Beauty vs. Criticism

Beauty is an uncomfortable factor that clings onto women occasionally. Whether it be to go to a party or , even, at home, women try to stay beautiful through cosmetics, medications, lotions, etc. Yet it’s a continuous battle between Aisha and Khadija. Aisha, being the inheritor of all these qualities that make her beautiful, is a rather loud, pretty, happy, and conscience person. While Khadija doesn’t hesitate to bring her down or use her sharp tongue to retaliate against anyone who tries to be o n top of her. Yet, due to her sharp characteristics, she is pretty, but doesn’t have luck in being better looking or having the first opportunity to have her hand asked in marriage. Yet, I believe even though Aisha may have the luxury if being complimented of her beauty, she still has respect and admirations towards her sister. Joyful in every aspect, its hard to depress her, but also she doesn’t complain when here sister criticizes her. Perhaps its due to the fact that Khadija envies her sister, but know that by putting her down won’t make a difference. On pg. 29, Aisha is cautious to what she eats, but Khadija rapid tongue enjoy toying with her beauty by stating that “ Aisha’s slenderness” has part to do with the “ weakness of her faith.” The author puts this passage to describe how Khadija doesn’t support her sister being the beauty of the family, when she’s the first born. Throughout the book, there are complaints and conflicts involving the two girls, who each have very wise-ass things to say, but know they know their limits. It puts a emphasis to how Khadija sees Aisha when one is worried about her looks, and the other trying to bring her morale down through criticism. Yet, they both symbolize their parents, Aisha being more like her mother and Khadija more like the father. Aisha obeys her sister and it submissively more calm in any situation, while Khadija shows the rough characteristics of her father’s critical manners. Yet this passage just makes the battle even longer and with positive results as usual. Each has their own abilities and weaknesses, but it doesn’t hide the fact that family is family and there will always be nonsense involved in any conflict.