Chapter 2 Summary

At dinner with Nazneen and Chanu, Dr. Azad laments about the deterioration of the Bengali youth who are frequenting pubs and nightclubs. When Chanu vows to go back home before this happens to his children, Dr. Azad reveals that once, he too had the Going Home Syndrome. Dr. Azad explains that the Going Home Syndrome happens because although the body is in England, the heart remains home, in Bangladesh. People always, find some reason not to go back whether it is; natural disasters, bureaucracy, or, more often than not, lack of funds. When Nazneen says they would not need much money to live back home, Chanu is visibly uncomfortable that she has spoken up.

As they eat, Nazneen can't help but compare the two men. Dr. Azad is small, quiet, and wears a spotless shirt. Her husband is fat, loud, and he has...