Description: A moving novel of the last days of British imperial rule in India
In this swiftly paced and lyrical novel about British expatriates at the time of Indian independence, Paul Scott grapples with the themes of race, possession, and history that dominate all four novels of his masterpiece, The Raj Quartet, especially The Jewel in the Crown. As always, Scott fills his book with vivid characters: the seductive, bigoted war widow; the sophisticated, wily Hindu politician; and the athletic young American who only gradually begins to understand the legacy of pain and hatred veiling the woman he has come to rescue. Set against the backdrop of a nation in violent transition-a climate of exhilaration and shifting loyalties-Six Days in Marapore unfolds amidst the possibility of reconciliation, freedom, and healing.Brief description: Paul Scott (1920-78) was a British novelist best known for the tetralogy"The Raj Quartet, " published by the University of Chicago Press.Scott was drafted into the British Army during World War II and was stationed in India, an experience which shaped much of his literary work. The University of Chicago Press has also published his novels "The Birds of Paradise", "The Chinese Love Pavilion", "Six Days in Marapore" and"Staying On", the latter of whichwon the Booker Prize for 1977.
Review Quotes: "An extremely able and delicate piece of sustained writing. And anyone who has the courage to tackle the theme is deserving of every encouragement and praise."--John Metcalfe, Spectator--John Metcalfe "Spectator" (9/25/1953 12:00:00 AM)