The Dark Room

In this poignant tale, R K Narayan again takes us back to Mysore and into the enchanting world of his fictitious town, Malgudi, where we are introduced to Savitri and Ramani. As in many of Narayan's novels, conservatism and reform are contrasted with the quiet irony and subtle humour which have become so characteristic of this author. Savitri is made to feel how completely dependent she is upon her husband, Ramani, when pressure is brought to bear upon their long-standing marriage. Ramani strongly recommends that the Engladia Insurance Company employ the rather elegant and fiercely independent Mrs. Shanta Bai, recently separated. Events reach a climax when Savitri's favourite piece of furniture, a bench, is borrowed by Ramani to furnish the room he has hurriedly assembled for Shanta Bai in the office. Savitri retreats into herself and lies quite still in the one private place she has of her own, the dark room. After further betrayal, Savitri gathers up the very few belongings she has and walks out of the house, leaving her children staring dumbfoundedly after her. Savitri attempts to drown herself, but is rescued. For a short time she struggles to be self-sufficient, but realizes quite soon that she must return although a part of her has died. Narayan's sympathetic treatment of his characters makes this a most fulfilling and touching book to read.