Chapter 1

analysis on
Fasting,
Feasting
By: Breindelle, Sasu, Kayla, Keziah, Nana Yaa
Table of contents

01 02
Introduction Summary

03 04
Analysis Conclusion
 01
Introduction
Introduction
Fasting, Feasting" is a novel by Anita Desai that
explores the contrasting lives of two siblings,
Uma and Arun, in India and the United States. It
delves into the cultural and familial pressures
they face, with Uma's life confined to domestic
servitude and Arun's struggle for personal
freedom. The novel highlights themes of gender
roles, tradition, and the quest for independence.
 02
Summary
A short and quick summary of the chapter 1 of
fasting fasting
Summary

The book introduces Uma, the eldest daughter of Papa

and Mama. The narrator highlights and talks about Uma’s
role, being a dutiful and obedient daughter. It
emphasises the limitations and expectations imposed
on Uma as she carries out her household
responsibilities, setting the tone for the cultural and
societal challenges she will confront.
 03
Analysis
The questions considering chapter 1 analysis
will be answered and explained
Does the story begin in
the end, middle or
beginning?
Does the story begin in the end, middle or
beginning?
The story begins at the end of the story. In the beginning of
chapter 1, Uma is described as a middle-aged woman with grey
hair; she is tasked with preparing a gift for her brother Arun(“Uma
flounces off,her grey hair frazzled”). However, as you read the
rest of chapter 1, there is no mention of Arun anymore and the
story then goes on to describe Uma as a young child. This
suggests that the story actually started with a foreshadow with
Uma and Arun as adults and Arun is actually in America(“...In
case Arun is cold in America”)
Does the story begin in the end, middle or
beginning? -Significance

Starting a novel at the end of the plot can be a powerful storytelling

technique that adds depth and complexity to the narrative, encourages
reader engagement, and reinforces the exploration of themes and
character development. In "Fasting, Feasting," it likely serves to frame
the story in a way that underscores the novel's central themes and
invites readers to consider the consequences of the characters'
choices.
Is the writing simple,
straightforward or
mysterious?
Is the writing simple, straightforward or
mysterious?
In the first chapter of "Fasting, Feasting", the writing style is predominantly simple and
straightforward. The chapter sets the stage for the contrasting cultural contexts in which
the story unfolds.

Imagery: In this chapter, Desai uses certain words to describe the mannerisms of different
characters in the book. The narrator describes Uma: "her grey hair frazzled, her myopic
eyes glaring behind her spectacles, muttering under her breath" . Desai's word choices are
properly chosen. "Frazzled" suggests that Uma does not have it fully together, that her
parents easily fluster her. "Myopic" suggests that she has literal eyesight problems but
also that she might not "see" other things for what they are. "Glaring" suggests she is
emotional and easily provoked. "Muttering" suggests a degree of petulance and
passive-aggressiveness. This image, established so early in the text, is remarkably
consistent throughout the novel.
Is the writing simple, straightforward or
mysterious?
Diction: The diction used in this chapter reflects the family’s traditional Indian
lifestyle. It includes words and expressions like “taciturnity” and “guarded
restraint” to describe the behaviour of Mama and Papa respectively .The choice
of diction helps to convey the cultural norms and values that govern the
characters' lives.

Syntax: The syntax in this chapter is fairly conventional, without much

complexity or mystery. It is used to provide a clear and direct description of the
family’s life in India. The sentences are structured in a way that makes it easy
for the reader to understand the characters and their surroundings.

the analysis of the writing style in the first chapter is significant because it lays
the groundwork for readers to interpret and appreciate the broader themes and
character developments that occur throughout the entire novel. It provides
context for the cultural and emotional journeys of the characters and highlights
the contrast between their Indian and American experiences, which are central
to the novel's exploration of cultural identity and societal expectations.
Do you have any idea on
what the rest of the novel
is going to be about? Are
there any hints as to what
the theme will be?
Do you have any idea on what the rest of the novel is
going to be about? Are there any hints as to what the
theme will be?

Cultural Clash: Given the initial setting in India and the contrasting culture
presented in the United States, it's likely that the novel will delve into the theme
of cultural clash. The clash between traditional Indian values and the Western
way of life can be a central theme, with a focus on how the characters navigate
these cultural differences.
Family and Gender Roles: The first chapter hints at the traditional family
structure and gender roles in the family. It's possible that the novel will further
explore these themes, including the societal expectations placed on women like
Uma and the pressure on sons like Arun to meet academic and career
expectations.
Personal Freedom and Identity: The desires and aspirations of the characters
introduced in Chapter 1 suggest that personal freedom and the search for
individual identity could be key themes. The characters may grapple with their
own desires and the constraints of societal expectations.
Do you have any idea on what the rest of the novel is
going to be about? Are there any hints as to what the
theme will be?

