In Jhumpa Lahiri's "The Lowland," the story opens by describing a tranquil enclave that features two long, side-by-side ponds. These ponds are central to the surrounding landscape, which includes a lowland area that extends across several acres. This peaceful setting serves as a backdrop for the narrative, suggesting a space both idyllic and tumultuous as it weaves through the lives of its characters.

The juxtaposition of the ponds and the lowland hints at the complexities of nature and life within this enclave. Lahiri's imagery invites readers to reflect on the significance of this environment, as it could symbolize the characters' emotional states and the tensions that lie beneath the surface of their seemingly serene surroundings. The natural landscape plays a crucial role in shaping the story's themes and moods.