Book Title: Under the Night Jasmine
Author: Manav Kaul
Translator: Vaibhav Sharma
Publisher: Ebury Pr
Number of Pages: 230
ISBN: 978-0143465560
Date Published: Feb. 29, 2024
Price: INR 251
Book Review
“Under the Night Jasmine”, by author Manav Kaul and translated from Hindi into English by Vaibhav Sharma weaves a complex tapestry of self-doubt, lost love, and memories that resonate through the shadows of magical realism. This novel challenges readers to fully engage with every word, savoring the language like a gourmet meal. It poses a profound question: “Can you solve the problems of your life in your own stories? Writing is like an apology to those who we know will never forgive us.” This thought-provoking line encapsulates the essence of the narrative, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences.
Set against the backdrop of the COVID lockdown, we follow Rohit, a script consultant and poet whose life has come to a standstill. Confined to his home, he grapples with his mental health, haunted by memories and the weight of time. The isolation forces him to confront his past, including his childhood loss of home in Kashmir, which casts a long shadow over his present. The narrative unfolds with an introspective depth that captures the turmoil of a mind caught between reality and imagination.
Rohit’s interactions with a few key characters, like the persistent Pawan and the enigmatic Antima—who shares a complicated history with him—add layers to his internal struggle. Kaul expertly explores the nature of memory and identity, revealing how trauma can distort reality. Vaibhav Sharma’s translation deserves special mention. The prose flows seamlessly, making it difficult to discern that it’s a translated work.
Wrapped in elements of magical realism, the story comes alive in unexpected ways. Moments like Rohit spotting a deer in unlikely places provide a whimsical touch, blending fantasy with the starkness of his reality. The tension between Rohit’s desire to connect and his instinct to retreat showcases the challenges of introversion and the complexities of human relationships during uncertain times.
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Author Manav Kaul’s vivid descriptions, such as equating kisses with picking petals, elevate the romance to a dreamlike quality. The poetry interspersed throughout the novel deepens the emotional landscape, allowing readers to experience Rohit’s journey as both a poet and a person navigating his tumultuous thoughts. With its rich themes of love, trauma, and the search for identity, “Under the Night Jasmine” is a captivating read that invites reflection and connection, making it a must-read for anyone seeking depth and beauty in literature.
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