Generation Gap: The different outlooks and aspirations of the younger generation,
represented by Uma , in contrast to the older generation, particularly their parents,
suggest that the novel may explore the generation gap and the conflicts that arise
from differing perspectives.
Religion and Ritual: Religious customs and rituals play a role in the first chapter. The
novel might delve into the significance of these practices in the characters' lives and
how they affect their relationships and personal journeys.
Expectations and Disappointment: The first chapter hints at underlying tensions and
unfulfilled expectations in the family. The novel may delve into how these
expectations shape the characters' lives and the potential disappointments that arise
as a result.
 Is the narrative written
in the third or first
person? Who is the
narrator and what, if
anything do you find out
about him or her?
Is the narrative written in the third or first person? Who is
the narrator and what, if anything do you find out about
him or her?

The narrator in chapter 1 is an omniscient one, meaning that the

narrator has access to the thoughts, emotions, and perspectives of
various characters in the family. This omniscient perspective is used to
provide a comprehensive view of each character introduced in chapter
1: the life, customs, and interactions within their Indian setting.

the third-person omniscient perspective in "Fasting, Feasting" is

significant because it enriches the storytelling by providing a broad
view of the characters and their cultural contexts. This perspective is
instrumental in conveying the novel's central themes, exploring the
characters' inner worlds, and highlighting the cultural clashes and
challenges they face. It offers a comprehensive and in-depth
understanding of the characters and the novel's thematic content.
What characters are
introduced in the first
chapter? What do you
learn about them?
What characters are introduced in the first chapter?
What do you learn about them?

Mama: Mama is the matriarch of the family, and she is portrayed as a traditional, and
dutiful woman. She is responsible for maintaining the household's religious customs and
rituals. She is also shown to be deeply concerned about her son Arun's well-being and
future prospects. She is a clear example of how Indian women are expected to be in their
society.

Papa: Papa, the patriarch of the family, is a stern and authoritative figure. He is
concerned with the family's reputation and status in society. His conservative,
traditional mindset causes him to frown upon a lot of the things within the household.
The narrative describes him as a "great stone figure" who remains rooted in his
conservative values. We also learn that has a fragile ego which is shown whenever he
attends social gatherings (“...He was rattled, shaken by what he saw as a possible
challenge to his status”)
What characters are introduced in the first chapter?
What do you learn about them?

Uma: Uma is presented as the main character in this chapter. She is depicted as a dutiful
daughter who assists Mama with household chores and rituals. She has a desire to
pursue her education and dreams, which are hindered by traditional expectations and
gender roles. With her rebellious spirit it is easily assumed that throughout the rest of
the novel she would be likely to lean away from behaviour of a traditional Indian female.

Arun: Arun, the youngest of the children, is not as prominently featured in this chapter,
but his character is introduced. He is the focus of his parents' hopes and expectations for
academic success. His character traits and motivations become more apparent in the
later parts of the novel.
What is the setting? How
is it described?
What is the atmosphere
like?
 What is the setting? How is it described?
What is the atmosphere like?

In Chapter 1 of "Fasting, Feasting" by Anita Desai, the

setting is a traditional Indian household, described with rich
details that showcase its cultural features, rituals, and daily
life. The atmosphere is one of familial warmth, cultural
traditions, and sensory experiences, but there are hints of
underlying tensions and unfulfilled expectations within the
family. This chapter establishes the cultural context of the
family and sets the stage for the exploration of cultural
themes and contrasts that will unfold in the novel.
 What is the setting? How is it described?
What is the atmosphere like?

In the beginning of the book the atmosphere is relaxed and calm. “Dangling
their legs so that the slippers on their feet hang loose” The personification in
“pigeons….coversing tendering ” highlights this relaxed atmosphere. conveys a
sense of daily routine and monotony. It suggests a slow-paced, unchanging
lifestyle where time seems to pass without much excitement or variation.

Later, the atmosphere gets more quick paced when Uma is getting the
package ready for Arun,”Uma twists her shoulders in impatience” This
contrast in atmosphere highlights the contrast between the different
cultures in the book.
Thank You
Any questions?