Summary of “His First Flight”
“His First Flight” by Liam O’Flaherty is the story of a young seagull who is afraid to fly. While his two brothers and sister learn to fly easily, he remains alone on a ledge, frightened by the vast sea below. He believes that his wings will not support him and that he will fall if he attempts to fly.
His parents try to encourage and scold him, but he still lacks the courage to jump. Soon, hunger makes him weak and restless, as his family stops bringing him food. Seeing his mother holding a piece of fish, the young seagull cries out desperately. His mother flies close to him but stops just out of reach. Maddened by hunger, he dives towards the food and falls into the air.
At first, he is terrified, but soon he feels his wings spread and realizes that he is flying. His fear disappears, and he begins to enjoy soaring over the sea. His family proudly flies around him, encouraging and praising him. When he lands on the water, he discovers that he can float safely. The young seagull finally gains confidence and completes his first successful flight.
The story highlights the importance of courage, self-belief, and parental guidance in overcoming fear and achieving independence.
Analysis of “His First Flight”
“His First Flight” by Liam O’Flaherty is a symbolic and inspiring short story that explores the themes of fear, courage, self-confidence, and independence through the experience of a young seagull learning to fly. Though the characters are birds, the story closely reflects human psychology and real-life struggles, making it highly relatable to students.
Fear and Psychological Conflict
At the beginning of the story, the young seagull is dominated by fear. He is afraid that his wings will not support him and that he will fall into the vast sea below. This fear is not physical weakness but a mental barrier. His siblings fly confidently, which increases his sense of isolation and self-doubt. This highlights how fear often exists only in the mind and can prevent growth.
Role of Parents and Tough Love
The seagull’s parents play a crucial role in his development. They scold, threaten, and eventually stop feeding him. Though their behaviour appears harsh, it represents tough love. They understand that true learning comes only when one is forced to face challenges independently. Their actions reflect how parents sometimes push children out of their comfort zones for their own good.
Hunger as a Turning Point
Hunger becomes the turning point in the story. The young seagull’s physical need overpowers his fear. When his mother tempts him with a piece of fish, he dives instinctively. This moment symbolises how necessity can awaken hidden strength and courage. The seagull does not plan to fly; he learns by doing.
Discovery of Self-Confidence
Once airborne, the seagull realizes that flying comes naturally to him. His fear disappears, replaced by joy and excitement. This shows that confidence often follows action, not preparation. The moment he trusts himself, he succeeds. His successful flight represents personal growth and emotional maturity.
Symbolism
- Flight symbolises freedom, independence, and self-belief.
- The Sea represents fear, uncertainty, and challenges in life.
- The Ledge symbolises the comfort zone that must be left behind for growth.
Message of the Story
The story conveys the powerful message that fear can be overcome through courage, necessity, and faith in oneself. It teaches that failures and risks are part of learning and that growth begins when one dares to take the first step.
Relevance to Students
For Class X students, the story is especially meaningful as it mirrors their own fears—fear of exams, failure, or new responsibilities. It encourages students to face challenges bravely and trust their abilities.
About the Author – Liam O’Flaherty
Liam O’Flaherty (1896–1984) was a well-known Irish novelist and short-story writer, regarded as one of the most important figures in modern Irish literature. He was born on the Aran Islands, off the west coast of Ireland, a region known for its harsh natural environment and close relationship with the sea—an influence clearly reflected in many of his stories.
O’Flaherty had a turbulent early life. He served as a soldier during World War I, an experience that deeply affected him and shaped his writing. Much of his work focuses on human psychology, inner conflicts, fear, survival, and the struggle between instinct and reason. His characters often face harsh situations that force them to grow emotionally and mentally.
He is especially admired for his realistic style and his ability to portray intense emotions with simplicity. His famous works include The Informer, Famine, and several short stories.
“His First Flight” is one of his most popular short stories and is widely taught in schools because of its strong moral message, symbolic meaning, and relevance to young learners.
Through his writing, Liam O’Flaherty emphasizes that courage, self-belief, and experience are essential for personal growth—making his works timeless and relatable, especially for students.
