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1. Study Guide for 'Cô Tô' - Version 4
A – KEY CONCEPTS
1. Author:
Nguyễn Tuân (1910 – 1987), born in Hanoi
He was a renowned literary figure, specializing in essays and travelogues
Starting from the 1930s, Nguyễn Tuân began writing and contributing to newspapers and magazines
By 1937, he focused exclusively on writing, becoming famous in 1938 and 1939 with works such as 'Một chuyến đi' and 'Vang bóng một thời'...
He was awarded the Hồ Chí Minh Prize in Literature and Art in 1996
His writing style: unique, skilled, with vast knowledge in various areas and a rich, refined language.
Some of his published works include: 'Ngọn đèn dầu lạc' (feature, 1939); 'Vang bóng một thời' (short story, 1940); 'Chiếc lư đồng mắt cua' (essay, 1941); 'Tóc chị Hoài' (essay, 1943); 'Tuỳ bút II' (essay, 1943),…
2. Work:
'Cô Tô' is the final part of the essay 'Cô Tô' – a work capturing the impressions of nature and the hardworking people on Cô Tô Island
Context of creation: Nguyễn Tuân wrote this during his visit to the island.
Genre: Essay – a narrative genre based on real events and people, relevant to current affairs and faithfully depicting reality.
B. EXERCISES AND GUIDELINES
Question 1: Page 91 of Grade 6 Literature Textbook, Volume 2
How can the essay be divided into sections? What are the main points of each section?
Answer:
The essay can be divided into three sections:
Section 1: From the beginning to 'the seasonal waves here'.
=> Describing the beauty of Cô Tô after the storm.
Section 2: From 'The sun shines again' to 'the rhythm of wings'.
=> The majestic and magnificent scene of the sunrise over the sea.
Section 3: From 'When the sun has risen' to the end.
=> Depicting the morning activities on Cô Tô Island.
Question 2: Page 91 of Grade 6 Literature Textbook, Volume 2
How was the fresh beauty of Cô Tô Island after the storm described? Identify and comment on the words (especially adjectives) and images used to portray this beauty in the first part of the essay.
Answer:
The beauty of Cô Tô Island after the storm is described using notable words and images like:
A clear, bright day;
Greener and smoother trees;
Deeper, more vivid blue sea;
Golden, crisp sand;
The nets heavier with fish.
=> These words and images vividly convey the fresh, vast, and bright beauty of Cô Tô Island, where life is portrayed as both familiar and newly reborn.
Question 3: Page 91 of Grade 6 Literature Textbook, Volume 2
The description of the sunrise over the sea paints a beautiful picture. Identify the words for shape, color, and the images used by the author to illustrate this magnificent scene. Comment on the comparisons made in this description.
Answer:
The description of the sunrise over the sea creates a beautiful picture with words about shape, color, and images like:
The horizon, the clear sea line like a polished glass pane; the sun gradually rising, round and full like the yolk of a rich egg; the pink sun, deep and dignified, placed on a silver plate the size of the whole horizon, colored like a pearl, the sea glowing pink;
These words and images are vibrant and majestic, demonstrating that the sunrise in Cô Tô is a vast, grand scene, connecting both humans and the universe in a joyful, harmonious way.
Question 4: Page 91 of Grade 6 Literature Textbook, Volume 2
How were the daily life and labor activities of the islanders depicted in the last section of the essay? What are your impressions of these scenes?
Answer:
The daily life and labor of the islanders are depicted through details and images like:
The freshwater well... its activity is as lively as a market, fresher than any market on the mainland.
=> The comparisons create a surprising effect. A well being related to a market? Numerous people come to gather water.
Boats arrive, and the children are active.
=> The abundance of comparisons illustrates the peaceful, simple, and happy life on the island.
These images reflect the industrious yet tranquil daily life of the islanders after the storm, intertwining emotions with nature. It also showcases Nguyễn Tuân's deep love for Cô Tô – a place he finds perfect and harmonious, constantly in search of beauty.
Practice
Exercise 1: Page 91 of Grade 6 Literature Textbook, Volume 2
Write a paragraph describing a sunrise that you’ve observed (over the sea, river, mountains, or plains).
