Written by A G Gardiner Alfred George Gardiner
Written by: A. G. Gardiner
• Alfred George Gardiner (1865– 1946) was a British journalist and author. His essays, written under the pen-name Alpha of the Plough, are highly regarded. He was also Chairman of the National Anti-Sweating League, a pressure group which campaigned for a minimum wage in industry. • Gardiner was born in Chelmsford, the son of a cabinet-maker and alcoholic. As a boy he worked at the Chelmsford Chronicle and the Bournemouth Directory. He joined the Northern Daily Telegraph in 1887 which had been founded the year before by Thomas Purvis Ritzema. In 1899, he was appointed editor of the Blackburn Weekly Telegraph. [2]
� His essays remind us of, pleasant things, sunshine and mirth, laughter and peace. � They combine ideas and emotions. � His presentation is vivid and the clever use of words amuses us. � He deals with little acts of life. � His essays are delightful, humorous and thought provoking.
• • • In this essay he comments on the common western practice of shaking hands. He compares this custom of greeting with those of other cultures He debates the effectiveness of the practice of shaking hands. He also illustrates its disadvantages also. he gives humorous accounts of real life situations.
• • • The essay is full of wit and effective language. He suggests that hand shake is the mark of the personality. he regards it as a happy mean between the salaam or namaste of eastern countries. He brings home his point through humorous characters , situations and descriptions. A shake hand is very warm , affectionate intimate and informal.
�A hand shake is the indication of health, personality and character. � There are various kinds of hand- shakes. � a hand shake reveals the courage, confidence , honesty, frankness, or deceitfulness of a person.
Glossary • Amiable • Indictment • Bucolic • Promiscuous • Sacrilege • Dank Write the meanings from dictionary
� Bring information about the traditional greeting practices in five countries. � Find out some of the customary greetings of India. � Describe the main focus of Gardiner’s essay. � Do you think that the essay is humorous. Explain. � Do you agree with the title. why?
� List various advantages and disadvantages of shake hand mentioned by the author. � Read the essay thoroughly to understand the greetings of other cultures.
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