Symbolism
The dark
Symbolizes interpersonal communication without vulnerability. It is the only way Shoba and Shukumar can be honest with one another since the death of their baby.
Husband, Passive, 35 year old student
Shukumar
What do they when the lights go out?
Have dinner and play a game where they reveal secrets about themselves.
What is the formalist lense?
It examines and analyzes the structure, tone, images, symbolism theme, diction, and style of a piece, focuses of the formal aspects of the work.
The light
The light exposes the flaws in their relationship.
Wife, Strong/Independent, Always prepared
Shoba
What is Shoba's reaction to their baby dying?
Shoba is very upset, avoids anything reminding her of life before (including Shukumar), avoids problems with her work
What is the tone/mood at the begging?
Mournful/depressing
The Bradfords
Symbolize what Shoba and Shukumar could have been, a happy couple
Shoba and Shakumar's neighbors, a happy couple
The Bradfords
What is Shukumar's reaction to their baby dying?
Shukumar is upset, he rarely leaves the house anymore, gave up on social life, but took over the role of cooking for him and Shoba
What is the tone in the middle?
Hopeful
Food/cooking
Symbolizes Shoba and Shakumar's hope/feelings about their relationship. Shoba gave up cooking just like she gave up on their relationship, but Shakumar takes over the cooking as he still has some hope.
Drives Shoba to the hospital and drinks a martini with her
Gillian
What is the tone at the end?
Complex/honest/relieving
The title "A Temporary Matter"
The hope for their relationship/ability to be honest with each other is unfortunately only temporary, it is mirrored by the power outage which is also temporary
The only guest Shoba and Shukumar have after their baby died
Shoba's Mom
What does Shoba do that is significant before she tells him that she is leaving?
She turns the lights on in their house.
What is one example of how A Temporary Matter uses structure?
The last paragraph/the use of parallels