Nectar in a Sieve, The Last Strand of Hope

poem "Work Without Hope" by Coleridge expresses the idea of having hope while working will

lead to success; the novel, Nectar in a Sieve, by Kamala Markandaya, resembles this concept. In

this story, hope plays a major role in the bond between Rukmani and her family because it

strengthens the marriage between Rukmani and Nathan, it helps them overcome the impact of

economic changes from time to time, and it is hope that makes them believe they can conquer the

Starting from the first day of their marriage, the hope that Nathan has for building a

strong family teaches him to be encouraging, patient and forgiving with Rukmani. Nathan wants

his wife to be familiar with the work of the land; however, he do not want to force her into doing

something she knows little about. For example, when Rukmani first plants her field of

vegetables, Nathan is satisfied with the little work she has accomplished and flatters her with

When Nathan saw it he was full of admiration, and made much of this one fruit -

he who was used to harvesting a field at a time. After that, ten times more

the feast, carrying nets and baskets. (48)

The unity that Rukmani and her family possess assists them through the hard days and makes the

hardship. As long as there is a goal that they want to achieve, they will find their way. Nathan

to subside. As indicated by the poem, "Work Without Hope," by Coleridge, hope will not

was so plain to others: or whether it was a ghastly pretence fashioned from her

Rukmani to battle for their necessities and not withstand the disastrous things life gives them.

careful and they pass you by. Never mind,' Nathan said gently. ' It will soon be

should work as a "woman reader" on the street to earn money. This idea may appear eccentric to

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