"We made no inquiries about India or about the families people had left behind. When our ways of thinking had changed, and we wished to know, it was too late. I know nothing of the people on my father's side; I know only that some of them came from Nepal"

This quote by V. S. Naipaul talks to the consequences of not asking questions and looking for understanding. It suggests that when we stop working to ask concerns and look for understanding, we may lose out on crucial info that might have been useful to us. In this case, the speaker is assessing how they failed to ask questions about India and the households individuals had left. As an outcome, when they later wanted to understand more, it was too late. This quote acts as a reminder to always ask questions and look for knowledge, as it can be useful in the long run. It also speaks with the value of preserving family history and stories, as it can be lost if not passed down. This quote is a pointer to constantly ask questions and look for understanding, as it can be helpful in the long run.