Chapter 5, Nick Middleton’s ‘Silk Road’ Summary, Theme, Charcater Sketch, Vocabulary, Important Passages, Textbook Questions Answers with Extra Questions.
Chapter 5- Silk Road by Nick Middleton
Table of Contents
Hornbill Poems: Complete, Easy Analysis of Class 11 Poems
Supplementary Reader: Class 11 ‘Snapshots‘
Vocabulary:
| Altitude sickness: Feeling sick (headache, nausea, trouble breathing) from climbing too high, too fast. Ascetic: A person who lives simply and avoids comforts, often for religious reasons. Barren: A lifeless, empty land with no plants. Buddhist Lamas: Tibetan Buddhist monks or spiritual leaders. Cairn: A pile of stones used as a marker or memorial. Caravan: A group of people traveling together, often with animals. Changtang: A high, cold Tibetan plateau with empty landscapes. Cosmology: The study of how the universe began and works. Desolate: An empty and lonely place. Drokba: Tibetan nomads who herd animals. Enlightenment: Spiritual knowledge that frees someone from rebirth. Endurance: Strength to survive hardships. Exile: Forced to leave one’s home country. Gorge: A deep, narrow valley with steep sides. Inhospitable: A harsh place where it’s hard to live. Immense: Very large or huge. Intravenous: Medicine or fluids given directly into a vein. Kora: A Buddhist ritual of walking around a sacred place. Kyang: A wild Tibetan donkey. Lichen: A small plant that grows on rocks or trees. Lhasa: The capital city of Tibet. Manasarovar: A sacred lake in Tibet. Mastiff: A big, strong dog often used for guarding. Monastery: A place where monks or nuns live and pray. Nomad: Someone who moves from place to place with no permanent home. Nomadic: A way of life where people move often. Pashmina: Soft wool used for making clothes like shawls. Penance: A religious act to show regret for wrongdoing. Perilous: Very dangerous. Pilgrimage: A religious journey to a holy place. Prayer flags: Colorful cloths with prayers, hung for peace and blessings. Provisions: Supplies of food and essentials for a journey. Prostrate: Lying flat on the ground to show respect. Reverence: Deep respect. Serenity: Peace and calmness. Shear: Cutting wool from sheep. Solitude: Being alone, often peacefully. Sparse: Spread out and few in number. Subsistence: Basic needs for survival. Sutras: Buddhist scriptures or teachings. Tethys Ocean: An ancient ocean before the Himalayas formed. Trans-Himalaya: Mountain ranges north of the Himalayas. Turbulent: Chaotic or stormy. Yak: A long-haired animal used for work and food in Tibet. Yak Butter: Butter made from yak milk, used in Tibetan tea and food. |
Meaning of the expressions inferred from the text:
| Ducking back: To quickly move or step back to avoid something, often used when trying to hide or escape briefly. Swathe: A large area or stretch of something, often referring to land or a broad strip of material. Careered down: To move quickly and uncontrollably, like something speeding down a slope or path. Manoeuvres: Planned and skilled movements or actions, often used in driving or moving things carefully. Cairn of rocks: A pile of rocks placed on each other, usually as a marker or to guide travellers. Salt flats: Flat, dry areas covered with salt, often found in deserts or places where water has evaporated. Billowed: To swell or puff out in waves, like how smoke or fabric can expand and move in the wind. |
Summary “Silk Road” by Nick Middleton:
In Nick Middleton’s travelogue Silk Road, the author recounts his journey through the remote region of Tibet, focusing on the challenges and experiences he faced. Middleton, along with his guide Tsetan, traverses harsh landscapes, encounters nomadic people, and faces the effects of high altitude.
Despite the difficulties, such as navigating snowy mountain passes and dealing with altitude sickness, the journey leads them to the town of Darchen near the sacred Mount Kailash. Middleton meets Norbu, a Tibetan academic who intends to complete the pilgrimage here.
The travelogue highlights the beauty of the Tibetan landscape, the local culture, and the spiritual significance of the journey, blending adventure with moments of introspection.
