What do you think?
Rate this book
Subversive Whispers
Manasi is a stalwart of Malayalam literature. With her unparalleled feminist writing and powerful voice, she has mastered the art of telling radical short stories. Through Subversive Whispers, a collection of some of her best work, she continues to defy patriarchy, question Brahminical hegemony and push narratives that subtly yet fervently challenge the status quo. The book introduces readers to the irreverent 'Sheelavathi', which explores the Madonna-Whore complex in a uniquely local context, 'Devi Mahathmyam', which sheds light on the price that women pay for being goddesses in mere name and stories such as 'Spelling Mistakes', 'Square Shapes' and 'The Walls', all of which explore romantic love with a piercing realism.
In stark and urgent murmurs that build up a fever pitch, these stories channel women's voices that open up their inner worlds, struggling to capture the minutiae of their suffering. It is this whisper-like quality of Manasi's storytelling that J Devika deftly conveys in translation, bringing the author's prose to the English reader in an incendiary collection that is sure to cast light on the darkened chambers of patriarchy and the hidden recesses of women's minds.
In stark and urgent murmurs that build up a fever pitch, these stories channel women's voices that open up their inner worlds, struggling to capture the minutiae of their suffering. It is this whisper-like quality of Manasi's storytelling that J Devika deftly conveys in translation, bringing the author's prose to the English reader in an incendiary collection that is sure to cast light on the darkened chambers of patriarchy and the hidden recesses of women's minds.
122 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 31, 2025
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
October 1, 2023
‘My daughter,’ her foster father spoke in a voice quivering with emotion. ‘Like Damayanti was to Nala, who abandoned her in the deep jungle to the wild beasts; like Seetha to Srirama, who saved his people and his throne that he had retaken after full fourteen years, by sending his pregnant wife to the forest, be an ornament to your husband. Remember, because your body is to be consigned to the flames of your husband’s pyre, his health and longevity are of utmost importance to you.’
This dialogue is from Malayalam writer Manasi’s short story, Sheelavathi, included in the collection, Subversive Whispers. It’s a difficult story to classify: is it magical realism? Or is it all metaphor, symbolism? Is the peacock up on the rafters real, or is it the protagonist Sheelavathi’s imagination, drawing her attention away from the foul-smelling, diseased and neglectful husband whose lust she must satisfy?
It doesn’t matter, really; what matters, instead, is the essence of this story, and of the rest of the stories in this collection: the plight of women. The stifling patriarchy that surrounds all of us, men as well as women, and manifests itself in myriad ways. There is the young working wife, juggling home and baby and career while her husband behaves like the lord and master of the house: demanding, indolent, entitled, in Bhanumathi’s Morning. In Scars of an Age, there is the widow, working as a secretary, who finds herself caught between two opposing views: on the one hand, the exacting (and sexist) boss, who demands that she dress in a certain way, look young and glamorous; on the other, her grown-up son, who sees red when he sees his mother dressed up: angry enough to let fly at her.
There is Sheelavathi, the heroine—so to say—based on the mythological story of the beautiful Sheelavathi, wife of a cruel and leprous king: Sheelavathi, such a chaste and devout wife that she carried her disabled husband about in a basket on her head, even taking him to a prostitute because that was what he wanted.
The stories here vary in tone, in setting, in the issues they tackle. They vary, too, in the vocalness (or not) of Manasi’s feminism. The initial stories, including Devi Mahathmyam, The Walls, Spelling Mistakes and Square Shapes, are subtle, to the point that it’s easy to miss the anti-patriarchal thread running through them. On the contrary, many of the women in these initial stories may come across as strong-willed and not in any danger of being the target of patriarchal oppression. These are women who defy society and bear children outside of wedlock; women who are married but have lovers; who snap, too, at those lovers, and stand up for themselves. Women, like Santhi of The Far End of the Gravel Path, who put their foot down and give back as good as they get.
