There Are Rivers in the Sky

To Zaleekhah’s embarrassment, Uncle Malek interrogates Nen over dinner. They learn that Nen used to live on the houseboat with her ex-girlfriend, moving out after their breakup; Nen is also eight years sober. A harried Helen arrives late. Responding to Zaleekhah’s questions, she reveals that the doctors are still running tests on Lily.

As Uncle Malek drinks, he directs his conversation largely at Nen, constantly interrupting her when she tries to respond. They talk about The Epic of Gilgamesh, and Uncle Malek disagrees with Nen’s interpretation of the poem. Nen believes it to be about “both the fragility and resilience of being human” (332), while Uncle Malek thinks it is about the fear of death and the importance of prioritizing family. Uncle Malek points out that Nen, who does not intend to have children, will never know the depths of familial devotion, and Aunt Malek immediately admonishes him. However, he uncharacteristically lashes out at her, claiming that she makes him do her dirty work for her.

As they leave after dinner, Zaleekhah attempts to explain and apologize for her uncle’s behavior, but Nen stops her. She advises Zaleekhah that if one lets gratitude get too big, it can overwhelm love.