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Motifs
Definition of Paradox
A paradox is a figure of speech that seems to contradict itself, but which, upon further examination, contains some kernel of truth or reason. Oscar Wilde's famous declaration that "Life is... read full definition
A paradox is a figure of speech that seems to contradict itself, but which, upon further examination, contains some kernel of truth or reason. Oscar... read full definition
A paradox is a figure of speech that seems to contradict itself, but which, upon further examination, contains some kernel... read full definition
Chapter 7: The Sixth Night
Explanation and Analysis—The Animal Within:
The Sunday before murdering Ashok, Balram heads into the city on the pretext of a temple visit in Chapter 7. He considers seeing a prostitute “to clear all the evil thoughts out of my head,” but decides against it upon arriving at the red-light district. He refuses their offers and leaves the vendors behind, concluding instead that
sometimes what is most animal in a man may be the best thing in him[.]
Related Themes:
Explanation and Analysis—Blind but Free:
In Chapter 7, sight is a rich source of paradox about wisdom, freedom, and death. After knocking Ashok into a state of bleeding unconsciousness, Balram traces his neck with his fingers and finishes him off:
Unlock with LitCharts A+The Stork’s son opened his eyes—just as I pierced his neck—and his lifeblood spurted into my eyes.
I was blind. I was a free man.
Related Themes:
