Fair exchange

From a Lacanian perspective of desire, Mariam's dreams and inner conflicts can be interpreted through
the lens of Lacanian psychoanalysis. Lacan emphasized the role of the unconscious and symbolic order in
shaping an individual's desires and identity.

1. Symbolic Order and Dreams: Mariam's dreams, filled with symbolic elements like the red,
heavily embroidered suit and the unidentified black trunk, reflect the workings of the symbolic order. In
Lacanian terms, these symbols may represent repressed desires and cultural expectations. The red
gharara suit, for example, could symbolize societal expectations of femininity and marriage.

2. Mirror Stage and Self-Image: Mariam's distress at seeing herself as a bride with graying hair
reflects Lacan's mirror stage. The discrepancy between her current self and the idealized image of a
bride may signify a struggle with her self-image and societal expectations. Lacan posited that individuals
form their identity through external images, and Mariam's dreams might be manifestations of this
struggle.

3. The Other and Lack: Mariam's husband's absence due to the war creates a sense of lack and
uncertainty. Lacan's concept of "The Other" relates to the external influences that shape one's desires.
In Mariam's case, the war and her husband's potential danger become significant Others influencing her
desires and anxieties.

4. Sublimation and Rituals: Mariam's recitation of the ayat-ul-kursi can be seen as a form of
sublimation, a defense mechanism according to Lacan. Sublimation involves redirecting potentially
harmful desires into socially acceptable actions. In this context, the recitation serves as a ritualistic
defense against the perceived misfortune in her dreams.

5. Desire and Repression: Mariam's reticence during intimate moments with her husband and her
mental distancing to the kitchen or children's room may signify a form of desire repression. Lacan
argued that desire is inherently linked to lack, and Mariam's coping mechanisms may involve a
repression of certain desires to maintain a stable self-image.

In conclusion, Mariam's experiences, as depicted in the text, provide a rich ground for analyzing desire
through Lacanian psychoanalytic concepts, such as the symbolic order, mirror stage, the Other,
sublimation, and desire repression.

let's delve more deeply into the Lacanian analysis of Mariam's experiences in the text:

1. Symbolic Order and Dreams: Mariam's dreams are laden with symbols, such as the red suit,
black trunk, and bridal imagery. In Lacanian terms, these symbols are not merely random but
are part of the symbolic order—a system of cultural and linguistic representations. The red suit
might symbolize societal expectations of femininity, while the black trunk with newly-stitched
clothing could represent repressed desires or societal norms that Mariam grapples with
unconsciously.

2. Mirror Stage and Self-Image: Mariam's distress at seeing herself as a bride with graying hair
aligns with Lacan's mirror stage. The mirror stage is a crucial development phase where an
individual forms their self-image. Mariam's dreams suggest a tension between her actual self
 and the idealized image, revealing an internal conflict between societal expectations and her
evolving identity.

3. The Absent Other and Lack: Lacan's concept of "The Other" is prominent in Mariam's husband's
absence due to the war. The war and the potential danger he faces become significant Others
influencing Mariam's desires and anxieties. The lack created by his absence intensifies her
yearning and uncertainty, showcasing Lacan's idea that desire is rooted in a perpetual sense of
incompleteness.

4. Rituals as Sublimation: Mariam's recitation of the ayat-ul-kursi functions as a form of

sublimation—a psychological defense mechanism that redirects intense desires into socially
acceptable actions. In Lacanian terms, this ritualistic act serves to mitigate the anxieties depicted
in her dreams. It represents a symbolic defense against the misfortunes she fears and aligns
with Lacan's notion of using cultural practices to channel and control desires.

5. Repression of Desires: Mariam's reticence during intimate moments with her husband and her
mental distancing during those encounters suggest a form of desire repression. Lacan posited
that desires are often repressed due to societal norms or personal conflicts. In Mariam's case,
her internal coldness at her husband's touch and her redirection of thoughts during intimacy
indicate a nuanced relationship between societal expectations, personal desires, and her coping
mechanisms.

In summary, a Lacanian analysis provides a nuanced understanding of Mariam's dreams, her struggles
with self-image, the influence of external Others on her desires, the role of rituals in managing anxieties,
and the dynamics of desire repression in the context of societal and cultural expectations.

Breaking it up
Personal is politcal

The excerpt depicts a family's reaction to their daughter, Feroza, choosing to marry someone outside
their religious and cultural community. From a "personal is political" perspective, this phrase implies
that personal experiences and decisions are connected to broader societal and political structures.

In this context, Feroza's choice to marry David, who comes from a different religious background,
becomes a personal decision with political implications within the community. The resistance from her
parents, particularly her mother Zareen, reflects the societal norms and expectations tied to religious
and cultural identity. The emphasis on David's appearance and background, including his family's
economic status, highlights how personal relationships can intersect with issues of class and status in
society.

Zareen's attempt to influence Feroza's decision by highlighting the potential consequences within their
community underscores the political nature of personal choices. The fear of social exclusion, ostracism,
and the reference to Parsee girls who marry outside the community becoming more religious suggest
the complex interplay between personal lives and broader societal expectations.
The shopping sprees and interactions with Feroza's friends also illustrate the impact of materialism and
consumerism on personal identity. Zareen's joy in buying and showcasing items reflects a desire to fit
into a new cultural environment, emphasizing how personal choices are influenced by societal trends
and values.

Overall, the "personal is political" lens helps analyze how individual decisions, in this case, Feroza's
choice of a life partner, are deeply entwined with societal norms, cultural expectations, and economic
factors, making it a politically charged personal matter.

let's delve deeper into the "personal is political" analysis of the provided text.

1. Cultural and Religious Dynamics:

 Feroza's decision to marry David, who comes from a different religious background, is a personal
choice with profound cultural and religious implications. The family's reaction reflects the
societal norms and expectations tied to preserving cultural and religious identities within the
Parsee community.

2. Class and Status:

 The emphasis on David's appearance, his family's economic status, and the judgment regarding
his attire reveals how personal relationships can intersect with issues of class and social status.
The notion that "he can't even afford a decent pair of pants" reflects class-based biases within
the family's perception.

3. Social Exclusion and Ostracism:

 Zareen's fear of Feroza facing social exclusion within the Parsee community if she marries David
highlights how personal decisions can carry significant political consequences. The reference to
Parsee girls becoming more religious after marrying outside the community suggests a
mechanism of control through social norms.

4. Consumerism and Identity:

 Zareen's enthusiastic engagement in shopping sprees and showcasing material possessions

reflects a desire to assimilate into a new cultural environment. This illustrates how personal
choices, even in consumer behavior, can be influenced by societal trends and values,
contributing to the construction of personal identity.

5. Gender Roles and Expectations:

 Feroza's role as a woman is emphasized through her mother's concerns about her marrying
outside the community. The mention of her grandmother's potential heartbreak and the
warning about not being allowed to attend familial funeral rites points to traditional gender
roles and expectations placed on women within the cultural and religious framework.

6. Resistance and Autonomy:

 Feroza's resistance to conforming to traditional expectations and choosing a partner outside her
community represents a form of personal autonomy. This autonomy is a political act challenging
 established norms, and the family's reactions highlight the tension between individual agency
and societal expectations.

In essence, the "personal is political" lens allows us to explore how personal decisions and actions, such
as choosing a life partner, are embedded in broader societal structures, power dynamics, and cultural
expectations. Feroza's story becomes a microcosm reflecting larger issues related to identity, class,
religion, and gender within the societal and cultural context depicted in the text.

Fourth wave of feminism

Examining the provided text through the lens of intersectionality within the context of the fourth wave
of feminism reveals several layers of identity, power dynamics, and societal expectations:

the lens of intersectionality within the context of the fourth wave of feminism reveals several layers of
identity, power dynamics, and societal expectations:

1. Gender and Generation:

 Zareen's reaction to Feroza's choice reflects traditional expectations placed on women,

particularly within the Parsee community. It highlights the generational gap in
perspectives, with Zareen adhering to more conservative values while Feroza seeks
autonomy.

2. Cultural Identity:

 Feroza's decision to marry David, a non-Parsee, brings cultural identity into focus. The
Parsee community's strict norms and expectations, as depicted through Zareen and
Cyrus, intersect with Feroza's desire for a cross-cultural relationship.

3. Class Distinctions:

 The judgment on David's appearance, especially the criticism of his clothing, introduces
a class element. Zareen and Cyrus express concerns about David's financial status,
hinting at class-based prejudices within their reaction.

4. Religious Intersection:

 The religious differences between Parsee and Jewish communities become a significant
point of contention. Feroza's proposal to resolve the issue by becoming atheists
challenges traditional religious norms, reflecting a form of resistance against religious
constraints.

5. Racial Dynamics:

 The description of David's physical attributes, particularly the mention of his "blue eyes"
and "frivolous gold-streaked longish hair," may also be interpreted through racial
dynamics. This highlights how physical appearances and racial stereotypes can influence
perceptions.
 6. Economic Independence:

 Zareen's fascination with the American consumer culture, as seen in her extensive
shopping sprees, reflects an intersection of gender and economic independence. Her joy
in acquiring material possessions demonstrates a form of empowerment through
economic agency.

7. Educational and Career Choices:

 Feroza's pursuit of studies and her partner David's dedication to education provide
glimpses into the intersectionality of education and career choices. David's decision to
work part-time to support his education challenges traditional expectations about
financial responsibilities within relationships.

