
The final chapter also explores the theme of motion. Mister Salgado tries to distance himself from his failings, arguing that "we are only what we remember, nothing more." Mister Salgado tries to forget his failed relationship but returns to Nili after Tippy forces him to remember her. "Strandline" explores the idea of memory through discussions of history. By comparison, Triton describes the Welsh ocean using grim, desolate imagery, such as shores full of "blue nylon rope and dead sea urchins" and "petrochemicals stained the air in mauve and pink." This contrast in descriptive imagery creates a nostalgic tone and a sense of loss as Triton romanticizes his life in Sri Lanka.

Triton describes the Sri Lankan ocean with lyrical, nostalgic imagery. He maintains and then grows his restaurant. Truly alone for the first time, Triton finally depends on himself and finds his voice. Mister Salgado gives Triton the keys to his house. Mister Salgado decides to return to Sri Lanka.

From Tippy, Mister Salgado and Triton learn that Nili entered a "sanitorium" after an angry mob burned down her guesthouse, which she had been using to hide Tamil families. Then, in 1983, Triton and Mister Salgado watch constant news coverage of violent uprisings in Colombo.

Mister Salgado pays for Triton's first restaurant, which Triton spends time and effort building and decorating. Mister Salgado regrets that he did not "turn the whole bay into a sanctuary," which would have included a gourmet seafood restaurant run by Triton. Triton reads every book in Mister Salgado's collection, silently guided by Mister Salgado, and takes classes. Though Mister Salgado is initially offered a position at a research institute, he is soon let go, as England is "another country running out of money" and thus unable to support his academic ventures.Īfter years of traveling through England, Triton and Mister Salgado settle in Earl's Court. In 1971, Mister Salgado and Triton settle into their solitary life in England.
