Changez

I'm very impressed with Changez as a character. To me, I think he is unbelievably aware of what he wants (be it Erica or to go to Princeton). Also, he is willing to work very hard to get exactly what he has in mind. The only time we see him stray from this mentality is when he quits his job. But, there is another part to his personality that causes him to do this. Along with an amazing work ethic, Changez is a very loving man. It is obvious that he is very connected to his country and family. It amazes me how he can stand living in the US during this time in history. We do see that he has troubles, but he continues to succeed, until it eventually gets to be too much. I'm impressed with his strength, I know that I wouldn't be able to live with rude and accusatory assumptions due to my beard (or whatever it may be). Through Changez's relationship with Erica, we are shown his difference in culture compared to the Americans. He is very polite, and I'm fairly surprised he continues to behave this way with all of the influences the US had in being forward. This is just another reason that proves Changez's strength. I really admire this character for who he is.

Changez

To me Changez is more than just cocky or arrogant, he seems almost devious in his character. He did live in America for a fair while, and obviously had his brush-ins with the racial tension that is strong there, especially in New York. Yet in his interactions with the mysterious American, he shows a sweet naiveness that is rarely seen. So rare, that it seems unrealistic that Changez is really what he portrays himself to be. But this character flaw aside, he has no reason to lie about anything else to the stranger, which means that he also has a traditional honesty. Which is an interesting combination, and lends all of his words a half and half chance of being incredibly true, or a ridiculous display of his ability to make people believe what he wants them too. Changez's exchanges with Jim, when Jim probed into his character and seemed to get closer to his true personality, Changez did become squeamish. Which could be a result of anyone coming close to discovering his deceptiveness. Or maybe it's just the natural reaction when anyone looks at your life, and your way of living, with a magnifying glass. Another part that is enjoyable of Changez's character, is his charisma and ability to relate to other people. Through his eyes, its easy to see this American, and all of his different reactions to what Changez is saying. It's an interesting portrayal of two different character's, and all that can be done with only words. 

Changez

It's not very often that a character can characterize himself, but I think Changez describes himself from an outsiders view very well. Most people have a hard time trying to figure out what others think of them, but he seems to know exactly who he is both inside and out, and that's what I like about him. He knows he is wise, and has come far in life, but he explains that he has worked hard for everything, and the reader doesn't doubt one bit that he deserves his job and status. Changez is the definition of humble, and through his narrations he doesn't make you feel inferior, since he is such a likable person. As he tells his story, Changez makes it clear that he is comfortable with who he is, and that he tries not to judge people without looking a little deeper. I found that Changez's relationships with Jim and Wainwright said a lot about him as well. Through his conversations with Jim we can see he's a really deep person, and that there is a lot to him. I love the way that other people's views of Changez are conveyed so clearly, even though the book is in first person. His friendship with Wainwright also shows that he is an easy person to get along with, and an all around good guy which makes the reader like him even more. I think that Changez is a unique but very real character all around, and the author does an impeccable job of characterizing him while keeping to the first person point of view.

Changez

My favorite part about Changez is he lets both Pakistani and American, cultures shape who he is. Growing up in Pakistan has changed his whole persona in dealing with other people and staying true to himself. I found it incredibly interesting the way he described how men look at women and all the different customs. And yet, he loves the hustle and bustle of everyday life in America. Changez shows a unique way of portraying himself confidently, maybe a little cocky, but always secure with who he is. Also, he's open, but quite mysterious. It's as if he enjoys the simple things in life and see through different eyes. When I read The Reluctant Fundamentalist, I don't exactly relate like I would other books, but I see a whole other point of view that I don't think I would have personally seen. I hope throughout the book, Changez presents new ideas to think about and his own twist on what you wouldn't expect.

Changez

Changez is a very interesting character that constantly reveals new things about himself. It has become obvious that unspoken communication means more to Changez then conversing. Body language and eye contact seems to be the most powerful. Changez is also very open to learning about different cultures and lifestyles. I like how he compares Pakistani culture with American culture and finds subtle similarities. He understands that there are people very different from him, but that it is a good thing. Changez is very polite, and he makes a lasting impression on the people he meets. Jim even mentions that Changez is very polite. I love reading this book because I feel like I can hear Changez telling his story. He is so wise and has so much to shard with the people he meets, but he never comes off as arrogant. He really gives the reader insight into Pakistani culture. I personally don't know much about Pakistan, outside of the news, so it is very interesting to read about the cultural similarities with the US.

Week One!

Welcome to Week 1 of our Discussion. This discussion will last from Monday, February 23rd to Sunday, March 1.

This week's discussion is on Character. Please POST a 10 sentence comment on character. Don't forget to comment on 5 other posts on this blog. You have all week to complete this assignment, but don't wait until the last minute!!!