Theme “Silk Road” by Nick Middleton:
Resilience and Spirituality in Tibet:
Nick Middleton‘s Silk Road theme explores the challenges and experiences of travelling through remote and rugged landscapes. The travelogue captures the physical and mental struggles of journeying in the high altitudes of Tibet, as well as the cultural encounters with local people and their traditions.
It also reflects on the significance of spiritual pilgrimages, highlighting the contrast between the harshness of the environment and the traveller’s inner journey.
The travel account emphasises resilience, nature’s unpredictability, and the Tibetan plateau’s unique beauty, making it a rich exploration of adventure, spirituality, and the human spirit.
Character Sketch of Nick Middleton:
- Name: Nick Middleton
- Role: Protagonist and Author
- Occupation: Travel Writer and Geographer
Overview:
Nick Middleton is a curious, intrepid/brave explorer passionate about documenting remote and challenging landscapes. As the central figure in “Silk Road,” he embarks on a journey to traverse and uncover the historical and cultural depths of the Silk Road region. His adventures highlight his dedication to understanding the world’s most rugged and isolated areas.
1. Characteristics/Traits:
- Adventurous: Driven by a desire to explore uncharted territories and face the unknown with excitement.
- Resilient: Demonstrates remarkable endurance and adaptability, navigating harsh climates and rugged terrains.
- Observant: Keenly aware of the subtle details in his surroundings, capturing the essence of landscapes and cultures.
- Curious: Constantly seeking new knowledge and insights about the regions he travels through and the people he meets.
2. Skills:
- Geographical Expertise: Knowledgeable about the geography and environmental challenges of the Silk Road region.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Able to engage respectfully with diverse cultures and traditions encountered during his travels.
- Writing Proficiency: Skilled in articulating his experiences and observations, bringing the Silk Road’s journey to life through compelling prose.
3. Challenges:
- Physical Hardships: Faces the physical demands of travelling through harsh climates and rough terrain.
- Language Barriers: He navigates communication challenges with local communities and guides.
- Isolation: Deals with the solitude and mental challenges of remote and sparsely populated regions.
4. Motivations:
- Discovery: Driven by a desire to uncover and document the historical and cultural significance of the Silk Road.
- Connection: He seeks to forge connections with the people he encounters, understanding their way of life and perspectives.
- Personal Growth: Uses the journey as a means of self-discovery and personal enrichment, confronting his limits and expanding his horizons.
5. Impact:
Nick Middleton’s journey through the Silk Road gives readers a vivid and immersive account of one of the world’s most storied routes. His observations and reflections offer valuable insights into the landscapes and cultures he explores, enriching the reader’s understanding of this historical region.
Questions Answers “Silk Road” by Nick Middleton:
Understanding The Text:
I. Give reasons for the following statements.
1. The article has been titled ‘Silk Road.’
The title ‘Silk Road’ reflects the author’s journey along the ancient trade route that connected the East and the West. It symbolises exploration, adventure, and the cultural exchange that the author experiences while travelling through Tibet.
2. Tibetan mastiffs were popular in China’s imperial courts.
Tibetan mastiffs were known for their loyalty, strength, and fierce nature. These qualities made them highly valued in China’s imperial courts, where they were often given as gifts and used as guard dogs.
3. The author’s experience at Hor was in stark contrast to earlier accounts of the place.
The author found Hor unpleasant and disappointing, unlike the vibrant and bustling town described in earlier accounts—the reality of the place needed to match the expectations set by historical descriptions.
4. The author was disappointed with Darchen.
The author was disappointed with Darchen because it differed from his imagined lively town. Instead, he found it dull and empty, lacking the energy and excitement he had anticipated.
5. The author thought that his positive thinking strategy worked well after all.
Despite the challenges and disappointments during the journey, the author’s positive thinking helped him remain optimistic and appreciate his unique experiences. This mindset allowed him to find value in the journey, even when things did not go as planned.
II. Briefly comment on
1. The purpose of the author’s journey to Mount Kailash.
The author’s journey to Mount Kailash combines adventure and spirituality. He wanted to explore the remote and mystical region and experience the pilgrimage many Buddhists and Hindus believe will bring them spiritual benefits.
2. The author’s physical condition in Darchen.
In Darchen, the author struggled with the high altitude and harsh conditions. He felt weak, exhausted, and had difficulty breathing, which made it hard for him to enjoy the place or continue his journey.
