Some of the noteworthy sentences from 'The Roots' by Gopika S Nair

The roots is a short story written by Ismat Chugtai which vividly elaborates the impact of partition on interpersonal relationships and the idea of homeland. Down below are some of the sentences from the story:

 1.  Between these two flags, there was a chasm miles wide.”

   Although Roopchandji’s house was right next to Abba’s, the different flags that were raised on both the houses seems to have distanced them apart. 

2.   Time passed on, but Amma stayed steadfast in her position like a banyan tree that stands upright through storms and blizzards.”

     Simile is applied here to compare Amma to a banyan tree whose roots delve deep into the earth making it withstand any external stimuli.

 

 3.Ten images of flesh and blood – ten human beings were born that hallowed room from the sacred womb which they left behind that day

   This is the poignant statement of the story which sums up the hardships and endearing efforts of mother and motherhood.

   

4. I'm like a lamp in it’s last gasp. A mild gust of wind and all this fuss about choosing a land will be over.

  These are Amma’s words. She is making this comment when her family is trying to persuade her to move to Pakistan.