Question

The title "The Homecoming" is appropriate because Phatik has several different crossroads in the story that involve coming home—both symbolically and literally.

The first homecoming Phatik experiences is at the beginning of the story. His younger, favored brother was injured in a scuffle and ran home to tattle to their mother. Phatik delays returning home because he knows that he'll face an unjust punishment.

When he finally goes home, however, he has the opportunity to go to another home. His uncle Bhishamber offers to take him to Calcutta, where he'll be educated and live with his cousins. Phatik is very excited to go—and even makes peace with his brother Makhan for the first time when he gives him his treasured goods.

That homecoming was another disappointment. Though Phatik was excited to go to Calcutta, he quickly learns that his aunt resents him and he's out of place there. Despite his attempts to please her, he's never able to. He also dislikes the city of Calcutta itself and misses his life in the country. When he asks whether he can go home, his uncle says, "Wait till the holidays come."

When two police officers return him to his uncle's home after he runs away, it's his third homecoming. This one is even worse, as he's ill from his escape. It's implied that Phatik is dying.

The final potential homecoming is Phatik's impending death. He waits for his mother, looking disappointed when she isn't there (despite his negative hallucinations about her beating him). She finally comes, but the doctor says his condition is critical. Tagore writes, "Phatik very slowly turned his head and, without seeing anybody, said: "Mother, the holidays have come." It's the first time his mother has shown him affection in a long time, calling him her darling and throwing herself onto his bed.

Answer 1

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