To simply say what The White Tiger is, I want you to read the below excerpt from the novel:
‘One day a cunning Brahmin, trying to trick the Buddha, asked him, “Master, do you consider yourself man or a god?”. The Buddha smiled and said, “Neither. I am just one who has woken up while the rest of you are still sleeping.”
‘I’ll give you the same answer to your question, Mr Jiabao. You ask, “Are you a man or a demon?” Neither, I say. I have woken up while the rest of you are still sleeping.’
These are the lines Balram Halwai says towards the end of the story. And by the time it ends, you have no sympathy, no empathy, no anger, and no hatred towards the murderer or the victim. All you have is a big question. What is morality?
Since I began reading stories, I have come across some of the most exquisite pieces of literature, and I consider myself fortunate for this. From Dostoyevsky’s ‘The Idiot’ and Mario Puzo’s ‘The Godfather’ to Sir Arthur’s ‘Sherlock Holmes’ and Orwell’s ‘1984’ – they are all gems.
Aravind Adiga’s debut novel is right up there with the greats! That’s what I feel. It may sound too much, but that’s what I truly feel. See, for me, there are a few elements that make a good story. The White Tiger has it all – connects with readers, easy to read, the depiction of prevailing issues, a lasting impression. Nothing in the past couple of years has been as interesting to read as The Whiter Tiger by Aravind Adiga.
Read the complete blog on the Bombay Reads website.
(https://www.bombayreads.com/the-white-tiger-by-aravind-adiga/)
I enjoyed both of these books and was wondering if you know of any other similar novels. I enjoy reading about complex/immoral characters and also learning about different cultures.
Your suggestions don't have to set in India.
Thanks :)
