Summary

Chapter 9

Rama relates her marital days and the encroachment of Modou’s family on her home. Her mother-in-law parades friends though the house to display her son’s wealth. Some of her sisters-in-law see Ramatoulaye’s life as far simpler than it is, while others understand the challenges she faces as a working woman who must tend to her children, her husband, and her home. They all notice the gadgets the two-income household enjoys, and they all spend substantial amounts of time at the house with their children in tow. Only Modou’s father shows restraint, visiting barely long enough to sit down, and only asking for a cold glass of water.

Aissatou does not have a relationship with her mother-in-law who does not support the marriage, so much so that Mawdo’s mother wants revenge. Aissatou reminds Rama that she is fortunate to have...