William Zhu’s Reviews > The Reluctant Fundamentalist > Status Update

As I am finishing the book, the story proved that Erica symbolizes the U.S in Changez's mind. From the love of the first instinct to the memory of Chris and at last to a tragedy, the change all happened corresponding to the things Changez experienced before and after 9/11. Moreover, at the ending I can tell that the author is suggesting that the future of America wouldn't end well if it continues to recall the past.

By this time, I can see that Changez changed to not caring much about his job and Underwood Samson. First of all, the American Dream that he was looking forward to was being shivered by the experiences - especially when he was treated as a suspect at the customs- he faced after 9/11. On the other hand, Erica's issue in her feelings forced him to put time on their relationship. I think the stress will cause problems.

In the book, I can tell that Changez is always thinking about Erica, even though he sometimes try to relief himself from caring about her. However, Erica's thought towards Changez in the meantime is inscrutable. The death of her ex-boyfriend Chris had continuously been a problem in her heart. Knowing that this relationship isn't developing, I wonder if Changez change in his point of view towards Erica.

The author's description on what Changez faced after 911 happened is eye-catching. A much longer inspection at airports, suspicion from people nearby all resulted as creating a separation for him from the rest of his team. More interestingly, the American flags in New York made Changez think that it is a symbolism of power and wrath being presented to the world. I wonder if Erica's thought on Changez will change.

Changez had an unusual/unique expressions after he saw "911" happens. Even though he explained later that his smile was only towards the concept that it proves America isn't invincible. In my opinion, this happens because there is a shift in his mindset after he noticed how powerful the country is how the society is untouchable. Afterall, I wish to see what will happen to him after this accident.

After I read through 60 pages of this book, I notice that Changez started to thrive in Underwood Samson. However, Erica's sadness in her heart is being shown to me. The sadness in Erica forms a contrast with Changez's success in the company and created difference between job and love/relation. I believe that later in the book, this contrast will connect to a struggle in Changez's mind.

As the story went on, I think the wall that separates Greece from the Mid East was once collapsed in Changez's mind when he first got to the U.S.. However, after seeing how Americans are a lot different than him and how Erica's dad is commenting on the stereotypes of Pakistan, a wall in his mind reforms again. I wonder if anything bad will happen between him and Erica after the met with her family.

From the first two chapters, I acquired some background knowledge of Changez, the main character(protagonist). His characteristic is different from the typical Americans being described in the book. After Changez met Erica, it is clear that his polite stand out from the rest of the graduates that has a higher social status or richer family than Changez. I wonder what will happen to the relationship in the future.