Hope In A Fine Balance
The novel A Fine Balance, written by Rohinton Mistry, takes place in India in the mid-1970s when the government declares a “State of Internal Emergency”. A period of political turmoil and violence ensues, wreaking havoc onto all as they try to survive under new orders. During this time, four individual’s lives become intertwined in unimaginable ways as they each conquer problem after problem, relishing the smallest moments of bliss as they try to continue on. This relentless battle between hope and desperation in the mind and soul of people is what creates one of the most insightful stories of all time. Through his novel, Mistry develops the idea that the line between hope and despair must remain balanced in order for life to be maintained.
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An excessive amount of negativity in an individual's perspective is what causes such a pessimistic attitude towards the world. This is clearly demonstrated in the character, Omprakash Darji, a young man who had a relatively happy childhood until his family was burned inside their own house. The quotes, “Trouble for whom? For her. Why should I worry? We don’t even get a fair rate from her. If we are dead tomorrow, she will get two new tailors.” (Page 105), exhibits his childish tendencies to speak without thinking. Meanwhile the quote, “I wish I had died in our village. I wish I had also burned to death like the rest of my family.” (Page 105), expresses the pain he feels, and the source for his wretched state. However, Mistry’s desire for balance results in the open minded and optimistic, Ishvar Darji. Ishavr is Om’s uncle, and the one person who seems able to counteract his nephew’s temper. It is because of Ishvar’s positive state of mind that he is seen as, “The type that would put people at ease and encouraged conversation." (Page 9) Without Ishvar, Om would not have the positivity he needs, and Om helps Ishvar see that not everything is perfect. Once again, Mistry demonstrates the balance needed between positive and negative while referring to an individual's state of
An excessive amount of negativity in an individual's perspective is what causes such a pessimistic attitude towards the world. This is clearly demonstrated in the character, Omprakash Darji, a young man who had a relatively happy childhood until his family was burned inside their own house. The quotes, “Trouble for whom? For her. Why should I worry? We don’t even get a fair rate from her. If we are dead tomorrow, she will get two new tailors.” (Page 105), exhibits his childish tendencies to speak without thinking. Meanwhile the quote, “I wish I had died in our village. I wish I had also burned to death like the rest of my family.” (Page 105), expresses the pain he feels, and the source for his wretched state. However, Mistry’s desire for balance results in the open minded and optimistic, Ishvar Darji. Ishavr is Om’s uncle, and the one person who seems able to counteract his nephew’s temper. It is because of Ishvar’s positive state of mind that he is seen as, “The type that would put people at ease and encouraged conversation." (Page 9) Without Ishvar, Om would not have the positivity he needs, and Om helps Ishvar see that not everything is perfect. Once again, Mistry demonstrates the balance needed between positive and negative while referring to an individual's state of