Answer:
The sky is still dark. The crowing of roosters signals the arrival of a new day. In the distance, streaks of peach-colored light gradually become clearer. The sun slowly rises from the horizon. Rays of light spread in all directions. The thin mist surrounding the village fades away, replaced by the warmth of sunlight. The sun shines down on the rice fields, making them gleam with a golden hue, as if dusted with golden syrup. The sky is clear, and the brightness fills the air. Birds chirp cheerfully in the garden by the river, bees and butterflies chase each other around the blooming flowers, and people chat excitedly, heading to the fields, creating a symphony of the peaceful early summer morning. The green vegetable beds still have morning dew, glistening like gems, reflecting the light of the sun, shimmering like a rainbow. The sun has risen. A new day has begun.
Reference, Expansion
Question 1: The Value of Content and Artistry in Nguyễn Tuân's 'Cô Tô'
Answer:
1. Content Value
'Cô Tô' is one of the most remarkable excerpts from the collection of essays. Through his sophisticated and skilled language, Nguyễn Tuân vividly captures the beauty of Cô Tô Island’s nature and the hardworking people living there.
Additionally, the piece reflects his deep admiration for the magnificent beauty of nature, and his love and appreciation for the people and their efforts in the country’s reconstruction and development.
2. Artistic Value
The description is subtle and precise, with language rich in imagery and emotion. Unique and surprising associations are created through various metaphors, similes, and other stylistic devices.
2. 'Cô Tô' Essay Preparation Guide No. 5
1. Author
- Nguyễn Tuân (1910 – 1987) was born and raised in a Confucian family at a time when Chinese studies were fading.
- Nguyễn Tuân started his writing career around 1935 but became famous in 1938 for his unique style in essays and sketches, with notable works like Vang bóng một thời and Một chuyến đi... - In 1941, he was arrested and met with political activists.
- In 1945, after the August Revolution, Nguyễn Tuân enthusiastically joined the revolution and resistance, becoming a prominent writer in the new literature with a specialty in essays and sketches.
- From 1948 to 1957, he served as the General Secretary of the Vietnam Writers' Association.
- Nguyễn Tuân's key post-revolutionary works include the essay collection Sông Đà (1960), based on his field trip to the Northwest, several collections of writings against the U.S. (1965-1975), and numerous essays on the landscapes and flavors of the country. He advocated for a nomadic philosophy, rejecting a quiet, settled life in favor of traveling across the country to discover new and unique things.
- In 1996, he was awarded the Hồ Chí Minh Prize for Literature and Arts.
- His works always display a unique and exquisite style, profound knowledge in various fields, and a rich, skillful command of the Vietnamese language, making him a master in creating and using the language.
2. Work
- Cô Tô was written by Nguyễn Tuân during a visit to Cô Tô Island in 1976. Genre: essay.
- The essay Cô Tô is the final part of a piece that records the author's impressions of the nature and the hardworking people of Cô Tô Island, which he experienced during his visit.
- The structure of the essay: 3 parts
+ Part 1: (from the beginning to "...the rhythm of the waves here"): The scene of Cô Tô after the storm.
+ Part 2: (from the continuation to "...on the mainland"): The scene of the sunrise over Cô Tô Island.
+ Part 3: (the remaining part): The daily life of the people on Cô Tô Island.
Read - Understand the Text
1 - Page 91 in the textbook
How can the essay be divided? What is the main content of each section?
Answer:
The essay can be divided into 3 sections:
– Section 1 (from the beginning to "the rhythm of the waves here"): The beauty of Cô Tô after the storm.
– Section 2 (from continuation to "the rhythm of the wings..."): The majestic beauty of Cô Tô at sunrise.
– Section 3 (the rest): The morning activities on Cô Tô Island.
2 - Page 91 in the textbook
How is the pure beauty of Cô Tô Island after the storm depicted? Please identify and comment on the words (especially adjectives) and images used to describe this beauty in the first part of the essay.
Answer:
Words and details describing the beauty of Cô Tô after the storm:
+ A fresh, clear day
+ Trees look greener
+ The sea is deeper blue
+ The sand is crisper and more golden
+ The net is heavy with fish
– Adjectives describing color and light: clear, lush, blue, golden
– Prominent images: the sky, the sea, the trees on the island, and the sandy beaches, which make Cô Tô appear fresh and pristine.