3. The author’s meeting with Norbu.
The author met Norbu, a fellow traveller and scholar who shared his interest in Mount Kailash. Norbu, being overweight and not physically fit, made the author realise that the pilgrimage was more about the spiritual journey than the physical one.
4. Tsetan’s support to the author during the journey.
Tsetan, the author’s driver and guide, was very supportive and helpful during the journey. He ensured the author’s safety and comfort, especially when they faced difficult situations like harsh terrain and altitude sickness.
5. “As a Buddhist, he told me, he knew that it didn’t really matter if I passed away, but he thought it would be bad for business.”
This statement reflects Tsetan’s practical approach to life. While his Buddhist beliefs made him see death as a natural part of life, he also recognised the practical consequences of a tourist dying on the trip, which would negatively affect his reputation and business.
Talking About the Text:
Discuss in groups of four.
Sample:
| 1. The sensitive behaviour of hill-folk. A:The hill folks in the story show a lot of sensitivity, especially towards the visitors. For example, the Tibetan mastiffs are very protective of their territory. They run towards the vehicle to scare it away, showing their strong sense of duty and guardianship. B:Yes, and the way the nomads react when they see the car is interesting, too. They pause and sometimes wave, but their sheep move away from the vehicle, showing they are cautious and respectful of their animals’ safety. C:I noticed that the hill folks are also careful about their environment. For instance, people living in high-altitude areas know the harsh conditions and manage their resources carefully. They live in harmony with their surroundings and adapt to the challenges of their environment. D:Exactly. Their sensitivity isn’t just about protecting their land and animals and being aware of visitors’ needs. For instance, Lhamo gives the author a sheepskin coat to help with the cold, which shows their thoughtfulness and kindness towards guests. 2. The reasons why people willingly undergo the travails of difficult journeys. A: People often undertake challenging journeys for personal growth. The experience of overcoming difficulties can be enriching. It helps people learn more about themselves and develop resilience. B: Some people are motivated by adventure and the desire to explore new places. The thrill of discovering unknown lands and cultures can be a strong driving force. They seek the excitement and unique experiences that come with travelling. C: Religious or spiritual reasons also play a significant role. Many people go on difficult journeys as part of a pilgrimage or spiritual quest. They believe that enduring hardships will bring them closer to their spiritual goals or provide a sense of fulfilment. D: People might undertake challenging journeys to achieve specific goals or missions. Whether it’s for research, to fulfil a personal dream, or to meet important objectives, the challenges faced are seen as necessary steps toward achieving something significant. 3. The accounts of exotic places in legends and the reality. A: Legends about exotic places often make them sound magical and perfect. For example, many old stories describe places like Mount Kailash with reverence and mysticism. The legends usually focus on these places’ spiritual and mystical aspects, making them seem almost otherworldly. B: In reality, these places can be very different from what legends describe. For example, the author’s experience at Hor was quite disappointing compared to the historical reverence for Lake Manasarovar. The town was dusty and full of refuse, contrasting with the sacred and beautiful image in legends. C: Legends can create high expectations, sometimes leading to disappointment when visiting these places. The narrative from the book highlights that while Mount Kailash is revered in stories, the journey involves challenges, such as rough roads and harsh conditions, which are only sometimes mentioned in the legends. D: However, legends can still add value to authentic experiences. They offer cultural and historical context that enriches the journey. For instance, the reverence for Mount Kailash adds a layer of significance to the physical challenges faced during the trip. Even if the reality is harsh, the legends provide a deeper understanding of why these places are considered unique. |
Thinking About Language:
Q1: Notice the kind of English Tsetan uses while talking to the author. How do you think he picked it up?
A1: Tsetan speaks English straightforwardly, suggesting that he may have learned it through practical experience rather than formal education. He likely picked up English by interacting with tourists and travellers, as his job as a driver and guide would require him to communicate with people from different countries. This kind of language learning is common in places where tourism is a significant industry.
Q2: What do the following utterances indicate?
(i) “I told her, through Daniel …”
This indicates that the author uses Daniel as a translator or intermediary to communicate with a woman who speaks a different language. It suggests that the author and the woman do not share a common language, so they need someone else to help them understand each other.
