BIRTH BY A.J.
CRONIN
INTRODUCTION
This excerpt from “The Citadel” by A.J. Cronin narrates an
intense moment in the life of Andrew Manson, a young doctor
newly graduated from medical school. It illustrates his dedication,
perseverance, and emotional journey as he struggles to save a
newborn child and its mother.
THE MIDNIGHT C ALL
Andrew Manson, a young doctor, is called late at night by Joe
Morgan for his wife, who is in labor. Despite being preoccupied
with his personal concerns, Andrew gathers his medical bag and
accompanies Joe to his home. This sets the stage for the dramatic
events that follow and introduces Andrew’s initial emotional state,
marked by exhaustion and detachment.
INNER TURMOIL
Andrew reflects on his own emotional turmoil as he waits for
the delivery to progress. He thinks about unhappy marriages,
contrasting his idealistic notions of love and relationships with
harsh realities. This inner conflict humanizes him, showing his
vulnerabilities and the personal burdens he carries into his
professional life. Andrew reflects on his own emotional turmoil
as he waits for the delivery to progress. He thinks about
unhappy marriages, contrasting his idealistic notions of love and
relationships with harsh realities. This inner conflict humanizes
him, showing his vulnerabilities and the personal burdens he
carries into his professional life.
A CRITIC AL DECISION
The delivery takes a difficult turn. After a prolonged struggle, the child is born
lifeless, and the mother’s condition becomes critical. Andrew is torn between
saving the mother and reviving the child. Instinctively, he prioritizes the mother,
showcasing his quick decision-making and adherence to medical ethics under
pressure. Once the mother is stabilized, Andrew turns his attention to the lifeless
child. He diagnoses the condition as asphyxia pallida (oxygen deprivation).
Drawing from a past experience at a hospital, he attempts a risky and
unconventional resuscitation method involving alternating cold and hot water
immersion. The intensity of his efforts reveals his desperation and determination
to save the child.
MIRACLE OF LIFE
Andrew works tirelessly, despite the midwife’s doubts and the grim
atmosphere. After nearly half an hour, the child shows signs of life.
Andrew’s persistence pays off as the baby begins to breathe and cry.
This moment is deeply emotional, not just for Andrew but also for
the onlookers, including the praying grandmother. Andrew, physically
and emotionally drained, leaves the house. Outside, he informs Joe
Morgan that both mother and child are safe. This announcement
marks the climax of the story, highlighting Andrew’s success and the
fulfillment of his duty.
CLOSING REFLECTION
As Andrew walks back, he thinks deeply about what he has achieved that night. His
exclamation, "I’ve done something real at last," reflects a profound sense of fulfillment
and purpose. For the first time, he feels the true meaning of his work as a doctor—not
just the knowledge from books but the ability to save lives in real, critical situations.
This moment becomes a turning point in his life, giving him a newfound respect for the
responsibilities of his profession. The experience also teaches him the importance of
perseverance, quick decision-making, and compassion in medicine. It is a moment that
not only changes his perspective on his career but also gives him the confidence and
drive to face future challenges with greater determination.
