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Melody of a Tear
Melody of a Tear takes imagination to the next level.
Zara, the suicide-prone protagonist of ambiguous gender, is raised as a son by her father. She has never been able to cry and so when she meets Zaid, a former college-mate, she is immediately curious because of the tear she sees streaming down his face. Thus begins a quest to understand this wondrous facility of easy tears. Her search for answers leads her to a crumbling mansion where she encounters Waris, an ailing repository of ideals and wisdom who moonlights as a children’s mystery writer, and Sheila and her brood who live behind the mansion, treating poverty as their religion.
Here with Waris as her guide and mentor she unravels the spool of Zaid’s humanity to resolve the befuddling mystery of his tears, and in the process reaches deep into the heart of her own dilemma as well.
The plot, with elements of magic realism, is never what it seems and springs stunning surprises at key moments of the tale. Who is the victor in this story? Who is the real narrator? Do some people die or merely change forms? Whose figment of imagination eventually makes love to Zara? The answers are as intriguing as the surreal questions themselves.
Zara, the suicide-prone protagonist of ambiguous gender, is raised as a son by her father. She has never been able to cry and so when she meets Zaid, a former college-mate, she is immediately curious because of the tear she sees streaming down his face. Thus begins a quest to understand this wondrous facility of easy tears. Her search for answers leads her to a crumbling mansion where she encounters Waris, an ailing repository of ideals and wisdom who moonlights as a children’s mystery writer, and Sheila and her brood who live behind the mansion, treating poverty as their religion.
Here with Waris as her guide and mentor she unravels the spool of Zaid’s humanity to resolve the befuddling mystery of his tears, and in the process reaches deep into the heart of her own dilemma as well.
The plot, with elements of magic realism, is never what it seems and springs stunning surprises at key moments of the tale. Who is the victor in this story? Who is the real narrator? Do some people die or merely change forms? Whose figment of imagination eventually makes love to Zara? The answers are as intriguing as the surreal questions themselves.
- GenresFiction
212 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 14, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
September 30, 2020
4.5*
So my journey of experimenting with Pakistani fiction brought me to this book. I had never heard of it before until I saw it on my library's website and thought I'll give this a go. I had not seen any publicity for this book and honestly didn't know if anyone else had read it. BUT boy, am I glad to have discovered this book. When I think of new writers and fresh stories, this is what I mean.
The plot is original and satisfies all my qualms i.e. to say that it doesn't pander to a Western audience, the story is not cheapened by showing off our hidden cultural rebelliousness (excessive use of alcohol) or marital issues. When I was reading this, I genuinely forgot that this is the work of a Pakistani writer- because the atmosphere, setting and general execution was very match at par with all the creepy Western favourites of mine, such as The Virgin Suicides, DeadKidSongs, White Oleander.
The writing in this book is extremely lush and sophisticated without being pretentious. A lot of the time, when I read local fiction - I think that the author is trying too hard but while reading this book, the writing just seemed like an extension of the author's mind.
Additionally, the characters are very much living, breathing human beings. They each seem to have a hidden pain to deal with, and they are each traumatised by their own past. There is also representation in this book - we find a character struggling with her gender identity and another one with the speech impediment.
I fully realise that while I'm gushing over this book, the "weirdness" of it might be hard for others to absorb but I will say if you want to read an original story set in Karachi in the 90s - you might enjoy this a lot!
So my journey of experimenting with Pakistani fiction brought me to this book. I had never heard of it before until I saw it on my library's website and thought I'll give this a go. I had not seen any publicity for this book and honestly didn't know if anyone else had read it. BUT boy, am I glad to have discovered this book. When I think of new writers and fresh stories, this is what I mean.
The plot is original and satisfies all my qualms i.e. to say that it doesn't pander to a Western audience, the story is not cheapened by showing off our hidden cultural rebelliousness (excessive use of alcohol) or marital issues. When I was reading this, I genuinely forgot that this is the work of a Pakistani writer- because the atmosphere, setting and general execution was very match at par with all the creepy Western favourites of mine, such as The Virgin Suicides, DeadKidSongs, White Oleander.
The writing in this book is extremely lush and sophisticated without being pretentious. A lot of the time, when I read local fiction - I think that the author is trying too hard but while reading this book, the writing just seemed like an extension of the author's mind.
Additionally, the characters are very much living, breathing human beings. They each seem to have a hidden pain to deal with, and they are each traumatised by their own past. There is also representation in this book - we find a character struggling with her gender identity and another one with the speech impediment.
I fully realise that while I'm gushing over this book, the "weirdness" of it might be hard for others to absorb but I will say if you want to read an original story set in Karachi in the 90s - you might enjoy this a lot!
July 23, 2019
"Waris, as promised, I am about to finish this novel for you. I could have ended it at the time of Zaid's death but luckily I did not, for this manuscript must be remembered as a tribute to you and must embody what you always stood for - hope." ~Melody of a tear.
••••••
🌟🌟🌟🌟.5
••••••
'Melody of a tear' is the debut novel of Haroon Khalid Akhtar and I would not refrain to say that it is a commendable piece of literature which perfectly exemplifies the treasure of talent that resides within Pakistan. It is an exceptionally well-penned book, evoking the sense of empathy, humanity and compassion with a seldom portrayal of Pakistani background.
🌸"Anger is an act of turning against your own self."🌸
Zara, a suicide prone protagonist, develops an obsession to reach out to Zaid (a former college mate), who she once found crying for the local street vendors who were injustly treated. Her quest leads her to Sufaid Kothi, where she befriends the wise story-teller, Waris. There she is introduced to 'poverty as a religion' upon meeting Sheila and her four little boys.
🌸"These children were poverty-powered too, and unconcerned about any future, forging intimate bonds with the elements, turning them into willing playmates."🌸
An utter work of fiction and imagination, yet containing all the realities of life. The themes of grief, hope, poverty, empathy, class difference, and most of all compassion have been vividly portrayed in this book. The diction and sentence structure is a bit complexed but that brings beauty to the text and adds to its uniqueness. I am completely impressed by this book and it has left an overwhelming effect. A very well-penned, aptly structured and perfectly woven story that restores your faith in the power of humanity. It's a genius piece which I would highly recommend.
