Amal Unbound
comment on structure
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Saeed’s story includes two climaxes. She begins by establishing a foundation for the novel’s setting. Saeed introduces readers to Nabay Chak, Pakistani culture, Amal, her family, and her community. Most importantly, Saeed establishes the Khans’ reputation within Amal’s village. This information is essential for understanding how Amal’s story unfolds. Readers must know that the Khans controls Amal’s impoverished Pakistani village, where law enforcement lacks the power to intervene. Characters like Fozia Auntie and Shaukat discuss Jawad Sahib in particular, building anticipation for his first appearance. Amal’s encounter with Jawad in Nabay Chak’s market therefore acts as the novel’s first climax. Jawad finally enters the story and behaves according to the villagers’ gossip. He commits Amal to a lifetime of servitude because she refused to give him her hard-earned pomegranate after he hit her with his car. Jawad’s punishment for Amal’s minor disrespectful act proves his capacity for evil and vengeance.