In Jhumpa Lahiri's "The Lowland," the protagonist grapples with her relationship with her father, whom she rarely sees. This absence creates a complex dynamic where she constantly evaluates her interactions with him. The ambiguity in their relationship leads her to question whether she is withholding love to protect herself or to spare him.
This internal conflict illustrates the emotional turmoil she feels, emphasizing the struggle between familial duty and personal autonomy. As she navigates her feelings of obligation and resentment, the narrative reveals deeper themes of identity, connection, and the impact of distance in relationships.