Robin Lee’s Reviews > The Reluctant Fundamentalist > Status Update

This new chapter talked a lot about Changez's identity. Changez’s compared himself to a bat and that showed how he was learning to survive by being clever and adaptable in Underwood Samson. In Manila, he acts more American to try and gain respect, but this made him feel a bit guilty about not being himself. His reaction to 9/11 was pretty shocking because of how he wasn't really sad or mad about it.

This new chapter talked a lot about Changez's identity. Changez’s compared himself to a bat and that showed how he was learning to survive by being clever and adaptable in Underwood Samson. In Manila, he acts more American to try and gain respect, but this made him feel a bit guilty about not being himself. His reaction to 9/11 was pretty shocking because of how he wasn't really sad or mad about it.

These two chapters felt weird. Changez talks about Erica, but it feels like nothing really important happened. However, I liked that he had his success at Underwood Samson. It also shows that Changez got power and money quick and that changed him, The blackout scene made everything feel dangerous, and I don’t trust either of them anymore.

Chapter 2 made me think a lot about Changez as a person. He is definitely tied up with Erica. He is also a very impressive person and was interested with the interview he did for Jim. It was shown that Changez is "exotic" and that it helps him fit in, but also keeps him separate. The American stranger seems more relaxed and the tension is lessened, but it feels like the author is still giving us clues.

I’m not far into The Reluctant Fundamentalist, but it already makes me feel intrigued about the character, Changez. The way Changez talks to the American stranger is weird in a way, and I can’t tell if he’s being kind or threatening. It seems like he slightly implies that the American stranger is maybe a spy. Since we only hear from Changez, I cannot determine if Changez is right or not.