How we cite our quotes: (Part.Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #10
Working for Abdel Khader Khan was my first real instruction in organized crime—until then I'd been no more than a desperate man, doing stupid, cowardly things to feed a stupid, cowardly heroin habit, and then a desperate exile earning small commissions on random deals. (3.22.1)
What's the difference between a smalltime crook and a mobster? Here it is. Lin, before he meets Khaderbhai, just commits his crimes in order to pay for drugs or survive in the slum. It's like doing odd jobs to make enough cash for a concert. Joining Khader's operation, though, serves a higher purpose. It's like joining the military, or working for a big corporation.