ASSIGNMENT TOPIC:

. Sara Suleri As a Writer and Introductory

Elements of Meatless Days.
PRESENTED BY:
Shahid Ullah
Hayat Ullah 1
Abdullah
Kamran Khan

PRESENTED TO:
SIR Irfan

PRESENTED BY SHAHIDULLAH:
Chapter 1 of "Meatless Days" by Sara Suleri, titled "Excellent Things in Women," is a poignant
and introspective exploration of the author's family, cultural heritage, and personal identity. The
chapter is divided into three main sections, each focusing on a significant woman in Suleri's life:
her grandmother, Dadi; her mother; and herself.
Section 1:
Dadi (Grandmother)Suleri clearly portrays her grandmother, Dadi, a strong-willed and
independent woman who was married at 16 and widowed in her 30s. Despite the hardships she
faced, Dadi remained resilient and determined, raising her children alone and managing the
family's finances. Suleri admires Dadi's unwavering courage and resourcefulness, which inspired
her own independence and self-reliance.
Section 2:
MotherThe second section focuses on Suleri's mother, a Welsh woman who married into a
Pakistani family. Suleri's mother struggled to adapt to Pakistani culture and customs, often
feeling like an outsider. Despite this, she remained devoted to her family and played important
role in shaping Suleri's identity. Suleri reflects on the tensions between her mother's Western
upbringing and her own Pakistani heritage, highlighting the complexities of cultural identity
Section 3:
In the final section, Suleri turns her attention to her own experiences, exploring the
intersections of gender, culture, and identity. She recounts her childhood memories, including
her desire to wear her mother's saris and her fascination with Pakistani traditions. Suleri also
grapples with the expectations placed on her as a Pakistani woman, navigating the boundaries
between her cultural heritage and her own desires.
Throughout the chapter, Suleri's lyrical prose weaves together memories, anecdotes, and
historical context, creating a rich tapestry of family, culture, and identity. She skillfully captures
the complexities of growing up between cultures, highlighting the tensions and contradictions
that shape our lives.
Overall, Chapter 1 of "Meatless Days" is a powerful exploration of the women who shape our
lives and the cultural heritage that defines us. Suleri's writing is both deeply personal and
universally relatable, making this chapter a compelling and thought-provoking read.
Chapter 2 of "Meatless Days“
by Sara Suleri, titled "The Enterprise of Knowledge," offers a nuanced exploration of the
author's educational journey in Pakistan. This chapter deeply explains Suleri's experiences as a
student, her relationships with teachers, and the complexities of navigating knowledge and
identity within a patriarchal society.
The chapter begins with Suleri's recollections of her early education in Pakistan, where she
struggled to conform to the strict rules and expectations of her school. Despite these
challenges, she developed a deep passion for language and literature, which became a source of
solace and empowerment.
Suleri's English teacher, Mr. Ghauri, plays a significant role in this chapter. He is portrayed as a
complex figure, who is both supportive and demanding. Mr. Ghauri encourages Suleri's love of
literature and to promote the growth of her writing skills, but also critiques her work, pushing
her to excel. Through her interactions with Mr. Ghauri, Suleri grapples with the tension between
her desire for knowledge and the limitations placed on her as a woman in a patriarchal society.
Throughout the chapter, Suleri reflects on the cultural contradictions she faced in her education.
She navigates between Pakistani and Western influences, struggling to reconcile her desire for
knowledge with the societal expectations placed upon her. Suleri's writing is characterized by its
lyrical and introspection style, as she weaves together memories, anecdotes, and historical
context to create a rich tapestry of her educational journey.
The chapter also explores the theme of power dynamics in relationships, particularly in the
context of teacher-student relationships. Suleri's experiences with Mr. Ghauri highlight the
complexities of knowledge transmission and the ways in which power can be exercised and
negotiated.
Ultimately, Chapter 2 of "Meatless Days" concludes with Suleri's realization that knowledge is
not just about acquiring information, but also about understanding the power dynamics that
shape our relationships and identities. This insight marks a significant turning point in Suleri's
educational journey, as she begins to navigate the complexities of knowledge and power with
greater awareness and agency.
In summary, Chapter 2 of "Meatless Days" offers a deeply personal and thought-provoking
exploration of education, identity, and power. Suleri's writing is both nuanced and lyrical,
making this chapter a compelling and relatable
Chapter no 3
Chapter 3 of "Meatless Days" by Sara Suleri, titled "The Immaculate Conceit," continues the
author's exploration of her personal and cultural identity. This chapter delves into Suleri's
experiences with her father, Z.A. Suleri, a prominent Pakistani journalist and intellectual.
Here is a detailed summary of the chapter:Suleri's relationship with her father is complex and
multifaceted. She portrays him as a charismatic figure, deeply invested in Pakistani politics and
culture. However, she also critiques his patriarchal attitudes and the ways in which he exercises
power over his family.
The chapter centers around Suleri's memories of her father's storytelling, which often blurred
the lines between fact and fiction. She reflects on how these stories shaped her understanding
of Pakistani history and culture, as well as her own sense of identity.
Suleri also grapples with the contradictions of her father's political beliefs and actions. While he
advocated for progressive causes, he also perpetuated patriarchal norms within their family
This tension is exemplified through Suleri's recollections of her father's reactions to her writing,
which he both encouraged and critiqued.Throughout the chapter, Suleri explores the theme of
narrative and its power to shape our understanding of ourselves and our cultural heritage. She
reflects on how stories can both empower and disempower, and how they often perpetuate
dominant narratives.
The chapter also touches on the concept of "immaculate conceit," which refers to the idea that
our perceptions of ourselves and our cultural identities are often shaped by flawed and biased
narratives. Suleri argues that these narratives must be critically examined and challenged in
order to uncover more nuanced and accurate understandings of ourselves and our cultural
heritage.
In summary, Chapter 3 of "Meatless Days" offers a thought-provoking exploration of identity,
narrative, and power. Suleri's writing is both deeply personal and critically insightful, making this
chapter a compelling and relatable read.
Presented by Hayat ULLAH

