For many reasons.
I just finished reading the first four chapters of this novel and I have to admit that I like it! The introduction had a slow pace however I appreciated the detailed description of the setting and the character’s feelings. In case I forgot to mention, the book is about an Indian family starting a new life in America and adapting to the western culture.
The book starts off with Ashima and Ashoke first meeting and stages of their marriage. My parents immigrated from Sudan to Canada and I realized that I do not know much about how my mom felt during pregnancy. My parents always talk about our friends and funny stories of us growing up. I do not like to ask her because I’m disgusted by it and she would tease me on why I would want to know….
Gogol is so relatable in terms of identity! I always cringe when someone questions my nationality or/and nationality. I have come to accept the fact that I will never belong anywhere which I don’t mind since I hope to live a nomadic life in the future. For now, I’m Sudanese in Canada and Canadian in Sudan. In terms of other countries, I’m seen as just a member of my race.
Ashoke feels comfortable but Ashima wants to return home. I do not know if it is me, but they always have this perspective in media. It is annoying. “On more than one occasion he has come home from the university to find her morose, in bed, rereading her parents’ letter” (33) displays Ashima’s dissatisfaction with her new life in America.
It is admirable how she values the relationships with her family and community. Her husband seems to enjoy the American life however she constantly compares her life in the United States to her life in India. She wants to remind herself of home by actively enjoying her culture and feels that she is not suited for America.
A line that was funny was, “He hates having to tell people that it doesn’t mean anything “in Indian” (76). He is really annoyed and self-conscious with his name! I wonder why he allows his name to have such a large negative impact on his life.
I can totally relate because when I introduce myself, people tell me that my name means hi in Spanish. It does not happen as often but it is extremely annoying. At the end of the day, I’m glad I do not have a common name.
In terms of theme, the book emphasizes the food and culture of the family. It is their way of remembering their native country through the meals, clothing, and ceremonies. The food really does bring the family together as they eat with each other. I hope Gogol will miss his mother’s cooking since nothing will taste the same.
Immigration to Canada from Sudan. Digital image. Immigrationcanadaservices. Canadian Government, n.d. Web. 08 Oct. 2016.
Lahiri, Jhumpa. The Namesake. Boston: Houghton Mifflin, 2003. Print.
No Destination 