Summary

In Chapter 9, Aunt Abida and Aunt Mijada’s friends came to the house to visit. Laila felt disconnected from the visitors though she found Mushtari Bai objectively interesting. The woman was once a courtesan who amassed a sizable wealth though her talents and singing. Later she “turned to God to expiate the sins of her life” and donated her wealth to charities (66). Her generous donations left her penniless and reliant on others.

The doctor advised Aunt Abida to call for Uncle Hamid in Chapter 10. The house once again became sullen and infused with sorrow. Laila was disquieted by the organized grief and syncopated rituals of tears and prayer. In Chapter 11, Laila and Zahra were permitted to go see the parade for Ashura. After they watched the procession from afar, Laila lamented the imminent summer.

In Chapter 12, Aunt Majida is distressed...