She represents the evangelical colonial impulse—saving bodies and souls while reinforcing hierarchy. Pom learns to play along but never internalizes the subservience. 7. Shrimati Dutt – Pod’s Mother Role: Traditionalist obstacle. Background: A high-caste Bengali widow, deeply concerned with family honor and reputation.
She opposes Pod’s marriage to Pom once she learns of Pom’s past in the brothel. Her rejection leads to the couple living separately from the family. Eventually, after Hannah is born and Pod becomes a freedom fighter, she softens slightly—but never fully accepts Pom. cast of the sleeping dictionary
Thorne represents the colonial system’s pattern of exploitation and abandonment. His reappearance is a legal and emotional crisis for Pom. 5. Mr. George Fleming – Employer and Mentor Role: Complex colonial figure. Background: A British publisher in Calcutta who runs a small press. He is cultured, relatively liberal, and appreciates Indian literature. Her rejection leads to the couple living separately
Fleming hires Pom (as Pamela) as his secretary. He encourages her writing and offers her intellectual respect. However, when her past is revealed, he fails to support her publicly, choosing instead to protect his reputation. when her past is revealed