The God of Small Things

About the Author

Arundhati Roy is an Indian author, activist, and thinker. She was born on November 24, 1961, in Shillong, India. Her debut novel, The God of Small Things, brought her international fame and won the Booker Prize in 1997. Along with being a writer, she is known for speaking out about political and social issues. Some of her other famous works include The Ministry of Utmost Happiness and several essays on global and Indian problems.

About the Story

The God of Small Things is a deeply moving novel that delves into themes of love, family, and the rigid constraints of society. Set in the town of Ayemenem, Kerala, the story revolves around Estha and Rahel, twin siblings whose childhood in the 1960s and adulthood in the 1990s are intricately connected by past events that continue to shape their lives.

At its heart, the novel explores the complexities of love—both its purity and its defiance of societal norms. Through the experiences of the characters, it sheds light on the harsh realities of the caste system in India and the lasting impact of social expectations. The narrative unfolds with lyrical prose, emphasizing how even the smallest moments and decisions can have profound consequences.

Key Aspects of the Story

• Ammu, the twins’ mother, falls in love with Velutha, an "Untouchable" man, challenging the rigid caste boundaries. Their love, deemed unacceptable by society, sets off a chain of tragic events.
• The deep bond between Estha and Rahel is shaped by their mother’s struggles and the consequences of her love for Velutha.
• Baby Kochamma, a family elder, embodies resentment and manipulation, showing how jealousy can lead to cruelty.
• The novel also highlights the oppression faced by women, particularly Ammu, who suffers for daring to defy traditional gender roles.

Themes Explored

• Caste and Social Discrimination – The story critiques the deep-rooted caste system and its devastating impact on individuals.
• Love and Loss – Ammu and Velutha’s relationship exemplifies love’s resistance against societal norms, but also its tragic consequences.
• Childhood and Trauma – The narrative illustrates how childhood experiences shape identities, as seen in the emotional scars Estha and Rahel carry.
• Women’s Oppression – Through Ammu’s journey, the novel exposes the struggles of women who seek independence in a patriarchal society.
• The Significance of Small Things – The book beautifully captures how minor moments, emotions, and memories can leave a lasting imprint on life.

Symbolism in the Novel

• The River – A symbol of both freedom and danger, representing the flow of time and fate.
• The Moth – Reflects fragility and impending destruction, particularly in Ammu’s life.
• Paradise Pickles & Preserves – The family’s business serves as a metaphor for their ambitions and eventual downfall.

Final Thoughts

The God of Small Things is an evocative tale that questions societal norms, examines the cost of forbidden love, and highlights the injustices faced by marginalized individuals. It masterfully captures the interplay of personal emotions and larger social forces, leaving a lasting impact on readers. Through its unforgettable characters and poetic storytelling, the novel remains a timeless reflection on human relationships and the power of seemingly insignificant moments in shaping our lives.