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Definition of Paradox
A paradox is a figure of speech that seems to contradict itself, but which, upon further examination, contains some kernel of truth or reason. Oscar Wilde's famous declaration that "Life is... read full definition
A paradox is a figure of speech that seems to contradict itself, but which, upon further examination, contains some kernel of truth or reason. Oscar... read full definition
A paradox is a figure of speech that seems to contradict itself, but which, upon further examination, contains some kernel... read full definition
Chapter 1
Explanation and Analysis—Privacy:
In Chapter 1, Ashima reflects on the stark differences between herself and the Americans who surround her, particularly with regards to the social customs surrounding intimacy. In the following passage, Lahiri characterizes Ashima's discomfort and cultural shock through the use of paradox:
[Ashima] has gathered that Americans, in spite of their miniskirts and bikinis, in spite of their hand-holding on the street and lying on top of each other on the Cambridge Common, prefer their privacy.
Ashima sits in the hospital, about to give birth to Gogol. While she waits, Ashima wishes for some source of reassurance, her mind briefly turning to the American women with whom she shares the maternity ward. She wonders if any of the other women have given birth before and momentarily contemplates asking one of them about what she should expect from the painful process.
In the passage above, Ashima squelches her instinct to reach out to the other women, noting a prominent paradox within American culture. Americans may express physical affection openly in public but also crave social and physical privacy from others. This paradox aligns with the American cultural value of individualism, something Ashima—having been raised in a more collectivist, community-oriented society—does not fully understand.
Related Themes:
Chapter 12
Explanation and Analysis—Impatience for Life:
In Chapter 12, Ashima must contend with the aftermath of Ashoke's death and decide what she wishes to do with the rest of her life. The thought of continuing on without Ashoke's love and supportive presence is both mentally and emotionally draining for Ashima, who grew used to having Ashoke constantly by her side during their decades-long marriage. The transition from partnership to solitude is a difficult one. In the following passage from Chapter 12, Lahiri explores Ashima's difficult transition through hyperbole:
[Ashima] feels both impatience and indifference for all the days she still must live, for something tells her she will not go quickly as her husband did.
Following Ashoke's death, the narrator uses paradoxical language to describe Ashima's emotional response. She expresses both "impatience and indifference" for the rest of her life; she wishes to be dead as soon as possible and cares not what she fills her remaining days with. At first glance, it may seem contradictory for a person to exhibit impatience for their life's end. People spend large amounts of money and time attempting to prolong their lives; it is atypical for Ashima to wish the conclusion of hers rushed. The paradox illustrates the profundity of her despair.
Related Themes:
