“Trees are poems the earth writes upon the sky,

We fell them down and turn them into paper,

That we may record our emptiness.” 

                                       ― Kahlil Gibran

 

I can't recall why I never finished reading this book! It's been sitting on my shelf for years, ever since I picked it up from a bookstore. Perhaps I set it aside after just a chapter or two, intending to return to it later, but somehow never did. I'm pleased to have rediscovered it in my mini library.

 

It's a collection of short, heart-touching stories that delicately stir your soul and linger long after you've turned the last page. Each story speaks a distinct language of the heart, delving into the intricate tapestry of life - hopes, dreams, desires, fears - spanning across past, present, and future. Many of these narratives are seen through the eyes of expatriates living on the far side of the world. When delving into a collection of short stories, it's inevitable to develop a deeper affection for certain tales over others, eventually discovering a personal favorite. For me, it was the first two stories that resonated the most.

 

When crisis strikes, relationships become volatile and fluid. Holding on to those who should mean the most to us becomes a day-to-day challenge. Relationships begin to resemble sand particles— the tighter you cling to them, the more they slip through your fingers.

 

When a couple prefer to live in silence, can darkness heal their relationship? In the shroud of darkness, revealing long-hidden truths becomes easier; everything that they hid from each other, everything that they did to each other out of malice - every secret, every hurtful deed unleashed. Yet, amidst these nightly confessions, a fragile bond begins to form, drawing them closer with each passing moment. Can the revelation of these dark truths finally bring an end to the torment plaguing their souls? The conclusion is startling, to say the least.

 

Mr. Pirzada’s story reminded me of my long-lost roots, making this story my personal favourite. The unparalleled depth of emotions woven into this story is truly captivating. Little Lilia doesn’t understand why she cannot call Mr. Pirzada an Indian when he surely looks like one. The truth startles her even more when her father explains to her how the country, to get its freedom, had to undergo a geographical split. The revelation unveils the stark reality of a nation torn into three parts, reshaping the very fabric of identity and belonging.

 

While Mr. Pirzada’s newly created country is burning, he, at a faraway land, cannot help but to live in dismay day and night. With each passing day, he grapples with the agony of separation, haunted by the uncertainty of their safety. And everyone on both sides of the ‘border’ tremble in apprehension, fearing the looming war.

 

Good news of a free country, a newly formed Bangladesh, arrives Mr. Pirzada and his happiness knows no bounds. For the last many months Mr. Pirzada has been a regular visitor to their home, sharing dinner moments with each other almost every day. Together, they relished the flavours of traditional 'Bengali' dishes, beloved on both sides of the border.

 

Don’t we all come across people along life’s journey, bond with them at a heart level, only to realize that we may never cross paths again?? Never again!

 

One fine day Mr. Pirzada’s side at the dinner table remains empty. The news is shared with Lilia, Mr. Pirzada has gone back to reunite with his family in his newly created country, Bangladesh.! Good news indeed, but a sorrowful surprise too. That night Lilia knew or perhaps she didn’t, that she might not see Mr. Pirzada ever again. Ever again!

 

Several stories from the collection have the power to deeply touch your heart and soul. One recounts the journey of an Indian American family on vacation in India, as the lady unburdens her heart with her darkest secret to a newly met stranger, who worked as an interpreter of maladies, maybe with the hope of healing her malady.

 

Another portrays the unwavering dedication of 'burima' (granny in Bengali language) to guarding the apartment building that has provided her shelter, despite her continuous reminiscing about the "good old days" in her hometown, now part of another country. And then there are a few stories that depict life away from one's homeland, exploring themes of longing and belonging.

 

This book is a profound exploration of emotions, or sometimes the lack thereof. Each story offers a poignant glimpse into the complexities of human relationships and the universal struggle for connection and belonging. Lahiri delicately weaves together tales of love, loss, and the search for meaning across borders and generations. Through vivid prose and richly drawn characters, "Interpreter of Maladies" poignantly captures the universal experiences of displacement and the yearning for understanding and connection in an ever-changing world.

 

To all those people who we may never see again. 'Thank you' for being a part of our memories.

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