Carlos Xie’s Reviews > The Reluctant Fundamentalist > Status Update

I found it interesting how often the author implies comparisons between Pakistan and the U.S. Bats and other flying creatures hovering above the sky during Changez's time in Manila seem to mirror immigrants in the U.S. The image of large animals flying around tall buildings, on the verge of crashing, foreshadows the terrifying 9/11 attack. I wonder what will be the deciding factor for Changez's return to Pakistan.

It is striking how frequently tea appears in the story. As a healthy, culturally significant drink, it symbolizes hospitality in many non-U.S. cultures, such as Pakistan, where it is almost beloved by everyone. However, this contrasts with typical American habits. The repeated references to tea foreshadow the story's underlying tension and ambiguity. I wonder what Changez’s transition back to Pakistan will be like.

I really like the start of the story because it resonates with my current condition. Like Changez, who must excel as an international student from Pakistan to stand out in the US and get into a top company, I also have to work much harder because of my nationality to reach my dream schools. I felt happy when he got into Underwood Samson, and I hope to follow a similar path by realizing my dreams, goals, and wishes.