I would conclude my review on one of the most heart felt lines I found whilst reading: "Forgiveness is a sensation, not a process."💞
••••••
🌟🌟🌟🌟.5
••••••
'Melody of a tear' is the debut novel of Haroon Khalid Akhtar and I would not refrain to say that it is a commendable piece of literature which perfectly exemplifies the treasure of talent that resides within Pakistan. It is an exceptionally well-penned book, evoking the sense of empathy, humanity and compassion with a seldom portrayal of Pakistani background.
🌸"Anger is an act of turning against your own self."🌸
Zara, a suicide prone protagonist, develops an obsession to reach out to Zaid (a former college mate), who she once found crying for the local street vendors who were injustly treated. Her quest leads her to Sufaid Kothi, where she befriends the wise story-teller, Waris. There she is introduced to 'poverty as a religion' upon meeting Sheila and her four little boys.
🌸"These children were poverty-powered too, and unconcerned about any future, forging intimate bonds with the elements, turning them into willing playmates."🌸
An utter work of fiction and imagination, yet containing all the realities of life. The themes of grief, hope, poverty, empathy, class difference, and most of all compassion have been vividly portrayed in this book. The diction and sentence structure is a bit complexed but that brings beauty to the text and adds to its uniqueness. I am completely impressed by this book and it has left an overwhelming effect. A very well-penned, aptly structured and perfectly woven story that restores your faith in the power of humanity. It's a genius piece which I would highly recommend.
I would conclude my review on one of the most heart felt lines I found whilst reading: "Forgiveness is a sensation, not a process."💞
February 14, 2019
Melody of the tear
.
As the cover is good looking and eye catching. I'm little bir confused by the name and the story. There is reason behind my confusion.
Zara, the suicide-prone protagonist of ambiguous gender. Zara's family specifically her father treat her like a son which leaves her so confused about her gender. Now she is a man in women body. In the college days she find a friend zaid who looks attractive to her. Zaid is the person who is avarage looking guy. Zara is the person who never watched tears rolling down on any face.
Zara has a neighbor called wasir. Who is a writter. He is sick and counting some last days of life. So he decided to write a novel. Before wasir leave the world he kept manuscript for zara to finish the novel. After all it's her story.
Author has great job my Writing such a great book. But, the things is you will confused many times while reading this book. The characters are extremely well developed and described. It is divided into two parts. Yet little complex to understand. Plot is unique.
Overall it's good but complex read
.
As the cover is good looking and eye catching. I'm little bir confused by the name and the story. There is reason behind my confusion.
Zara, the suicide-prone protagonist of ambiguous gender. Zara's family specifically her father treat her like a son which leaves her so confused about her gender. Now she is a man in women body. In the college days she find a friend zaid who looks attractive to her. Zaid is the person who is avarage looking guy. Zara is the person who never watched tears rolling down on any face.
Zara has a neighbor called wasir. Who is a writter. He is sick and counting some last days of life. So he decided to write a novel. Before wasir leave the world he kept manuscript for zara to finish the novel. After all it's her story.
Author has great job my Writing such a great book. But, the things is you will confused many times while reading this book. The characters are extremely well developed and described. It is divided into two parts. Yet little complex to understand. Plot is unique.
Overall it's good but complex read
February 28, 2019
The writer has weaved a special tale and its characters connect beautifully through their handicaps. Everything fits in masterfully in the end after a topsy turvy ride of passion, guilt and demise. Seemingly, it is a simple tale of friendship but actually it is much more. A deep study of human psychology. Complex book that deserves all the praise and raving reviews it is getting.
February 22, 2025
موجودہ پاکستانی ادب پڑھتے وقت اکثر اوقات قاری دو انتہاؤں کے درمیان اٹکا رہتا ہے۔ جدید انگریزی ادب کسی نہ کسی حوالے سے سیاسی حالات ، مذھبی شدت پسندی ی ایسے ہی واقعات کے گرد گھومتا رہتا ہے تو وہیں جدید اردو پاپولر فکشن رائٹرز بھی ایک ہی لکیر کے فقیر ہیں جہاں واقعات رومانس اور کسی نہ کسی طرح کرداروں کا آ کر مذھب سے جڑ جانے جیسے تھیم شامل ہوتے
۔
ہارون خالد اختر جو اردو ادب کے انتہائی بڑے نام محمد خالد اختر صاحب کے فرزند ہیں کا یہ پہلا ناول تازہ ہوا کے جھونکے کی مانند بالکل الگ ٹمپرامنٹ کا حامل ہے۔ زارا خود کشی کا میلان رکھنے والی ایک لڑکی جو گھر میں اپنے والدین کے زیر اثر یوں بڑی ہوتی کہ وہ آنسو نہیں بہا پاتی۔ اسی لیئے جب وہ ایک لائبریری میں زید کی آنکھ سے ایک آنسو ٹپکتا دیکھتی تو اس کے اندر اس کے سبب کا کھوج لگانے کی ایک عجیب سی خواہش جاگ پڑتی
۔
زارا زید اور وارث علی جیسے کرداروں کی حامل یہ کہانی الگ انداز اور الگ ہی طرح کی ہے۔زارہ معاشرے میں مس فٹ ہے جس کی پرورش ایک بیٹی کی طرح یوں کی گئی کہ وہ اپنی صنف بارےہی غیر یقینی کا شکار ہے وارث علی ایک سوشل ورکر جو معاشرتی بگاڑ کو تعلیم سے دور کرنے کی خواب دیکھتا ہے جو ایک رائٹر بنتے بنتے بچوں کے لیے انسپیکٹر رب نواز سیریز لکھنے تک محدود ہو گیا ہے زید جو معاشرے میں پھیلے دکھ درد پہ روتا رہتا اور اس کا ایک آنسو زارا کو یہ خوبصورت داستان سنانے پہ مجبور کر دیتا۔
