Reluctant Fundamentalist

When Mohsin Hamid wrote The Reluctant Fundamentalist, he intended his readers to use his novel as a “mirror” that would reflect how they themselves viewed life. In my personal journey, two things seemed to reflect the brightest. In one light, I examine relationships; and in another light, I look at social construct and opinion. While these are aspects of my life that I am familiar with, Hamid’s novel demonstrated that my ideals, morals, and life experiences are all part of my experiences of reading.
The first reflection that comes to mind concerns Changez and Erica’s relationship. Throughout the story, I was continually frustrated with the state of their relationship. It was not clear to me whether Erica or Chnagez was the source of my frustration. …show more content…
In the last moment, I believe the American draws a gun. Whether the American or any of the others die is unclear, but I believe the intent was to kill the American (184). To reflect on how to story ends, I stick to my original conjecture; which in itself is a reflection. I tend to not waiver in my initial opinion, especially in this case since ambiguity exists for any perspective I have heard. Unless there is empirical evidence to the contrary, I stick to my gut. I am aware there is an accusation of racism connected to my opinion. While reading it did occur to me that to assume the Pakistani was the assassin could be viewed as racist, but I believe it foolhardy to ignore an assumption just because there is a stereotype surrounding it (183). Some may not want to accuse Changez solely because they do not want to be seen as a racist. What I have found with my studies is that racism is a circular problem. If I accuse the Pakistani of terrorism then I am racist, even if I am correct in that assumption. If I do not accuse him because he is Pakistani, then I am ignoring facts and acting out of social consciousness rather than seeking the