Anita Desai
Anita Desai is a prominent Indian novelist and Emeritus John E. Burchard Professor of Humanities at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. She was born on June 24, 1937, in Mussoorie, India. Desai's work is known for its rich portrayal of the inner lives of her characters, many of whom are women trying to cope with the social pressures and changes in modern India. Her writing style is characterized by its descriptive prose and often delves into themes of alienation and human psychology. Notable works include 'Clear Light of Day,' 'In Custody,' and 'Fasting, Feasting,' the latter two of which were shortlisted for the Booker Prize. Desai has also been awarded the Sahitya Akademi Award, among other honors, for her contributions to literature.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. Clear Light of Day
"Clear Light of Day" is a novel set in Old Delhi, which explores the dynamics of the Das family. The story shifts back and forth in time, reflecting on the lives of siblings Bim, Raja, Baba, and Tara, and their relationships with each other and their aunts. The narrative delves into themes of memory, time, and decay, as well as the political upheaval of the Partition of India. The novel is a poignant study of family relationships, personal change, and loss.
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2. In Custody
The novel explores the life of Deven Sharma, a Hindi literature professor in the small town of Mirpore, India, who finds himself entangled in the complexities of cultural preservation and personal ambition. Tasked with interviewing and recording the works of Nur, a fading Urdu poet, Deven confronts the decline of the Urdu language and the poet's own waning relevance. As he navigates the chaotic and often comical world of Nur's entourage, Deven grapples with his own unfulfilled dreams, a strained marriage, and the stark realities of academic life. The story delves into themes of linguistic heritage, the burdens of tradition, and the search for identity amidst the changing cultural landscape of India.
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3. Baumgartner’s Bombay
In "Baumgartner's Bombay" by Anita Desai, the story revolves around Hugo Baumgartner, a German Jew who fled to India during World War II. Set in Bombay, the novel explores the themes of identity, displacement, and the search for belonging. As the narrative unfolds, Hugo's life becomes entwined with that of the city's street children, leading to a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of love, loss, and the complexities of human connections.