=> The author perceives the beauty of Cô Tô after the storm as pure and serene.
3 - Page 91 in the textbook
The description of the sunrise over the sea (from "The sun rises again on the sixth day" to "A seagull flies by, wings fluttering") is a breathtaking image. Find the words that describe the shape, color, and imagery the author used to depict this magnificent scene. Comment on the comparisons the author uses here.
Answer:
The imagery of the sunrise over the sea is beautifully painted through words describing shape, color, and comparison:
+ The horizon and the sea are as clean as a glass sheet wiped free of clouds
+ The sun rises gradually
+ Round and full like a natural egg
+ The rosy egg… the sea blushing
+ Just like an offering platter
– The author uses precise, delicate words and vibrant comparisons to create a glorious, majestic image.
=> The image of the sun over the sea is splendid, with the author’s keen observation capturing the joyous intersection between humans and nature.
4 - Page 91 in the textbook
The description of the people’s daily life and labor on the island is illustrated through various details and images in the final part of the essay. What are your thoughts on these scenes?
Answer:
The activities and labor of the people are depicted through the following details:
– Around the fresh water well: lively, like a busy dock, and the water is refreshing
– By the rocky beach: numerous cooperative boats opening their hatches
– Baskets, bending, and people walking back and forth
=> The work of the islanders is intense and bustling.
– It is also a peaceful life: The sight of Mrs. Châu Hòa Mãn carrying her child… the well-behaved children.
=> The author conveys an emotional connection between the people and the landscape, while also expressing his deep love for Cô Tô.
Practice
1 - Page 91 in the textbook
Write a paragraph describing the sunrise (over the sea, river, mountain, or plain) that you have observed.
Answer:
A paragraph describing the sunrise:
From the horizon, the sun slowly rises, lighting up the sky and creating an indescribable scene of dawn over the sea. The pale golden rays timidly break through the clouds and shine on the shimmering water, casting light on the soft waves of the early morning. The sparkling sunlight reflects like pearls of various colors, heralding the start of a new day. In the distance, fishing boats are seen heading back to shore. A breathtaking picture indeed.
3. Study Guide for "Cô Tô" - Version 6
I. General Introduction to the Essay "Cô Tô"
1. The Author
Nguyễn Tuân is a celebrated writer in Vietnamese literature. He is renowned for his mastery in the genres of essays and reportage. His works reflect a distinct style, with remarkable skill and a deep understanding of many aspects of life.
We are familiar with his famous works such as: Ngọn đèn dầu lạc, Vang bóng một thời, Một chuyến đi, Tùy bút,…
2. The Work
Reportage is a literary form that intersects journalism and literature, mostly written in prose with a narrative structure.
"Cô Tô" is an excerpt from Nguyễn Tuân's reportage piece titled "Ký Cô Tô".
II. How to Study the Essay "Cô Tô"
1. Question 1, page 91, 6th Grade Literature Textbook, Volume 2
The structure of the essay "Cô Tô" is as follows:
Section 1: From the beginning to "according to the seasons of waves here": The beauty of Cô Tô after the storm.
Section 2: From there to "...the flapping of wings": The beauty of Cô Tô at dawn as the sun rises over the sea, observed by the author.
Section 3: The remaining part of the essay describes the morning activities of the island of Cô Tô.
2. Question 2, page 91, 6th Grade Literature Textbook, Volume 2
After the storm passes, the author describes the pristine beauty of Cô Tô through details like:
The entire space becomes clear and bright.
The trees are lush and green.
The sea of Cô Tô turns a deep, vibrant blue.
The sand is golden and crisp.
The nets are heavy with fish, split into two parts.
The author uses words like clear, blue, golden, and glossy to convey the beauty of Cô Tô in the opening paragraph.
3. Question 3, page 91, 6th Grade Literature Textbook, Volume 2
The author uses descriptive words and imagery to paint a vivid picture of the stunning scene when the sun rises over the sea:
The horizon, the endless sea, free of clouds and dust.
The sun gradually rises, round and plump, like the yolk of a perfectly formed egg, deep red in hue, set on a wide silver platter as vast as the horizon, the pearl-colored sea glowing with pink light, resembling an offering tray.
