After India declared its independence, Markandaya moved to Britain, though she still labeled herself an Indian expatriate long afterward. A native of Mysore, India, Markandaya was a graduate of Madras University, and afterward published several short stories in Indian newspapers.

GradeSaver, 31 December 2016 Web.Pseudonym used by Kamala Purnaiya Taylor, an Indian novelist and journalist.

'Nectar in a Sieve Symbols, Allegory and Motifs'. Next Section Metaphors and Similes Previous Section Analysis How To Cite in MLA Format Sexton, Timothy. Will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback. You can help us out by revising, improving and updatingĪfter you claim a section you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. From this can be extrapolated associations about the home as a symbol relative to education and the restriction of such access. Home also carries meaning associated with gender roles and cultural expectations toward the role of woman in society. In the face of uncertainty about the nature of change, the home is a solid symbol of stability and security. The home is more than just a place to hang a hat or turban. The drums produce an almost literal rhythmic accompany to events of life, eventually becoming symbolic representation of the way the people of a given culture must acclimate themselves to the a rhythm of existence that is wholly their own and unlike any other. They might be termed the Drums of Calamity, but the sound produced by the drums actually take on a much more expansive role than mere foreboding portent. The symbolism of the rice is an agricultural one that contrasts directly with the future possibilities represented by the tannery. Rice was the dominant economic commodity as well the as the predominant food staple. The loincloths and turbans of those working in the tannery situates them in direct opposition to the Muslim overseers whose modern attire of shirt, trousers and hat symbolizes their superior social distinction. ClothingĬlothing in the story serves to become a symbol immediately identifying the social status of characters to one another.

The tannery represents the transition into modernity and all the unforeseen consequences-both positive and negative-that major changes to the status quo can bring. The tannery is the central symbol of the story as it is endowed with significant meaning as a representative of the future and the force of progress. We are thankful for their contributions and encourage you to make your own. These notes were contributed by members of the GradeSaver community.

Nectar in a Sieve by Kamala Markandaya