Perumal Murugan’s collection of essays about his
mother is a labour of love that captures beautifully the essence of a
remarkable, resilient and resourceful woman. It is his first work of non –
fiction to be published in English and it is every bit as superlative as his fiction.
This is the work of an extraordinarily gifted writer in his prime.
Given that ‘Amma’, is a son’s attempt to pay homage
to his deceased mother, while finding an outlet for his grief, it is surprising
that this is not a sickly sweet sentimental portrait which attempts to deify
the dear departed. Rather, it abounds with pithy descriptions of the agrarian
way of life, code of conduct, prejudices and superstitious beliefs along with
an inspiring work ethic which is sans greed or wastefulness. His treatment of
someone who clearly has such a big place in his heart is honest to the point of
brutality, while also being graced with infinite tenderness and Murugan’s
trademark compassion for his characters.
It is easy enough to pity a woman like Amma who on
the face of it, dealt with more than her fair share of hardship. Losing her
mother at a very young age, dealing with a negligent father, having no access
to an education, getting married at a young age and ceaselessly toiling till
the end of her days, life had not been fair to her. If that were not enough,
she also had to live with an alcoholic of a husband who was not above hitting
her every time their arguments got out of hand, the loss of a child at birth,
another to suicide and the crippling financial burden he left behind. Yet, this
was a woman who cared nothing for pity and lived a full life with pride and
honour.
Amma laboured endlessly because she believed honest
labour even it were literally backbreaking was its own reward. She cared
neither for riches, glory or possessions but lived with a quiet dignity, honour
and pride. Of course, she was not without her flaws and clearly had a sharp
tongue as well as a marked caste bias though that did not detract from an
innate decency reflected in her courteous treatment of her daughter – in – law
who belonged to another caste.
There is a touching simplicity to Murugan’s words
and yet, make no mistake this is writing at its most profound, layered, and
heart – breaking. It is not often that one is fortunate enough to pick up a
book that is hugely entertaining and edifying at the same time. As you turn the
pages, you will be surprised at how often you are left smiling or with a tear
in your eye.
This book review was originally published in The New Indian Express.