But the veneer is just that: a veneer. These characters do battle patriarchy, but they do not always win. The woman who strikes back at her violent and abusive husband may briefly have the upper hand, but for how long? Bhanumathi’s rebellion may be, after all, short-lived (the author leaves it to her reader to decide). And the young mother of The Experiment, who discovers that her little daughter has been sexually abused, may not even acknowledge it, let alone being able to do anything about it…
The objective of Subversive Whispers, though, comes across as not to paint portraits of women who dare to stand up to patriarchy, but to show how insidious patriarchy is. How it creeps in, disguised as tradition, duty, love, a million other ‘virtues’, but all calculated to keep women in their places, well under the control of men.
A few of these stories, true, may be hard to understand. Some, like the opening story, The Serpents of Tirumala, are strange to the point of being elusive as well as illusive. But as the book progresses, the characters become more life-like, the subversive whispers increasingly strident and outspoken, until they cannot be mistaken for anything else.
In the translator’s note at the beginning of Subversive Whispers, J Devika writes of Manasi’s stories: ‘…the questions she raises are central to the ethics of the feminist life, relevant perhaps for all times…’ As the translator also mentions, most of these stories are set in the India of the 70s and 80s; a sobering thought, then, that they are still so relatable, that the situation has not changed.
(From my review for The New Indian Express: https://www.newindianexpress.com/life...)
This dialogue is from Malayalam writer Manasi’s short story, Sheelavathi, included in the collection, Subversive Whispers. It’s a difficult story to classify: is it magical realism? Or is it all metaphor, symbolism? Is the peacock up on the rafters real, or is it the protagonist Sheelavathi’s imagination, drawing her attention away from the foul-smelling, diseased and neglectful husband whose lust she must satisfy?
It doesn’t matter, really; what matters, instead, is the essence of this story, and of the rest of the stories in this collection: the plight of women. The stifling patriarchy that surrounds all of us, men as well as women, and manifests itself in myriad ways. There is the young working wife, juggling home and baby and career while her husband behaves like the lord and master of the house: demanding, indolent, entitled, in Bhanumathi’s Morning. In Scars of an Age, there is the widow, working as a secretary, who finds herself caught between two opposing views: on the one hand, the exacting (and sexist) boss, who demands that she dress in a certain way, look young and glamorous; on the other, her grown-up son, who sees red when he sees his mother dressed up: angry enough to let fly at her.
There is Sheelavathi, the heroine—so to say—based on the mythological story of the beautiful Sheelavathi, wife of a cruel and leprous king: Sheelavathi, such a chaste and devout wife that she carried her disabled husband about in a basket on her head, even taking him to a prostitute because that was what he wanted.
The stories here vary in tone, in setting, in the issues they tackle. They vary, too, in the vocalness (or not) of Manasi’s feminism. The initial stories, including Devi Mahathmyam, The Walls, Spelling Mistakes and Square Shapes, are subtle, to the point that it’s easy to miss the anti-patriarchal thread running through them. On the contrary, many of the women in these initial stories may come across as strong-willed and not in any danger of being the target of patriarchal oppression. These are women who defy society and bear children outside of wedlock; women who are married but have lovers; who snap, too, at those lovers, and stand up for themselves. Women, like Santhi of The Far End of the Gravel Path, who put their foot down and give back as good as they get.
But the veneer is just that: a veneer. These characters do battle patriarchy, but they do not always win. The woman who strikes back at her violent and abusive husband may briefly have the upper hand, but for how long? Bhanumathi’s rebellion may be, after all, short-lived (the author leaves it to her reader to decide). And the young mother of The Experiment, who discovers that her little daughter has been sexually abused, may not even acknowledge it, let alone being able to do anything about it…
The objective of Subversive Whispers, though, comes across as not to paint portraits of women who dare to stand up to patriarchy, but to show how insidious patriarchy is. How it creeps in, disguised as tradition, duty, love, a million other ‘virtues’, but all calculated to keep women in their places, well under the control of men.
A few of these stories, true, may be hard to understand. Some, like the opening story, The Serpents of Tirumala, are strange to the point of being elusive as well as illusive. But as the book progresses, the characters become more life-like, the subversive whispers increasingly strident and outspoken, until they cannot be mistaken for anything else.
