Kim · Chapter
Chapter VI explained
Kim struggles with his new life among the white soldiers and is taken to Father Victor, who reads him a letter from the lama offering to pay for his education at St.
What happens
Kim struggles with his new life among the white soldiers and is taken to Father Victor, who reads him a letter from the lama offering to pay for his education at St. Xavier's. Mahbub Ali arrives and subtly mocks Kim in front of Colonel Creighton, who takes an interest in the boy. Kim attempts to escape the barracks but is thwarted by his conspicuous uniform; he instead hires a bazaar letter-writer to send a message.
Themes in this chapter
Identity and Belonging
Kim feels alienated among white soldiers and struggles with his dual identity as both a native and a sahib.
Education and Growth
The lama's offer to fund Kim's education at St. Xavier's sets the stage for Kim's formal schooling and development.
Deception and Disguise
Mahbub Ali's public mockery of Kim conceals his true intentions; Kim uses a bazaar letter-writer to communicate secretly.
Characters to notice
- Kim
Feels lonely and trapped among white men; writes to Mahbub Ali; hires a bazaar letter-writer.
- Teshoo Lama
Sends a letter to Father Victor offering 300 rupees per year for Kim's education at St. Xavier's.
- Father Victor
Reads the lama's letter to Kim and discusses the boy's future with Colonel Creighton.
- Mahbub Ali
Arrives at the barracks and mocks Kim in front of Colonel Creighton, but secretly helps him.
- Colonel Creighton
Observes Kim and Mahbub Ali; takes an interest in the boy's potential for the Ethnological Survey.
Key passages
“I’m fair sick of it.”
The drummer-boy expresses his frustration with life in India, feeling like a prisoner.
Highlights the discontent of British soldiers stationed in India.
“Education is greatest blessing if of best sorts. Otherwise no earthly use.”
The lama's letter emphasizes the value of a good education.
Reflects the lama's belief in the transformative power of proper schooling.
“Trust a Brahmin before a snake, and a snake before an harlot, and an harlot before an Afghan, Mahbub Ali.”
Kim bitterly reproaches Mahbub Ali for his perceived betrayal.
Shows Kim's anger and sense of betrayal, as well as cultural proverbs.