“The idea that the soul (of any living being - including animals, humans and plants) reincarnates is intricately linked to karma, another concept first introduced in the Upanishads. Karma (literally: action) is the sum of one's actions, and the force that determines one's next reincarnation. The cycle of death and rebirth, governed by karma, is referred to as samsara (“Reincarnation and Hinduism - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia”).”

This concept of reincarnation is a common ending for the books in The Years of Rice and Salt. Robinson uses this idea in order to maintain certain traits of the characters in each story, further demonstrating the cycle of reincarnation. By re-using the first letter of the main characters’ names, Robinson allows the reader to track and ponder the lives of the recycled characters.

“Reincarnation and Hinduism - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.” 26 Feb 2008 <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reincarnation_and_Hinduism>.

Robinson, Kim Stanley. The Years of Rice and Salt. New York: Bantam Books, 2002.