Namesake (2)
Ashoke: This name came up as mainly Strong and Strange. This is referenced in his personality by him being brave enough (strong) to move to America and finish his degree in a foreign land. The strange part relates to how he feels out of place in America. This is not directly referenced in the text however Ashima's own ideals are frequently juxtaposed with commonly held American ones, suggesting that she definitely feels out of place. (And I'll give that quote in her explanation) Ashima: This came up as a female variant of the name Asim, which was noted to mean "boundless , [or] limitless". I don't think this pertains to Ashima at all as she is more trying to survive in America, less than trying to be limitless, or assimilate. In fact, she makes little attempt at naturalization. When Gogol brings home his "rubbings" from the cemetery visit, Ashima finds this crazy, rhetorically asking herself, "What's next, she demanded to know, a trip to...