Treachery – This is an important element of the novel as it drives Said to commit murder. “Treachery is abominable, Ilish…” (p. 201), “For treachery, Mr. Rauf, is an abomination.” (p. 201), whoever had crossed his path and been treacherous enough to betray him, Said was devoted to killing.
Obsession – Said is driven by his obsession for exacting vengeance. “As long as I live you’ll never enjoy the taste of peace.” (p. 203) Some may identify this as a hyperbole, but there is a certainty to it—sustained by the relatively short length of the sentence and the reader’s current understanding of Said at this stage of the book—that allows one to realize that he sincerely means what he says, regardless of how maniacal it may sound.
Fate/Destiny – “… you have a new identity now and a new destiny!” (p. 203), “If you don’t strike soon…” (p. 200)
Tags: Fate and Destiny, Obsession, Themes, Treachery
March 4, 2009 at 1:26 pm
In the sentence you selected for the theme of treachery, Said states that, “for the living to enjoy life it is imperative that criminal and vicious elements be eradicated” (pg 201). Isn’t Said contradicting himself as he is the thief but refers to Ilish with criminal and evil implications.