The Night Diary

Nisha awakens to meet her uncle. Papa introduces Nisha to Mama’s younger brother, and Nisha notices her uncle has a cleft palate. Papa says, “He can’t speak, only write” (174). Nisha explores Rashid Uncle’s home and comes to a room with an easel and blank canvas. She notes the paintings hanging on the walls and one in particular, which Nisha knows is of Mama. The house is orderly and aesthetically pleasing, furnished with tapestries, paintings, embroidered pillows, porcelain vases, and flowers. Nisha finds it to be lovely.

Dadi is ailing, and Amil is worried she will die. Nisha tells Amil about the paintings. Amil smiles and says he guesses that’s why he can draw.

Amil and Nisha watch Rashid Uncle prepare the evening meal. Nisha feels overwhelmed by the experience, and when Amil notices tears in Nisha’s eyes, he asks Rashid Uncle if Nisha can help prepare the meal. Rashid Uncle welcomes her assistance, and Nisha is heartened by how Amil understands her. Nisha works alongside her uncle, preparing the remainder of the meal. Before they sit down to eat, Nisha takes a bowl of rice to Dadi and feeds her by hand.