From the very first line one floats through the mind of
Deven , the seemingly timid and introverted hero in the story . As the tale
advances , one begins to discover the plight of Deven , alone in friendship , as
he tries to find a place for himself in the society . Deven , a teacher of Hindi in a college in a
small town called Mirpore is called on by his supposed old pal , Murad to
interview the poet of his dreams , perhaps India’s greatest living Urdu poet ,
Nur . The narrative shifts subtly between sarcasm , satire , comedy and tragedy .
It flames sympathy , ridicule and deep thought as it carries the reader forward
through Deven’s attempt to free himself of his dreary life in Mirpore and his
quest for recognition as a keeper of Urdu . One clearly feels the excitement ,
anxiety and anguish in Deven’s heart every time he is subjected to various
ordeals in an attempt to accomplish the tasks given him by Murad , a complete
opposite in character to himself . The novel bases itself on the decline in
culture , a change in the mindset of people towards modernity , how Urdu is then
losing its significance and the passive war between Hindi and Urdu . At the same
time it ponders upon the complexity of human relationships . Amidst all this stand
pusillanimous Deven , ruffian Murad , beaten Nur and all the rest of their
acquaintances .
A witty play of words , vivid descriptions and thought
provoking issues put together , this novel is an indisputable masterpiece meant
for both the quiet and disconcerted reader . With many a lesson to teach it
places itself among the must reads .
It was written and shortlisted for the Booker prize in 1984 .
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