۔
کہانی میں جہاں ایک مسلسل بہاؤ ہے وہیں اس کا انداز بیان قاری کو اپنی گرفت میں لے کر پڑھے چلے چلنے پر مجبور کر دیتا۔ایسے الگ مزاج کی کہانی شاید ہی کسی پاکستانی رائٹر نے لکھی ہو۔راجو سنیل گپتا سفید کوٹھی زید زارا اور وارث علی جیسے انہو نے کردار تخیلاتی ہو کر بھی کس قدر حقیقی حقیقی سے لگتے ہیں ان سے جڑے واقعات ہمیں اپنے آس پاس کے ہی تو محسوس ہونے لگتے ہیں سب کچھ کس قدر جانا پہچانا سا لگتا ہے۔
۔
میلوڈی آف اے ٹیر اگرچہ ہارون کا پہلا ناول ہے لیکن ناول کی تھیم پلاٹ اور بیانیہ پر ان کی گرفت غضب کی ہے کہانی کا بیانیہ خوبصورت انداز میں کھلتا چلا جاتا ہے ۔
انگریزی ادب کے شائقین بلکہ ادب کی تمام شائقین کو یہ خوبصورت ناول ضرور پڑھنا چاہیے یقینا یہ ان کے لیے ایک خوبصورت تحفے سے کم نہیں ہوگا
۔
ہارون خالد اختر جو اردو ادب کے انتہائی بڑے نام محمد خالد اختر صاحب کے فرزند ہیں کا یہ پہلا ناول تازہ ہوا کے جھونکے کی مانند بالکل الگ ٹمپرامنٹ کا حامل ہے۔ زارا خود کشی کا میلان رکھنے والی ایک لڑکی جو گھر میں اپنے والدین کے زیر اثر یوں بڑی ہوتی کہ وہ آنسو نہیں بہا پاتی۔ اسی لیئے جب وہ ایک لائبریری میں زید کی آنکھ سے ایک آنسو ٹپکتا دیکھتی تو اس کے اندر اس کے سبب کا کھوج لگانے کی ایک عجیب سی خواہش جاگ پڑتی
۔
زارا زید اور وارث علی جیسے کرداروں کی حامل یہ کہانی الگ انداز اور الگ ہی طرح کی ہے۔زارہ معاشرے میں مس فٹ ہے جس کی پرورش ایک بیٹی کی طرح یوں کی گئی کہ وہ اپنی صنف بارےہی غیر یقینی کا شکار ہے وارث علی ایک سوشل ورکر جو معاشرتی بگاڑ کو تعلیم سے دور کرنے کی خواب دیکھتا ہے جو ایک رائٹر بنتے بنتے بچوں کے لیے انسپیکٹر رب نواز سیریز لکھنے تک محدود ہو گیا ہے زید جو معاشرے میں پھیلے دکھ درد پہ روتا رہتا اور اس کا ایک آنسو زارا کو یہ خوبصورت داستان سنانے پہ مجبور کر دیتا۔
۔
کہانی میں جہاں ایک مسلسل بہاؤ ہے وہیں اس کا انداز بیان قاری کو اپنی گرفت میں لے کر پڑھے چلے چلنے پر مجبور کر دیتا۔ایسے الگ مزاج کی کہانی شاید ہی کسی پاکستانی رائٹر نے لکھی ہو۔راجو سنیل گپتا سفید کوٹھی زید زارا اور وارث علی جیسے انہو نے کردار تخیلاتی ہو کر بھی کس قدر حقیقی حقیقی سے لگتے ہیں ان سے جڑے واقعات ہمیں اپنے آس پاس کے ہی تو محسوس ہونے لگتے ہیں سب کچھ کس قدر جانا پہچانا سا لگتا ہے۔
۔
میلوڈی آف اے ٹیر اگرچہ ہارون کا پہلا ناول ہے لیکن ناول کی تھیم پلاٹ اور بیانیہ پر ان کی گرفت غضب کی ہے کہانی کا بیانیہ خوبصورت انداز میں کھلتا چلا جاتا ہے ۔
انگریزی ادب کے شائقین بلکہ ادب کی تمام شائقین کو یہ خوبصورت ناول ضرور پڑھنا چاہیے یقینا یہ ان کے لیے ایک خوبصورت تحفے سے کم نہیں ہوگا
April 10, 2019
I was at a bookstore in Lahore and the shopkeeper recommended this to me. I never heard of this author or the book before but I got it. I'm glad I did, its a really good book. Its a very original novel with a clever plot.
The suicidal Zara who can't cry takes us on a journey starting from an ancient Parsi haveli in Karachi where we meet the articulate mystery writer Waris and the enigmatic and compassionate Zaid. Its a wonderful imaginative and sad story. The author is good at tugging heartstrings with his writing and there's lots of sorrow in this book which you will walk away with as if your own.
I'm very glad to read this Pakistani author's debut novel, and a brilliant one at that. Not a lot of new novels come out in Pakistan and the good ones are so rare, so its really great to read this one. Looking forward to what this author comes up with next.
The suicidal Zara who can't cry takes us on a journey starting from an ancient Parsi haveli in Karachi where we meet the articulate mystery writer Waris and the enigmatic and compassionate Zaid. Its a wonderful imaginative and sad story. The author is good at tugging heartstrings with his writing and there's lots of sorrow in this book which you will walk away with as if your own.
I'm very glad to read this Pakistani author's debut novel, and a brilliant one at that. Not a lot of new novels come out in Pakistan and the good ones are so rare, so its really great to read this one. Looking forward to what this author comes up with next.
May 23, 2019
The protagonist and narrator of this surreal novel is Zara, who may be female, may be not (but seems to, at this stage in life, identify as female). When Melody of a Tear begins, Zara has just made an unsuccessful attempt at suicide. The story meanders on, into the past, to a crumbling Karachi mansion named Sufaid Kothi. Zara is fascinated by Zaid, a former college-mate whom she accidentally sees weeping a single tear, and subsequently realizes seems to devote his life to weeping over those for whom there is nobody to weep.
Zara’s stalking of Zaid leads her to Sufaid Kothi, and to its reclusive denizen, the best-selling author of pulp fiction, Waris. Waris is writing his magnum opus, a work very different from what he’s known for all this while—but what it will turn out to be is something neither Zara nor Zaid know yet.
The core message of Melody of a Tear is touching, and the story is intriguing, with a couple of twists and turns I had absolutely not foreseen. While Zara herself didn’t interest me much as a character, Waris and Zaid did, as did the Cantt Station (yes, that’s almost as much a character as the others). Occasional descriptions, of situations and people (poor Arus), of emotion and human nature, are very well done, and the idea of Bahadur is superb—the revelation of that element of the plot was among my favourite moments in the book.