Through these comparisons, the grandeur and vitality of Cô Tô's beauty are revealed.
4. Question 4, page 91, 6th Grade Literature Textbook, Volume 2
The daily life and labor of the islanders are described by the author with details like:
At the fresh water well: The people’s activities are centered around the well, collecting water, washing, and bathing.
On the rocky shore: Several boats from the cooperative are unloading their catch. The baskets, curved and full, are carried back and forth.
The beauty of the people here lies in their labor. It is a simple, peaceful scene after the storm, where humans live in harmony with nature.
III. Practice with the Essay "Cô Tô"
1. Question 1, page 91, 6th Grade Literature Textbook, Volume 2
The description of the sunrise in the essay "Cô Tô":
The dawn over the sea embodies all the purity and clarity of the earth and sky. Looking out, the sea stretches endlessly in a shade of green, with gentle waves caressing the shore. The round sun slowly rises above the still-sleeping sea, casting shimmering light over the water. In the soft morning light, the thin mist above the sea dissipates, revealing the ocean’s pristine beauty. Far away, the figures of seagulls glide playfully over the blue waves... A picture of nature filled with the purest beauty.
2. Question 2, page 91, 6th Grade Textbook, Volume 2
Students should copy and memorize the following passage: "The sun slowly rises..." to "A seagull flies by, flapping its wings."
4. Study Guide for "Cô Tô" - Version 1
Question 1 (page 91, 6th Grade Literature Textbook, Volume 2):
The passage can be divided into three sections:
- Section 1 (from the beginning to "according to the seasons of waves here"): The beauty of Cô Tô after the storm passes.
- Section 2 (from there to "...the flapping of wings"): The majestic, grand scene of Cô Tô at dawn.
- Section 3 (the remainder): The morning activities on the island of Cô Tô.
Question 2 (page 91, 6th Grade Literature Textbook, Volume 2):
Words and details that describe the beauty of Cô Tô after the storm:
+ A clear, bright day.
+ The trees are greener and more vibrant.
+ The sea water is a deeper, richer shade of blue.
+ The sand is even more golden and crisp.
+ The nets are heavy with fish, split in two.
- Descriptive adjectives for colors and light: clear, vibrant, blue, golden.
- Notable imagery: the sky, the sea, the trees on the island, and the sandy shores make Cô Tô appear pure and immaculate.
→ The author captures the beauty of Cô Tô after the storm as being entirely pure and serene.
Question 3 (page 84, 6th Grade Literature Textbook, Volume 2):
The image of the sunrise over the sea is portrayed as a beautiful scene, expressed by the author through words that describe shape, color, and comparisons:
+ The horizon, the sea’s edge, clean like a window pane wiped of clouds and dust.
+ The sun gradually rises.
+ Round and full, like a perfectly formed egg of nature.
+ The egg is pinkish, and the sea water tinges pink.
+ Like an offering tray.
- The author uses precise, subtle language and vivid comparisons that are both dazzling and majestic.
→ The image of the sun over the sea is magnificent and radiant, with the author’s keen observation highlighting the connection between humans and the world in this scene of the sun rising at Cô Tô.
Question 4 (page 91, 6th Grade Literature Textbook, Volume 2):
The daily life and labor of the islanders are depicted through various details and images:
- Around the freshwater well: lively, like a harbor, and cool and refreshing.
- By the rocky shore: numerous boats from the cooperative are opening their chests...
- The baskets, curved and full, are carried back and forth.
→ The islanders' labor is described as busy and bustling.
- This is also a peaceful life: The sight of Sister Châu Hòa Mãn carrying her child... the children are calm and gentle.
→ The author expresses a blend of emotions between the people and their surroundings, as well as Nguyễn Tuân’s deep affection for Cô Tô.
PRACTICE
Exercise 1 (page 91, 6th Grade Literature Textbook, Volume 2):
The passage describing the sunrise:
The dawn over the sea holds within it all the beauty of the pure and serene earth and sky. As one gazes into the distance, the water stretches endlessly in a sea of green, with gentle waves softly caressing the sandy shore. The sun, round and full, slowly rises above the still-drowsy sea, casting a silver glow over the waters. In the gentle morning light, the thin mist on the sea gradually fades away, revealing the pristine beauty of the ocean. Far off, the silhouettes of seagulls flutter playfully over the blue waves... A natural scene embodying the purest beauty of perfection.
