Get here Notes based on the lesson “Poets and Pancakes” published in the CBSE Class 12 NCERT English Core Course Textbook “Flamingo”. These Notes include – A Summary, Theme explanation, Character Sketches of main characters etc. Click here for other resources for Class 12.
Notes: Poet and Pancakes- Class 12 Core (Flamingo)
Summary:
The Birth of Gemini Studios
In its early days, Gemini Studios, a renowned film production company, sourced truckloads of the popular makeup brand “Pancake,” potentially used by iconic figures like Greta Garbo and Vyjayantimala. The studio’s makeup department, situated in a building believed to be Robert Clive’s stables, held historical significance. The introduction of a dozen other buildings in the city rumored to be Clive’s residence adds a touch of historical curiosity.
Unveiling the Makeup Department
Within the makeup department, located on the upper floor, the setting resembled a hair-cutting salon with numerous mirrors surrounded by incandescent lights. This diverse team of makeup artists, hailing from different regions and backgrounds, possessed the skill to transform anyone into a hideous crimson-hued monster using pancake and locally made concoctions. The era’s predominantly indoor film shooting necessitated the artists to make actors look ugly for the sake of presentability on screen, maintaining a strict hierarchy within the department.
A Poet in the Shadows – The Office Boy’s World
The unique figure of the office boy in the makeup department, a man in his early forties with dreams of becoming a star, added a poetic touch to the studio’s workforce. His role involved preparing makeup for crowd players during crowd shooting days, painting faces to close every pore on the surface. Despite his age and unfulfilled dreams, he continued his work, a bit of a poet in the midst of the film industry’s daily activities.
Cubicle Chronicles – The Author’s Workspace
The author’s workspace was a cubicle with French windows, where they spent their days tearing up newspapers. Misconceptions about the author’s seemingly unproductive work led to unexpected lectures from well-meaning colleagues. The office boy from the makeup department took a keen interest in enlightening the author about the neglect of literary talent in a department seemingly fit for barbers and perverts.
Frustration and the Scapegoat – Kothamangalam Subbu
Frustration within the makeup department found its target in Kothamangalam Subbu, the No. 2 at Gemini Studios. The author explores Subbu’s background, acknowledging his uncertain start in the film industry. Despite potential challenges, Subbu’s loyalty and creativity contributed significantly to Gemini Studios during its golden years. The author ponders the reasons behind a makeup man’s intense animosity towards Subbu, a mystery that remains unsolved.
The MRA Invasion – A Circus at Gemini Studios
Gemini Studios witnessed a warm reception for Frank Buchman’s Moral Re-Armament army, characterized as an international circus. Despite lacking expertise in acrobatics or animal handling, the group’s professional presentation of plays, including “Jotham Valley” and “The Forgotten Factor,” left a lasting impact on Madras and the Tamil drama community. The author reflects on the peculiarities of the encounter, questioning the presence of an English poet in a film studio primarily producing Tamil films for a straightforward audience.
A Mystery Visitor – Stephen Spender’s Enigmatic Visit
A mysterious English poet (or editor) paid a visit to Gemini Studios, leaving the author and the rest of the studio perplexed. The poet’s serious demeanor, incomprehensible accent, and unexplained departure added to the mystique surrounding his presence.
Prose, Poverty, and a Book Sale – Literary Discoveries
Post-Gemini Studios, the author, with ample time but limited finances, was drawn to reduced-price books on the footpath. A purchase of ‘The God That Failed’ for fifty paise revealed essays by eminent figures, including Stephen Spender. The connection between Spender’s visit to Gemini Studios and his disillusionment with Communism, as expressed in the book, illuminated a previously mysterious aspect of the poet’s presence in the film studio.
Theme of “Poets and Pancakes”
The overarching theme of “Poets and Pancakes” revolves around the behind-the-scenes dynamics of Gemini Studios, a film production company, and the interactions, challenges, and intriguing events that transpire within this creative environment. The narrative provides insights into the makeup department, the office space, and the diverse individuals working in the film industry. Additionally, the lesson delves into the mysterious visit of an English poet (Stephen Spender) to the studio, adding an element of curiosity and complexity. The theme encompasses elements of artistic expression, workplace dynamics, and the intersection of literature and filmmaking.
Here is a detailed analysis of theme of “Poets and Pancakes”
In “Poets and Pancakes,” several major themes emerge:
1. Artistic Expression and Creativity:
- The narrative explores the creative process within Gemini Studios, particularly in the makeup department. It sheds light on the transformative power of makeup artists and the artistic endeavors of individuals working in the film industry.
2. Workplace Dynamics and Hierarchy:
- The hierarchical structure within the makeup department and the portrayal of different roles, from the chief makeup man to the office boy, highlight the workplace dynamics in Gemini Studios. It reflects the complexities and relationships within a creative workspace.
3. Cultural Diversity and National Integration:
- The makeup department’s diverse team, comprised of individuals from various regions and backgrounds, illustrates a form of national integration within the context of the film industry. The collaboration of artists from different cultural backgrounds is a subtle exploration of unity in diversity.
4. Disillusionment and Frustration:
- The author’s observation of frustration, particularly directed towards Kothamangalam Subbu, suggests a theme of disillusionment within the film industry. The reasons behind the makeup man’s animosity and the mysteries surrounding certain events contribute to an undercurrent of discontent.
5. Intersection of Literature and Filmmaking:
- The visit of the English poet (Stephen Spender) introduces a theme that explores the intersection of literature and filmmaking. The author’s discovery of Spender’s essays in ‘The God That Failed’ connects the literary world with the disillusionment expressed by the poet in the context of Communism.
6. Curiosity and Mystery:
- The narrative weaves a thread of curiosity and mystery, particularly concerning the unexplained visit of the English poet. This theme adds an element of intrigue and invites readers to ponder the reasons behind certain events in the story.
These themes collectively contribute to the richness and complexity of “Poets and Pancakes,” offering readers a glimpse into the multifaceted world of a film studio and the individuals who inhabit it.
Brief Description of Elements & Characters: “Poets and Pancakes”
While “Poets and Pancakes” by Asokamitran is more focused on the overall atmosphere and dynamics within Gemini Studios, it provides glimpses of key characters. Here are character sketches of a few notable figures:
Gemini Studios:
- As the backdrop of the story, Gemini Studios becomes a character in itself. The studio symbolizes the world of filmmaking, artistic expression, and the intricacies of the film industry during its golden years. It serves as the canvas upon which the narratives of various characters unfold.
The Office Boy in the Makeup Department:
- The office boy in the makeup department is a unique character who stands out for his dual role. In his early forties, he serves as a bridge between the makeup artists and the rest of the studio. Despite his official designation, he is revealed to be a bit of a poet, reflecting dreams and aspirations that go beyond his assigned tasks.
Kothamangalam Subbu:
- Subbu holds a significant position as the No. 2 at Gemini Studios. He is portrayed as a multifaceted individual with talents ranging from acting to poetry. Despite potential challenges, Subbu remains loyal and creative, contributing significantly to the studio’s success during its golden years. The narrative suggests that he becomes a focal point for frustrations within the makeup department, making him a character of interest.
The English Poet (Stephen Spender):
- The English poet’s visit to Gemini Studios adds an air of mystery to the narrative. Described as tall, serious, and with an incomprehensible accent, the poet’s purpose for visiting the studio remains unexplained. The subsequent discovery that he is Stephen Spender, known for his contributions to literature, particularly his disillusionment expressed in ‘The God That Failed,’ adds depth to his character.
The Makeup Department Team:
- The makeup department team is diverse, representing various regions and backgrounds. Their collective efforts in transforming actors and actresses contribute to the thematic exploration of artistic expression. The hierarchy within the team illustrates the structured dynamics of the department.
Character Sketches: “Poet and Pancakes”
In “Poets and Pancakes,” each character plays a unique role that adds depth to the narrative. Here’s an analytical look at how each major character is portrayed and what their presence signifies:
1. The Narrator: Asokamitran
Role: Observer, Commentator
Trait: Witty, Reflective
Impact: He provides a humorous and critical lens through which the reader experiences the studio’s environment.
The narrator, an employee at Gemini Studios, serves as an observer and commentator. Through his eyes, the reader gets a glimpse of the eccentricities and dynamics of the studio. His tone is often humorous and slightly sardonic, which helps to underscore the absurdities he witnesses.
He is reflective and often self-deprecating, providing readers with an inside look into the world of cinema while questioning the relevance of certain events (like the visit of the English poet). His presence is subtle yet insightful, functioning as the reader’s guide to the studio’s peculiarities.
2. The Boss (S.S. Vasan):
Role: Studio Head, Visionary
Trait: Authoritative, Influential
Impact: The Boss represents the power dynamics within the studio, showing how one person’s decisions can affect the lives of those who work under him.
The Boss is the head of Gemini Studios, a powerful figure who commands respect and control. Though he remains in the background for much of the story, his influence is strongly felt throughout the studio. His decisions shape the course of events, including hosting the English poet. The Boss is portrayed as a visionary but also somewhat detached from the practicalities of the studio. His presence is authoritative, and even when he is not directly involved, his influence over others, like Subbu and the legal adviser, is evident.
3. Kothamangalam Subbu:
Role: Deputy to the Boss, Creative Force
Trait: Resourceful, Loyal, Charismatic
Impact: His presence highlights the role of behind-the-scenes talent in filmmaking, showing how creativity and loyalty drive success in an industry often fraught with ego and competition.
Subbu is the creative force behind Gemini Studios, a man of many talents who often works behind the scenes. He is portrayed as an extremely resourceful person who can come up with multiple solutions to creative problems on demand. Subbu’s loyalty to his boss and his creative genius make him an invaluable part of the studio, even though his success and close relationship with the boss earn him enemies. Subbu’s presence embodies the ideal subordinate who thrives in the shadow of a powerful leader.
He is also a poet and a storyteller, but his literary talent is overshadowed by his success in cinema. Subbu is depicted as a man who embodies creativity but is also somewhat sycophantic.
4. The Office Boy in the Make-up Department:
Role: Make-Up Assistant, Frustrated Worker
Trait: Bitter, Resentful, Disillusioned
Impact: He embodies the theme of wasted talent and unfulfilled dreams, offering a counterpoint to Subbu’s success within the studio.
The office boy in the makeup department is a disgruntled, frustrated and bitter character who feels his literary talents have been wasted in a job that he sees as beneath him. His bitterness is directed toward Subbu, whom he sees as the cause of his professional stagnation. His presence in the story serves as a symbol of the unfulfilled aspirations that often exist within the film industry, where talent does not always equate to success. He represents the dissatisfied, overlooked worker who feels trapped in a system that doesn’t recognize his worth.
5. The Legal Adviser:
Role: Legal Adviser, Practical Thinker
Trait: Logical, Detached, Isolated
Impact: His presence highlights the contrast between the creative and administrative sides of the studio, emphasizing the tension between art and business.
The legal adviser is portrayed as a man of logic and pragmatism in an environment dominated by creativity and dreams. He sems out of place in the artistic and often chaotic environment of the studio. He is a solitary figure, dressed in a formal suit while others wear khadi, and his interactions with others are characterized by detachment. His most notable action is when he unwittingly ends an actress’s career by playing back her tirade against the producer, showcasing his cold practicality. Despite his presence in the studio, he remains somewhat isolated from the creative processes around him, a figure of rationality in a world of dreamers.
His presence emphasizes the clash between logic and emotion, and how cold rationality can sometimes have unintended consequences (like creating embarrassment for the actress).
6. The Visiting English Poet (Stephen Spender):
Role: English Poet, Outsider
Trait: Serious, Unfamiliar, Detached
Impact: His visit emphasizes the cultural and linguistic barriers between the West and the Indian film industry, illustrating the absurdity of bringing a foreign poet to a place where his work is completely irrelevant.
The English poet’s visit to Gemini Studios is one of the most comical and baffling moments in the story. His presence is marked by his complete disconnect from the audience, as he delivers a speech that neither the staff nor the audience can understand due to the cultural and linguistic gap. The poet represents the incongruity between different worlds — the world of English literature and the practical, down-to-earth world of Tamil cinema. His presence is a symbol of the alienation and misunderstandings that arise when cultures clash, especially in artistic settings.
7. The Poets and Writers at Gemini Studios:
The various poets and writers at the studio, such as S.D.S. Yogiar and Harindranath Chattopadhyaya, are depicted as somewhat out of place in the commercial film environment. They are idealistic and somewhat disconnected from the realities of the industry. Their presence adds to the narrative’s depiction of Gemini Studios as a place where art and commerce coexist uneasily, with the writers often struggling to find their place in a world driven by profit and popular appeal.
Each character in “Poets and Pancakes” is distinct, and Their presence is felt through their actions, interactions, and the way they influence the studio’s atmosphere. Their presence in the story contributes to the overall themes of power dynamics, cultural differences, unrecognized talent, and the tension between creativity and practicality in the world of film.
Character Sketch of Kothamangalam Subbu:
Kothamangalam Subbu, known as Subbu, is a significant character in “Poets and Pancakes.” Here’s a simplified character sketch:
- Role in Gemini Studios: Subbu holds an important position as the No. 2 at Gemini Studios. This means he is one of the key figures contributing to the studio’s success.
- Multifaceted Talent: Subbu is a person of many talents. He is not just involved in the administrative aspects of the film industry; he is also an actor, poet, and creative contributor to the studio’s projects.
- Loyalty and Creativity: Despite the challenges he might have faced in his career, Subbu remains loyal to Gemini Studios. His creativity and dedication are evident in his various roles, making him a valuable asset to the studio during its golden years.
- Background: The narrative hints at Subbu’s background, suggesting that he might have faced uncertainties and difficulties in the early days of his career. Despite this, he rises to prominence and becomes an integral part of Gemini Studios.
- Connection with The Boss: Subbu’s close association with “The Boss” (presumably the head of Gemini Studios) is highlighted. His loyalty to The Boss is portrayed positively, and he is shown to identify completely with the goals and success of the studio.
- Poetic Endeavours: The character sketch suggests that Subbu is not just a man of business but also a creative soul. He engages in poetic endeavours, showcasing his artistic side beyond the administrative responsibilities.
In summary, Kothamangalam Subbu is depicted as a dedicated, talented, and loyal individual whose multifaceted contributions, both administrative and creative, play a crucial role in the success of Gemini Studios.
