One Centimetre
NCERT Class 12 English Chapter 5: One Centimetre (Pages 71–89)
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Summary of One Centimetre
One Centimetre at a Glance
CBSE
Class 12
English
Kaliedoscope
5
71–89
6 study resources
One Centimetre Summary
In ‘One Centimetre,’ we follow the journey of Tao Ying, a hardworking mother who struggles with her role in a society filled with expectations. The story begins with her riding a bus with her son, Xiao Ye. Tao Ying has a practical approach to life, deciding whether to buy a ticket based on the appearance of the conductor. She often tries to save money, reflecting her status as a blue-collar worker. However, it's also about her desire to maintain her dignity and provide for her son’s emotional needs. As they board the bus, Xiao Ye eagerly wants a ticket but is just one centimetre too short to qualify for one. This predicament highlights the arbitrary nature of rules and the innocence of childhood. Tao Ying feels conflicted about spending money on a ticket when every cent counts in their household. Yet, motivated by her son’s happiness, she decides to buy the tickets. The tension escalates when they reach the temple, which represents a deeper societal concern about physical measurements dictating worth. At the temple gate, things take a turn when the guard insists Xiao Ye needs his own ticket. This encounter illustrates how rigid regulations can often lack empathy. Here, Tao Ying’s determination to defend her son brings out both her strength and vulnerability. When the guard insists that Xiao Ye is over the height limit, her confidence begins to waver as she faces public scrutiny. In the midst of the confrontation, we see the deep bond between Tao Ying and Xiao Ye, with her actions motivated by love and a desire to protect him. After a public humiliation and a moment of frustration, she decides against accepting compensation from the temple officials, emphasizing her dignity over monetary relief. The narrative also captures the conflicting emotions of a mother striving to be a good parent while navigating societal expectations, capturing what it means to love and sacrifice. Tao Ying reflects on her insignificance in the broader world yet realizes her significance in her son's life. Ultimately, this chapter encapsulates themes of motherhood, societal expectations, and the nuances of ethical dilemmas. The emotional depth of Tao Ying’s character showcases the complex reality of trying to provide a perfect world for her child, while also wrestling with the limitations imposed by society.
What you will learn in this chapter
- Height Exemption — The policy regarding free entry based on children's height highlights societal regulations impacting families.
One Centimetre key concepts
Height Exemption
The policy regarding free entry based on children's height highlights societal regulations impacting families.
Important topics in One Centimetre
- 1.Bi Shu-min is an acclaimed writer and doctor.
- 2.Tao Ying often chooses not to buy bus tickets to save money.
- 3.Xiao Ye's eagerness to engage in rituals showcases childhood innocence.
- 4.The confrontation with the ticket guard portrays societal enforcement of rules.
- 5.The temple symbolizes both hope and conflict.
- 6.Tao Ying’s conflict revolves around maintaining her dignity and her son’s happiness.
- 7.The resolution emphasizes love and understanding in the parent-child relationship.
- 8.The story critiques the societal structures that dictate personal interactions and familial joy.
One Centimetre syllabus breakdown
Introduction to Bi Shu-min
Bi Shu-min is a distinguished Chinese writer and doctor. Her literary prowess is well acknowledged through various translations and awards, showcasing her significant contribution to literature.
Tao Ying's Bus Ride
Tao Ying often rides the bus without buying a ticket, reflecting her astuteness and beliefs about societal norms related to public transport and responsibility.
Mother-Son Relationship
The relationship between Tao Ying and Xiao Ye is central to the narrative. Tao Ying strives to be a perfect mother, navigating her responsibilities and emotions deeply connected to her son.
Visit to the Temple
The temple visit symbolizes a day of hope and joy turned into conflict, showcasing societal rules and the innocence of children's perceptions.
Conflict at the Gate
The confrontation at the temple gate underscores the societal enforcement of rules and highlights the struggles faced by Tao Ying as a mother under pressure.
Resolution and Reflection
The resolution of the story sees Tao Ying's acceptance of the situation, addressing deeper themes of parental love and the lengths to which one goes to uphold dignity for their child.