In the translator’s note at the beginning of Subversive Whispers, J Devika writes of Manasi’s stories: ‘…the questions she raises are central to the ethics of the feminist life, relevant perhaps for all times…’ As the translator also mentions, most of these stories are set in the India of the 70s and 80s; a sobering thought, then, that they are still so relatable, that the situation has not changed.
(From my review for The New Indian Express: https://www.newindianexpress.com/life...)
January 27, 2024
Manasi is the pen name of Rukmini, a Malayalam writer who I encounter for the first time. This is a book of short stories, vignettes mostly, of women encountering different forms of patriarchy. The stories shock and anger, and also make you think. The women are not always submissive victims. They rage, they step outside the boundaries set for them, they create their own realities, they whisper subversively. But each is fighting a world where she is worshipped as a goddess, in return for surrendering her mind and clipping her wings. Some stories take on the style of magic realism, most are straightforward internal monologues. If I were to name this book, I would call it 'How to become a feminist '. It gives you reason and the roadmap to fight the good fight. The setting is very local and can sometimes confuse the non-Malayali. But the sensibility and conflicts portrayed are quite universal. It's not an easy read, but a very thought-provoking one.
June 24, 2023
“Subversive Whispers” presents a captivating and thought-provoking collection of short stories that firmly establishes Manasi as a stalwart of Malayalam literature. With her unparalleled feminist writing and powerful voice, she fearlessly challenges societal norms, defies patriarchy.
One of the remarkable aspects of this collection is the whisper-like quality of Manasi’s storytelling. Through her prose, she delicately conveys the inner worlds of women, their struggles, and their longing for freedom and self-expression. J Devika’s translation deserves special recognition for skillfully capturing this quality, ensuring that the essence and power of Manasi’s writing are not lost in translation.
“Subversive Whispers” is a significant contribution to literature, as it casts light on the darkened chambers of patriarchy and the hidden recesses of women’s minds. Manasi’s storytelling serves as a powerful tool for social change, prompting readers to question existing power structures, challenge societal norms, and empathize with the struggles faced by women. This collection is a must-read for anyone seeking stories that provoke thought, ignite passion, and inspire a deeper understanding of the female experience.
One of the remarkable aspects of this collection is the whisper-like quality of Manasi’s storytelling. Through her prose, she delicately conveys the inner worlds of women, their struggles, and their longing for freedom and self-expression. J Devika’s translation deserves special recognition for skillfully capturing this quality, ensuring that the essence and power of Manasi’s writing are not lost in translation.
“Subversive Whispers” is a significant contribution to literature, as it casts light on the darkened chambers of patriarchy and the hidden recesses of women’s minds. Manasi’s storytelling serves as a powerful tool for social change, prompting readers to question existing power structures, challenge societal norms, and empathize with the struggles faced by women. This collection is a must-read for anyone seeking stories that provoke thought, ignite passion, and inspire a deeper understanding of the female experience.
December 31, 2023
~ Partner for your evening tea ~
Subversive Whispers is a collection of short stories written in Malayalam by Manasi and translated into English by J. Devika. 13 odd stories that go against patriarchy and challenge Brahmanical hegemony. They range from being whispering thoughts when one is alone or circling in domesticity of life to terrifying rage and liberating madness, a motif very common to feminist literature and popularly called unhinged on bookstagram.
This collection is a provocative read, best consumed slowly with a hot cup of tea/coffee by side. I found a few stories difficult to get. I'm not a big fan of rage/violence and ambiguity in general does not work for me. Like 'The Serpents of Tirumala' in my experience was a complete bouncer. But if that's what you enjoy reading, 'Sheelavathi' is a perfect story to stir you up.
On the other hand some stories capture the suffering of women so blatant yet beautifully that it has etched a permanent mark on my memory. They meander through hidden recesses of a woman's mind with such brilliant prose that I was left gaping at the ceiling, lost in thoughts!
