Previous
Literary Devices
Definition of Allusion
In literature, an allusion is an unexplained reference to someone or something outside of the text. Writers commonly allude to other literary works, famous individuals, historical events, or philosophical ideas... read full definition
In literature, an allusion is an unexplained reference to someone or something outside of the text. Writers commonly allude to other literary works, famous individuals... read full definition
In literature, an allusion is an unexplained reference to someone or something outside of the text. Writers commonly allude to... read full definition
Allusions
Explanation and Analysis—Bowing in Greeting:
Near the beginning of the story, Lahiri alludes to a traditional form of greeting in India, as seen in the following passage:
When he’d introduced himself, Mr. Kapasi had pressed his palms together in greeting, but Mr. Das squeezed hands like an American so that Mr. Kapasi felt it in his elbow. Mrs. Das, for her part, had flexed one side of her mouth, smiling dutifully at Mr. Kapasi, without displaying any interest in him.
Related Themes:
Explanation and Analysis—Udayagiri and Khandagiri:
After taking the Das family to see the Sun Temple, Mr. Kapasi—desperate to prolong his time with Mrs. Das—suggests that he take them to visit Udayagiri and Khandagiri. The following passage contains Mr. Kapasi’s allusion to these actual historical sites in East India:
Unlock with LitCharts A+[Mr. Kapasi] suggested visiting the hills at Udayagiri and Khandagiri, where a number of monastic dwellings were hewn out of the ground, facing one another across a defile. It was some miles away, but well worth seeing, Mr. Kapasi told them.
"Oh yeah, there’s something mentioned about it in this book," Mr. Das said. "Built by a Jain king or something."
Related Themes:
