'Over time, space and emotion' is a collection of short stories and narratives that describe the everyday longings, joys, failures, victories and paradoxes that are indicators of the larger shared human condition. These pieces are narrated from the vantage point of "I". However, one must resist the obvious urge to ascribe a palpable or rigid identity to the " I". Here, "I" would be better looked upon as an anonymous character, instead of a pronoun and is therefore, capable of morphing into infinite identities that may be ascribed to "I" by the reader. The book is then a record of this character's journey, suspended in the intertwined web of existence, pulling at the strings of different themes and often weaving stories that leave an aftertaste of nostalgia, homesickness, friendship, love, grief, mental affliction and more.
I highly recommend "Over Time, Space and Emotion" by Richa Sharma to anyone who enjoys thought-provoking, emotionally charged stories. Each of the 15 stories alongside narratives is beautifully crafted, exploring themes that are universal and relevant to all of us.
The author's use of the first-person point of view adds an extra layer of depth to the narratives.
The "I" character is not just a singular individual, but a vessel through which the reader can experience a range of identities and emotions.
This allows for a truly immersive reading experience that is both personal and universal.
What stands out the most about this collection is the way the author weaves important messages and themes into each story.
Whether it's about mental health, loss, or the importance of human connection, the stories in this book leave a lasting impact on the reader.
Finally, the cover of the book is simply stunning. It perfectly captures the essence of the stories within, and is sure to catch the eye of anyone browsing through a bookstore.
Overall, "Over time, space and emotion" is a wonderful collection of stories that will leave you thinking long after you've finished reading.
"Over Time, Space and Emotion" by Richa Sharma is an exquisitely crafted collection of stories that delve into the timeless themes of love, loss, healing, intimacy and the feeling called 'home'. The author's masterful use of the first-person point of view imbues the narratives with an extra layer of depth, resulting in a truly immersive reading experience.
Drawing on real-life examples, Richa deftly highlights the struggles of today's youth, making the stories accessible and relatable to readers of all ages. The 15 stories are meticulously crafted, evoking a wide range of emotions as they take the reader on a journey through the mundane yet profound moments of everyday life. This quality makes the book extremely relatable to the reader.
The cover of the book is a stunning testament to the author's artistic sensibilities, showcasing the richness of her approach. The artwork at the beginning of every story makes the book aesthetically appealing. However, it's Richa's ability to seamlessly weave important messages and themes into each story that truly sets this book apart. Because of this, each story leaves a lasting impact on the reader.
This book is a poignant and mellifluous journey that transports the reader to unexplored corners of the human experience. The detailed and poetic description of mundane experiences brings the nooks and corners of Delhi alive. If you are a connoisseur of emotionally charged stories that plumb the depths of the human psyche, then "Over Time, Space and Emotion" is an indispensable addition to your reading list. In the author's own words from my favourite story from the collection 'Each Summer', "Healing is all your love turned inwards," and this book is a breathtaking embodiment of that sentiment.