The Snake and the Mirror
by Vaikom Muhammad Basheer · translated by V. Abdulla
A poor young doctor living alone experiences a terrifying encounter with a snake. The frightening incident is narrated with self-mockery and humour.
Rapid Learn 2-Minute Revision
Perfect for last-minute revision
2-Minute Revision Video
Video coming soon
- The narrator is a young doctor with very little money.
- He lives alone in a small rented room without electricity.
- He spends time admiring his own appearance in a mirror.
- A snake suddenly lands on him and coils around his arm.
- The doctor remains still because he fears the snake.
- The snake becomes fascinated by its own reflection in the mirror and moves away.
- The doctor escapes and later finds that his belongings have been stolen.
Detailed Summary
Detailed Summary Video
Video coming soon
The doctor returns to his small room after work. He has little money, simple possessions and no electricity, but he enjoys looking at himself in a mirror and imagining a better future.
While sitting near the mirror, he hears a sound and suddenly a snake falls onto him. It coils around his left arm and the doctor becomes completely helpless. His fear makes him pray silently and remain motionless.
The snake notices the mirror and moves towards its own reflection. The doctor uses the opportunity to escape from the room. When he later returns, he discovers that a thief has taken most of his possessions, leaving the incident with an ironic and comic ending.