Grandfather

Grandfather is a calm and measured main character whose wisdom eases the path of all of his family members. He has a deep respect for nature and animals and aims to impart this respect on his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Grandfather’s relationship with Rakesh, his grandson, creates one of the most enduring symbols of the novel: the cherry tree. Grandfather’s patience with Rakesh and their process of growing the tree and remaining resilient throughout multiple setbacks shows his capacity to encourage other people as well as his immense foresight to understand the importance of learning these lessons as a child.

Grandfather often adopted exotic animals like monkeys and pythons to occupy his time despite Grandmother’s near constant objections to such animals living inside of the house with the couple. The python and monkey he kept as pets provided childlike whimsy and wonder. His children...