Only the Deplorable

Migrations #II

by Ashim Shanker

"Only the Deplorable" is the second book in the philosophical novel series "Migrations" exploring themes related to ontology, epistemology, individual/social identity, and transculturation. By turns provocative, labyrinthine and engagingly absurd, this series of meditations propels the mind on a journey visiting--on both the macro and micro levels--the trials and tribulations, the concurrences and contradictions, the separations and unions, inherent in the human search for individual and metaphysical purpose.

360 pages, Paperback

First published October 8, 2013

About the author

Ashim Shanker has never been, and probably isn’t yet, but certainly aspires to be. Surely, one day he MIGHT be, but there is no guarantee he WILL be. He was disappointed to find out yesterday upon waking that he still wasn’t, nor would he be for the rest of the day. But still, today has not yet passed. So we must wait and see. In the meantime, we cannot rule out the possibility, however negligible, that he will have been at some point in the distant horizon. Yet, for the present, we are still faced with the bleak and disheartening probability that he never was, nor shall ever be. Whatever comes of such confusing matters, he nonetheless appreciates the interest of the reader and apologizes in advance for any time that is sure to be wasted in pointlessly deciphering the befuddling prose of this trifling wannabe.

Reviews

[Emily Dorothy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a delightful journey. The world Shanker has created expands and we get to know new and familiar characters deeply. I am the type of person that is often left wondering about a character's back story or true motivations - if you are too, you'll really enjoy getting to know mon seignuer-Q and Bunnu intimately. They have become like close friends.

While Migrations Vol I probed philosophical themes that strike at the core of human existence - doubt, principle, and obligation, I found that Migrations Vol II was a meditation on the conundrums and perplexities I often encounter in adult life and don't quite have enough time or space to reflect on. You know, things that come up - and I think - certainly other people have experienced this, but it's not so jarring to direct me to seek out reading or even necessarily intensive conversation on the experience. Those questions I have and the ideas that often remain unexplored. Through the journeys of our characters, I found myself reflecting on the complexity of intimacy, the challenges of friendship and the role perception plays even in trusted interactions, solitude and loneliness, and the futility of most ambition.

At the same time, true to Migrations Vol. I, the characters take twists and turns in this absurd and playful world. This book is guaranteed to make you think and make you chuckle at the same time. I really enjoyed it and am looking forward to Vol III!