Essay Questions

Why does the astrologist lie?

The astrologist in "An Astrologer's Day" is very poor, therefore feels the motivation to not tell the truth just so that he can make more money. He admits in the story that he came to a verdict about the stars just to please the public, which isn't a very nice thing to do. No matter what your economic status, you should not lie to others for the benefit of yourself, as this can cause problems down the road. The astrologist appears to have given up on everything, and no longer cares how people view him in society (being honest or a liar).

Why does Thannappa withhold mail from Ramanujam?

Thannappa, despite being a postal worker, withholds a letter from Ramanujam. Having read the letter in advance, he knows that it contains the knowledge of the death of a relative, and this would make Ramanujam upset right before the wedding of his daughter. He tells himself that the best thing to do is not deliver the letter at all, because he doesn't want to make a friend upset. Thannappa was acting purely out of emotion, and disregarded all laws of postal delivery. However, it is easy to argue that he is right in his actions because they benefitted a perfectly nice man.

Why does the doctor in "The Doctor's Word" have such a strong opinion about how patients can be healed?

It is very common in people - sticking to a belief even when there is ample evidence that it is wrong. Having faith in your own ideas is a very important part of living, but not trying new things just because you don't believe they will work is foolish. In the case of Doctor Raman, his harsh personality tells others that words cannot heal a sick patient. In the end of the story, however, Doctor Raman tries the tactic and it works. Amazed, he still refuses to believe that such "magic" could actually work, and continues to believe that words are simply syllables and no one could have the ability to use them as a medical device.