The God of Small Things

 When Chacko tells the twins that history is a house the Kochamma family is locked out of, he meant that the history and past of the family had been lost. What they once were is no longer understood or remembered. Their heritage and self-pride had been stolen from them. He states that they had become a family of Anglophiles: “They were a family of Anglophiles. Pointed in the wrong direction, trapped outside their own history and unable to retrace their steps because their footprints had been swept away” (51). He compares their history to a house that the family can look inside, yet not see or hear anything. It is just shadows. “And when we look in through the windows, all we see are shadows. And when we try and listen, all we hear is a whispering. And we cannot understand the whispering, because our minds have been invaded by a war” (52). This illustration of the Kochamma family being locked out from their own history helps put into perspective their lack of self-worth and the problems caused by it.

One of the major themes throughout The God of Small Things is that of "small things." The characters in the novel are always so wrapped up in the "big things" of life, such as politics and the caste system. The "small things" are often overlooked and underappreciated. However, Velutha brings to light all the small things. He is in fact the god of small things. While reading this book, I was made to contemplate the "small things" in life that I take for granted or do not pay attention to. It is often the small things that give life meaning in the end. I was reminded of a list of "Things That Really Matter" that I had written 5 or so years ago. I went back and was able to find the list on my Facebook page. Here is what I find to be the "small things" in life that make all the difference.

God. sunrises. hugs. smiles. beauty. pictures. friendship. love. relaxation. peace. rain. kisses. laughter. sleep. compliments. the Bible. fun. rainbows. music. happiness. sunday afternoon naps. cuddles. flowers. surprises. birthdays. joy. family. vacation. blue skies. chocolate. inside jokes. deep conversations. health. dogs. walks. worship. holding hands. sunsets. compassion. paychecks. road trips. freedom. sweet tea. jesus time. dancing. butterflies. prayer. i love you's. honesty. promises.