Chapter: 14. The Coromandel Fishers
A. Answer these questions.
The beginning of the poem describes the early morning, as indicated by “wakening skies” and “dawn.” The fishermen gather their nets from the shore and set their catamarans free. The sea gull’s call is referred to as a guide for the fishermen. The shade of the cocoanut glade, the scent of the mango grove, and the sound of loved voices on the sands at full moon are described as ‘sweet’. (Any two are acceptable). The fishermen aim to row to “the edge of the verge, where the low sky mates with the sea.” B. Answer these questions with reference to the context.
“The wind lies asleep in the arms of the dawn like a child that has cried all night.”
a. This line suggests that the wind was likely strong, turbulent, or active during the night, much like a child crying, but has now calmed down.
b. This comparison creates a sense of peacefulness and tranquility at the start of the day, suggesting a quiet calm after a period of activity.
c. The wind is described as “asleep” because it is now calm and still, having subsided after presumably being active during the night. “No longer delay, let us hasten away in the track of the sea gull’s call,”
a. “Hasten away” means to hurry or move quickly, without wasting any more time.
b. The fishermen follow the “sea gull’s call” because seagulls often gather where there are fish, indicating the best spots for their catch.
c. A strong sense of urgency and eagerness is conveyed, highlighting their readiness and desire to start their work immediately. C. Think and answer.
Life on land, represented by the “cocoanut glade,” “mango grove,” and “sands at the full o’ the moon with the sound of the voices we love,” symbolizes comfort, safety, domesticity, and the pleasures of family and community. In contrast, life at sea, characterized by “the kiss of the spray” and “the dance of the wild foam’s glee,” represents adventure, freedom, excitement, a challenging livelihood, and a deep, almost spiritual connection with nature. The fishermen ultimately choose the sea as “sweeter” because for them, the thrill of their adventurous life, the bounty it offers, and the unique bond they share with the ocean outweigh the comforts of the land. It is their passion, their source of pride, and their destiny. The repeated use of “brothers” suggests a powerful sense of camaraderie, shared purpose, and a strong, familial bond among the fishermen. It implies that they are a united community, relying on each other for support and survival. This brotherhood is crucial for their dangerous livelihood because fishing in the open sea can be unpredictable and perilous. Trust, cooperation, and mutual support are essential for navigating storms, working together to cast and retrieve nets, and ensuring each other’s safety, turning a group of workers into a cohesive and resilient team. The poem’s strong, consistent rhythm (often anapestic, creating a sense of forward momentum) and clear AABB rhyme scheme contribute significantly to its mood and theme. The rhythmic quality mimics the rhythmic motion of rowing or the steady beat of waves, immersing the reader in the fishermen’s world and their daily routine. This musicality creates an energetic and inspiring tone, reinforcing the idea of adventure and continuous movement. The vibrant language and vivid imagery (“leaping wealth,” “wild foam’s glee”) further enhance the feeling of excitement and the profound, almost joyful connection the fishermen have with the powerful and beautiful sea, making their hazardous life seem heroic and desirable. 
Answer key