Megha Majumdar’s debut book “A Burning” stunned the literary community, being recognized as one of the most popular reads of the summer. It stands out for its political themes, unconventional writing style, and compelling narrative that captivates readers in a single sitting. What makes “A Burning” truly remarkable is its reflection of a young girl’s story in Kolkata, India, shedding light on the current political climate in the United States.
The story follows three characters in the aftermath of a terrorist attack in a Kolkata slum. Jivan, wrongly accused of aiding the terrorists due to her anti-government social media posts, navigates the consequences of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Alongside Jivan, we see the perspectives of her former gym teacher, PT Sir, and Lovely, an aspiring actress who is also a hijra. These characters grapple with Jivan’s arrest, facing the challenges of national politics and the impact of social media frenzy post-attack.
Majumdar skillfully crafts distinct voices for each character, notably exemplified in Lovely’s sections. Lovely’s optimism and dream of stardom are reflected in her present progressive narrative style, infusing her chapters with a sense of hope amidst adversity. However, the overarching tone of the novel takes a darker turn as Jivan’s predicament worsens, revealing the harsh realities of governmental scapegoating and societal pressures.
The novel delves into the complex dynamics of marginalized groups pitted against each other for personal gain. PT Sir compromises his ethics for financial security, while Lovely chooses self-preservation over solidarity with Jivan to further her acting career. Jivan, a victim of political manipulation and misinformation, symbolizes the injustices faced by the powerless in the face of corrupt systems.
Drawing parallels between India and the United States, the book resonates with contemporary social and political upheavals, especially amid movements like Black Lives Matter. It underscores the impact of state violence and media influence on public perception and political narratives, mirroring real-world events with unsettling accuracy.
While the novel effectively portrays systemic corruption and oppression, some critics find its singular focus on exposing societal flaws repetitive. The narrative’s relentless portrayal of injustice leaves little room for optimism or resolution. The characters’ trajectories depict a harsh reality where personal ambitions triumph over justice, culminating in a tragic fate for Jivan while PT Sir and Lovely attain personal success.
“A Burning” compellingly raises important issues but offers bleak reflections on societal shortcomings without presenting definitive solutions or hope for change.
