Often, I came across Haruki Murakami on many an author's must read list. This is how the Blind Willow, Sleeping Woman came to adorn my book shelf.
The book, a collection of short stories, all of which are set in Japan, is a treat for lovers of surrealism.
Most of Murakami's heroes are every day Joes who experience uncommon situations. Each plot is as implausible as it gets and every character has queer mannerisms. However, common themes of loss, loneliness, deceit and fear are woven beautifully into all stories.
So good is Murakami with his art that by the end of each chapter you will have met with fear and loneliness, in person.
What also makes the book an absolute page turner, is Murakami's lucid story telling. Even though most stories deal with dark themes and depressing milieu, there is always a tinge of thrill to the climax. Also, with time, you will realise that Murakami gives much space to his characters. There is no hurry to unveil their circumstances or idiosyncrasies. As a reader, you will have to be patient and let the stories unfold at their own pace.
Having been so kind to the book, I must add that reading Murakami can be difficult for his first time readers. Unless, they are open to lack of closure.
If you can handle unpredictability, Blind Willow, Sleeping Woman will definitely win your approval.
It's a little late in the day to be sharing this
However, Mahima writes beautifully and I couldn't agree more on the subject.
*****
A lot has been said about Facebook and how it may have revolutionised how we view ourselves and the world.
My opinion : Whatever.
Quite a hilarious read this one!
It's for tidbits like this, that history has been a favourite.
Link via Prasad
This was a delightful read.
I know that AIR has in-house librarians, but how valued they are, is anybody's guess. I mean, do you know of any college professors and/or historians who thank the AIR for making their subjects easier and interesting?
On the other hand, a lot of friends who are studying in the US or have been staying there for many years now, are always full of praise for the value NPR brings to the table.
From what I know about private radio stations (through a colleague who is now an RJ), librarians are not a cherished resource. Infact, some companies don't have any knowledge house. Most of the conversation is crowd sourced and repetitive.
No wonder then, about the quality of our programs and RJs.
*****
The online presence of most of our radio stations is akin to Page 3 coverage. About AIR, they deserve every bit of praise for killing creativity.
Do browse through NPR's website. Though they belong to a different zone, there is some very good conversation happening there.
This is a deplorable situation.
While I don't have any suggestions to work out the problem, one only wishes the elderly are treated with more honour.
Link via Arvind.
2010 has been quite eventful so far.
Before leaving for the Vipassana trip (earlier this year), I had promised myself that the day I got back to Mumbai - I would bring an end to my career in investment banking.
My job had presented me with many opportunities and accolades. However, I just didn't think it was anywhere close to a 'calling' for me.
Ofcourse, this crazy plan was well guarded from most people. Not everyone takes a deviation from routine as normal.
So, for the first time in 4 years after graduation, I had truckloads of time on hand.
I slept, read, watched movies and cooked.
I visited my school and went out with old friends.
I shortlisted nine sectors worth doing business in, made business plans and sought feedback from experts.
Yet, most of the time, seemingly engaged in interesting activities, my mind worked overtime.
I had NO idea where I was headed.
It was extremely difficult not to have any answers. For someone who prided herself on always knowing what she wanted from life and working towards achieving it, these months of uncertainty were quite daunting.
Thankfully, the year has progressed well and my experience of 'doing nothing' has been quite revealing and worthwhile.
Though some questions still irk me, most concerns have been ironed out.
Having spoken about the year, I now want to specify why I write this post.
I don't think I could have fared as well as I did, had it not been for my friends.
Ofcourse, my family was the most supportive. But then, they are blood relations and will have to wait for a vote of thanks.
Today, is just for friends.
People who have stood by me, supported me, corrected me, humored me, mentored me and just plain, heard me out.
People who showed me kindness and faith.
Most important, people who made me feel good about myself.
Once a friend told me that my future didn't bother him much. 'You are a Sindhi after all! Your innate resourcefulness will see you through!'
Ofcourse, that didn't solve my problems. Still, coming from a friend, it was the most comforting balm! (And, yeah, he earned brownie points for the Sindhi's ego massage ;-) )
The point I am trying to make is - Old friends are valuable and good for your health. Like wine, they get better with each passing year.
Often, people don't value their friendships. Different colleges, separate career pathways, boy/girlfriends, marriage, children are quoted as reasons of 'letting go'.
Agreed not all friendships are worth the hassle. Still, the few that are, must be treasured.
So, on this Diwali, while I thank God for my wonderful set of friends, I hope you reach out to people who have made your life worthwhile.
Here's wishing you and your loved ones a Sparkling Diwali and a fun filled new year!
