Character Analysis
Koly's boss at the garment store is like a dream come true. He's patient, considerate, and honest, and the only time he even gets annoyed is when he's robbed. (We'll give him a pass on that one.) Other than that, he's cool as a cucumber, even when there's loads of work to do.
Most importantly for the story, though, Mr. Das encourages Koly to be herself. After looking at her work, he tells her:
"That is what I want. It is not just a heron; it is your heron. It has flown right out of your head and, more important, out of your heart." (10.28)
He wants Koly to express herself—not act like someone else—which is just the encouragement Koly needs as she tries to make it on her own. Plus, working for Mr. Das gives Koly a sense of joy like she's never experienced before, a sense of joy she refuses to let go as she builds her life.