📖Here is a list of my favourite ones -
Devi Mahathmyam
Square Shapes
Definitions in Different Hues
The Seasons
Bhanumathi's Morning
The Experiment
In the list of most misunderstood words of our society, 'feminism' would rank very high on it. Some see no other way to live while some still can't wrap their head around its meaning. With feminist literature being a genre of its own, I believe it is important that we actively read them to understand if not anyone else, but ourselves better.
Subversive Whispers is a collection of short stories written in Malayalam by Manasi and translated into English by J. Devika. 13 odd stories that go against patriarchy and challenge Brahmanical hegemony. They range from being whispering thoughts when one is alone or circling in domesticity of life to terrifying rage and liberating madness, a motif very common to feminist literature and popularly called unhinged on bookstagram.
This collection is a provocative read, best consumed slowly with a hot cup of tea/coffee by side. I found a few stories difficult to get. I'm not a big fan of rage/violence and ambiguity in general does not work for me. Like 'The Serpents of Tirumala' in my experience was a complete bouncer. But if that's what you enjoy reading, 'Sheelavathi' is a perfect story to stir you up.
On the other hand some stories capture the suffering of women so blatant yet beautifully that it has etched a permanent mark on my memory. They meander through hidden recesses of a woman's mind with such brilliant prose that I was left gaping at the ceiling, lost in thoughts!
📖Here is a list of my favourite ones -
Devi Mahathmyam
Square Shapes
Definitions in Different Hues
The Seasons
Bhanumathi's Morning
The Experiment
In the list of most misunderstood words of our society, 'feminism' would rank very high on it. Some see no other way to live while some still can't wrap their head around its meaning. With feminist literature being a genre of its own, I believe it is important that we actively read them to understand if not anyone else, but ourselves better.
March 6, 2024
Rounding down from 3.5 to 3 because the translation felt distant. The stories are a solid 4. I wish I could read them in the original language.
March 13, 2024
"Subversive Whispers" by Manasi presents a collection of short stories delving into the complexities of women's struggles and the often overlooked desires they harbor in a society that fails to acknowledge them. As a celebrated Malayali writer, Manasi's work is brought to a wider audience through the translation efforts of J. Devika. I tried really hard to like the stories but they failed in striking a chord with me. Navigating through the language and narrative proved to be a challenge, requiring time to acclimate before delving into the heart of the book, only to find it concluded all too swiftly. The stories normalize issues such as infidelity, extramarital affairs, and even murder, portraying them as emotional issues of women. While acknowledging that these themes may indeed reflect realities within society, I found myself at odds with the author's interpretation of feminism and women empowerment. Most of the stories have infidelity as it's core theme. Hence, for me this book was a pass.
June 26, 2023
“My house had walls that were so thick, no one outside could have any inkling of what went on inside.”
🏝️
The last time I was left mesmerized with a short story collection was Malika Moustadraf's "Blood Feast" (tr. by Alice Guthrie).
And a year later it's Manasi's short stories collection, translated effortlessly by J. Devika & compiled in the book titled "Subversive Whispers".
This collection includes 13 of her best works, spanning from the 1960s to the early 2000s; questioning the patriarchy, brahmanical hegemony & the power imbalance.
The women in the stories take narrative into their own hands, and in subtle & not so subtle whispers, they bare their internal thoughts to us readers, who creep into the darkest crevices of their minds, feeling their raging emotions, judgements & wrath.
The women, as the societal customs dictates, are expected to be subservient, epitome of patience, sacrifice—the Devis— Goddesses, and yet they continue to raise the question 'Why?' & challenge the norms.
Manasi's stories remain unshackled by time & space. They're way ahead & continue to resonate even after decades.
From exploring Madonna-whore complex to analysing women's status in a society to gendered discrimination at workplace, home & childcare to honor killings & child abuse to women's desires—the multifaceted identities & individualities of women come alive in her stories.
I devoured the book & it has to be my favourite collection so far!
This book demands discussion & contemplation, and strength to discard the rose tinted glasses & start questioning the authority, the vedas, the Gods & the Patriarchal burdens it carries.