(ii) “It’s a cold,” he said finally through Tsetan.
This indicates that the speaker does not share a common language with the author and needs Tsetan to translate or relay the message. It shows that Tsetan is acting as a translator between the author and the person with the cold.
Q3: Guess the meaning of the following words.
A3: These words are found in the Tibetan language.
- Kora: A pilgrimage or religious journey around a sacred site, especially in Tibetan Buddhism. People walk around a holy mountain, lake, or temple as a meditation or prayer.
- Drokba: A term used for nomadic herders or people living in the high-altitude grasslands of Tibet. These people often move from place to place with their livestock.
- Kyang: A wild animal native to the Tibetan Plateau, similar to a wild donkey or horse.
Working with Words:
1. The narrative has many phrases to describe the scenic beauty of the mountainside like:
- A flawless half-moon floated in a perfect blue sky.
Scan the text to locate other such picturesque phrases.
A1: In the narrative, the author uses many beautiful phrases to describe the mountainside. Following are other picturesque examples:
- “Glimpses of the vast, open plains dotted with white tents and grazing yaks.”
- “The sun was shining brightly, casting a golden glow on the snow-capped peaks.”
- “The sky was a clear, deep blue, with only a few wisps of cloud.”
- “The mountain stood tall and majestic, its peaks covered in snow.”
- “The landscape was a mix of rocky cliffs, green valleys, and sparkling streams.”
These phrases help paint a vivid picture of the stunning scenery the author experienced on their journey.
Q2: Explain the use of the adjectives in the following phrases.
A2: Adjectives are words that describe or modify nouns. They help by providing more details about the noun. Here’s how the adjectives are used in the phrases:
(i) Shaggy monsters
Shaggy describes the monsters (Tibetan mastiffs). It means the dogs have long, messy fur. The adjective helps us picture the dogs as having a rough, hairy appearance.
(ii) Brackish lakes
Brackish describes the lakes. It means the lakes have salty water but less salty water than seawater. The adjective gives information about the quality of the lake water.
(iii) Rickety table
Rickety describes the table. It means it is old and unstable, wobbling or shaking. The adjective helps us understand that it could be more sturdy.
(iv) Hairpin bend
A hairpin describes a bend (a sharp turn in the road). It means the bend is very sharp, like the shape of a hairpin. The adjective gives a clear image of how tight the turn is.
(v) Rudimentary general stores
Rudimentary describes the general stores. It means the stores are very basic and not well-developed. The adjective tells us that the stores are simple, not advanced or modern.
Noticing Form:
Q1: The account has only a few passive voice sentences. Locate them.
In what way does the use of active voice contribute to the style of the narrative?
A1: Passive Voice Sentences in the Text:
“The snow continued on either side of us, smoothing the abrupt bank on the upslope side.”
- “The snow continued” is in passive voice because it describes what was done by the snow, not who did it.
“We were within striking distance of the great mountain and I was eager to forge ahead.”
- “We were within striking distance” is passive because it focuses on the state of being near the mountain rather than the action of moving.
Use of Active Voice in the Narrative:
The active voice is used much more in the narrative. In active voice sentences, the subject acts. For example:
- “Tsetan knew a route that would take us south-west.”
- “I looked at my wristwatch.”
How Active Voice Contributes to the Style:
- Clarity and Directness: The active voice makes sentences clearer and more direct, helping readers understand the action and who is performing it.
- Engagement: It makes the narrative more engaging and vivid. Because the action is described as it happens, readers can more easily picture the events as they unfold.
- Dynamic and Lively: Active voice creates a sense of immediacy and dynamism, keeping the narrative lively and energetic. This style helps readers feel more involved in the author’s experiences and observations.
Q2. Notice this construction: Tsetan was eager to have them fixed. Write five sentences with a similar structure.
A2: The following are five sentences with a similar structure:
- She was excited to visit the new museum.
- They were thrilled to start their vacation.
- He was nervous to give his speech in front of the class.
- We were relieved to find the lost keys.
- The children were happy to see their favourite cartoon on TV.
