The Third and Final Continent by Jhumpa Lahiri was a beautiful story with an unexpected ending. As I began reading her short story I started thinking of my father-in-law who similar to Lahiri’s main character, came to the United States on his own, was unprepared for the weather, who shared his living space with strangers, and left for better opportunities. This made Lahiri’s story personal for me, and I fell in love with her story. It was interesting to see America from a different point of view, and I chuckled quite a bit at how negative the perception of America is, especially when his guidebook stated that “Everybody feels he must get to the top. Don’t expect an English cup of tea” I found humor in the truth of that statement, Americans are always trying to be at the top, pushing away anyone or anything that stands in the way of their ultimate success.
At times I felt embarrassed for being American. The main character is so proper and poised, which comes along with his culture. This level of respect and thoughtfulness is not often expected of Americans, which is probably why Mrs.Croft won’t rent to any boy who does not attend a top notch college that expects its male students to be as gentlemen. Mala too was very respectful, and even Mrs.Croft recognized that she was a perfect lady, this coming from a woman who allows no females on the property. How amazing!
The development of the main character’s relationship with his wife was very touching. Though they did not grow close to each other in their home country, they shared a bond in America, and eventually expanded their family. Once unhappy about his marriage, his feelings towards Mala only grew stronger as they built a home together in the States. They were able to adjust to the American culture and even took the beautiful leap of becoming American citizens. Lahiri’s story of building a life in the United States is truly moving and unlike any other I have read.
Ethnic American Literature 