We are officially done with Nectar in a Sieve and we haven’t started the next novel, so I thought I would choose a random topic for the question of the week this week. In light of the upcoming break, watch this video on the 4th commandment and react to it. Do you take a sabbath each week? Enjoy the break! You have worked hard all semester - you deserve some rest.
Read this article about a student from India’s thoughts on America: http://www.businessinsider.com/the-weirdest-things-about-america-2013-8 What from his list surprises you most?
A few weeks ago we discussed the various characters’ approaches to suffering in Nectar in a Sieve. One character fights it, one spends all her time yearning for the past, and another believes he has to just make the best of what he has in life and not fight what’s dealt to him. We discussed the fact that each of these approaches has value depending on the situation. The Serenity Prayer by theologian Reinhold Neibuhr also addresses the question of how to deal with life’s pain . . . but how does one know which reaction is best?
Why did the author begin the novel by telling us that Nathan dies and that she adopts a boy who’s not related to her? What’s the point of giving away the ending? What other books or movies do you know that use this technique (i.e. structure the story this way)?
Another central theme in this novel is that family relationships are far more important than “stuff,” status, or even education. Rukmani describes her romantic partnership with her husband, her beautiful relationship with her daughter, and the tender relationship that forms between her and Puli. What relationships mean the most to you in your life? Who in your family would you say you are closest to? Why is that relationship so important to you? Do you agree with the author that relationships are more important than one's status, possessions, etc.?
Consider the relationship Rukmani and Nathan have with their adult children. Does this seem typical of their culture? How is it similar to our culture? How is it different? How has your relationship with your parents changed now that you are only a couple years from adulthood and no longer a child?
One important theme in this novel is that suffering is a part of life, so we need to find healthy ways to deal with suffering and still find happiness despite it. Rukmani, Nathan, and Kenny all endure suffering in different ways. Which character’s attitude about suffering do you identify with the most? Why?
“Foolish woman,” Nathan said. “There is no going back. Bend like grass, that you do not break,” (ch. 4, p. 28). Do you think this is wise advice? Describe a time in your life something major changed for you (e.g. moving, family changes, new school, etc.). Did you react as Nathan advises or did you spend a lot of time yearning for the past?
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Non-Western LiteratureGuidelinesThe whole purpose of this assignment - whether you're reacting to an idea, sharing your own story, or analyzing the reading - is to discuss the ultimate issues of life. With that in mind, make sure that you: Archives
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