In Jhumpa Lahiri's "Unaccustomed Earth," Ruma experiences a profound sense of connection with her deceased mother, feeling a closeness through memories and longing. This reflection reveals Ruma's emotional struggle as she grapples with the absence of her mother and the intimacy she once shared. The frequent thoughts of her mother provide solace, yet Ruma recognizes that this closeness is illusory and cannot bridge the gap created by death.

As Ruma contemplates her feelings, she confronts the stark reality of their separation. The realization that the distance between her and her mother is now unbridgeable emphasizes the permanence of loss. This poignancy highlights the conflicting nature of grief, where love and longing can intensify even as physical presence fades away, ultimately serving as a reminder of the complexities of familial bonds.