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Chapter 16
Themes
Key
LitCharts assigns a color and icon to each theme in Hullabaloo in the Guava Orchard, which you can use to track the themes throughout the work.
Absurdity and Chaos
Nature vs. Modernity
Traditions, Customs, and Expectations
Exploitation of Spirituality
Summary
Analysis
In the midst of troubled times, Sampath struggles to think of the right words as he tries to write a poem. He imitates an inspiring poem he’d learned in school, during the singular moment of his education that had truly, positively affected him. But try as he might, he can’t think of anything that sounds profound enough. He continues to worry about what will happen to him, and how much longer his new way of life can last. Meanwhile, the spy continues worrying about his own state of mind as he spies on Kulfi. He’s concerned that he’s being brainwashed by Sampath’s aphorisms, which he can’t seem to get out of his head. Kulfi grows tired of the usual ingredients around her. She begins to fantasize about more and more elaborate and exotic dishes, eventually hatching the exciting idea of cooking a monkey.
Sampath’s inability to think of anything profound is a sure sign that his new way of life is truly beginning to fall apart. Intentionally or not, he’s built his entire holy man persona on his wise and meaningful sayings. If he’s at a loss for words, he must feel as though he’s out of ideas and out of hope. It seems as if it’s inevitable that modernity will continue to invade nature and crush his bright spirit. As usual, Kulfi mirrors his attitude, though she takes a more positive approach. She also feels restless and dissatisfied with her current situation, but the concept of the new dish gives her hope that she can lift Sampath’s spirits again.
Themes