Extra Questions “Silk Road” by Nick Middleton:
Short Answer Type Questions:
Q1: What was Lhamo’s farewell gift to the author?
A1: Lhamo gave the author a long-sleeved sheepskin coat as a farewell gift. This coat was worn by the local men and was intended to keep him warm during his journey to Mount Kailash, where cold temperatures were expected.
Q2: Why did Tsetan say it was uncertain if they could pass the snow-covered track?
A2: Tsetan said it was still being determined if they could pass the snow-covered track because he only knew the snow conditions once they arrived. The weather could change, making it hard to predict whether the track would be passable or if they would face problems.
Q3: What did Tsetan do when they encountered snow on the track?
A3: When they encountered snow on the track, Tsetan stopped the car and got out to check the situation. He decided to drive carefully, guiding the vehicle through the snow-covered track. Tsetan’s experience and calm approach helped them navigate the challenging conditions safely and continue their journey.
Q4: What was the author’s reaction to the town of Hor?
A4: The author found Hor to be grim and unpleasant. It was dusty, with no vegetation and lots of rubbish. This stark contrast to the sacred Lake Manasarovar, which he had expected to be beautiful, made Hor seem disappointing and unwelcoming.
Q5: How did the author feel about meeting Norbu?
A5: The author was happy to meet Norbu because they shared a common goal of visiting Mount Kailash. Norbu’s friendliness and shared language helped the author feel more comfortable and less isolated during the journey, giving the author a sense of companionship.
Q6: What did Tsetan do when the car encountered a snow blockage?
A6: When the car encountered a snow blockage, Tsetan checked the snow’s condition. He spread dirt over the snow to make the surface less slippery. Then, he carefully drove the car across the snowy section with the help of the dirt, ensuring they didn’t slip or get stuck.
Q7: How did the altitude affect the author’s health during the journey?
A7: The high altitude made the author feel dizzy, short of breath, and tired. He had headaches and found it difficult to sleep. These symptoms were due to the lack of oxygen at high elevations, which affected his body as they continued their journey across the mountains.
Q8: What did the author observe about the Tibetan mastiffs?
A8: The author observed that Tibetan mastiffs were large, fierce dogs used by nomads to guard their sheep from wolves. They were usually tied up during the day but were let loose at night. When the author’s car approached, the dogs barked loudly and chased it, showing their protective nature.
Q9: How did the author’s experience in Hor compare to previous travellers’ accounts?
A9: The author’s experience in Hor differed greatly from previous travellers’ accounts. Unlike earlier visitors who were moved by the sacredness of Lake Manasarovar, the author found Hor dusty, grim, and disappointing. The town’s condition did not match the spiritual significance described by earlier travellers.
Q10: What was Norbu’s background and reason for being in Darchen?
A10: Norbu was a Tibetan academic who worked at an institute in Beijing. He was in Darchen to complete a pilgrimage to Mount Kailash, something he had always wanted to do. However, like the author, he wasn’t very fit and struggled with the physical demands of the journey.
Q11: Why did Tsetan need to repair the tyres in Hor?
A11: Tsetan needed to repair the tyres in Hor because they had suffered two punctures during the drive. The second tyre was worn out and smooth, making it unsafe for further travel. Tsetan wanted to fix the tyres to ensure the vehicle could continue the journey without problems.
Q12: What type of tea did the author receive from the cafe in Hor?
A12: The author received a glass of Tibetan tea at the café in Hor. This tea was made with black tea, yak butter, and salt. The author found the taste unpleasant and struggled to finish it, noting that the buttered tea was not something they enjoyed drinking.
Q13: What was the condition of the road after passing the first snow blockage?
A13: After passing the first snow blockage, the road condition worsened. It became rough and uneven, with the vehicle bouncing and jerking as they moved forward. The rough terrain and patches of snow made the journey challenging, and they had to proceed slowly and carefully to avoid accidents.
Q14: How did the author manage to sleep after receiving Tibetan medicine?
A14: After taking Tibetan medicine, the author managed to sleep well. The medicine, which included brown powder and small pellets, helped ease his cold and altitude sickness. After starting the treatment, he found that he slept soundly and felt much better, with no more breathing difficulties at night.