I implore you to read this.
Thank you @penguinindia for the review copy, in exchange for honest reviews.
🏝️
The last time I was left mesmerized with a short story collection was Malika Moustadraf's "Blood Feast" (tr. by Alice Guthrie).
And a year later it's Manasi's short stories collection, translated effortlessly by J. Devika & compiled in the book titled "Subversive Whispers".
This collection includes 13 of her best works, spanning from the 1960s to the early 2000s; questioning the patriarchy, brahmanical hegemony & the power imbalance.
The women in the stories take narrative into their own hands, and in subtle & not so subtle whispers, they bare their internal thoughts to us readers, who creep into the darkest crevices of their minds, feeling their raging emotions, judgements & wrath.
The women, as the societal customs dictates, are expected to be subservient, epitome of patience, sacrifice—the Devis— Goddesses, and yet they continue to raise the question 'Why?' & challenge the norms.
Manasi's stories remain unshackled by time & space. They're way ahead & continue to resonate even after decades.
From exploring Madonna-whore complex to analysing women's status in a society to gendered discrimination at workplace, home & childcare to honor killings & child abuse to women's desires—the multifaceted identities & individualities of women come alive in her stories.
I devoured the book & it has to be my favourite collection so far!
This book demands discussion & contemplation, and strength to discard the rose tinted glasses & start questioning the authority, the vedas, the Gods & the Patriarchal burdens it carries.
I implore you to read this.
Thank you @penguinindia for the review copy, in exchange for honest reviews.
June 29, 2023
"Subversive Whispers" is a collection of short stories that speaks against patriarchy, question Brahminical hegemony and push narratives that subtly yet fervently challenge the status quo.
Such powerful stories establishes Manasi as a stalwart of Malayalam literature. With her unparalleled feminist writing and powerful voice, she has mastered the art of telling radical short stories.
The book introduces readers to the irreverent 'Sheelavathi', which explores the Madonna-Whore complex in a uniquely local context, 'Devi Mahathmyam', which sheds light on the price that women pay for being goddesses in mere name and stories such as 'Spelling Mistakes', 'Square Shapes' and 'The Walls', all of which explore romantic love with a piercing realism.
The various stories in the books puts light on many issues in this patriarchal society through the not so "subversive whispers" of the women. J Devika's translation is equally skillful. She rightfully captured the emotions and essence of Manasi's whisper like writing. This book is very thought provoking and eye opening. It is a must read for anyone who's looking for a challenging, powerful read that goes opposite of the society's beliefs and perspective about women and how they should be.
Such powerful stories establishes Manasi as a stalwart of Malayalam literature. With her unparalleled feminist writing and powerful voice, she has mastered the art of telling radical short stories.
The book introduces readers to the irreverent 'Sheelavathi', which explores the Madonna-Whore complex in a uniquely local context, 'Devi Mahathmyam', which sheds light on the price that women pay for being goddesses in mere name and stories such as 'Spelling Mistakes', 'Square Shapes' and 'The Walls', all of which explore romantic love with a piercing realism.
The various stories in the books puts light on many issues in this patriarchal society through the not so "subversive whispers" of the women. J Devika's translation is equally skillful. She rightfully captured the emotions and essence of Manasi's whisper like writing. This book is very thought provoking and eye opening. It is a must read for anyone who's looking for a challenging, powerful read that goes opposite of the society's beliefs and perspective about women and how they should be.
July 6, 2023
When was the last time you bought a translated book?
I am always at my wit's end when I sit down to write about translated works. A part of me constantly thinks about how it must feel like when reading the original text. A part of my regrets for not learning other languages. It feels like I am missing out on gems out there. How can one translate exact emotions that flow in the original text and find exact words to express them? must be a humongous task for the translator to do such meticulous work. At the very beginning of the book, the translator, J. Devika talked about how the works of Manasi influenced her and helped her understand feminist literature. Out of all the works written in this book, she talks specifically about “Sheelavathi” which blurs out Madonna Whore complex and criticizes the Brahmanical society’s views on women. In another work, “Definations in Different Hues” the author explored how women are forced to choose between career and family, and any woman who diverts from the path of motherhood is labeled as ruthless and sinful. Although Manasi wrote this particular piece in 1995 the relevance still echoes in today’s society. As a reader, I find this book an excellent representation of Indian women across all generations with all of their dilemmas and choices.
