Immersing herself in a third language, a third culture, had been her refuge-she approached French, unlike things American or Indian, without guilt, or misgiving, or expectation of any kind. It was easier to turn her back on the two countries that could claim her in favor of one that had no claim whatsoever.
In "The Namesake" by Jhumpa Lahiri, the protagonist finds solace in immersing herself in the French language and culture. This experience allows her to escape the complexities and expectations of her American and Indian identities. Unlike her connections to these two countries, her relationship with French is free of guilt and apprehension.
By embracing a language and culture that does not demand allegiance, she feels liberated. This choice reflects her desire to detach from the burdens of identity, suggesting that exploration of a new language can provide a sense of refuge and freedom, unencumbered by conflicting cultural claims.
