"Interpreter of Maladies" by Jhumpa Lahiri: Analysis

      As I read, Interpreter of Maladies by Jhumpa Lahiri, I find that communication and sensitivity are lacking among the characters.  Although the family is vacationing in their homeland of India, there seems to be no sense of family in this group of people.  To start, the parents, Mr. and Mrs. Das are downright hostile towards each  other.  For the reader, this indicates that this marriage is clearly failing.  Mr. Kapsi notices "Mr. and Mrs. Das behaved like an older brother and sister, not parents" (Lahiri).  Mr. Kapsi sees himself in the lonely, misunderstood Mrs. Das and wishes to become her companion.  However, with the negative attitude of Mrs. Das, she does not wish to pursue this friendship.  In my personal opinion, I believe that a companionship between Mrs. Das and Mr. Kapsi could benefit both of them immensely.  They could be have something to talk to about their difficulties, help each other through them, and then lead healthier and happier lives.  However, this is not the case.  Mrs. Das looses Mr. Kapsi addresses, ending any chance of communication between the two.  This short story shows how refusal to communicate and be sensitive will ensure one a sad, hopeless life.