Theme

Culture clash

The theme of the short story “A Pair of Jeans” by Qaisra Shahraz is culture clash, specifically the clash between traditional views, and a modern, progressive outlook.

Miriam appears to be trapped between the traditional views which her family still clings to, and the modern influences of the environment she lives in. Therefore, she tries to compromise, by doing her best to adjust to her environment, while also trying to live up to the expectations of her parents and her future in-laws.

Miriam changes her behavior, appearance, and clothing to fit the expectation of the specific social situation she finds herself in. At the hen party, she dresses elegantly, in traditional Pakistani clothes. This impresses Begum, who sees her as the pe...