Nikhil's Necklace

The necklace that Nikhil gives to Sharma as a gift in "A Small Sacrifice for an Enormous Happiness" is a symbol not only of the love that Nikhil feels toward his partner but also of Nikhil's privileged financial situation relative to Sharma's own. Although Nikhil obviously intends the gift as a kindness, Sharma is made uncomfortable by the pressure it puts on him to agree to Nikhil's proposition that they have a child together, a discomfort made more palpable by the knowledge that the necklace is a precious family heirloom. Ultimately, Nikhil's perception at the story's conclusion that Sharma does not have commensurate respect for the unwanted "gift" of the necklace compels him to pettily steal the necklace back, an action that coincides with the conclusion of their relationship.

Aparna's Airplane

The titular airplane that Aparna attempts to build in "Lilavati's Fire" is a symbol...