With Saturday, and one third of the year having gone by then, it is safe to say for me, that, in terms of reading, this has been the Year Of The Panorama. I have read more epic books in this year, in an effort to clear space, than before. It is fascinating to note, that, while I am not a devote of Indian culture, it is amazing the number of Indian authors and novels about that country I have read.
And now there is "A Fine Balance."
Two men, an uncle and nephew, from a nearby village, come from provinces to establish themselves as tailors in a city. As does Makem, a young man beginning his college career. They take up residence in the home of a woman they come to say Dinta Auntie, and the stage is set for their social, sexual, and political travails.
Mr. Mistry writes well, and keeps his characters in focus superbly. This is his second novel, and his largest, and he paints well on a large canvass. I was compelled by the plot and characters, and I have to confess the ending upset me; not only because I wanted the story to keep on going, but because it comes to an end with a jolt--like a car crashing into the tree.
After this, one will need something fun, to cleanse the palette. But "A Fine Balance" is a fine literary experience, that those seeking such cannot afford to miss.
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