Postcards

Postcards are a feature in the short story “Unaccustomed Earth.” Postcards depicting various attractions, cities, and destinations are purchased by Ruma’s father and sent to Ruma and her family as he travels around the world. While visiting Seattle, Ruma’s father purchases a postcard to send to his girlfriend, Mrs. Bagchi, though he misplaces it before he leaves. Akash finds the postcard, which leads Ruma to realize her father does not want to move to Seattle because he is seeing Mrs. Bagchi. Ruma mails the postcard.

Matches

Matches are a feature in the short story “Hell-Heaven.” Matches are used to light fires. When Usha’s mother discovers that the man with whom she is in love has decided to marry an American girl, Usha’s mother is beside herself with grief. After the wedding, Usha’s mother intends to light herself on fire using matches...