have, i think, run into the same issues both times i've come to a passage to india, which is that what i'm tensed for as the ending in fact happens two thirds of the way through, and then there's more. which means that when the end does actually come, i'm a little fatigued and estranged. i think there's something artful in that - imperialism doesn't end with one triumph, there's something of the apathetic putting-up-with of fielding, the presence for new blood (perpetuation) but a refusal to engage with its ideas, so old ways and old failures persevere - but that kind of appreciation only comes in hindsight. otherwise, gorgeously, smartly written. i think the commentary on women is interesting. insightful as a british perspective on india. i would have to read more to say more; would that i better remembered my undergraduate lectures.