--- type: "Chapter" knowledge_type: "chapter" entity_type: "chapter" id: "66defd0d3f8b4e9e69bde573" title: "One Centimetre" board: "CBSE" curriculum: "CBSE" class: "Class 12" subject: "English" book: "Kaliedoscope" chapter: "One Centimetre" chapter_slug: "one-centimetre" canonical_url: "https://www.edzy.ai/cbse-class-12-english-kaliedoscope-one-centimetre" markdown_url: "https://www.edzy.ai/okf/chapter/cbse-class-12-english-kaliedoscope-one-centimetre.md" source_type: "examSubjectBookChapter" source_id: "66defd0d3f8b4e9e69bde573" source_pdf: "https://edzy-ai.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/edzy-express-ts/17835c4c-3359-47ff-bf2c-d2f04af0587f.pdf" source: "Edzy" version: 1 last_updated: "2026-06-22" --- # One Centimetre ‘One Centimetre’ is an insightful narrative by Bi Shu-min that explores the relationship between a mother, Tao Ying, and her son, Xiao Ye. Through their interactions, the story highlights themes of parental responsibility, societal norms, and the innocence of childhood. --- ## Knowledge Snapshot | Field | Details | | :--- | :--- | | Class | Class 12 | | Subject | English | | Book | Kaliedoscope | | Chapter | One Centimetre | | Pages | 71-89 | --- ## Chapter Summary ### Short Summary The story revolves around Tao Ying, who tries to navigate the complexities of motherhood, societal expectations, and her relationship with her son, Xiao Ye, as they encounter challenges while on an outing to a temple. ### Detailed Summary Tao Ying, a factory cook, often chooses not to buy a bus ticket, believing her presence does not warrant it. However, she makes an exception for her son, Xiao Ye, who is eager to ride. The story captures their journey as they go to a temple, a trip filled with potential joy. Along the way, they face the issue of ticket enforcement at the temple’s entrance, leading to a public confrontation with the ticket guard. As Tao Ying tries to assert her son’s height exemption status, the situation escalates, highlighting her struggle against societal norms. Ultimately, when representatives from the temple come to address her complaint, the story culminates in a revelation about childhood measurements and parental love. --- ## Topic-Wise Explanation ### 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. --- ## Character Analysis ### Tao Ying Tao Ying embodies the essence of motherhood, balancing her personal insecurities and the societal expectations placed upon her, striving to be an ideal example for her son. ### Xiao Ye Xiao Ye represents childhood innocence and exuberance, often acting as the catalyst for events that unfold between him and his mother. --- ## Core Ideas | Idea | Explanation | | :--- | :--- | | Responsibility | The weight of parental responsibility is illustrated through Tao Ying’s actions and decisions throughout the story. | | Societal Norms | The story emphasizes how societal expectations affect personal choices and family dynamics. | --- ## Key Concepts | Concept | Meaning | | :--- | :--- | | Height Exemption | The policy regarding free entry based on children's height highlights societal regulations impacting families. | --- ## Important Points for Revision * Bi Shu-min is an acclaimed writer and doctor. * Tao Ying often chooses not to buy bus tickets to save money. * Xiao Ye's eagerness to engage in rituals showcases childhood innocence. * The confrontation with the ticket guard portrays societal enforcement of rules. * The temple symbolizes both hope and conflict. * Tao Ying’s conflict revolves around maintaining her dignity and her son’s happiness. * The resolution emphasizes love and understanding in the parent-child relationship. * The story critiques the societal structures that dictate personal interactions and familial joy. --- ## Vocabulary and Glossary | Word / Phrase | Meaning | | :--- | :--- | | Exemption | Freedom from a rule or obligation. | Dignity | A sense of pride in oneself; self-respect. | --- ## Practice Questions ### Short Answer Questions 1. What is the main profession of Tao Ying? 2. How does Tao Ying feel about buying a bus ticket? 3. What does Xiao Ye insist on during their bus ride? 4. Why does the confrontation at the temple arise? 5. How does Tao Ying react to Xiao Ye’s height measuring situation? ### Long Answer Questions 1. Discuss how Bi Shu-min portrays the theme of motherhood in ‘One Centimetre.’ 2. Analyze the relationship dynamics between Tao Ying and Xiao Ye throughout their visit to the temple. 3. Evaluate the impact of societal norms on the characters' decisions and interactions in the story. --- ## Related Concepts * Public Transport Regulations * Societal Expectations on Parenting --- ## Source Attribution | Field | Value | | :--- | :--- | | Source | Edzy | | Reference Type | examSubjectBookChapter | | Reference ID | 66defd0d3f8b4e9e69bde573 | | Canonical URL | https://www.edzy.ai/cbse-class-12-english-kaliedoscope-one-centimetre | | Markdown URL | https://www.edzy.ai/okf/chapter/cbse-class-12-english-kaliedoscope-one-centimetre.md |