What sometimes jarred, though, was the language, which occasionally teeters over into the florid or at least the type that needs frequent reading to figure out what the author’s trying to say. “… grazing all manner of literary grass available on the verdant bookshelf” or “Dust came out of hiding to reclaim the discotheque under the drizzling streetlight” are examples. There is also a tendency to go heavy on the adverbs (some outright incorrect, like “… the next day was also hectically spent”. I am one of those (I fear increasingly rare, at least in the Indian subcontinent) readers who cannot truly enjoy a book that suffers from editing as shaky as this, which is why this rating. Had the editor in me not been wincing every now and then, I would probably have been able to like this book a lot more.
A good story and mostly well-written, but this could have been so much better in the hands of an editor who knew their job.
Zara’s stalking of Zaid leads her to Sufaid Kothi, and to its reclusive denizen, the best-selling author of pulp fiction, Waris. Waris is writing his magnum opus, a work very different from what he’s known for all this while—but what it will turn out to be is something neither Zara nor Zaid know yet.
The core message of Melody of a Tear is touching, and the story is intriguing, with a couple of twists and turns I had absolutely not foreseen. While Zara herself didn’t interest me much as a character, Waris and Zaid did, as did the Cantt Station (yes, that’s almost as much a character as the others). Occasional descriptions, of situations and people (poor Arus), of emotion and human nature, are very well done, and the idea of Bahadur is superb—the revelation of that element of the plot was among my favourite moments in the book.
What sometimes jarred, though, was the language, which occasionally teeters over into the florid or at least the type that needs frequent reading to figure out what the author’s trying to say. “… grazing all manner of literary grass available on the verdant bookshelf” or “Dust came out of hiding to reclaim the discotheque under the drizzling streetlight” are examples. There is also a tendency to go heavy on the adverbs (some outright incorrect, like “… the next day was also hectically spent”. I am one of those (I fear increasingly rare, at least in the Indian subcontinent) readers who cannot truly enjoy a book that suffers from editing as shaky as this, which is why this rating. Had the editor in me not been wincing every now and then, I would probably have been able to like this book a lot more.
A good story and mostly well-written, but this could have been so much better in the hands of an editor who knew their job.
February 9, 2019
Melody of a tear.
~
Thank you for sending this book @niyogi_books :)
~
There are few books that you're sure you'll re-read it till the pages are brown and torn and then there are few that leaves you too confused and overwhelmed the first time you read. This book falls under the latter category and I'll tell you why.
~
The protagonist is a young woman Zara who has been fostering suicidal thoughts over the years and struggles with defining her sexuality. Her father grooms her like a son which leaves her troubled about figuring out her feminine side and often ends up being a man in a woman's body. One fine day after spotting her college mate in a library, she decides to know more about him. Zaid, an average looking man seems to be carrying world's burden on his shoulders as he sheds tears for the poor. He fights for their rights and sacrifices his needs for their happiness. Zara finds this quality in him extremely attractive and hence slowly gets obsessed with his whereabouts.
~
In order to get close to Zaid, she gets acquainted with his neighbour who turns out to be a writer. Waris is prone to sickness and knows he's running out of time and decides to write one last book before it all ends. Zara pretending to be his fan slowly forms a friendship with Waris which she realises only after he's gone. Before he dies, Waris leaves behind his manuscript and asks her to finish the story for him. Afterall, it's her story. What follows next is Zara's attempts at making Zaid hers and her extreme ideas.
~
This being the debut book by the author, he has done a splendid job in nailing the characters. They are all at their extremes and their description lasts for a page or more. Though the plot is unique, it might not appeal to all the readers because it has the ability of leaving them confused. It's a complex book which stimulates your thoughts and I had trouble sticking to it more often than I can count. As I finished the book, I'm still left with many answers.
~
Rating - 3/5.
~
Thank you for sending this book @niyogi_books :)
~
There are few books that you're sure you'll re-read it till the pages are brown and torn and then there are few that leaves you too confused and overwhelmed the first time you read. This book falls under the latter category and I'll tell you why.
~
The protagonist is a young woman Zara who has been fostering suicidal thoughts over the years and struggles with defining her sexuality. Her father grooms her like a son which leaves her troubled about figuring out her feminine side and often ends up being a man in a woman's body. One fine day after spotting her college mate in a library, she decides to know more about him. Zaid, an average looking man seems to be carrying world's burden on his shoulders as he sheds tears for the poor. He fights for their rights and sacrifices his needs for their happiness. Zara finds this quality in him extremely attractive and hence slowly gets obsessed with his whereabouts.
~
In order to get close to Zaid, she gets acquainted with his neighbour who turns out to be a writer. Waris is prone to sickness and knows he's running out of time and decides to write one last book before it all ends. Zara pretending to be his fan slowly forms a friendship with Waris which she realises only after he's gone. Before he dies, Waris leaves behind his manuscript and asks her to finish the story for him. Afterall, it's her story. What follows next is Zara's attempts at making Zaid hers and her extreme ideas.
~
This being the debut book by the author, he has done a splendid job in nailing the characters. They are all at their extremes and their description lasts for a page or more. Though the plot is unique, it might not appeal to all the readers because it has the ability of leaving them confused. It's a complex book which stimulates your thoughts and I had trouble sticking to it more often than I can count. As I finished the book, I'm still left with many answers.
~
Rating - 3/5.
April 7, 2019
Such an amazing and a wonderful debut novel. The three main characters (Zara, Zaid, Waris) are so genuine and interesting, with an amazing and original storyline to follow. It's intelligently written and clearly one of the best books in Modern English literature to come out of the sub continent. It deserves all the praise and kudos to the writer Haroon Khalid Akhtar for writing a magnificent story of friendship, passion, human relationships and behaviours. Utterly brilliant!