8. Sexual Agency:

 Feroza's desire to marry outside her community and her choice of a partner challenges
societal norms regarding women's sexual agency. This intersects with the broader
feminist discourse on autonomy and choice in relationships.

9. Mother-Daughter Dynamics:

 The interaction between Zareen and Feroza explores the complexities of mother-
daughter relationships, where conflicting values and expectations based on different
lived experiences intersect.

In the context of the fourth wave of feminism, this narrative highlights the ongoing struggle for equality,
autonomy, and the intersectionality of various identities and social structures that shape individuals'
experiences. The characters navigate these intersections, reflecting the evolving landscape of feminism
in addressing multifaceted oppressions and expectations.

TRANSFIGURATION

"Transfiguration" by Tariq Rehman is an allegorical tale reflecting the transformative power of

compassion and understanding. The priest's journey, as mirrored in his soul's changing face, underscores
the internal struggle between strict adherence to doctrine and the humanistic approach of empathy.
Ultimately, it is his selfless act of aiding a pregnant woman that leads to the transfiguration of his soul,
emphasizing the redemptive nature of kindness and benevolence.

"Transfiguration" delves into the internal conflict faced by the priest in Happy Village, serving as an
allegory for the struggle between rigid adherence to religious doctrine and the need for compassion.
The mirror becomes a metaphorical tool, reflecting not only the physical appearance but also the state
of the priest's soul.
Initially, the mirror reveals a troubled soul, prompting the priest to adopt a strict, almost authoritarian
stance in enforcing the teachings of the holy book. This mirrors the common human tendency to
become rigid in religious or moral convictions, often overlooking the nuances of human experience.

The priest's admonishments of villagers enjoying simple pleasures, such as singing and love, highlight
the stark contrast between strict adherence to religious principles and the human need for joy and
connection. His internal conflict is palpable as he enforces these rules against his own empathy.

The turning point in the narrative occurs when the priest, despite his strict demeanor, shows genuine
compassion by assisting a pregnant woman. This act of kindness symbolizes a departure from the
dogmatic approach, signaling the priest's recognition of the importance of compassion and practical
help.

The final reflection in the mirror, presenting the priest's face as a saint, marks a symbolic transfiguration.
It suggests that true holiness is achieved not through rigid enforcement of doctrine but through genuine
compassion and understanding. The story encourages a nuanced perspective on religious teachings,
emphasizing the transformative power of empathy and benevolence.

In essence, "Transfiguration" serves as a profound exploration of the delicate balance between religious
adherence and human compassion, portraying the priest's journey toward a more enlightened
understanding of his faith and the intrinsic value of empathy in shaping a virtuous soul.

EROS AND THANATOS

In the context of "Transfiguration" serving as a representation of Eros (the life instinct) and Thanatos
(the death instinct), we can interpret various elements allegorically:

1. Eros (Life Instinct):

• The Priest's Compassion: The priest's act of helping the pregnant woman and providing rations
embodies the life instinct. This compassionate action represents the nurturing and life-affirming aspects
of human nature.

• Villagers' Pleasures: Initially discouraged by the priest, activities like singing and love-making
among the villagers symbolize the celebration of life, joy, and human connections.

2. Thanatos (Death Instinct):

• Strict Adherence to Doctrine: The priest's initial strictness, admonishing joyous activities, reflects
a rigid adherence to rules and doctrine, emphasizing a restrictive approach that can be associated with
the death instinct. It suppresses the natural, life-affirming tendencies of individuals.

• Troubled State of the Priest's Soul: The initial reflection of the troubled soul in the mirror might
be seen as a manifestation of the conflict between life and death instincts within the priest's psyche.
In the context of "Transfiguration" as a representation of institutionalized religion,
various allegorical elements can be interpreted to convey insights into the dynamics of religious
structures:

1. The Priest as Religious Authority:

 Literal Level: The priest symbolizes a figure of religious authority responsible for guiding
the moral and spiritual lives of the villagers.

 Symbolic Level: Represents institutionalized religion and the authority figures within it.
The priest's initial strictness mirrors the often rigid enforcement of religious doctrines
within institutionalized settings.

2. The Mirror as Doctrine and Judgment:

 Literal Level: The mirror reflects the priest's physical appearance and soul.

 Symbolic Level: Represents the doctrines and judgments of the religious institution. The
mirror serves as a tool for self-evaluation based on these doctrines, highlighting the
internal conflict experienced by individuals within the institutional framework.

3. Villagers as Followers:

 Literal Level: The villagers represent the followers or members of the religious
community.

 Symbolic Level: Illustrates how institutionalized religion influences the behavior and
activities of its adherents. The villagers' actions reflect the impact of religious doctrines
on their lives.

4. Strict Adherence to Doctrine:

 Literal Level: The priest's initial strictness in enforcing religious teachings.

