the gold watch Flashcards
smile of Mr. Acton…which betokened disaster
Foreshadowing: Acton’s uncharacteristic behaviour foreshadows Sharma’s forced retirement.
morose old Sahib
Characterization & Mood: Creates a mood of aloofness and authority typical of colonial bosses, reinforcing cultural and power dynamics. Sets the tone for the colonial setting and the nature of colonial relationships.
“Being an old family man of fifty who had grayed prematurely…”
Characterization & Imagery: Conveys Sharma’s life’s burdens, painting him as aged beyond his years by life experiences and societal roles. Reflects the stress and strain of his life in a colonial context.
The Sahibs belonged to their private worlds where no intrusion was tolerated”
Social Commentary & Alienation: Commentary on social segregation and alienation in the colonial workplace. Highlights the stark divisions and the sense of isolation felt by Indian employees.
“But Srijut Sharma stood as though he had been struck dumb. He was neither happy nor sad at this moment… the intuitive truth rose inside him: The Sahib wanted him to retire.”
Dramatic Irony & Realization: Dramatic irony enhances the emotional impact of Sharma’s realization about the gold watch’s significance. The moment captures his mixed feelings and the dawning of a new reality.
“His steps were heavy… What would he say to his wife? And his son had still not passed his matric. How would he support the family? The provident fund would not amount to very much…”
Metaphor & Rhetorical Questions: Symbolizes Sharma’s burdened psyche; questions convey concern for his family’s future. Reflects his anxiety about the impending changes and his role as a provider.
“He steadied his gait and walked along muttering ‘Shanti! Shanti! Shanti!’”
Contrast & Repetition: Illustrates Sharma’s struggle to maintain composure amid internal turmoil. The repetition and exclamations of ‘Shanti!’ underscores his desperate attempt to find peace.
“‘Look at Hari! He has left nothing in his thali!’…
Character Development & Familial Interaction: Showcases the dynamic between Sharma and his son Hari, revealing Hari’s impetuous nature and Sharma’s affectionate yet worried response as a father. Highlights the familial bonds and Sharma’s relationship with his son.
colleagues had drifted away he lifted his morose head took the case as well as his hat and began to walk away…”
Imagery & Loneliness: Sharma’s isolation is poignantly captured as his colleagues drift away. The imagery of him lifting his “morose head” and walking away with his belongings encapsulates his sense of abandonment and the end of an era in his life.
“On the way home Srijut Sharma found that the gold watch only went when it was shaken… He would get it mended but he must save all the cash he could get hold of…”
Metaphorical imagery The gold watch needing to be shaken to work serves as a metaphor for Sharma’s disrupted life needing a jolt. His decision to save money and not repair the watch reflects his acceptance of a new, more frugal reality post-retirement.