Chapter 4 of the novel "Meatless Days" by Sara Suleri Goodyear is a pivotal chapter that delves
into the author's experiences as a Pakistani student in the United States. Here is a
comprehensive analysis of the chapter:
Title: "The Third World"Context:
The chapter is set in the 1970s, during the author's time as a graduate student at Yale
University.
Themes:1. Identity Crisis: The author grapples with her identity as a Pakistani woman in a
foreign country, struggling to reconcile her cultural heritage with her new surroundings.
2. Cultural Dislocation: Suleri experiences cultural dislocation, feeling disconnected from her
Pakistani roots while navigating American culture.
3. Racism and Exclusion: The author encounters racism and exclusion, highlighting the
challenges faced by people from the "Third World" in the United States.

Historical Context:
1. 1970s America: The chapter is set against the backdrop of 1970s America, marked by
social unrest, political turmoil, and growing awareness of global inequality.
2. 2. Postcolonialism: Suleri's experiences reflect the postcolonial condition, highlighting
the lingering effects of colonialism and imperialism.
Conclusion:Chapter 4 of "Meatless Days" is a powerful exploration of identity, culture, and
politics. Suleri's narrative offers a nuanced critique of American society and academia, while
also grappling with the complexities of her own identity as a Pakistani woman in the United
States. The chapter's themes, symbolism, and literary devices work together to create a rich and
thought-provoking analysis of the "Third World" experience.

Chapter 5 of the novel "Meatless Days" by Sara Suleri Goodyear is a thought-provoking and
nuanced exploration of the concept of purdah, a practice of veiling and seclusion for women in
Pakistani culture. Here is a comprehensive analysis of the chapter:
Title: "Purdah"Context:
The chapter is set in Pakistan, where the author grew up, and explores her experiences with
purdah as a child and young woman.
Themes:
1. Gender and Identity: Suleri examines the complex relationships between gender,
identity, and cultural norms, highlighting the constraints and freedoms of purdah.
2. Cultural Heritage: The author explores the cultural significance of purdah, its history, and its
impact on Pakistani society.
3. Female Agency: Suleri emphasizes the agency and resistance of women within the purdah
system, challenging stereotypes of passive victimhood.
4. Memory and Narrative: The chapter showcases the author's skillful use of memory and
narrative, blurring the lines between personal experience and cultural critique.

Historical Context:
1. Pakistan's cultural heritage: The chapter is set against the backdrop of Pakistan's cultural
heritage, shaped by Islamic and South Asian traditions.
2. Gender politics: Suleri's exploration of purdah reflects the gender politics of Pakistan, where
women's bodies and lives are often subject to patriarchal control.
Conclusion:Chapter 5 of "Meatless Days" offers a rich and nuanced analysis of purdah,
challenging dominant narratives and stereotypes.
Suleri's narrative weaves together personal experience, cultural critique, and historical context,
creating a thought-provoking exploration of gender, identity, and cultural heritage. The chapter's
themes, symbolism, and literary devices work together to create a powerful and evocative
portrayal of women's lives in Pakistan.

Chapter 6 of the novel "Meatless Days" by Sara Suleri Goodyear is a poignant and introspective
exploration of the author's experiences with the chador, a long, flowing garment worn by
women in Pakistan. Here is a comprehensive analysis of the chapter:
Title: "Chador"Context:
The chapter is set in Pakistan and the United States, exploring the author's experiences with the
chador as a child, young woman, and later as a scholar.
Themes:1. Identity and Belonging: Suleri examines the complex relationships between identity,
belonging, and cultural norms, highlighting the tensions between her Pakistani heritage and
American surroundings.
2. Gender and Modesty: The author explores the cultural significance of the chador, its
association with modesty and piety, and its impact on women's lives.
3. Memory and Narrative: Suleri showcases her skillful use of memory and narrative, weaving
together personal anecdotes, cultural analysis, and historical context.
4. Academic and Personal Reflection: The chapter blends academic reflection with personal
narrative, demonstrating the author's growth as a scholar and individual.
Historical Context:
1. Pakistan's cultural heritage: The chapter is set against the backdrop of Pakistan's cultural
heritage, shaped by Islamic and South Asian traditions.
2. 2. Gender politics: Suleri's exploration of the chador reflects the gender politics of
Pakistan, where women's bodies and lives are often subject to patriarchal control.
Conclusion:Chapter 6 of "Meatless Days" offers a poignant and introspective analysis of the
chador, exploring its cultural significance, personal meaning, and symbolic power. Suleri's
narrative weaves together personal experience, cultural critique, and historical context, creating
a thought-provoking exploration of identity, gender, and cultural heritage. The chapter's
themes, symbolism, and literary devices work together to create a powerful and evocative
portrayal of women's lives in Pakistan.

Character analysis by Kamran Khan

Here's a comprehensive analysis of the characters in "Meatless Days" from various dimensions:

*Sara Suleri Goodyear*

- Psychological: Sara struggles with identity, belonging, and grief. She's introspective and
emotional, with a deep connection to her family and culture.
- Sociological: As a Pakistani-American, Sara navigates multiple cultural identities and
experiences cultural displacement.
- Symbolic: Sara represents the hybrid identity and the struggle to reconcile different cultural
heritage.
- Developmental: Throughout the book, Sara comes to terms with her past, her family, and her
identity, showing growth and self-awareness.

*Zia ud Din (Z.A.)*

- Psychological: Z.A. is a charismatic, passionate, and principled individual who fights for
democracy and free speech.
- Sociological: As a journalist and activist, Z.A. embodies the political and social turmoil of
Pakistan during the 1970s and 1980s.
- Symbolic: Z.A. represents the struggle for democracy, free speech, and intellectual freedom in
Pakistan.
- Developmental: Z.A.'s character shows the consequences of political activism and the impact
on family life.

*Welsh Mother*

- Psychological: The Welsh Mother is a kind, gentle, and nurturing figure who struggles with
cultural adaptation.
- Sociological: As a foreigner in Pakistan, she experiences cultural displacement and faces
challenges in her relationship with her Pakistani family.
- Symbolic: The Welsh Mother represents cultural exchange, understanding, and the
complexities of interracial relationships.
- Developmental: Her character highlights the challenges of cultural adaptation and the
importance of empathy and understanding.

*Dadi*

- Psychological: Dadi is a strong, authoritative figure who embodies traditional Pakistani values
and culture.
- Sociological: As a matriarch, Dadi represents the patriarchal structure of Pakistani society and
the expectations placed on women.
- Symbolic: Dadi symbolizes tradition, cultural heritage, and the complexities of gender roles in
Pakistani society.
- Developmental: Dadi's character shows the impact of cultural expectations on personal growth
and development.

*Ifat*

- Psychological: Ifat is a strong, protective, and independent individual who struggles with her
own identity and cultural belonging.
- Sociological: As a Pakistani woman living in America, Ifat navigates cultural displacement and
the challenges of cultural adaptation.
- Symbolic: Ifat represents the complexities of cultural identity, belonging, and the struggles of
Pakistani women in diaspora.
- Developmental: Ifat's character shows the importance of self-discovery, independence, and
cultural awareness.

