"This Blessed House" simply yet strikingly displays the different ways people receive experiences based not only on culture, but on physical and emotional standpoints. Twinkle "shines" with a freedom and openness associated in the story with childhood. Sanjeev, so preoccupied with his coworker's opinions, is submissive to the unrealistic fears which he creates. It seems as if the reader is automatically pressed to favor the "dazzler" over the out-dazzled; Twinkle is obviously more successful... It is her light-hearted nature and approach to life (new experiences with friends and objects) which is highly attractive to most people, and what ultimately frustrates Sanjeev.
Lahiri is extraordinarily good at drawing her readers in through Pathos- I got exceptional mental imagery throughout the reading, and the characters' experiences were very easy to partake in... Her attention to detail and expressive writing drew me in to the last word. and I found her experiences creditable (Ethos) through her own experiences of a culture unfamiliar to me. Even with low levels of logos, it was a strong "argument"- I enjoyed it!
Lahiri is extraordinarily good at drawing her readers in through Pathos- I got exceptional mental imagery throughout the reading, and the characters' experiences were very easy to partake in... Her attention to detail and expressive writing drew me in to the last word. and I found her experiences creditable (Ethos) through her own experiences of a culture unfamiliar to me. Even with low levels of logos, it was a strong "argument"- I enjoyed it!
Good post, Robin. I think it depends on the definition of "successful" -- Sanjeev, after all, is the one who has the good job to buy the house to host the party at which Twinkle does all that dazzling. Maybe there's a yin-yang thing going on -- both are necessary to create the circumstances of holistic success. Trouble is, Sanjeev doesn't seem to be all that happy. He's more resigned.
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