In Jhumpa Lahiri's book "In Other Words," the author expresses a deep fear regarding the potential loss of her native language, Bengali. She draws a poignant analogy between the pencil sides of a drawing, which can fade or be erased, and her worry that Bengali may become irrelevant in her life once her parents are no longer there to speak and preserve it. This connection emphasizes the special role her parents play in her relationship with the language.

Lahiri reflects on how her parents embody Bengali, making it an intrinsic part of her identity. The thought of their passing brings forth the realization that, without them, the language might lose its significance in her life. This fear underscores a broader theme of cultural and linguistic loss, highlighting the intimate bond between language, culture, and familial ties.