 Symbolic Level: Reflects the dogmatic and authoritarian nature of institutionalized

religion. The priest's admonishments mirror the sometimes harsh enforcement of rules
within religious institutions.

5. Compassion as a Departure:

 Literal Level: The priest's act of compassion towards the pregnant woman.

 Symbolic Level: Represents a departure from strict adherence to institutional rules in

favor of a more compassionate and humanistic approach. This may symbolize moments
of individual resistance or deviation from institutional norms.

6. Transfiguration as Transformation of the Institution:

 Literal Level: The priest's face turning into that of a saint.

  Symbolic Level: Suggests the transformative potential of individuals within religious
institutions. The transfiguration may symbolize the possibility of positive change and a
more compassionate approach emerging from within the religious establishment.

7. Complex Relationship with Pleasures:

 Literal Level: The priest admonishing villagers for singing and love-making.

 Symbolic Level: Highlights the tension within institutionalized religion regarding the
acceptance of simple pleasures. It reflects the conflict between rigid adherence to
doctrine and the natural human inclination for joy and connection.

In summary, "Transfiguration" serves as an allegorical exploration of the dynamics within

institutionalized religion, portraying the struggles, conflicts, and potential for transformation that
individuals and the religious structure itself may undergo.

Write a note on short story Out of Darkness by Tariq Rehman thorugh

the perspective of Performative Religion
"Out of Darkness" by Tariq Rahman is a compelling short story that explores the nuances and
complexities of religious practice and belief, particularly through the lens of performative religion.
Performative religion, in this context, refers to the ways in which religious beliefs and practices are
publicly displayed and performed, often to conform to societal expectations or to project a certain
image, rather than reflecting genuine personal conviction or understanding.

In "Out of Darkness," Rahman delves into the life of a protagonist who grapples with the societal
pressures and expectations surrounding religious practices. The story is set in a community where
religion plays a central role in social and personal life. The protagonist's journey is marked by a struggle
between personal beliefs, societal norms, and the performative aspects of religion.

One of the key themes in the story is the conflict between external religious observance and internal
spiritual understanding. The protagonist feels compelled to participate in religious rituals and practices,
not out of a deep spiritual conviction, but rather due to the fear of social ostracism and judgment. This
tension highlights the difference between genuine faith and the performance of religious duties as a
social obligation.

Rahman's narrative also touches on the idea of questioning and doubting one's faith, a process often
stigmatized in religious communities. The protagonist's journey is one of self-discovery, as they navigate
the murky waters of doubt and belief, trying to find a balance between personal faith and the
expectations of their community.

Furthermore, "Out of Darkness" subtly critiques the way performative religion can lead to a superficial
understanding of religious teachings, focusing more on outward appearances than on the essence of the
faith. This superficiality can result in a lack of empathy and understanding, both within the community
and towards those outside of it.
In conclusion, Tariq Rahman's "Out of Darkness" is a profound exploration of performative religion. It
challenges readers to reflect on the nature of their own beliefs and the extent to which societal
pressures shape their religious practices. Through the protagonist's journey, Rahman invites a deeper
contemplation of what it means to truly live one's faith, beyond mere performance.

In terms of the performative construct of religion, the narrative depicts the sinner's journey as a
performative act of seeking redemption and purification. Here are some elements of performative
constructs evident in the story:

1. Rituals and Repetition: The sinner engages in repetitive acts, such as counting beads and prayer,
reflecting a ritualistic approach to seeking forgiveness. These rituals serve as performative
expressions of his desire for spiritual transformation.

2. Symbolism of Beads: The counting of beads becomes a symbolic performative act representing
the sinner's attempt to reconcile with his sins. Each bead represents a prayer or a moment of
repentance, contributing to the overall performative aspect of religious practice.

3. Encounter with the Hermit: The sinner's interaction with the hermit is a performative moment
where he seeks absolution. The hermit, in his role, guides and directs the sinner in the
performance of religious acts like prayer, penance, and self-reflection.

4. Encounter with the Child: The introduction of the child adds a layer of innocence and purity,
disrupting the sinner's established performative routine. The sinner's decision to abandon his
beads and care for the child becomes a performative act of compassion and a shift in his
spiritual focus.

5. Rejection of Material Concerns: The sinner's rejection of worldly concerns, as seen in his
dismissal of a lost horse and his indifference to the material needs of the woman seeking help,
reflects a performative renunciation of worldly attachments in favor of spiritual pursuits.

6. Use of Symbolism: The cross, devil, and the beads themselves serve as symbolic elements in the
performative construction of the narrative, contributing to the overall religious and moral
themes.

While the story doesn't explicitly challenge institutionalized religion, it does explore the performative
aspects of religious practices and the transformative power of genuine repentance and compassion.