Birth - Snapshots - Class 11 - CBSE English

A.J. Cronin, or Archibald Joseph Cronin (1896-1981), was a Scottish novelist, playwright, and physician. Born in Cardross , Scotland, Cronin hailed from a working-class family and experienced various hardships during his early years, which later influenced his writing. He studied at the University of Glasgow, where he graduated with a degree in medicine. After serving in the Royal Navy as a surgeon during World War I, he continued his career in medicine, working in various positions, including as a ship's surgeon and as a medical officer in Wales.

While his medical career was successful, Cronin experienced burnout due to the demanding workload and turned to writing as a means of relaxation . In 1930, he published his first novel, "Hatter's Castle," which was a critical and commercial success . This marked the beginning of Cronin's successful literary career.

Cronin's writing mainly focuses on themes related to social issues, struggles faced by ordinary people, and the fight for justice. Notable works include "The Stars Look Down" (1935), and "The Citadel" (1937), which was influential in developing the National Health Service in the United Kingdom. Cronin's novels often featured medical professionals as central characters, highlighting the struggles and victories in their lives, as well as the broader social context in which they worked.

A.J. Cronin's writing style is characterized by vivid storylines, gripping plots, and well-developed characters, which often made his works bestsellers . His representation of human nature, and his exploration of moral dilemmas and ethical issues , made him popular among readers of all ages. Over the course of his career, several of his novels were adapted for film and television, further increasing his worldwide popularity .

Andrew

Andrew is the protagonist in "Birth" - a doctor who is called to assist in a complicated childbirth . He is a dedicated and caring medical professional , willing to attend an emergency in the middle of the night. He is also perceptive , understanding the importance of his presence and determination to see the situation through. Throughout the story, Andrew is burdened by his thoughts; he ruminates about the nature of marriage and his feelings for his love, Christine. Despite his personal distractions, when faced with the life-and-death situation during the childbirth, Andrew quickly taps into his medical knowledge and expertise. His ...

💪 perseverance and Determination

The story showcases the power of determination and perseverance in difficult circumstances. Dr. Andrew’s unwavering efforts to save both the mother and the child, even when the situation seems hopeless, emphasizes the importance of not giving up in the face of adversity .

🩺 Professionalism and commitment

Andrew’s dedication to his profession and the responsibility he feels towards his patients is a significant theme. Despite being emotionally ...

1. “The missus wants ye —before time, too.” - This line reveals that Susan Morgan’s childbirth is happening prematurely and sets the stage for the complications that the doctor will face throughout the story.
2. “Ay, we all are, I fancy.” - Mrs. Morgan’s mother highlights the family’s anticipation and desire for the baby, emphasizing the emotional stakes within the story.
3. “They’ll be all right.” - Andrew reassures the family, though he feels a burden of responsibility, showing his determination to keep his promise.
4. “Here Mrs. Morgan’s mother, a tall, grey-haired woman of nearly seventy, and ...