The line "he poured a thin layer of oil over his family's water cistern" suggests several things about Lucien's family:
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Resourcefulness: The act of pouring oil over a water cistern indicates that Lucien's family is trying to preserve and protect their water supply. This technique is often used to prevent contamination and reduce evaporation, showing that they value their resources and are mindful of water conservation.
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Economic Situation: The mention of a water cistern implies that the family may have limited access to running water, which is often the case in rural or economically disadvantaged areas. This could indicate that they are living in a context where water management is crucial for their survival.
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Cultural Practices: The specific act of using oil can point to cultural or traditional practices that have been passed down in the family, highlighting a connection to heritage and the importance of maintaining practices that ensure the sustainability of their resources.
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Environmental Awareness: The action also shows an awareness of environmental issues, suggesting that Lucien's family understands the importance of maintaining the quality of their water source.
Overall, this line reflects the family's values concerning survival, resource management, and possibly their socio-economic challenges.