Better dead
One of the main motifs we find in the story "The Subordinate" is the idea that it is better to be dead as a woman than be taken advantage of by a man. This idea is present from the beginning until the end and is among the main Paru guides herself after in life.
Education is power
Another common motif we find in the stories is the idea that the only way through which a woman can live a happy and fulfilling life is by getting an education and becoming independent. By doing this, the woman will then be able to live her life as she wants to and not have to submit to the desires of her husband or family.
Safe space
The female characters all find themselves at some point or another in need of protection. In these moments, the women go to the temple where they find the refuge they seek. Because of this, the temple is used as a symbol of safety.
The importance of dowry
Another common motif in the stories is the importance of dowry. For a young girl to get married, her family had to pay a dowry. This dowry could be a small one or if they wanted to marry their daughter in a good family, an extremely large one. The importance of this payment is highlighted time and time again and as such it is a common motif in the book.
Women are a burden
Another common motif which we find in the stories is the idea that women are a burden to the men in their lives, be it their husbands or their fathers. This negative way of portraying women is found in every story in the collection and as such can be seen as a common motif.
