Sea of Poppies

Physical descriptions and attributes play an expectedly important role in a novel that deals so directly with race, and the main characters generally have important physical traits that set them apart from others in the story. Deeti is introduced in part by noting the unusual nature of her light grey eyes, and at several important points throughout the novel the strange nature of her eyes, which make her “at once blind and all-seeing” (5), are mentioned. Likewise, Zachary Reid is noted for “the brilliance of his gaze” (10). Jodu, too, is marked by an unusual attribute of his eyes due to a scar that makes it look as if he has three eyebrows rather than two.

While gaze is important, size and skin color become important markers as well. Paulette is described as being exceptionally tall, and Kalua’s exaggerated size becomes a benefit and a downfall; he is able to defend himself and others, though his size often draws unwanted attention, and it is mistakenly believed that he is unintelligent as a result, which he uses to his advantage. Additionally, he stands out due to his exceptionally dark skin color; combined with his low caste, this offers a keen