Author: Mukesh Rishit

Sebastian Barry, an acclaimed Irish playwright, novelist, and poet, has consistently explored the complexities of Irish history and identity throughout his career. “A Long Long Way,” published in 2005, is the third novel in Barry’s informal family saga, following the Dunne family through various periods of Irish history. This historical novel, set against the backdrop of World War I, delves deep into the experiences of young Irish soldiers fighting for the British Army while their homeland teeters on the brink of rebellion. Barry’s lyrical prose and keen insight into human nature bring to life the tumultuous era, exploring themes of…

Nelson Mandela’s “Long Walk to Freedom” stands as a monumental work in the canon of political autobiographies and freedom literature. Published in 1994, the same year Mandela became South Africa’s first democratically elected president, this autobiography chronicles his life from childhood through his 27-year imprisonment to his emergence as a global icon of peace and reconciliation. The book explores themes of racial injustice, political activism, personal sacrifice, and the power of forgiveness. Long Walk to Freedom offers an intimate look at the man behind the legend, detailing Mandela’s evolution from a young, impatient activist to a mature leader capable of…

Errol John, a Trinidadian playwright and actor, crafted a powerful exploration of post-colonial life in his seminal work, “Moon on a Rainbow Shawl.” First performed in 1958, this play stands as a significant contribution to Caribbean literature and drama. Set in the backyard of a shabby tenement in Port of Spain, Trinidad, John’s work delves deep into the struggles, dreams, and disillusionment of ordinary people grappling with the aftermath of colonialism. The play masterfully weaves themes of poverty, ambition, and the tension between tradition and modernity, offering a nuanced portrayal of a community at a crossroads. Through its vivid characters…

Morris Lurie, an Australian author known for his wit and humor, penned “My Greatest Ambition” as a short story that delves into the realm of childhood aspirations and the often comical disconnect between youthful dreams and adult realities. Published in 1984, this piece stands out in Lurie’s oeuvre as a charming exploration of adolescent ambition, family dynamics, and the journey of self-discovery. The story, while brief, touches on themes of creativity, parental expectations, and the bittersweet nature of growing up. Through its lighthearted narrative, Lurie crafts a tale that resonates with readers of all ages, offering a nostalgic glimpse into…

Jean-Paul Sartre, a towering figure in 20th-century philosophy and literature, published “Nausea” (La Nausée) in 1938, marking a significant moment in the development of existentialist thought. This novel, Sartre’s first published work of fiction, serves as a literary embodiment of his philosophical ideas, particularly those concerning existence, consciousness, and the human condition. Set in the fictional French town of Bouville, “Nausea” follows the life of Antoine Roquentin, a historian grappling with a profound sense of alienation and the absurdity of existence. The novel explores themes of existential anguish, the nature of consciousness, freedom, and the search for meaning in a…

In the bustling metropolis of Mumbai, where over 70,000 people are crammed into each square kilometer, life can feel like it’s bursting at the seams. Sampurna Chattarji’s poem “Boxes” offers a poignant glimpse into this reality, exploring the physical and emotional constraints of urban living through the lens of a woman confined to a tiny, one-room apartment. In this post, we’ll uncover how Sampurna Chattarji uses vivid imagery, clever wordplay, and a unique structure to paint a picture of life compressed into the smallest of spaces. The Spatial Squeeze From the very first stanza, Chattarji immerses us in the claustrophobic…

W. H. Auden, one of the most influential poets of the 20th century, crafted “The Capital” as a powerful commentary on modern urban life and societal values. This poem, part of Auden’s later works, showcases his mastery of form and his keen observations of the human condition. “The Capital” explores themes of alienation, materialism, and the loss of individuality in the face of an increasingly mechanized world. Through its vivid imagery and incisive critique, the poem offers a stark reflection on the nature of modern existence, challenging readers to confront the realities of life in a capitalist society. Auden’s work…

Introduction William Kent Krueger, renowned for his Cork O’Connor mystery series, ventures into standalone fiction with “This Tender Land,” a poignant coming-of-age novel set against the backdrop of the Great Depression. Published in 2019, this work marks a significant departure from Krueger’s usual genre, showcasing his versatility as an author. “This Tender Land” is a beautifully crafted bildungsroman that explores themes of friendship, survival, and the search for belonging in a tumultuous era of American history. Through its vivid portrayal of Depression-era America, complex characters, and lyrical prose, Krueger’s novel offers a powerful meditation on resilience, hope, and the enduring…

Mukesh K Sharma, an emerging voice in contemporary Indian poetry, offers a haunting glimpse into the psyche of a returning soldier in his poem “Homecoming,” from the 2024 collection “War Heroes and Other Observations.” This powerful piece stands out for its stark juxtaposition of celebratory imagery against the internal turmoil of a war-scarred individual. Set against the backdrop of Diwali, India’s festival of lights, “Homecoming” masterfully intertwines themes of alienation, post-traumatic stress, and the loss of identity. Through its evocative imagery and nuanced exploration of a soldier’s struggle to reintegrate into civilian life, Sharma’s poem challenges readers to consider the…

Introduction Claire Coleman, an Indigenous Australian writer from Western Australia, burst onto the literary scene with her debut novel “Terra Nullius” in 2017. This powerful work blends elements of dystopian fiction with a searing critique of Australia’s colonial history. Coleman, a Noongar woman, uses the familiar tropes of science fiction to create a narrative that challenges readers’ perceptions and forces a confrontation with the brutal realities of colonization. “Terra Nullius” explores themes of invasion, dispossession, and cultural erasure while also touching on issues of identity, resistance, and the enduring spirit of Indigenous peoples. Through its innovative structure and thought-provoking content,…