*Shahid*

- Psychological: Shahid is a charming, confident, and slightly arrogant individual who struggles
with his own identity and cultural belonging.
- Sociological: As a Pakistani man living in America, Shahid navigates cultural displacement and
the challenges of cultural adaptation.
- Symbolic: Shahid represents the complexities of cultural identity, belonging, and the struggles
of Pakistani men in diaspora.
- Developmental: Shahid's character shows the importance of self-awareness, empathy, and
cultural understanding.

*Tilat*

- Psychological: Tilat is a young, arrogant, and slightly rebellious individual who struggles with
her own identity and cultural belonging.
- Sociological: As a Pakistani woman living in America, Tilat navigates cultural displacement and
the challenges of cultural adaptation.
- Symbolic: Tilat represents the complexities of cultural identity, belonging, and the struggles of
Pakistani women in diaspora.
- Developmental: Tilat's character shows the importance of self-discovery, empathy, and cultural
awareness.

*Irfan*

- Psychological: Irfan is a young, sensitive, and vulnerable individual who struggles with his own
identity and cultural belonging.
- Sociological: As a Pakistani man living in America, Irfan navigates cultural displacement and the
challenges of cultural adaptation.
- Symbolic: Irfan represents the complexities of cultural identity, belonging, and the struggles of
Pakistani men in diaspora.
- Developmental: Irfan's character shows the importance of self-awareness, empathy, and
cultural understanding.

*Nuzhat*

- Psychological: Nuzhat is a kind, gentle, and nurturing individual who struggles with her own
identity and cultural belonging.
- Sociological: As a Pakistani woman living in America, Nuzhat navigates cultural displacement
and the challenges of cultural adaptation.
- Symbolic: Nuzhat represents the complexities of cultural identity, belonging, and the struggles
of Pakistani women in diaspora.
- Developmental: Nuzhat's character shows the importance of self-discovery, empathy, and
cultural awareness.

*Mustakori*

- Psychological: Mustakori is a strong, independent, and confident individual who struggles with
her own identity and cultural belonging.
- Sociological: As a Pakistani woman living in America, Mustakori navigates cultural
displacement and the challenges of cultural adaptation.
- Symbolic: Mustakori represents the complexities of cultural identity, belonging, and the
struggles of Pakistani women in diaspora.

- Developmental:
“ STORY LINES and SUMMARY OF CHAPTER 7,8,9 OF THE MEATLESS DAYS” by
Abd Ullah