Q15: What were Norbu’s plans for the pilgrimage?
A15: Norbu, who was also a scholar, planned to make a pilgrimage to Mount Kailash. Although overweight and not fit, he wanted to complete the kora, a religious walk around the mountain. He hoped to do it slowly, taking his time to enjoy the spiritual experience.
Long Answer Type Questions:
Q1: Describe the landscape and challenges the author faces on his journey towards Mount Kailash.
A1: On his journey to Mount Kailash, the author faces a rugged and harsh landscape. He travels through vast, open plains, rocky areas, and high mountain passes.
The terrain is challenging, with icy snow patches blocking the path, and the altitude causes headaches and breathing difficulties. The cold weather and snow add to the problems, making driving and walking tough. He also encounters nomadic people and fierce Tibetan mastiffs that guard their land.
Despite these obstacles, the author manages to navigate through the changing environment with the help of his guide, Tsetan and overcomes the physical challenges of the high altitude as he moves closer to the sacred mountain.
Q2: What is the significance of the Tibetan mastiffs mentioned in the travelogue, and how do they contribute to the atmosphere of the journey?
A2: Tibetan mastiffs are large, powerful dogs known for their fierce loyalty and protective nature. The travelogue mentions them as part of the journey, adding a sense of tension and adventure.
These dogs are tied up during the day but let loose at night to guard the area. Their presence highlights the remote and rugged nature of the region, where such powerful animals are needed for protection.
The author encounters these mastiffs, intensifying the atmosphere of the journey. Their mention emphasises the wild and untamed environment through which the author travels, making it clear that the path to Mount Kailash is physically demanding and filled with the unexpected.
Q3: How does the author’s interaction with the local people, like Lhamo and Norbu, reflect the cultural setting of the region?
A3: The author’s interaction with local people like Lhamo and Norbu provides insight into the region’s unique cultural setting. Lhamo, a Tibetan woman, welcomes the author warmly and offers hospitality, a significant part of Tibetan culture.
A Tibetan scholar, Norbu shares his knowledge and deep spiritual connection to Mount Kailash, showing the mountain’s importance in the local belief system. These interactions highlight the Tibetan people’s kindness, spirituality, and strong cultural traditions.
Through these meaningful encounters, the author learns about the region’s customs, beliefs, and way of life, which enrich his journey and give him a deeper understanding of the local culture.
Q4: Explain how the author deals with the physical difficulties of high altitude and the extreme conditions during the trip.
A4: The author experienced physical difficulties, such as breathing problems and fatigue, due to the high altitude and extreme conditions during the trip.
He takes slow and steady steps to cope with these challenges, allowing his body to adjust to the thin air. His guide, Tsetan, advises him on managing his altitude, such as staying hydrated and resting when necessary.
The author also uses medication to help with altitude sickness. The harsh weather, with its cold winds and thin air, makes the journey challenging, but the author remains focused and determined.
By being careful, listening to his guide, and caring for his health, he successfully manages the problematic conditions and continues his journey.
Q5: Discuss the contrast between the author’s expectations and the reality he encounters in Hor.
A5: The author expects Hor, a town near Mount Kailash, to be a place of significance and beauty, given its proximity to the sacred mountain. However, when he arrives, he finds the reality quite different from what he imagined.
Hor is a dirty and unattractive town with no charm or beauty. It feels neglected, with litter scattered around and lacking basic facilities.
This stark contrast between his expectations and the reality is disappointing.
Instead of being a peaceful and spiritual place, Hor feels unpleasant and unwelcoming. The author’s experience in Hor highlights the difference between his hopes and the conditions he faces during his journey.
Q6: How does the author’s experience at Darchen Medical College contribute to the narrative?
A6: The author’s experience at Darchen Medical College adds a critical layer to the narrative. When he starts feeling the effects of high altitude, such as breathlessness and dizziness, he visits the college for treatment.
The medical staff there provided him with a simple yet effective remedy that helped him feel better. This visit not only highlighted the physical challenges of his journey but also showed the local medical practices and the care provided in such remote areas.
The experience reflects the author’s vulnerability and the importance of local knowledge in overcoming difficulties. It also adds depth to the travelogue by showing a glimpse of everyday life and healthcare in the region.
Q7: How does the journey through the Silk Road reflect the spiritual and personal growth of the author?
A7: The journey through the Silk Road represents the author’s physical and spiritual path. As he travels, he encounters harsh landscapes, high altitudes, and challenging conditions that test his endurance.
These physical challenges mirror his inner journey, where he seeks a deeper understanding of himself and the world around him.
The sacred destination of Mount Kailash is not just a goal but a symbol of spiritual growth. Meeting people like Tsetan and Lhamo helps the author learn about Tibetan culture, spirituality, and the significance of the places he visits.
The journey ultimately leads to personal growth as the author gains new perspectives and a deeper appreciation for the Silk Road’s spiritual significance.
Q8: What role does the natural environment, such as the cold desert and mountain terrain, play in shaping the experience and mood of the travelogue?
A8: The natural environment, including the cold desert and mountain terrain, plays a crucial role in shaping the experience and mood of the travelogue.
The harsh, barren landscape reflects the author’s challenges on his journey, adding a sense of isolation and struggle. The cold desert’s vast emptiness and the towering mountains create a backdrop of awe and reverence, emphasising the spiritual nature of the journey.
The extreme conditions, such as freezing temperatures and thin air, heighten the sense of adventure and danger, making the journey more intense and memorable.
The environment tests the author’s physical endurance and deepens his connection to the spiritual significance of the sacred places he visits along the Silk Road.
Important Passages from the travelogue ‘Silk Road’ by Nick Middleton:
1. Departure from Ravu:
“A flawless half-moon floated in a perfect blue sky on the morning we said our goodbyes. Extended banks of cloud like long French loaves glowed pink as the sun emerged to splash the distant mountain tops with a rose-tinted blush.”
On the morning of departure, the sky was clear and beautiful. A nearly full moon was visible, and the sky was a perfect blue. Some clouds looked like long, pink French bread (Simile). As the sun rose, it cast a pink glow on the faraway mountain tops, making them look like they were blushing.
Relevance and Context:
The passage describes the beautiful scenery the author saw when leaving Ravu. It sets a peaceful and picturesque mood for the beginning of the journey. The clear sky and glowing mountains contrast the serene departure and the challenging journey ahead. The scene helps readers visualise the setting and appreciate the natural beauty before the author faces obstacles in the story.
2. Tsetan’s Assurance and the Challenge Ahead:
“But no problem, sir,” he assured us, “if there is no snow.” What was the likelihood of that I asked. “Not knowing, sir, until we get there.”
The driver, Tsetan, reassures the author that travelling will be fine if no snow is on the road. The author then asks how likely it is that there will be no snow. Tsetan replies that they will know until they reach the snow-covered area.
Relevance and Context:
The passage shows the uncertainty and potential difficulty of the journey. Tsetan’s response indicates they may face problems if snow is on the road, but they can’t predict it in advance. This uncertainty adds to the suspense and highlights the challenges of travelling in such a remote and unpredictable environment. It makes the reader understand that the journey will not be smooth and that obstacles might arise unexpectedly.
3. Navigating the Snow:
“Snow,” said Daniel as he too exited the vehicle, letting in a breath of cold air as he did so. Daniel said the snow didn’t look too deep to me, but the danger wasn’t its depth, so much as its icy top layer. “If we slip off, the car could turn over,” he suggested.”
Daniel points out that there is snow on the road, and as he steps out of the vehicle, he breathes in the cold air. Even though the snow doesn’t seem very deep, Daniel explains that the danger is the icy layer on top. If they slip on this ice, the car could flip over.
Relevance and Context:
The passage highlights a significant challenge the author faces during the journey. While the snow might not seem like a big problem initially, the icy surface poses a severe risk. The situation emphasises the difficulties of travelling in harsh, unpredictable conditions and prepares the reader for the potential hazards the author and his companions must navigate. It highlights the importance of caution and preparation in such environments.
4. Encounter with Tibetan Mastiffs:
“These shaggy monsters, blacker than the darkest night, usually wore bright red collars and barked furiously with massive jaws. They were completely fearless of our vehicle.”