5. Study Guide for "Cô Tô" - Version 2
Answer to Question 1 (page 91, 6th Grade Literature Textbook, Volume 2):
How can the essay "Cô Tô" be divided? What is the content of each section?
Detailed solution:
The essay "Cô Tô" can be divided into three sections:
- Section 1: from the beginning to "according to the seasons of waves here". The overall view of Cô Tô, with its pure beauty after the storm has passed.
- Section 2: from there to "...the flapping of wings": The majestic and beautiful scene of the sunrise over the sea observed from the island of Cô Tô.
- Section 3: from "When the sun has risen" to the end: The morning activities on the island, by a freshwater well, and the image of the workers preparing for the fishing trip.
Answer to Question 2 (page 91, 6th Grade Literature Textbook, Volume 2):
How is the pure beauty of Cô Tô Island depicted after the storm has passed? Find and comment on the words (especially adjectives) and images that describe this beauty in the beginning of the essay.
Detailed solution:
* The pure beauty of Cô Tô after the storm:
- The space is clear and bright.
- The trees on the island appear greener and more vibrant.
- The sea water is a rich, deep blue.
- The sand is golden and crisp.
- The nets are heavier with fish.
* Adjectives describing color and light: clear, vibrant, deep blue, crisp golden.
- The prominent images include: the sky, the sea, the trees on the island, and the sandy beach, all contributing to the image of Cô Tô as bright and pure.
⟶ The author perceives the beauty of Cô Tô after the storm as entirely pure and tranquil.
Answer to Question 3 (page 91, 6th Grade Literature Textbook, Volume 2):
The description of the sunrise over the sea forms a beautiful picture. Identify the words indicating shape, color, and the comparisons the author uses to depict this stunning scene. Comment on the comparisons made by the author.
Detailed solution:
The image of the sunrise over the sea is a beautiful picture, which the author portrays through words indicating shape, color, and comparisons:
+ The horizon, the sea’s edge, clear like a glass pane wiped of clouds and dust.
+ The sun gradually rises.
+ Round and full, like a perfect egg of nature.
+ The egg is pinkish... and the sea water is tinged with pink.
+ Like an offering tray.
- The author uses precise, subtle language and vivid comparisons that are both dazzling and majestic.
⟶ The image of the sun on the sea is magnificent and radiant, portrayed with the author’s keen observation, capturing the joyous fusion of humans and the world in the scene of the sunrise at Cô Tô.
Answer to Question 4 (page 91, 6th Grade Literature Textbook, Volume 2):
How is the daily life and labor of the islanders depicted in the final part of the essay? What are your thoughts on this scene?
Detailed solution:
The daily life and labor of the islanders are depicted through various details and images:
- Around the freshwater well: lively, like a harbor, cool and refreshing.
- By the rocky shore: many boats from the cooperative are opening their chests...
- Baskets and curved loads are being carried back and forth.
⟶ The islanders’ labor is described as busy and bustling.
- This is also a peaceful life: The sight of Sister Châu Hòa Mãn carrying her child... her children are gentle and obedient.
⟶ The author expresses an emotional blend between the people and their environment, as well as Nguyễn Tuân’s personal love for Cô Tô.
PRACTICE
Write a paragraph describing the sunrise (over the sea, river, mountain, or plain) that you have observed.
Detailed solution:
When describing, focus on the following details (pay attention to the distinctive features of each region):
- The scene before the sun rises - the colors of the space.
- How the sun gradually rises - choose unique comparisons.
- The atmosphere and landscape as the sun rises.
Sample writing:
My house is surrounded by long dikes, and whenever I see the sun rise, my heart always feels unusually refreshed. Anyone who stands in front of the vast sea when the Sun awakens will see the sunrise over the sea as incredibly radiant and grand. Gazing into the distance, the water stretches out in a vast green expanse, with gentle waves caressing the sandy shore. The sun, round and full, slowly rises from the still-drowsy sea, making the water shimmer like silver. In the soft morning sunlight, the thin mist on the sea gradually dissipates, revealing the pristine beauty of the ocean. Far in the distance, the silhouettes of seagulls flit playfully over the blue waves... The scene seems to don a fresh, tender, and clear cloak, as if reborn.
