Brick Lane Essay

1057 Words5 Pages
“Brick Lane” by Monica Ali, an analysis. Why does the novel begin with Nazneen's birth? - What role does fate play in her life? The novel begins with Nazneen's birth because the “Brick Lane” is the story of her life. A life that would live or die on the precarious edge of fate. "Of course," she reminds the new mother, "Fate will decide everything in the end, whatever route you follow" This dramatic episode of Nazneen entry into the world becomes known as the story of “How You Were Left to Your Fate” and would come to be a deciding factor in Nazneen's upbringing. Nazneen is taught that predetermination is the essence of life, that one must accept “the grace of god” and treat life with indifference. Consequently, Nazneen grows up believing that what can not be changed, must be endured. In stark contrast to the example set by her sister, this belief in destiny leads Nazneen to dutifully accept her arranged marriage to Chanu, setting the stage for her years in London and her development as a character. How is Nazneen adapting to her new life in London?Nazneen is struggling to adapt to her new life in a new nation. Is it evident from the very onset that Nazneen feels insulated in London, this is compounded by the fact that her capacity for English is limited to two words. To add to it, her Husband is a traditional Muslim, who subjects her to isolation by preventing her from working or leaving their flat. Nonetheless, despite her difficulties, Nazneen soldiers on, living life by the notion that “What cannot be changed, must be born.” Envious of her sister, yet resigned to adapt to the life fate has given her. Yet Nazneen does find ways to cope, she befriends the local Bangladeshi women, who broaden her horizons to the London way of life. She finds a passion for ice-skating that helps her forget her woes and finds solace in the Qu'rans mantras when her mind is
Open Document