Namit Deb > Recent Status Updates

Off to a strong first start which discusses existing literature on human societies and particularly its inaccurate assessment of the innateness of certain features of it. Liked the diss towards Jared Diamond. It corroborated a lot of Chomsky’s arguments in “On Anarchism” too, highlighting the lack of historical rigour in talking of anarchic societies.

Here Roy covers the policies such as the Religious Ordinance act used to further villainise religious minorities, drawing attention to the ironies inherent in Indian society. Quite enjoyed this chapter.

Here Roy examines the Covid crisis in India, specifically its horrifying effects on the poor and migrant populations. It’s one of the most catastrophic tales of the decade, I’m seething just thinking about it.

This was a smaller chapter, mainly functioning as a call to action. Nothing too new was presented here making it feel a bit redundant

Here we have a somber reflection on caste and religion in India, which eventually transitions into excerpts from Roy’s own books. I will admit I did get lost a bit in the second half though.

Here Roy takes the case studies of Assam and Kashmir to paint a pretty grave picture of India. To me, this is a strong critique of the concept of nationhood itself, with such abuses of power carried out similarly elsewhere in the world

This chapter was pretty rough, I don’t think there’s any way to describe India’s actions in 2019 Kashmir as anything beyond pure evil.

This chapter reflects on Roy’s literary experience and her work in both fiction and non-fiction. As a reader I think this enforces the power literature can hold, which I really did appreciate. My reading list is growing way too fast though lol

Here we see a scathing critique of Modi’s policy in Kashmir. I think Roy’s skill as an author really comes out with her ability to switch tones.

This chapter is a very grim report on pre-election state suppression. Finally it’s very different from its predecessor, the language is direct and grave. I can’t help but feel anger looking at it all, but not particularly surprised.

I’ll try to tackle this chapter at a time since it’s structured as a collection of essays.

I’m very partial towards texts which explore the history and politics of language, and South Asia has no shortage of such topics to explore. Roy does a really fascinating recounting of the Hindi-Urdu split and links it to the rising wave of Hindu nationalism, something which is incredibly relevant today. Really enjoying.