Mani’s autobiography insightfully spells out traits of the politicians and authors and points out, ‘There are some writers whose subconscious is filled with politics and when they actively pursue literature, they juxtapose organization, leadership
Nadeem Khan’s translation is excellent. In times when we have serious debates on the political and subjective agency of the translator, Khan seems to be a follower of the classical school: not displaying any inclination towards transcreation and the dubious freedom it brings.
The tenderness towards the land that this farmer holds, however, is vastly different from the entitlement towards ancestral property that a corporate urban software professional aims to eke out in ‘Mom’s Home’.
Prakash observes, ‘Without a lamp at their heart, the lanterns looked innocent and helpless against the rain.’ In ‘Childbirth in Diamond Circus’, trapeze artist Dumpy and ringmaster, Shafi, cement their private family life in the communal circus with secret home-made bhajiyas.
As events come to a close, the DO’s family threatens Kamala, she is humiliated by all in the presence of her parents. Further disaster is averted only because the DO’s retirement is round the corner. Kamala never speaks for the major portion of this narrative. When she does speak up it is to acknowledge strategization: ‘He tortured me tirelessly.
‘Shadow Crow’ has a masterful narration. The meeting of Narayana Guru with Buddhist monks and the ensuing conversation is a delight to read. The author’s voice on mental health in the story ‘Brother’s Shadow’ is not so complex. They may be informed by his life experiences with a set of professionals.