Reviewing "Seasons of the Palm" by Perumal Murugan

"Seasons of the Palm" is a story that will challenge your every belief and question all you thought was right. You will experience a pendulum of emotions that will make you livid at the mis-treatment meted out yet feel pitiful for the characters. From anger to sadness to pain and numbness at the end, it we'll leave you drained and yet introspective. 

A book with an intrinsic story about society and the differences we create amongst us. A story that's extremely relevant In India given our political discussions over progress and inclusion of everybody in the path to happiness and equality.

The disparity with which people are seen is starkly portrayed in perhaps one of the most poetic languages you will ever come across in your reading journeys.

It's a world where Animals are accorded more respect and value than human life. 

Perumal Murugan is an extremely conscientious writer who with words can bring to life every situation. His prose is detailed, poetic and exceptionally vivid. He paints pictures with words that starkly brings the story to life.

This book is grounded in reality and presented in a very simple and powerful manner. Apolitical in nature with no malevolence, it simply shares a powerful and moving perspective of human life

The Seasons of the palm is narrated across 3 sections that highlights not only the struggles that Shorty and his fellow untouchable brethren go through but also that of his masters' son who wants to break free from his own chains. 

Part 1 focuses on the Life, living conditions & relationships between Shorty and his co-untouchable slaves (Slaves because that's how they are treated). About the trials and tribulations of the group that sticks together as they are the only source of comfort and companionship in an otherwise dreary and meaningless life.

We see how they bond with each other, befriend each other and make their otherwise miserable lives worth living. We discover the roller coaster of emotions and problems they go through while serving their masters.

Part 2 goes into depth of the relationship between Shorty and his master's son. Boys of a similar age. One destined to a life of slavery, the other a slave to customs and society. Both wanting, needing someone to be with, to befriend, to understand their problems and yet they have this wall between them that can't be breached. We discover how talent and skill is God's gift where there's no difference between master and slave but our society places value of a persons life based on caste and creed and not merit.

Part 3 highlights the most emotional phase in the story. How justice is blinded, where the downtrodden have no say of voice. How punishment is meted out in unequal measure simply because one belongs to the untouchable class of society.

Some books educate while others entertain. While some simply help pass the time. This book helps us introspect and question all that we think is just and fair.