Introduction.Meatless Days is a book that encompasses person memoir, the history of the
development of Pakistan, and fermale position within Pakistani culture.
chapter Saving Daylight
Meatless days last chapter starts with the title of “Saving daylight”. Time is adjusted to achieve
longer evening daylight in summer by setting the clocks an hour ahead of the standard time.
The main purpose of Daylight Saving Time (called "Summer Time" in many places in the world)is
to make better use of daylight. We change our clocks during the summer months to move an
hour of daylight from the morning to the evening.In Meatless Days, Sara Suleri moves through
time and places frequently as she recounts the tale of her family and the violent history of
Pakistan's independence.
It is important to note that time has an ambiguous role in the book since it is not exactly linear
and often is used in relevant terms. Knowing this, we can deduct that the beginning of the last
chapter of the book seems to hold a special significance:Each year, an hour gained. Because I
never tampered with the clocks in Pakistan, these last ten years feel bold to me, for they have
put me in the realm of daylight saving and made me mistress of time. That evening in October
still remains an oddity to me, suggesting a moment of keen transaction, until I am sure that I
can grasp what I keep repeating. "You must put back the clock an hour tonight."These lines
indicate that a person is engaged and arrested in time. As time holds one’s memories of life,
which takes a person back into the past incidents in which that person is lost and wants to go
back to live that time again, or he/she wishes to go back to change bad events In this chapter
Sara Suleri talks about the events and memories of her life and her family, like in the beginning
she mentions the tune of spacious speech of Shahid.
She says that his voice feels everywhere as she sits with her father in the garden talking through
night’s stillness, the total stillness of a summer in Lahore. She enjoys a feeling of rain and a
fragrance when water is put on the sand/dust.She talks about the month of March, as she says
that this month has totally changed me, has changed my perception about viewing life, my
feelings, as whenever this month starts I used to warn myself that this month is going to come
and something is coming to strip us to the bone,something to make our thoughts live in interior
spaces as this month brought twice the days of wicked occasion.She is defining moments in her
existence that aome to be seen through a process of repetition.Her sister Ifat’s death, for
example, is referred to in the first essay, but there is a time and a place for her story, Suleri
explains, and it isn’t in the passage that deals with their beloved brother Shahid: “For in this
story, Ifat will not die before our eyes: it could not be countenanced. How could I tell Shahid’s
story and let Ifat die before his eyes?” The dying experiences of Dadi, Iffat and her mother speak
of the anxiety that her family feels.She calls the condition in Pakistan ‘synonymous with grief’
(Suleri, 1989, p.19).
History never lends comfort. We cannot get rid of our past because history records it. Episode of
Iffat’s death shows the intersection of person with political. Words of Shahid are further
reassured by into a more confirmed loss. Her sister Iffat and her mother die in an accident
shattering her yearning for the physical presence that is lost. She mentions that Tillat pain folds
back into illusions of serenity, putting that bonny girl into silences of what cannot be said.
Shahid’s pain insists his sensibility is done, an Anita’s pain suggests that you have renounced on
the duty of sensibility,Papa pain glances as a stranger and Mamma pain suggests the immorality
of absence. She recalls the memories and days spent with her sister and called her sister ifat
brave girl witha golden heart.
She then explains the controversies she faced from people when she visited Pakistan. The
cityLahore which reminded her some memories and time spent with her mother smoking a
nicotine and waiting for her presence, and her sister ifat as Lahore gave her happiness so she
asks a question that how can she forget the time which bloomed their life with happiness and
with memorable days. After that she also recalls the night in which she had a discussion with
her sister about the night of Mairaj, a religious discussion which explains how Prophet
Muhammad (s.a.w.w) was called on heaven by the command of God and with Gibrael he came
to heaven. Ifat told it’s a blessful night to pray, on which sara questioned that how can we pray,
then iffat helped her out.. whichcreated a feeling of softness in sara heart and she felled herself
close to God and said in last that I hold the Adam in me, the one who had attempted to break
loose. It’s a rib that floats in longing for some other cage, in the wishbone cracking urge of its
desire Basically, in the closing words of chapter, Suleri, successfully uses the image of the wind
whipping through an empty cave to portray her sadness. Further, her certainty that she would
hear Tom’s name in the wind clearly conveys that she was affected by the ending of their
relationship. Suleri’s subtle yet stirring manner of conveying her emotions is unparalleled. This
ability enables her to weave her own personality throughout her writing while she is still
maintaining her credibility.
This gives us a message that no matter what happens in a person’s life but he or she has to go
with a pace and has to move with a life because no one’s life stops with someone’s death and
that a rule of nature and of God. And in the end, sara’s sister Ifat also taught sara that she
should connect herself to God, she should return herself to optimism as only this will help her
to bear her griefs.

Chapter : "What Mamma Knew"

