After the tragic death of Ashoke Ganguli, Gogol begins to recall recent and past memories with him. In the past, Gogol did not show much appreciation for his parents, which he now greatly regrets. It is now when Gogol realizes the true connection he had with his father, the true caring and genuine relationship they shared, and how terribly this dramatic occurrence will change his life. Gogol fully recognizes this change when he goes with Ashima to her friends' houses. "At the houses of their friends, his mother tells the story of calling the hospital. 'He went in for a stomachache,' she says each time, reciting the details of the afternoon, the pink streaks that had been in the sky, the pile of cards, the cup of tea at her side, reciting