Nectar Close Reading
The Last Chapter
1. What topic is being suggested through the diction in the first and second
sentence?
2. Look at the structure of the first sentence. What is significant about the
punctuation?
Hint: see the Pearson Writing and Grammar book on pages 493-495
3. Read the second and third sentence. What metaphor is implied? How can this
metaphor be applied to the novel as a whole?
4. AGAIN, in the third sentence, what is significant about the punctuation?
5. Identify the parallel structure in the first paragraph. What topic, tone, and theme
are being highlighted in this example?
6. Why is Puli important? Spend some time thinking about this and give a detailed
answer!
7. The second paragraph illuminates Ruku’s connection to the earth, the “time of inbetween”, and the snake. Interpret the symbols in this paragraph. Remember: the
snake has been used before in chapter 2!
8. What is the very last word of the novel? What topic is being suggested through
the diction?
9. Contrast the first two sentences with the last. What shift can you identify? What
theme is illuminated in this shift?
10. How does the novel come full circle?
11. By the end of the novel, it is obvious to the reader that Rukmani will not live
much longer. Why do you think Markandaya does not show us the end of
Rukmani’s life?
12. In your opinion, does Rukmani suffer in silence? Why or why not? Support your
answer with evidence from the text and consider the ideas from “The Value of
Suffering” article!