I am always at my wit's end when I sit down to write about translated works. A part of me constantly thinks about how it must feel like when reading the original text. A part of my regrets for not learning other languages. It feels like I am missing out on gems out there. How can one translate exact emotions that flow in the original text and find exact words to express them? must be a humongous task for the translator to do such meticulous work. At the very beginning of the book, the translator, J. Devika talked about how the works of Manasi influenced her and helped her understand feminist literature. Out of all the works written in this book, she talks specifically about “Sheelavathi” which blurs out Madonna Whore complex and criticizes the Brahmanical society’s views on women. In another work, “Definations in Different Hues” the author explored how women are forced to choose between career and family, and any woman who diverts from the path of motherhood is labeled as ruthless and sinful. Although Manasi wrote this particular piece in 1995 the relevance still echoes in today’s society. As a reader, I find this book an excellent representation of Indian women across all generations with all of their dilemmas and choices.
September 3, 2023
Heart-stirring, evocative, and bold are the adjectives that would do justice to describe this book through my lense. The author has addressed a lot of stigmas associated with women in rural areas which acted like invisible shackles. I found a subtle undertone of sarcasm in the narrative of certain stories which felt like an attempt by the author to mock patriarchal thinking.
The stories are steeped in emotions, local culture, bringing alive the stories of different types of women subjected to different ways of subjugation and patriarchy.
Kudos to the translator, Devika J, who ensured that the bold and beautiful feministic stories of the author, Manasi, reaches to far and wider audience, translating in English language but keeping the emotions and message intact.
I felt some of the stories had abrupt ending which kept me in a mental quagmire and made my reading experience slightly complex. Hence, I have given this book a 3.9 solely based on my reading experience.
Overall, a very thought-provoking and beautiful book that should be read by all kinds of readers to understand roots of patriarchy that formed branches and shackled the women-kind.
The stories are steeped in emotions, local culture, bringing alive the stories of different types of women subjected to different ways of subjugation and patriarchy.
Kudos to the translator, Devika J, who ensured that the bold and beautiful feministic stories of the author, Manasi, reaches to far and wider audience, translating in English language but keeping the emotions and message intact.
I felt some of the stories had abrupt ending which kept me in a mental quagmire and made my reading experience slightly complex. Hence, I have given this book a 3.9 solely based on my reading experience.
Overall, a very thought-provoking and beautiful book that should be read by all kinds of readers to understand roots of patriarchy that formed branches and shackled the women-kind.
July 3, 2023
Subversive Whispers by Manasi, translated into English by J. Devika, is a remarkable collection of 13 thought-provoking and compelling short stories. With her powerful feminist writing, Manasi defies patriarchy, questions Brahminical hegemony, and challenges societal norms. Through these stories, she gives voice to the inner world of women. Each story is a window into the experiences of women who dare to challenge the status quo and question the oppressive systems they find themselves in.
The stories are powerful and thought-provoking, depicting the sufferings of women. Some of the stories also explore deep romantic relationships.
J. Devika's skillful translation captures the essence of Manasi's writing without losing its authenticity and emotional impact. It's one of those books that lingers in the mind long after turning the last page.
Overall, Subversive Whispers is one of the best short story collections that I have ever read. It's evocative and unforgettable, leaving its mark on the readers.
The stories are powerful and thought-provoking, depicting the sufferings of women. Some of the stories also explore deep romantic relationships.
J. Devika's skillful translation captures the essence of Manasi's writing without losing its authenticity and emotional impact. It's one of those books that lingers in the mind long after turning the last page.