March 11, 2019
This novel is from the top drawer and certainly one of the best to come out from sub continent in English Language. The purity of story and expression appears to be like a baby just out of the womb and grows in stature as one progresses. A very unique story that unfolds in everyday environs of Karachi and some unusual characters that develop a curious love for them in one's heart. All three main characters of Zara, Zaid and Waris appear to be on a similar journey with a quest that manifests itself in ways as unique as they themselves are. Its a story of sheer passion that beautifully highlights that how certain motives and emotions overpower your behavior. The writer has an effortless knack of breathing life into brick and mortar structures like cantt station and is mesmerizing to say the least. HKA' s masterful handling of the story, the flow and intricacies of human relationships tells me how distressed he would be in his 9 to 5 assignment. Who knows this masterpiece is an outcome of that accumulated disdain. ' Melody of a Tear' is a scintillating addition to a galaxy of literary creations that have universal appeal and provide you with an irrefutable insight into the horizon and range of human behaviors.
February 27, 2019
I completed reading this exceptional first novel so distinctly titled Melody of a Tear a few days earlier .
Compliments on writing a most unusually conceptualised novel .
The three original , intriguing , unpredictable characters you have portrayed as Zara , Zaid and Waris and the haunting place called Sufaid Kothi , as also the
Hindu family that eventually finds shelter below Lily Bridge comprise an absorbing gallery .
They express intense individual human dimensions as well as the complex mosaic of Karachi .
Though one has reservations about the credibility of even a deliberately fictionalised character like Zara and the use of too many hyphenated words that stultify the flow of the narrative , the over-all perception one obtains is that HKA is a writer with deep sensitivity , courage to explore new terrain and one who should write rigorously and regularly .
Far from your apprehensions about my assessment of his work , I am thankful to the writer for so kindly gifting me his book as I have benefitted by discovering a writer with talent and major promise .
Compliments on writing a most unusually conceptualised novel .
The three original , intriguing , unpredictable characters you have portrayed as Zara , Zaid and Waris and the haunting place called Sufaid Kothi , as also the
Hindu family that eventually finds shelter below Lily Bridge comprise an absorbing gallery .
They express intense individual human dimensions as well as the complex mosaic of Karachi .
Though one has reservations about the credibility of even a deliberately fictionalised character like Zara and the use of too many hyphenated words that stultify the flow of the narrative , the over-all perception one obtains is that HKA is a writer with deep sensitivity , courage to explore new terrain and one who should write rigorously and regularly .
Far from your apprehensions about my assessment of his work , I am thankful to the writer for so kindly gifting me his book as I have benefitted by discovering a writer with talent and major promise .
February 27, 2019
This book has a amazing plot and requires rereading. It’s stuns you on more than one occasion. Zara pursuit of Zaid is a remarkable journey that yields a secret bigger than any novel I have read. The concept of chasing a Tear is unique.
March 24, 2019
Akhtar’s debut novel is an ambitious departure from the usual literary fare. Structured in two parts with chapters that define Zara’s journey to self-actualisation, Melody of a Tear is an interesting addition to Pakistani literature in English.
April 14, 2019
Pakistan most prestigious Daily DAWN describes MELODY OF A TEAR as DAZZLING, CAPTIVATING with INTRIGUING STORYLINE, HAVING CHARMING and REFRESHING DESCRIPTIONS. LUCID PROSE.
May 15, 2019
The author himself sent me a copy of this book, and that too, signed! (Lemme boast a lil, plz)
Tbh, Melody Of A Tear didn't turn out to be what I had expected. It surpassed my expectations and took me on several emotional rollercoasters. At one point, I had to scream into my pillow to get the whirlwind of emotions out.
The story revolves around three people: Zara, who is raised as the second son of her father and is expected to squash out her femininity. Waris, a famous novelist, who overtime becomes Zara's mentor and possibly more...? Zaid, the glass prince, whose indifference to Zara's presence only makes him more of a mystery to her.
Her curiosity about the easy stream of tears flowing down Zaid's cheek sends her on a quest to comprehend the depths of his emotions and the source of his deep seated grief.
Would this journey trap Zara in the clutches of love? Would she succeed in winning the heart of someone who has never given her an ounce of his attention?
The writing style of the author is spectacular, deep and beautiful. The characters seem to be brimming with life, such is the power of his words. I also liked the pace of the story. It was neither too fast, nor too slow.
Overall, Melody Of A Tear was a great read for me. Though, it did break my heart really bad at one point.... but, no spoilers! So, just go grab this book. You will love it.
Tbh, Melody Of A Tear didn't turn out to be what I had expected. It surpassed my expectations and took me on several emotional rollercoasters. At one point, I had to scream into my pillow to get the whirlwind of emotions out.
The story revolves around three people: Zara, who is raised as the second son of her father and is expected to squash out her femininity. Waris, a famous novelist, who overtime becomes Zara's mentor and possibly more...? Zaid, the glass prince, whose indifference to Zara's presence only makes him more of a mystery to her.
Her curiosity about the easy stream of tears flowing down Zaid's cheek sends her on a quest to comprehend the depths of his emotions and the source of his deep seated grief.
Would this journey trap Zara in the clutches of love? Would she succeed in winning the heart of someone who has never given her an ounce of his attention?
The writing style of the author is spectacular, deep and beautiful. The characters seem to be brimming with life, such is the power of his words. I also liked the pace of the story. It was neither too fast, nor too slow.
Overall, Melody Of A Tear was a great read for me. Though, it did break my heart really bad at one point.... but, no spoilers! So, just go grab this book. You will love it.
May 11, 2019
...After comprehending a deep lesson, here is my #review
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The #story revolves around three important characters, Zara, Zaid and Waris. Zara leads an #ambivalent life-- full of suicidal thoughts; confused about her gender-- as she is taught to live like a boy. Unable to express her distress she finally decides to end her life but fails, then life takes a surprising turn after she meets Zaid who made her realize her inner instinct and true identity which made her fall for him....
For full review click the link below:
https://www.instagram.com/p/BxUSV9Pnx...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The #story revolves around three important characters, Zara, Zaid and Waris. Zara leads an #ambivalent life-- full of suicidal thoughts; confused about her gender-- as she is taught to live like a boy. Unable to express her distress she finally decides to end her life but fails, then life takes a surprising turn after she meets Zaid who made her realize her inner instinct and true identity which made her fall for him....
For full review click the link below:
https://www.instagram.com/p/BxUSV9Pnx...
February 28, 2019
It is a Brilliant debut. The plot has such twists that will leave you utterly surprised. How can somebody write a book from the grave is the book's biggest secret.
March 3, 2019
The subject is complex but well handled. Characters are well sketched out to go with the story. The plot is original. The end contains choices that can shatter any one.
March 13, 2019
First when I got hold of the book I wanted to see if the novel was dedicated to Sophia because I remember the writer once saying years ago in the only informal meeting at his house that whatever he wrote was proof read by his wife and so no mention of her was a slight disappointment . As I moved on I was again a bit surprised ,how could a man write from a woman’s perspective but then corrected myself on the basis of my own long derived conclusion that for a woman , man is always a better confidant and thus she finds a better friend in him , reason can be any of many like maturity , better exposure , less dependency on emotions and so on. And thus a man can easily know a big chunk of a woman’s behaviour not only through his own findings but also through her own confiding in him.
So after putting these initial prejudices aside I started reading the novel. And yes I confess though I did vaguely remember the face of the writer and read the intro not with much interest but yes photo I repeatedly checked exactly like the protagonist.
By one half of the book, I had already formulated my first hand strict opinion that yes the writer is hundred percent original and yes writing from a woman’s perspective was very easy because the writer seems to be not insensitive to the existence of the other gender rather keeps his eyes more open than usual to even notice trivial injustices.
Over all I find the novel very interesting on number of grounds
1- It is a collection of anecdotes very cleverly weaved into a novel. Very successfully inferences are drawn almost after each narration which also puts the reader to ponder and test.
2- Writer’s work easily depicts his keen and minute observation and every sensitive reader would immediately share writer’s sense of responsibility, his empathy and his boundaries some self made and some made by society.
3- The theme of novel is multifaceted which again transpires to reflect the writer’s mind who wishes to voice his thoughts and tends to rebel against things around that disturb him , torment him but whatever medium he uses other than fiction, he might have faced diversified contradictions.
4- One thing that is common in all main characters is that they all in their own capacities wish to make the wrong , right in some way. Every character is flesh and bone except for Zaid because in my opinion the writer has very consciously portrayed him as
“ The Conscience” which seems vague but turns out to be the powerful one.
Ironically when someone writes , unknowingly he opens up and his flip side becomes evident to some extent. Writer celebrates his childhood by introducing a character who writes mystery and crime. Writer cherishes his fond memories of his Lahore by beautifully painting and worshiping the waters of Ravi and sharing the wonderment of Lawrence Garden. Writer’s sheer sense of belonging to places, random nooks and corners makes the reader smile and connect fondly.
The twist in the second part explains the need of female protagonist and the reader despite all his cleverness is in awe at the intelligence of the writer to entwine the events with his main characters in such a way that each one becomes a narrator.
The best thing about the novel is that you wish to keep reading it till end. And then you feel good. Congratulations !
Little things that tug at heart
-Mention of Sir Syed along with Iqbal and Hali as for me he did the best job for the uplift of the Muslims of subcontinent and in exam I always attempted question on him with all my heart.
-Love Story in Shadman brought an immediate flash back and the taste of its club sandwiches is still fresh in my mind, which my father would order from his bank branch at race course road.
-Book Way is a must memory of every Lahori reader who lived in that vicinity or accompanied mom for shopping at Shadman. For others of same age Book Gallery might carry the same value.
-Six million dollar man , no comments needed.
Only it also reminds of Chips, Knight Rider and Airwolf .
So after putting these initial prejudices aside I started reading the novel. And yes I confess though I did vaguely remember the face of the writer and read the intro not with much interest but yes photo I repeatedly checked exactly like the protagonist.
By one half of the book, I had already formulated my first hand strict opinion that yes the writer is hundred percent original and yes writing from a woman’s perspective was very easy because the writer seems to be not insensitive to the existence of the other gender rather keeps his eyes more open than usual to even notice trivial injustices.
Over all I find the novel very interesting on number of grounds
1- It is a collection of anecdotes very cleverly weaved into a novel. Very successfully inferences are drawn almost after each narration which also puts the reader to ponder and test.
2- Writer’s work easily depicts his keen and minute observation and every sensitive reader would immediately share writer’s sense of responsibility, his empathy and his boundaries some self made and some made by society.
3- The theme of novel is multifaceted which again transpires to reflect the writer’s mind who wishes to voice his thoughts and tends to rebel against things around that disturb him , torment him but whatever medium he uses other than fiction, he might have faced diversified contradictions.
4- One thing that is common in all main characters is that they all in their own capacities wish to make the wrong , right in some way. Every character is flesh and bone except for Zaid because in my opinion the writer has very consciously portrayed him as
“ The Conscience” which seems vague but turns out to be the powerful one.
Ironically when someone writes , unknowingly he opens up and his flip side becomes evident to some extent. Writer celebrates his childhood by introducing a character who writes mystery and crime. Writer cherishes his fond memories of his Lahore by beautifully painting and worshiping the waters of Ravi and sharing the wonderment of Lawrence Garden. Writer’s sheer sense of belonging to places, random nooks and corners makes the reader smile and connect fondly.
The twist in the second part explains the need of female protagonist and the reader despite all his cleverness is in awe at the intelligence of the writer to entwine the events with his main characters in such a way that each one becomes a narrator.
The best thing about the novel is that you wish to keep reading it till end. And then you feel good. Congratulations !
Little things that tug at heart
-Mention of Sir Syed along with Iqbal and Hali as for me he did the best job for the uplift of the Muslims of subcontinent and in exam I always attempted question on him with all my heart.
-Love Story in Shadman brought an immediate flash back and the taste of its club sandwiches is still fresh in my mind, which my father would order from his bank branch at race course road.
-Book Way is a must memory of every Lahori reader who lived in that vicinity or accompanied mom for shopping at Shadman. For others of same age Book Gallery might carry the same value.
-Six million dollar man , no comments needed.
Only it also reminds of Chips, Knight Rider and Airwolf .
June 15, 2019
I was sent this book by the author for an honest review.
I'd like to congratulate the author on such a strong emergence in the writers community with a ground breaking debut.
#melodyofatear is a novel about two very complex personalities. Till the very end you can't place which one's the protagonist as they all have such protagonist-like qualities. The characters are diverse ranging from a children mystery stories writer to a suicide prone, gender confused girl, to a mysterious young man whose tear had such a strong impact on the girl that it resulted in an entire journey of their lives.
