Question

How did Scibei's father react to the teacher's complaint?

Hint:

Parents should encourage their children’s creativity instead of discouraging it due to societal pressure.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding the Context.
This question is from the story “A Piece of String” (Japanese story about Seibei, the boy who loved collecting gourds). When the teacher complained to Seibei’s father about his son’s unusual habit of carving and polishing gourds during class hours, the father was deeply embarrassed.
Step 2: Reaction of Seibei’s Father.
Instead of supporting his son’s artistic passion, Seibei’s father became angry after hearing the teacher’s complaint. He scolded Seibei harshly for wasting time on what he considered useless work. The father was more concerned about discipline and the family’s social reputation than understanding his child’s creative interest.
Step 3: Emotional Interpretation.
The father’s reaction shows the generation gap between practical parents and imaginative children. It also reflects how society often fails to recognize individual talent when it doesn’t align with traditional expectations.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Seibei’s father punished him without realizing the artistic value of his hobby. His reaction represents the rigid mindset of adults who prioritize conformity over creativity.