In this chapter, Sara Suleri delves deeply into the life and character of her mother, who plays a
crucial role in the family dynamic. The narrative highlights her mother's strength, wisdom, and
adaptability in the face of various cultural and familial challenges.
Suleri's mother, originally from Wales, had to navigate a foreign culture after moving to
Pakistan. Despite the cultural and geographical displacement, she manages to maintain her
identity and instill values in her children. The chapter emphasizes her resilience, particularly in
how she handles the complexities of raising a family in a politically turbulent environment.
Suleri reflects on her mother's deep understanding of human nature and her ability to maintain
a sense of normalcy amid chaos. Her mother's knowledge is portrayed not just as intellectual
but also intuitive, providing emotional support and stability. The chapter explores the intimate
moments of mother-daughter interactions, shedding light on the wisdom passed down through
generations. Through these reflections, Suleri paints a vivid picture of a woman who embodies a
blend of Western and Eastern sensibilities, making her a central figure in the family’s life and the
memoir itself.
Chapter : "The Immoderation of Ifat"
This chapter is centered around Suleri’s sister, Ifat, whose vibrant and rebellious spirit is a stark
contrast to the more subdued characters in the family. Ifat's life and actions are a focal point for
discussing themes of gender, freedom, and societal expectations. Ifat is portrayed as a
passionate and defiant individual who challenges the traditional norms of Pakistani society. Her
immoderation, as the title suggests, is seen in her refusal to conform to the expectations placed
upon her as a woman. The chapter chronicles Ifat's struggles with these societal constraints and
her attempts to carve out her own identity. Suleri uses Ifat's story to explore the limitations
imposed on women in her culture. Ifat's defiance and ultimate tragedy are depicted with a mix
of admiration and sorrow. Her untimely death serves as a poignant reminder of the harsh
realities faced by those who dare to challenge the status quo. Through Ifat's life, Suleri
addresses broader issues of gender inequality and the personal costs of rebellion.
The narrative in this chapter is rich with emotional depth, capturing the complexities of sibling
relationships and the impact of cultural expectations on individual lives. Suleri's reflections on
Ifat highlight the inner turmoil and external pressures that shape women's lives in Pakistan,
making this chapter a critical exploration of identity and resistance.
Overall summary and ANALYSIS
Sara Suleri is a prominent writer of sub continent, Pakistan. Her style of writing is very
impressive and nostalgic. She has written on different topics in a very forceful and appealing
way. "Meatless Days" is her unique, novel and catchy piece of writing. In this book, she explores
the various aspects of life and describes them in the color of criticism on life. Her illustration
and description of events is realist. Most of her descriptions revolve around her family
members, her liking and disliking of different eatable things related to meat and vegetables.
From the book's title to its countless descriptions of meals, cooking, consumption, and food
figures are a prominent motif in Meatless Days. She also throws light on the political condition
of that time as an observer.
In this finely wrote memoir of life in postcolonial Pakistan, Suleri links the violent history of
Pakistan's independence with her own most intimate memories of her Welsh mother; of her
Pakistani father who was a prominent political journalist Z.A. Suleri; of her tenacious (obstinate)
grandmother Dadi and five siblings; and of her own passage to the west:"There are nine
autobiographical tales that move easily back and forth among Pakistan, Britain, and the United
States... She forays lightly into Pakistani history, and deeply into the history of her family and
friends. ... Suleri, woman at home in Pakistan, makes this book sing."
"Meatless Days" is based on the childhood memories of Sara Suleri. She narrates different
stories of her childhood and associates them with her brothers and other family members. The
title of the book, also relates to the events and contents of the book. The story begins when her
sister Tallat with her three children comes from Kuwait. They both were like friends. One day
Tallat revealed upon her that the meat stuff which Sara used to relish because of its taste and
which she called "Sweet breads" were in fact" Kapuras" and " kidneys" cooked together. Face of
Tallat was kindling with superior knowledge. Then she declared openly that Kapuras were really
testicles. Sara says that she refused to believe and went on cooking.Then she describes about
the organic location of Kapuras in animals. Her going into details and collecting particulars about
it is very interesting. Her mother forces her to eat "Sweet breads". But now it was very difficult
for her to eat this dish of meat. Her mother was very fond of mutton but Sara liked vegetables.
Her description about the parables of kapuras is very funny and involving.
The writer describes her memories of Lahore in a very impressive way. They were living in 9-T
Gulberg Lahore. She was very frank to her sister Tallat and her elder sister Iffat. Their cook
Qayyam had a son and two daughters. The name of her little daughter was Munni. Sara
occasionally played with her. She liked her curly hair. She used to make pan by a mango leaf
stuffed with little stones. She usually gave "Muni" "Pan" of Mango leaf and stones. Sara thought
stones like kidneys. She compares "Muni" with herself. According to her Munni was better to
her in this respect. Munni could throw out the stones from her mouth but she was forced to eat
the dish of Kapuras and kidneys.
Then the story takes another turn: Their cook Qayyum bought two buffaloes. They tied them at
the far end of their garden. Her mother treated the children like elder brother Shahid She was
