Navigating Shadows: Unraveling the Fluidity of Reality and Borders in Amitav Ghosh's "The Shadow Lines" (1988)

Neelam Thapa

Abstract: This research paper explores Amitav Ghosh's novel, "The Shadow Lines," to dissect the intricate interplay between personal and political histories, shedding light on often overlooked peripheral aspects. Set against the backdrop of the 1964 riots and political turmoil in India, the narrative delves into the real - world experiences of individuals grappling with the tumultuous waves of history. Ghosh's portrayal of the vulnerability of human understanding in the face of Partition highlights the profound impact of historical and political forces on personal connections. The paper examines how the novel challenges western notions of nationalism, presenting a nuanced exploration of historical truths and the complex interplay between personal and political narratives.

Keywords: Amitav Ghosh, The Shadow Lines, nationalism, borders, historical narratives, fluidity of reality, personal identity

How to Cite?: Neelam Thapa, "Navigating Shadows: Unraveling the Fluidity of Reality and Borders in Amitav Ghosh's "The Shadow Lines" (1988)", Volume 12 Issue 11, November 2023, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1862-1865, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR231126140140, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR231126140140