Independence
Lakshmi’s description of the freedom of the people of Jaipur depicts a sense of sight to readers. Lakshmi says, “What independence had changed was our people. You could see it in the way they stood; chests puffed as if they could finally allow themselves to breathe. You saw it in how they walked purposefully and pridefully to their temples. The way they huggled – more boldly than before- with the vendors in the bazaar.” The imagery is significant because it shows the fruits of independence. Lakshmi notes that when India was under British rule ten years ago, people lived in fear. However, the imagery shows that people are free after independence and can do whatever they like as long as they do not break the law.
Smell
The description of the narrator’s new house depicts a sense of smell. The narrator says, "Wet plaster, cement, stone. My new house smelt of these. Earlier this evening, I resisted the urge to come here and check my progress." The imagery shows the narrator's expectation for a better future. After living in a rented premise, the narrator has built a new home, hoping her life will improve.
Hearing and sight
The narrator depicts senses of sight and hearing when describing Malik’s size and whistling. The narrator says, "Malik whistled for a Tonga. He was a small boy, thin as a reed. He whistled, loud enough to be heard as far as away as Bombay, always took me by surprise." The author uses this imagery to show readers that the ability to achieve a specific goal is independent of age and size. Malik is a small boy, but he can whistle better than grownups.