also forced to drink first over powering glasses of milk. She called it gulf stream of cream
emitting a pungent glassy odor. Qayyum usually pulls the udders of the buffaloes in a very
festive manner. He called up the children one by one to throw steaming jets of milk into their
mouths. Sara often ran as far as she could when her turn came for drinking milk.She also
describes different vegetables of her garden. She liked them. There was a row of cauliflower in
the garden. She preferred to eat them instead of "Sweet breads" after the revelation of her
sisters that it was made of Kapuras and kidneys. She praises the fragrant little heads of
cauliflower because they looked like brain. There was always of layer of dewdrops on them. It
was the most charming sight for her. She usually goes to those flowers in the early morning. She
often held them between her knees and chewed them. Seeing this Qayyum usually cried "Maro!
Maro!"He uttered so as he thought her as if some animal eating the vegetables.So, it is clear
that she liked vegetables instead of meat and the title of the story "Meatless Days" is
appropriate.Her mother always insisted her to taste kidneys. Qayoom was also of the opinion to
give her a full plate of that dish. One day-Iffat was present she stood there to watch and to
make it sure that Sara was eating her mother granted dish. Iffat suddenly gave her remarks in
the following words.
"Kidneys make pee, Sara"
She relates that she tried to know that fact of "Kapuras" or "Testicles". But her mother, grand
mother and all the people of her family didn't bother to explain the exact location and physical
terminology of " Kapuras". So, it remained a mystery for quite a long time in her life.Meatless
Days is full of the rich memories of her childhood. The writer goes to describe the memories of
Ramazan with its particular religious coloring and taste. Sara remembers the days of Ramazan.
In her childhood, she liked the month of Ramazan with great passion and excitement. She
describes the enjoyments of awakening at Sahri and then preparing for it. Iffatri was full of
nourishing foods and it was pleasing and enjoyable time. One had to get out of bed very early to
make preparation for Sahri. She didn't sleep after Sahri but enjoyed chatting with others. Same
practice of making variety of foods was done at Ifftari time. She enjoyed Chat, Pakoras, Samosas
and other dishes in the company of Dadi, Iffat and other members of family.The writer describes
that there were other enjoyments in life too. She used to go out with her old friends Nuzaat and
Aalya to Bagh-e-Jinnah. There they ate Gol-gupps with great relish. They also enjoyed other out
door dishes like Dahi Baray, Fruit chat and so on. Chatting, enjoying and laughing with Gol-Gups
was really a great phase of life.Sara shares another memory of her Meatless Days. She
remembers that govt. of Pakistan announced Tuesday and Wednesday as Meatless Days. It was
decided to conserve the national supply of meat in the form of goats and cattle. But it had
opposite results. All the rich families started storing the meat one day before meatless days i.e
Tuesday & Wednesday. The butchers also started taking the benefit of meatless days. They
slaughtered extra animals to sell more and more meat to earn maximum profit.Sara gives the
minute details of this issue. She describes the details of meat shops, slaughtering conditions and
dirty atmosphere of meat shops. As it is the main topic discussed in this memoir. Due to this
description, she entitled the story as "Meatless Days".Besides personal glimpse on her
childhood memories, Sara also throws light on the deteriorating conditions of politics in the
country. She mentions the days of General Ayub khan, General Yahya khan and Zulfiqar Ali
Bhutto and then Zia ul Haq. She also tells the political turmoil which ravaged the roots of the
country and resulted in the separation of East Pakistan.
The writer gives the unique history of their cooks. Their names were Qayyum, Ramzan and Allah
Ditta. She didn't like the cook Allah Ditta, as the taste of his dishes were unlikely for her. Allah
Dita served their family for many years.Sara also shares with us her unhappy memories of life.
She left Pakistan and went to U.S.A. she also spent some time in London. It was great shock for
her that her elder sister Iffat died the prime of her youth. The days of her life had become as
tasteless as they were meatless days. She couldn't even meet the children of her sister for four
years. He describes the bitter realities of her life. Her elder brother Shahid divorced his wife and
married a foreign girl. They had to give his children to that foreign lady. It was a shocking event
of her life.The last memory of Sara Suleri is very painful and horrible.
It was a chilly morning in New York. She received a bad news of her mother's death. It was one
of the worst shocks of her life. She became very sad and upset. She saw a horrible dream at
night. She saw that her father was present outside the home. There was dead body of her
mother in the ambulance. She saw in the dream that while putting the dead body of her mother
into the coffin. She has stolen a part of her mama's dead body and hid it under her tongue to
share it with her siblings (children).It was the period of her meatless days as it was full of
unhappiness events of life. After that she tells her readers that she got up of her dream world
into the world of "Meatless Days". Stealing the piece of her mother's part of body symbolically
refers to the fact that she has tasted the bitter and unbearable taste of her sister's and mother's
death. After their death, this world had become meaningless for her. She was deprived of the
warmth and taste of true love.We may capsule the discussion by saying that "Meatless Days" is
a unique and heat catching story of family Love, memories and political criticism on different
aspects of life with symbolic back ground. The title of the book really suits it as it signifies the
meatless days and the loss of love and taste of life..