The story Lingkuan Gorge is a masterpiece of modern Chinese literature by Tu Peng-cheng. It is a mandatory part of the 12th-grade English syllabus because it explores themes of duty, perseverance, and the impact of the younger generation on the old.
Whether you are looking for a character sketch of Cheng-Yu or a summary of the narrator’s transformation, this guide provides the most accurate 2nd year English notes for your board exams.
Setting the Scene: The Struggle at Lingkuan Gorge
The story is set against the backdrop of the construction of the Paoki-Chengtu Railway. The narrator, struggling through a fierce snowstorm, finds himself physically and mentally exhausted.
The Narrator’s Mission and Physical State
The narrator serves as the Chief of the Material Department Depot. His journey’s purpose is to supervise the construction of the upcoming railway. However, the intense cold, continuous snowfall, and howling winds force him to seek shelter. Hunger and physical fatigue lead him to a small cave, where he meets the true hero of the story: little Cheng-Yu.
Character Analysis: Cheng-Yu (The Heart of the Story)
Cheng-Yu is a 7 or 8-year-old boy who embodies the spirit of the entire workforce at Lingkuan Gorge.
- Quick Wit: When the narrator asks why nobody is home, Cheng-Yu cleverly replies, “Aren’t I anybody, Uncle?”
- A Sense of Duty: Despite being a child, he takes his “post”—guarding his baby sister, Pao-Cheng—with the seriousness of a soldier.
- Parental Influence: His father is a laborer drilling holes for dynamite, and his mother is a traffic controller standing on a dangerous, narrow road. Their grit is reflected in Cheng-Yu’s character.
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- Vocabulary, Synonyms, and Antonyms.
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Key Theme: “A Man Should Never Leave His Post”
The turning point of the story occurs when the narrator, tired and pessimistic, advises Cheng-Yu to go to sleep. The boy refuses, citing his parents’ motto: “One should never leave his post.”
The Transformation of the Narrator
Initially, the narrator is ready to give up due to the harsh weather. However, Cheng-Yu’s determination reawakens his spirit. By the end of the story, the narrator:
- Buttons his coat and fixes his hat (symbolizing his renewed resolve).
- Leaves the cave to face the storm.
- Realizes his responsibility as a chief is waiting for him, and he cannot afford to fail.
Critical Evaluation: Why This Story Matters
Is the story overly moralistic? While the message is “heavy-handed,” the author uses vivid descriptions of the machinery, the “hustle-bustle” of the workers, and the intimate setting of the cave to keep the reader engaged. It serves as a “compiled thesis” on professional integrity.
Comparison: Lingkuan Gorge vs. Battle of Uhud
The motto of the story is often compared to the Battle of Uhud. Just as the archers faced consequences for leaving their post, the narrator realizes that leaving one’s duty leads to social and professional chaos.
Also Read: 2nd Year English Notes | Unit 07: The Battle of Uhud (Full Download PDF)
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does the name ‘Pao-Cheng’ signify?
The baby sister’s name is likely a tribute to the Paoki-Chengtu Railway, symbolizing that the work being done is for the future of the next generation.
2. What are the parents’ specific jobs?
The father is a blaster (opening mountains with dynamite), and the mother is a traffic controller on the narrow cliff roads.
3. Why is this chapter included in 2nd year English?
It teaches students the value of optimism and responsibility, qualities essential for young adults entering the professional world.
Conclusion
Lingkuan Gorge is a story about the triumph of the human spirit over nature. By using these 2nd year English notes, you will be able to write detailed answers and character sketches that stand out in your exams.