Phoenix Fled

In her short stories,Attia Hosain vividly portrays the lives of servants and children, the conflict between old traditions and new ways, and the human repercussions of the Muslim/Hindu divide. Her writing has influenced generations of writers, and her acclaimed novel "Sunlight on a Broken Column" is a coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of Partition.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 19 August 2021
Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group

One of the most influential Indian writers of the 20th century, Attia Hosain, has crafted a collection of twelve captivating stories that delve into the depths of human emotions and experiences. These stories, which span a period of time in India in the mid-twentieth century, offer a profound insight into the lives of servants and children, the clash between old traditions and new ways of life, and the devastating consequences of the Muslim/Hindu divide.

Attia Hosain's greatest strength lies in her ability to create a rich and vivid portrait of her society. Through her storytelling, she delves into the complexities of human relationships, exploring the nuances of affection, love, and heartbreak across different social and cultural boundaries. The characters in her stories are relatable and authentic, their struggles and triumphs reflecting the realities of their time.

One of the standout stories in the collection is "The Arrangement," which tells the tale of a young servant girl who is arranged to marry a middle-aged cook with an opium habit. The story explores the social and economic inequalities that exist in Indian society and the devastating consequences of such marriages. Through the eyes of the servant girl, Attia Hosain sheds light on the struggles and sacrifices that women face in a patriarchal society.

Another notable story is "The Idealist," which follows the journey of a young political worker who becomes disillusioned with the corruption and hypocrisy of his colleagues. The story explores the moral dilemmas that individuals face when confronted with the harsh realities of power and politics. Attia Hosain's portrayal of the political worker's disillusionment is poignant and thought-provoking, leaving the reader with a sense of hopelessness and despair.

"The Return" is a story that revolves around a man who returns from years of studying in England to a wife he scarcely knows. The story explores the cultural differences between England and India and the challenges that individuals face when trying to adapt to a new environment. Attia Hosain's portrayal of the man's struggle to connect with his wife is nuanced and empathetic, highlighting the complexities of cross-cultural relationships.

"The Emancipated Friends" is a story that explores the unconventional relationships that exist between a conventional bride and her husband's emancipated friends. The story challenges the traditional notions of marriage and gender roles and explores the complexities of human sexuality and identity. Attia Hosain's portrayal of the bride's encounter with her husband's friends is bold and provocative, leaving the reader with a sense of discomfort and uncertainty.

Throughout the collection, Attia Hosain brings a superb imaginative understanding and a sense of the poignancy of the smallest of human dramas. Her writing is characterized by a deep empathy for her characters, allowing the reader to connect with their struggles and triumphs on a personal level. The stories are filled with vivid descriptions and sensory details, bringing the reader into the world of her characters and immersing them in their experiences.

Attia Hosain published only two books during her lifetime, but her writing has had a lasting impact on generations of writers. Her debut novel, "Sunlight on a Broken Column," is a coming-of-age story set against the turbulent background of Partition. The novel explores the emotional and psychological toll that the partition had on the people of India and the resilience of the human spirit. "Sunlight on a Broken Column" was published in Virago Modern Classics and has been praised for its sensitive portrayal of the partition and its exploration of the human spirit.

In conclusion, Attia Hosain's collection of twelve stories is a testament to her talent as a writer and her ability to capture the essence of human experience. Through her vivid storytelling and deep understanding of human emotions, she has created a moving and vivid picture of life in India in the mid-twentieth century. Her writing has influenced generations of writers, and her debut novel, "Sunlight on a Broken Column," is a testament to her enduring legacy. These stories are a must-read for anyone who appreciates the power of literature to explore the complexities of human life and shed light on the social and cultural issues of our time.

Weight: 168g
Dimension: 127 x 197 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780349014463