Question

"Nothing feels normal to Ashima, it’s not so much the pain which she will survive. Its consequence: motherhood in a foreign land … unmonitored by those she loves … she is terrified to raise a child in a country where she knows so little, where life seems so tentative and spare." In the above passage of The Namesake, the writer tries to say that Ashima ________.

• A. feels isolated in the new world
• B. should have been surrounded by her own people
• C. is facing a cultural shock
• D. is able to adapt herself to an alien culture

Hint:

Cultural shock is a common experience for immigrants, especially when separated from family and familiar surroundings. Ashima’s struggles in \textit{The Namesake} reflect this emotional and psychological challenge.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A, B, C

Step 1: Understand the context of Ashima’s feelings

In the passage from The Namesake, the character Ashima expresses feelings of isolation and fear as she navigates motherhood in a foreign land. She is not only separated from her loved ones but also feels insecure about raising her child in a culture that is unfamiliar to her.

Step 2: Analyze the options

Now, let's analyze the options:

• (A) This is correct because Ashima feels isolated in her new surroundings, away from her home and family, and the uncertainty of life in a foreign country is a source of distress for her.
• (B) This is also correct. Ashima feels the absence of her own people, which would provide comfort and support in a foreign environment. She longs for the familiar presence of those she loves.
• (C) This is correct as well. Ashima’s experience highlights the cultural shock she faces as she tries to adapt to a new country, unfamiliar customs, and a different way of life.
• (D) This option is incorrect. Ashima is not adapting easily to the new culture; rather, she is struggling with feelings of alienation and fear.

Step 3: Conclusion

Thus, the correct answers are (A), (B), and (C), as they reflect Ashima’s feelings of isolation, her longing for her own people, and the cultural shock she experiences in the foreign land.

Quick Tip

Cultural shock is a common experience for immigrants, especially when separated from their home country and loved ones.