How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Title.Paragraph)
Quote #10
It is then that I see the red veins in his eyes and smell the liquor on his breath.
He is not a good American. He is just another drunk. (150.AnotherAmerican.5-6)
This sexual experience with a category of person Lakshmi thought she could trust—Americans—does a lot of damage to her ability to trust the third American who comes to the brothel. Think about why McCormick might want to include this particular sexual experience. What is she trying to say about people?
Quote #11
Now, while I wait for the American to return, and the men come to my bed,
I clench the sheets in my hands, for fear that I will pound them to death with my fists.
I grit my teeth, for fear that I will bite through their skin to their very bones.
I squeeze my eyes closed tight, for fear that I will see what has actually happened to me. (173.ForgettingHowtoForget.3)
Lakshmi is waiting for the third American, the one who eventually ends up rescuing her from the brothel. Though we see her break out of her emotional apathy, the emotions she's experiencing aren't good. She is exhibiting signs of rage, fear, and hatred—and of shame about what's happened to her. It's clear that the effects of her sexual experiences will have long-term repercussions on Lakshmi's psychological and physical health.