Here, in his father's house, he felt oppressed by a cloying claustrophobia. Things were expected of him. He was the eldest son. It was his duty to see to the funeral arrangements.

He had expected that and had intended to delegate it to Jamil, who was far better suited to the task.

But it was becoming clear that far more was expected. His mother made it clear, more by her demeanour than by her words, that she expected him to take his place as the head of the family. ...