How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
"Koly, if only I had listened to you and learned to read, I could know some of what comes up on the screen. There are words in every language and from everywhere. My baap was wrong to dislike those machines. They are magic." (7.4)
Chandra regrets not learning how to read like Koly. At first she thinks she won't need the skill since she'll be taking care of the house like a good wife, but pretty soon she realizes that everyone—even stay at home moms—can benefit from reading.
Quote #8
"How could I read when I was working on the land from the time I was five years old? Besides, there is no one in my family who reads. Who would teach me?" (9.18)
Raji gets embarrassed when Koly points out that he can't read because he wishes he could. He gets defensive about the whole thing because he's never had the opportunity to learn the skills that Koly already has.
Quote #9
His favorite poems were those that described the countryside, poems about being out early when the morning light is thin and pale, and about hearing the birds' songs. (9.24)
Poetry becomes a way for Raji and Koly to communicate with each other. After she teaches him how to read, he starts listening and reading her Tagore poems by himself and discovers their beauty.