In Custody : Book Review

Anita Desai's "In Custody" is a compelling novel that delves into the themes of language, identity, and cultural preservation. The story takes place in post-independence India and follows the protagonist, Deven, a Hindi professor who is given the opportunity to interview the renowned Urdu poet, Nur, for an educational institution. However, what seemed like a dream opportunity turns into a journey of self-discovery and disillusionment for Deven.

One of the remarkable aspects of "In Custody" is Desai's ability to portray the power struggle between languages in a rapidly changing society. Through Deven's interactions with Nur, the reader gains insight into the diminishing world of Urdu poetry and the efforts to preserve it. Desai's exploration of the significance of language in shaping one's identity and bridging cultural divides is thought-provoking and raises important questions.

The characterization in this novel is exceptional. Deven is portrayed as a well-meaning but naive and insecure individual. As he navigates his aspirations and insecurities, he undergoes a journey of self-discovery. Nur, on the other hand, embodies the complexity and contradictions of a once-celebrated poet who is now forgotten and disillusioned. The tension between these two characters highlights the clash between traditional and modern values.

Desai's vivid descriptions draw the reader into the bustling streets of Delhi and the serene rural village where Nur resides. Through her evocative prose, she captures the sights, sounds, and aromas of these settings, immersing the reader in the vibrant and diverse world of India. This attention to detail adds depth and richness to the storytelling.

Overall, "In Custody" is a masterfully written novel that explores the profound themes of language, identity, and cultural preservation. Desai's insightful portrayal of her characters, coupled with her evocative descriptions, create a captivating and thought-provoking read.

What are readers saying?

Anita Desai's novel "In Custody" has garnered a range of reactions from readers. The book follows the story of Nur, a middle-aged Urdu professor who becomes increasingly disillusioned with his profession and the cultural changes taking place in 1980s India.

Opinions on "In Custody" are diverse, with some readers praising Desai's exquisite and evocative writing style. They found the descriptions of the vibrant streets of Old Delhi and the deteriorating state of Urdu poetry to be vivid and captivating. Desai's portrayal of Nur as a complex and struggling protagonist was also commended for its depth and authenticity.

However, others found the pace of the book to be slow and had difficulty connecting with the story. They struggled to empathize with Nur's constant indecisiveness and lack of action. Some reviewers also felt that the narrative lacked clear direction, making it challenging to stay engaged.

The exploration of cultural identity in the novel also received mixed reviews. Some readers appreciated Desai's observations about the decline of Urdu poetry and the clash between traditional and modern values. They found these themes thought-provoking and well-executed. On the other hand, some felt that the cultural commentary was not fully developed and that the story lacked a strong social or political context.

Overall, "In Custody" has generated a somewhat divided response from readers. While some appreciated Anita Desai's poetic prose and nuanced characterizations, others felt the pacing was slow and struggled to connect with the story. The exploration of cultural identity also split readers, with some finding it insightful and others feeling it lacked depth. Despite the mixed reception, it is evident that "In Custody" stimulates thoughtful discussions on themes such as personal passion, cultural change, and the complexities of identity.

InCustodyBook LiteraryMasterpiece CulturalIdentity