How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Title.Paragraph)
Quote #4
Now, she says, you must carry yourself with modesty, bow your head in the presence of men, and cover yourself with your shawl.
Never look a man in the eye. Never allow yourself to be alone with a man who is not family. (11.EverythingINeedtoKnow.2-3)
The rules of society revolve around gender differences and respect. So when Lakshmi gets her period for the first time, which is when she transitions from childhood into womanhood, Ama instructs her on how women should act if they want to be socially accepted into their village. Notice the words that are used. "Bow" and "cover" imply that Lakshmi should hide her strength (and we know that she has a pretty strong personality), as does the avoiding of men's eyes. We have to wonder how Ama deals with these rules.
Quote #5
I understand slowly, then all at once, that my stepfather has taken my cucumbers to Bajai Sita, the old trader woman, and sold them. I understand, too, why his cot is empty. Most likely, he has spent the night gambling—and losing—at the tea shop.
I know this is so when Ama comes out of the hut and does not meet my eye. (18.WhatIsMissing.5)
There's a lot more than cucumbers missing here—like respect, and power, and the ability to act on the injustices served up by the stepfather. This is a reminder that men in this society don't have to justify their actions—their gender justifies it for them. Unfortunately, this event somewhat foreshadows the way that gender appears in the Happiness House.
Quote #6
I feel a tiny sting on the backs of my legs, and I realize that Auntie has thrown a handful of gravel at my heels. To keep me moving forward. (41.MovingForward.4)
This is Lakshmi's first inkling that not all women are in it together. And a hint at how women can gain power in a society where men have traditionally held power… by repressing and betraying their own gender.