The story is filled with dramatic scenes. It's replete with suspense, too, if you take the mysterious young man to be causing suspense. There are elements of magic realism which will make you question what you just read. There is just enough poetry and romance between the lines in form of Ravi's musings. Akhtar will make you crave for more and you'll suffer from a disease called 'just one more page' unless you finish it altogether. He'll break your heart in the most beautiful manner and you will stay in a trance for a few days after the book has ended.
For me the book was everything and MORE. It was something that I needed at the moment. Kudos to the author for writing such a heartfelt piece of awesomeness.
I'd like to congratulate the author on such a strong emergence in the writers community with a ground breaking debut.
#melodyofatear is a novel about two very complex personalities. Till the very end you can't place which one's the protagonist as they all have such protagonist-like qualities. The characters are diverse ranging from a children mystery stories writer to a suicide prone, gender confused girl, to a mysterious young man whose tear had such a strong impact on the girl that it resulted in an entire journey of their lives.
The story is filled with dramatic scenes. It's replete with suspense, too, if you take the mysterious young man to be causing suspense. There are elements of magic realism which will make you question what you just read. There is just enough poetry and romance between the lines in form of Ravi's musings. Akhtar will make you crave for more and you'll suffer from a disease called 'just one more page' unless you finish it altogether. He'll break your heart in the most beautiful manner and you will stay in a trance for a few days after the book has ended.
For me the book was everything and MORE. It was something that I needed at the moment. Kudos to the author for writing such a heartfelt piece of awesomeness.
February 16, 2019
This is no doubt the story of the century. Strong characters and how fiction becomes reality and vice versa makes this novel like no other. The story is multilayered and requires careful reading. Zara’s quest to acquire something she does not possess - tears- is sensitively portrayed. By the time the reader starts reading Part II, he is stunned by the mother of all twists. The feeling through out the book is being under a magical spell and yet there is only the mastery of Waris, who to me is the real Hero, who weaves the whole tale while just being a character. Big directors at Hollywood and Bollywood must take note as this original story has plenty of potential to bring an Oscar.
March 14, 2019
The complex tale of Zara. Her inability to identify her gender combined with her thoughts about suicide make for one riveting story. Without revealing much, the author has pulled off this story wonderfully. It will take you on a journey, seen through Zara's eyes, as she discovers herself. Some parts of the story are worth reading twice. If anyone is looking for a thought-provoking read, this is it.
June 12, 2019
What a great debut ..
I love this book so much.. such a different themed book yet so relatable. Isnt it a contradicting statement.
With a strong female lead, original unique storyline, memorable characters, sweet bitter, heart melting emotions and smooth flowery narration, it has all the element of a great read.
Highly recommended for fiction lovers, you are in for a treat.
And just look at the cover, so pretty!!!
ZWZ will live in my heart forever.
I love this book so much.. such a different themed book yet so relatable. Isnt it a contradicting statement.
With a strong female lead, original unique storyline, memorable characters, sweet bitter, heart melting emotions and smooth flowery narration, it has all the element of a great read.
Highly recommended for fiction lovers, you are in for a treat.
And just look at the cover, so pretty!!!
ZWZ will live in my heart forever.
March 1, 2019
Excellent read, best romance after Wuthering Heights. It deals with a subconscious mind and what we could have been and are not. And how this aspect plays out in love. Waris must be a top character of modern english literature. Well done to the writer.
Read
March 22, 2019Brilliant book, brilliant debut.
March 24, 2019
"When one tries playing God, the peril lies in success". Beautiful story and remarkable imagination!!! A must read.
August 6, 2019
Honest rating: 3.5 stars.
June 3, 2019
Melody of a Tear by Haroon Khalid Akhtar is definitely a unique book from a Pakistani author & I am super glad to say that it didn’t disappoint. I actually needed time to process this book before posting the review.
The inclusion of magical realism was on point, the story was intriguing, the writing style was eloquent & lyrical, the characters were well-built & it felt like a breath of fresh air for our local literature.
An interwoven tale of three characters Waris, a compassionate writer who wrote for children (Inspector Rab Nawaz series), wanted to educate them, love the village life & who had a special fascination/ association with the Ravi; Zara, who was raised as a son, is confused about her identity, on the verge of taking her own life & for whom the tears, especially the public display of them was something way too curious, and; Zaid, who was the kindest soul with a quiet/ mysterious demeanor, had many secrets lurking in his past & was like a grief-sucking engine in the world.
Each one of them has a complicated story to tell & when their paths meet, an unusual friendship is born. There is adventure, confusion, curiosity, love, sacrifice, ambiguity & struggle in their lives.
I enjoyed reading about them, was anxious about their fate, the various twists & turns hit you right when you are least expecting them, even the ending was just like that. It was like those events that come out of nowhere but were all too real to happen as well.
The side story of Sheila, a Hindu woman living in the Sufaid Kothi (super important) with her four boys is just as significant. The way this novel catered with poverty was worth-reading & it touches all the right nerves. It was so sad to think that all of this happens with so many people. It makes you feel too privileged.
There is wisdom, idealism, passion & a need of closure for all three of them. The description of Cantt Station, Karachi was nostalgic & perfect. Zara’s quest to find the mystery behind the tears, Zaid’s compassion, Waris’s guidance & attachment along with the tragic story of Arus & the energy/ loyalty of Gupta; everything is interesting & thought-provoking.
The inclusion of magical realism was on point, the story was intriguing, the writing style was eloquent & lyrical, the characters were well-built & it felt like a breath of fresh air for our local literature.
An interwoven tale of three characters Waris, a compassionate writer who wrote for children (Inspector Rab Nawaz series), wanted to educate them, love the village life & who had a special fascination/ association with the Ravi; Zara, who was raised as a son, is confused about her identity, on the verge of taking her own life & for whom the tears, especially the public display of them was something way too curious, and; Zaid, who was the kindest soul with a quiet/ mysterious demeanor, had many secrets lurking in his past & was like a grief-sucking engine in the world.
Each one of them has a complicated story to tell & when their paths meet, an unusual friendship is born. There is adventure, confusion, curiosity, love, sacrifice, ambiguity & struggle in their lives.
I enjoyed reading about them, was anxious about their fate, the various twists & turns hit you right when you are least expecting them, even the ending was just like that. It was like those events that come out of nowhere but were all too real to happen as well.
The side story of Sheila, a Hindu woman living in the Sufaid Kothi (super important) with her four boys is just as significant. The way this novel catered with poverty was worth-reading & it touches all the right nerves. It was so sad to think that all of this happens with so many people. It makes you feel too privileged.
There is wisdom, idealism, passion & a need of closure for all three of them. The description of Cantt Station, Karachi was nostalgic & perfect. Zara’s quest to find the mystery behind the tears, Zaid’s compassion, Waris’s guidance & attachment along with the tragic story of Arus & the energy/ loyalty of Gupta; everything is interesting & thought-provoking.
June 26, 2020
Melody of a Tear by Haroon Khalid Akhtar is a classic. His simple narrating style makes it easy to read the novel. The engaging description is full of unique imagery and symbols.
I am so happy to read such an interesting story from Pakistani writer. It’s not another story full of all the negative aspects regarding Pakistan.
The story is about Zara, a young woman of thirty, who falls for a tear. Her obsession with the tear, streaming down on the face of Zaid, takes her to a journey where she finds amazing friendship, long lasting relations, and a chance to go on a “pilgrimage” where she discovers her long forgotten true identity as a woman.
The story of Waris takes you to your childhood obsession of reading detective stories. His story of absorbing wisdom from Ravi reminds you of Siddhratha. His kind heart and his romanticism with the revolutionary ideas regarding imparting knowledge and education to the children of remote areas restores your faith in humanity.
Zaid, the tear bearer and shedder, is a face of humanity that we so desperately need in our society. Your heart is bound to feel the sadness that he bears on behalf of every aching soul.
And the tragedy of both Zaid and Waris fills your heart with the melodies of tear.
The imagination of all the characters takes you to the realm of magical realism with so ease that you stay awe struck in the moments.
Prologue of the novel is another exceptional element of this novel. It is very well written. And the opening scene aptly represents and introduces the personality and character of Zara. Haroon’s wit and humours style of narration amuses you at times you most certainly need to enjoy. His one liners provide comic relief and enhances the beauty of the story.
My reader heart is feeling so fulfilled after reading this amazing novel. There are very few stories that really make your heart feel so content and this is surely one of them.
I am so happy to read such an interesting story from Pakistani writer. It’s not another story full of all the negative aspects regarding Pakistan.
The story is about Zara, a young woman of thirty, who falls for a tear. Her obsession with the tear, streaming down on the face of Zaid, takes her to a journey where she finds amazing friendship, long lasting relations, and a chance to go on a “pilgrimage” where she discovers her long forgotten true identity as a woman.
The story of Waris takes you to your childhood obsession of reading detective stories. His story of absorbing wisdom from Ravi reminds you of Siddhratha. His kind heart and his romanticism with the revolutionary ideas regarding imparting knowledge and education to the children of remote areas restores your faith in humanity.
Zaid, the tear bearer and shedder, is a face of humanity that we so desperately need in our society. Your heart is bound to feel the sadness that he bears on behalf of every aching soul.
And the tragedy of both Zaid and Waris fills your heart with the melodies of tear.
The imagination of all the characters takes you to the realm of magical realism with so ease that you stay awe struck in the moments.
Prologue of the novel is another exceptional element of this novel. It is very well written. And the opening scene aptly represents and introduces the personality and character of Zara. Haroon’s wit and humours style of narration amuses you at times you most certainly need to enjoy. His one liners provide comic relief and enhances the beauty of the story.
My reader heart is feeling so fulfilled after reading this amazing novel. There are very few stories that really make your heart feel so content and this is surely one of them.
March 12, 2019
The novel "Melody of a tear" introduces you to an extraordinary sensitive writer who feels and accumulates the woes, tragedies, sufferings and pain of mankind.
During his journey through life he never seems to forget the characters he met, places he lived or passed through nor does he forget the incidents he had witnessed or came to know of through some source. In fact he so fondly carries them in his ZAMBEEL (perhaps borrowed from Umro Ayyar) and keeps bringing them out to fill in the voids of jigsaw puzzle of life which on completion reveal the callous and indifferent attitude of Nature.
The writer's brilliant imagination reconstructs and paints the real characters in extended yet melancholic shades.
The lead character Zara, in pursuit of a tear from an old college mate's eye
enters into a gloomy world which is quite opposite to Alice's wonderland... probably because this one is based on truth and does not attribute to a fairytale.
Amidst the pessimistically maintained gloom hovering all along, the romance with a tear prominently decorates the weeping skies and establishes a note of passion and love.
The prose in excellent English creates a melody of its own and simultaneously delivers a uniform symphony into the ears of the reader.
Each sentence is beautifully constructed to the extent that it invites praise in many paragraphs.
Since most characters in the story are real although extended and blended with other characters in the society so one is compelled to wonder as to who are the actual characters the writer has so emotionally derived Zara and Zaid from... are they not the writer and his spouse themselves??
During his journey through life he never seems to forget the characters he met, places he lived or passed through nor does he forget the incidents he had witnessed or came to know of through some source. In fact he so fondly carries them in his ZAMBEEL (perhaps borrowed from Umro Ayyar) and keeps bringing them out to fill in the voids of jigsaw puzzle of life which on completion reveal the callous and indifferent attitude of Nature.
The writer's brilliant imagination reconstructs and paints the real characters in extended yet melancholic shades.
The lead character Zara, in pursuit of a tear from an old college mate's eye
enters into a gloomy world which is quite opposite to Alice's wonderland... probably because this one is based on truth and does not attribute to a fairytale.
Amidst the pessimistically maintained gloom hovering all along, the romance with a tear prominently decorates the weeping skies and establishes a note of passion and love.
The prose in excellent English creates a melody of its own and simultaneously delivers a uniform symphony into the ears of the reader.
Each sentence is beautifully constructed to the extent that it invites praise in many paragraphs.
Since most characters in the story are real although extended and blended with other characters in the society so one is compelled to wonder as to who are the actual characters the writer has so emotionally derived Zara and Zaid from... are they not the writer and his spouse themselves??
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews