Why is it important for protagonist to learn swimming in the story ‘Swimming lessons’?

1. Introduction

"Swimming Lessons" by Rohinton Mistry is a short story that explores themes of fear, courage, and personal growth. The protagonist, Rustomji, is a middle-aged man who decides to learn swimming despite his fear of water. This analysis will examine why it is important for Rustomji to learn swimming in the context of the story's themes and character development.

2. Overcoming Fear

• Symbolism of Swimming: In the story, swimming serves as a metaphor for overcoming fear and challenges. Rustomji's fear of water symbolizes his deeper anxieties and insecurities, and learning to swim represents his willingness to confront and conquer these fears.

• Personal Growth: By learning to swim, Rustomji undergoes a process of personal growth and transformation. He learns to face his fears head-on and discovers a newfound sense of confidence and self-assurance.

3. Sense of Accomplishment

• Achieving a Goal: For Rustomji, learning to swim is a significant achievement. It represents a goal that he has set for himself and demonstrates his determination and perseverance in pursuing it.

• Boost to Self-Esteem: Rustomji's success in learning to swim boosts his self-esteem and self-confidence. It shows him that he is capable of overcoming challenges and achieving his goals, no matter how daunting they may seem.

4. Facing Life's Challenges

• Preparation for the Future: Learning to swim prepares Rustomji to face future challenges with a sense of courage and resilience. It teaches him that he is capable of adapting to new situations and overcoming obstacles.

• Symbolism of Water: Water is often used as a symbol of life's challenges and uncertainties. By learning to swim, Rustomji learns to navigate these challenges with grace and confidence.

5. Confronting Mortality

• Facing the Inevitable: For Rustomji, learning to swim also symbolizes his acceptance of mortality and the inevitability of death. By confronting his fear of water, he confronts his fear of death and learns to embrace life more fully.

• Embracing Life: Learning to swim becomes a metaphor for embracing life and all its uncertainties. It teaches Rustomji to live in the present moment and make the most of his time on earth.

6. Conclusion

In conclusion, learning to swim is important for the protagonist in "Swimming Lessons" because it represents more than just a physical skill. It is a metaphor for overcoming fear, achieving personal growth, facing life's challenges, and confronting mortality. Through the act of learning to swim, Rustomji learns valuable lessons about courage, resilience, and the importance of embracing life's uncertainties.