![](https://justinjustice.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Polish_20240515_205431666-768x1024.jpg)
- Introduction:
In the luminous tapestry of contemporary literature, Rohinton Mistry’s ‘Family Matters’ emerges as a masterful exploration of the intricacies of human relationships and the enduring bonds of family. Mistry has set his narrative against the vibrant backdrop of ‘Bombay’ turning into ‘Mumbai’, India. The novel unfolds with a rare blend of lyricism and poignancy, inviting readers into the lives of the Vakeel family as they navigate the complexities of love, loss, and redemption.
At its heart, ‘Family Matters’ is a deeply affecting portrait of familial ties, illuminated by the author’s keen insight into the human condition and his exquisite command of language. Through richly drawn characters and evocative prose, the author has woven a tale that resonates with emotional depth and universal truths, inviting readers to contemplate the profound mysteries of life, the ongoing tussles in the heart and mind of the characters and the transformative power of love which helps sail through challenging times despite the complexities. As the pages turn and the story unfolds, ‘Family Matters’ emerges not only as a literary masterpiece but also as a testament to the enduring resilience of the human spirit.
- Style of Writing:
The author’s literary prowess shines brightly in this book which is a profound exploration of human complexity and the intricacies of familial bonds. With an exquisite command of language, the author crafts a narrative that is both tender and incisive, weaving together a tapestry of richly textured prose and nuanced characterization. Through his evocative storytelling, the author invites readers into the vibrant streets of Mumbai, where every scent, sound, and sensation comes alive on the page. His attention to detail is meticulous, painting a vivid portrait of a city in flux and the lives of its inhabitants.
The author’s style is marked by the author’s emotional resonance and deep empathy for his characters, each of whom is rendered with compassion and depth. From the elderly patriarch grappling with illness to the devoted daughter torn between duty and desire, the characters leap off the page, their joys and sorrows etched into the very fabric of the narrative. There is not a page where the reader would not feel like they are living the narrative – it comes out so beautifully and realistically. With a keen eye for human frailty and resilience, the author has explored the themes of love, loss, and redemption with grace and sensitivity, leaving an indelible imprint on the hearts of readers. To put it in brief, the author’s style of writing transcends mere storytelling. He has a knack for bringing imaginary characters to life.
- Review and Recommendation:
In his book ‘Family Matters’, Rohinton Mistry weaves magic with his narrative about human relationships, set against the bustling backdrop of Mumbai. Through the lens of the Vakeel family, the author explores the complexities of real lives, families, and the inevitability of aging. With masterful prose and profound insight, the author delivers a poignant narrative that resonates long after the final page is turned.
At the heart of the novel is Nariman Vakeel, an elderly widower battling Parkinson’s disease and dependent on his stepchildren for care. The author portrays Nariman’s struggle with dignity and grace, delving into the depths of his character to reveal a man grappling with his mortality and the legacy he leaves behind. Nariman’s journey becomes a universal exploration of aging, illness, and the passage of time, prompting readers to confront their own mortality and the fleeting nature of life.
Central to Nariman’s story are his relationships with his family members, each fraught with its own complexities and tensions. His daughter Roxana emerges as a beacon of love and devotion, sacrificing her own happiness to care for her ailing father. The author captures Roxana’s quiet strength and unwavering compassion with sensitivity, portraying her as a testament to the enduring power of familial love.
Conversely, Nariman’s stepchildren Coomy and Jal embody resentment and manipulation, driven by their own selfish desires and grievances. While Jal is the man with no voice, Coomy lets her anger take over the best in her. The author delves into the depths of their characters, exposing the wounds of the past that have shaped their present actions. Through Coomy and Jal, the author offers a nuanced exploration of family dynamics, highlighting the destructive power of unresolved resentment and the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation. While one may dislike Coomy time and again, there are instances which make her appear a mere human, the same woman who executes her plan of destruction also at times remembers her love for her younger step-sister Roxana and also saves her father’s cufflinks as a future wedding gift for Roxana’s children.
Yezad Chenoy, Roxana’s husband and Nariman’s son-in-law, grapples with the pressures of providing for his family amidst financial hardships. His character embodies the common struggle of honest middle-class individuals striving to make ends meet and uphold familial responsibilities with integrity in an increasingly challenging economic climate.
Their neighbor, Daisy, represents kindness and empathy, offering a glimpse of hope and humanity amidst the chaos. Her most touching gesture is the one towards the end when she puts on her concert costume to play to ease Nariman into his last and final sleep, her greatest ever performance.
What sets ‘Family Matters’ apart is the author’s masterful prose, which transports readers into the vibrant streets of Mumbai and the intimate confines of the Vakeel household. His vivid descriptions evoke a sense of place and time, immersing readers in the sights, sounds, and smells of the city, while his keen observations of human nature lend authenticity to the characters and their interactions. The epilogue is also as real as life can get, beautifully describing that not all happy endings are endless and things, people, life and times change. Having turned the last page, we may still, in all probability be found wandering in the Chateau Felicity, Pleasant Villa or Bombay Sporting for that matter.
The author’s writing is imbued with a deep sense of empathy and compassion, allowing readers to connect deeply with the characters and their experiences. He navigates complex themes of identity, belonging, and the search for meaning with sensitivity and nuance, inviting readers to confront their own existential questions and ponder the mysteries of life.
As an author, Rohinton Mistry stands as a literary luminary whose works transcend cultural boundaries and resonate with readers around the globe. Known for his astute observations of the human condition and his lyrical prose, the author has cemented his place in the canon of contemporary literature. His ability to capture the nuances of everyday life with compassion and insight has earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated following.
‘Family Matters’ exemplifies Rohinton Mistry’s narrative prowess and thematic depth, and is a must-read for lovers of literature – strongly recommended!
Happy to see your post after a long time. Keep writing. 🙂