, and
championing environmental awareness can contribute to nurturing the connection
that binds us to nature.
Living
in proximity to nature is not just a choice; it is a responsibility. The
intricate web of life is fragile, and our actions today will reverberate across
time. It is our duty to tread lightly upon this Earth, to safeguard the natural
world that sustains us, and to foster a harmonious coexistence with all living
beings. In preserving nature's sanctity, we secure our own well-being and that
of generations yet to come.
b. The story talks about ethnic/religious co-existence
of different communities in Nepal, where the Buddhists and the Hindus and
the Aryans and non-Aryans have lived in communal harmony for ages. In your
view, how have the Nepali people been able to live in such harmony?
Ethnic
and Religious Coexistence in Nepal
Nepal,
with its rich cultural tapestry woven from diverse ethnicities and religious
beliefs, stands as a testament to the extraordinary ability of its people to
coexist harmoniously. The short tale "The Half-closed Eyes of the Buddha
and the Slowly Sinking Sun" encapsulates the enduring communal harmony
that has characterized Nepal for centuries. Several key factors contribute to
this remarkable coexistence, rooted in historical, cultural, political, and
topographical dimensions.
Historically,
Nepal's unique landscape played a pivotal role in forging a sense of shared
identity. Nestled within the Himalayan ranges, the nation's geographical
isolation fostered a sense of unity among its inhabitants. This isolation also
acted as a buffer against external pressures that could have led to domination
by any single ethnic or religious group. As a result, no single community could
impose its spiritual system onto others, enabling diverse traditions to
flourish side by side.
Cultural
pluralism is another cornerstone of Nepal's harmonious coexistence. The
country's rich tapestry of cultures and traditions is woven with threads from
Aryans, non-Aryans, Buddhists, and Hindus, among others. Each community reveres
its own deities while also acknowledging shared ones. This overlapping
spirituality engenders mutual respect and understanding, allowing individuals
to celebrate both personal and collective religious practices.
Nepal's
political landscape has also contributed to this unity. The country's constitution
declares Nepal as a secular nation, ensuring the freedom of religion for its
citizens. This constitutional framework guarantees that no one belief system is
favored over another, promoting a sense of fairness and equal standing for all
communities.
In
addition, Nepal's political history is characterized by a mosaic of rulers who
recognized the importance of cultural diversity. These rulers sought to
maintain a harmonious balance among different religious and ethnic groups,
bolstering inter-community respect.
Furthermore,
the topographical diversity of Nepal fosters a sense of interconnectedness
among its inhabitants. The nation's various landscapes, from the plains of
Terai to the mountains of the Himalayas, have shaped distinct yet
interdependent ways of life. This mutual reliance encourages cooperation and
unity among communities.
Nepal's
enduring ethnic and religious coexistence is a testament to the intricate
interplay of historical, cultural, political, and topographical factors. The
absence of a dominant majority, cultural openness, constitutional secularism,
and geographical influences have nurtured an environment where diverse
communities thrive in harmony. As the tale aptly highlights, Nepal stands as a
shining example of how mutual respect and the celebration of diverse beliefs
can foster enduring communal unity.
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