Key Concept:
The natural scenery and human life on Cô Tô Island appear pure and beautiful. The essay helps us appreciate and love this part of our homeland - the Cô Tô Archipelago.
6. Study Guide for "Cô Tô" - Version 3
I. A Brief Overview of the Author
- Nguyễn Tuân (1910-1987), from Hanoi
- He was a renowned writer, specializing in essays and memoirs
- He was awarded the Ho Chi Minh Prize for Literature and Art in 1996
- His writing style: his works always display a unique, talented style, with extensive knowledge in many fields and a rich, skillful command of the language
II. Basic Knowledge About the Work
1. Background of Creation
The essay "Cô Tô" is the final part of the memoir "Cô Tô" – a work that captures the writer's impressions of the nature and hardworking people on the island of Cô Tô during his visit there.
2. Structure
- Paragraph 1: From the beginning to "the season of waves here": The beauty of Cô Tô after the storm.
- Paragraph 2: From "is like the rhythm": The majestic and grand view of the sunrise over the sea.
- Paragraph 3: The remaining sections: The morning activities on Cô Tô Island.
3. Artistic Value
- Skillful, unique language.
- Delicate, precise description rich in imagery and emotion.
- Use of artistic techniques such as comparison, personification, metaphor, etc.
4. Content Value:
The natural scenery and the daily life of the people on Cô Tô Island are depicted vividly and beautifully. The essay enhances our understanding and appreciation of this part of the homeland – the Cô Tô archipelago.
III. Answering Questions from the Textbook
Question 1 (page 91, Vietnamese Literature 6, Volume 2)
Structure: 3 parts
- From the beginning to “here”: The overall scene of Cô Tô a day after the storm.
- Next, from “the rhythm of wings”: The scene of the sunrise over Cô Tô sea.
- The rest: The early morning scene on Thanh Luân Island.
Question 2 (page 91, Vietnamese Literature 6, Volume 2)
The beauty of Cô Tô Island after the storm is expressed by the author through specific words (especially adjectives) and striking images:
- A clear, bright day,
- Trees greener and lush,
- The sea a deeper, richer blue,
- The sand crisper and more golden,
- The fishing nets heavier with double catches.
Here, the adjectives indicating colors and light (clear, bright, lush, deep blue, golden crisp) are striking in their structure.
Question 3 (page 84, Vietnamese Literature 6, Volume 2)
Words describing shapes and colors used by the author to depict the splendid scene:
- “The sun, round and benevolent like the yolk of a plump egg of nature, pink and deep, set like a silver platter the size of a horizon of pearl-colored sea, blushing.”
- “Like an offering tray emerging from the dawn to celebrate the longevity of all the fishermen on the eternal East Sea.”
- Harmonious, radiant colors of “rosy red, silver, and pearl.”
=> These unique images create the magnificent, grand beauty of Cô Tô’s sea and sky.
Question 4 (page 91, Vietnamese Literature 6, Volume 2)
The people’s daily life and labor are depicted through the following details and images:
- Around the fresh water well: lively like a dock, refreshingly cool and light
- On the rocky shore: many fishing boats from the cooperative society are opening up their fish crates...
- Baskets, curved and carried in a steady flow.
→ The scene of the islanders’ labor is busy and urgent.
- This is a peaceful life: Watching Chị Châu Hòa Mãn carry her child... the children are gentle and well-behaved.
→ The author conveys an emotional blend between the people and the landscape, also expressing Nguyễn Tuân’s personal love for Cô Tô.
II. Practice
Question 1 (page 91, Vietnamese Literature 6, Volume 2)
Suggested ideas:
- The scene before sunrise: the whole sky is white.
- The sun rises gradually: the sky changes from white to a rosy red, “round and benevolent like the yolk of a plump egg of nature.”
- The landscape as the sun rises: the sea suddenly brightens, sparkling golden light. The sky is clear, the wind blows fiercely. The waves continue to crash onto the shore. Far away, a fleet of fishing boats returns with their haul of shrimp and fish.