Overall, Subversive Whispers is one of the best short story collections that I have ever read. It's evocative and unforgettable, leaving its mark on the readers.
September 10, 2025
Manasi’s writing style in the lens of J Devika reminds me of Ambai (C.S Lakshmi) and Arundhathi Roy’s melancholic, poetic way of describing the human facets.
Manasi’s character choices in this collection of short stories reflects the working woman - Bhanumathi who is also a mother and wife.
Manasi’s weaves some complex yet social taboo based character such as Sheelavathi and “Goddesses” in a short story titled “Spelling Mistakes”.
J Devika brings in the essence of Manasi’s prose that cast light on darkened patriachal practices inside the homes of brahminical heirs. The whispers, silent whispers of voiceless women being depicted all throughout this short story collection.
Manasi’s character choices in this collection of short stories reflects the working woman - Bhanumathi who is also a mother and wife.
Manasi’s weaves some complex yet social taboo based character such as Sheelavathi and “Goddesses” in a short story titled “Spelling Mistakes”.
J Devika brings in the essence of Manasi’s prose that cast light on darkened patriachal practices inside the homes of brahminical heirs. The whispers, silent whispers of voiceless women being depicted all throughout this short story collection.
January 3, 2024
Book: Subversive Whispers
Author: Manasi
Translator: J. Devika
Genre: Short Story Collection
Publisher: Hamish Hamilton
Pages: 160
P. A. Rukmini, known by her pen name Manasi, is a Sahitya Akademi Award-winning author for her book Manjile Pakshi and is known for her feminist short stories. And some of her prominent stories are translated by J. Devika in this collection, Subversive Whispers.
In this collection of 13 stories, written from 1968 to as recent as 2001, the author shows her opinions and demolishes the long-rooted, stereotypical ways of society. She questions Brahminical hegemony, opposes patriarchal structure, represents women's voices, struggle, sufferings, life, love, and longings,
It was my first book from Malayalam Literature and I'm astonished, to say the least. The stories were complex, there were so many things hidden in between words, sentences, and paragraphs to read, understand and decipher.
To be honest, there were some stories that I was not able to understand completely, and they went above my head. I hope to understand them with complete understanding in the future, but the stories that I understood, were instantly my favourite and able to leave a deep impact. And I know they will be long remembered. There is rage, anger, and indifference, which was quite visible, somewhere directly and somewhere very subtly.
Some of my personal favourite stories were:
• Devi Mahathmyam: In Praise of the Goddess
• Definition in Different Hues
• Bhanumati's Morning
• Scars of an Age
• The Experiment
After reading this book, I am eager to read more work by the author, more translations by the translator, and more Malayalam literature.
Author: Manasi
Translator: J. Devika
Genre: Short Story Collection
Publisher: Hamish Hamilton
Pages: 160
P. A. Rukmini, known by her pen name Manasi, is a Sahitya Akademi Award-winning author for her book Manjile Pakshi and is known for her feminist short stories. And some of her prominent stories are translated by J. Devika in this collection, Subversive Whispers.
In this collection of 13 stories, written from 1968 to as recent as 2001, the author shows her opinions and demolishes the long-rooted, stereotypical ways of society. She questions Brahminical hegemony, opposes patriarchal structure, represents women's voices, struggle, sufferings, life, love, and longings,
It was my first book from Malayalam Literature and I'm astonished, to say the least. The stories were complex, there were so many things hidden in between words, sentences, and paragraphs to read, understand and decipher.
To be honest, there were some stories that I was not able to understand completely, and they went above my head. I hope to understand them with complete understanding in the future, but the stories that I understood, were instantly my favourite and able to leave a deep impact. And I know they will be long remembered. There is rage, anger, and indifference, which was quite visible, somewhere directly and somewhere very subtly.
Some of my personal favourite stories were:
• Devi Mahathmyam: In Praise of the Goddess
• Definition in Different Hues
• Bhanumati's Morning
• Scars of an Age
• The Experiment
After reading this book, I am eager to read more work by the author, more translations by the translator, and more Malayalam literature.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews