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Critique of Books: Exploring Fabrications on Colonialism, Climate Change, and Other Wild Themes

A comparison from Hindustani classical music could be made to literary careers, suggesting they usually follow a pattern reminiscent of a maestro preparing for a significant performance.

Review of a Book: Exploring Colonialism, Climate, and Other Far-Fetched Tales
Review of a Book: Exploring Colonialism, Climate, and Other Far-Fetched Tales

Critique of Books: Exploring Fabrications on Colonialism, Climate Change, and Other Wild Themes

Amitav Ghosh, the acclaimed author known for his work in the Ibis trilogy and non-fiction books that focus on colonialism and climate change, has released his latest work, "Wild Fictions: Essays". Published by Fourth Estate India, this 496-page book is not a novel, but a collection of essays, correspondences, and archival research.

"Wild Fictions" is structured like a series of shorter bandishes, similar to a maestro's performance in Hindustani classical music. The book examines the interconnections across nature and the sociopolitical present and "the myth-making of modernity".

One of the standout features of the book is an eloquent essay on climate change and migration, acting as a companion piece to Ghosh's previous work. This essay delves into the complexities of our changing environment and its impact on human migration patterns.

The book has been described as a testament to Ghosh's great intellectual worth, or, as Ghosh himself puts it, "an alibi for a life". His writing in the book is said to convey a sense of a writer deeply in tune with the churning forces that have brought us to this sorry pass.

However, some critics have noted that the book might be an uneven compilation, with some essays repeating each other and others oscillating across ideas with decades in between. Despite this, the book continues Ghosh's exploration of themes such as colonialism and climate change, making it a must-read for fans of his work.

"Wild Fictions: Essays" is priced at Rs 799 and is available at all major bookstores and online retailers. For those who appreciate Ghosh's amiable and erudite interlocutor style, this book promises to be a thought-provoking and engaging read.

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