The passage describes large, fierce dogs known as Tibetan Mastiffs. They have very dark fur and wear bright red collars. These dogs bark loudly and aggressively with their big mouths. They are not afraid of the vehicle and act very bravely.
Relevance and Context:
The excerpt illustrates the intimidating presence of the Tibetan Mastiffs, known for their strength and bravery. Their fearlessness and aggressive behaviour create a tense moment during the journey. The encounter shows the author’s challenges in dealing with the local wildlife and adds to the overall sense of adventure and unpredictability in the travel experience.
5. Struggle with Altitude Sickness:
“My headache soon cleared as we careered down the other side of the pass. It was two o’clock by the time we stopped for lunch. I checked my watch again as we continued to climb in the bright sunshine. We crept past 5,400 metres and my head began to throb horribly.”
The author mentions that the headache went away when they went downhill. However, as they continued climbing higher in the bright sunshine, their headache returned and became very painful. They were now over 5,400 meters above sea level, which is very high.
Relevance and Context:
The excerpt explains the problem of altitude sickness, a common issue when travelling at high elevations. As the author climbs higher, the lack of oxygen worsens their headache. Describing the pain and the altitude helps the reader understand the physical challenges and discomfort faced during the journey. It highlights how altitude affects health and adds to travel difficulties in such high and remote areas.
6. Experience in Hor:
“Hor was a grim, miserable place. There was no vegetation whatsoever, just dust and rocks, liberally scattered with years of accumulated refuse, which was unfortunate given that the town sat on the shore of Lake Manasarovar.”
Norbu says he has come to do the kora, a sacred pilgrimage around Mount Kailash. The author is excited to hear this because Norbu has spent years writing about the importance of kora in Buddhist texts but has never experienced it.
Relevance and Context:
The passage is important because it reveals Norbu’s background and reason for being in Darchen. It shows that he has yet to participate despite his academic knowledge about the pilgrimage. It adds significance to their meeting, as the author sees an opportunity to share the pilgrimage experience with someone who deeply understands its spiritual and cultural importance.
7. Meeting Norbu:
“Yes and no,” he said. “I have come to do the kora.” My heart jumped. Norbu had been writing academic papers about the Kailash kora and its importance in various works of Buddhist literature for many years, he told me, but he had never actually done it himself.”
Norbu says he came to do the kora, a pilgrimage around Mount Kailash. The author is excited because Norbu has written many academic papers about the kora and its importance in Buddhist literature, but he has never done the pilgrimage himself.
Relevance and Context:
The passage is significant because it highlights the author’s excitement about meeting Norbu. Norbu’s deep knowledge of the kora makes his participation in the pilgrimage especially meaningful. The author finds it attractive that someone who has studied the kora so much has never experienced it firsthand, making their shared journey even more special.
8. Darchen’s Reality:
“Darchen didn’t look so horrible after a good night’s sleep. It was still dusty, partially derelict and punctuated by heaps of rubble and refuse, but the sun shone brilliantly in a clear blue sky.”
After a good night’s sleep, the author sees Darchen in a better light. Although the town is still dusty and has many piles of trash and broken buildings, the bright sunshine and clear blue sky make it seem less unpleasant.
Relevance and Context:
The passage shows how the author’s perspective on Darchen changes with rest. It highlights that while the town has many problems, the beautiful weather improves the overall impression. This change in viewpoint reflects how physical comfort, like a good night’s sleep, can influence one’s perception of surroundings.
9. The Tibetan Doctor’s Diagnosis:
“When I explained my sleepless symptoms and my sudden aversion to lying down, he shot me a few questions while feeling the veins in my wrist. ‘It’s a cold,’ he said finally through Tsetan. ‘A cold and the effects of altitude.’”
The author describes visiting a Tibetan doctor because they couldn’t sleep and felt uncomfortable lying down. The doctor asked a few questions and checked the author’s pulse. He concluded that the problem was a cold combined with the effects of high altitude.
Relevance and Context:
The passage reveals the diagnosis of the author’s health issues. It shows that the doctor understands that both a common cold and the high altitude are causing the author’s problems. This explanation helps the reader understand why the author feels unwell and highlights the challenges of dealing with health issues while travelling at high altitudes.
