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1964 Riots

These are caused by aggression between Hindus and Muslims in East Pakistan. They symbolize the destructive nature of animosity.

Ruby Pendant

This is a piece of jewelry that Tha’mma keeps after she sells or gives away the rest of her jewelry. It symbolizes the past.

Dhaka Ancestral House

This is the place where Tha’mma and Mayadebi grew up. It symbolizes fractured family relationships.

Borders

These are geopolitical boundaries between countries. They symbolize factionalism.

Travel

This is how many characters travel around their countries or the world for work or for pleasure. It symbolizes socialization and connection.

Stories

These are narratives that the narrator enjoys hearing from Tridib and others. They symbolize making sense of the world.

Magda

This is a doll that belonged to Ila. It symbolizes using imagination to cope.

Unrequited Love

This is something the narrator feels for Ila. It symbolizes the fragmentary...

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