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5/8/20243 min read
Daily thoughts
Books
Arundhati Roy - Mother Mary Comes To Me
Arundhati Roy's autobiographical book "Mother Mary Comes to Me" is a poignant exploration of the complexities of maternal love, faith, and the intersection of personal and political spheres. As a renowned writer and activist, Roy employs her distinctive narrative style, blending lyrical prose with a critical lens on contemporary socio-political issues, which invites readers to engage deeply with her thoughts, question the societal norms.
In the book, Roy reflects on her relationship with her mother and how it has shaped her perception of identity, love, and resilience. The imagery of Mother Mary serves as a powerful motif throughout the piece, symbolizing both divine intervention and the nurturing aspects of femininity that exist in our world. Both at the beat of times and at its worst.
Roy’s illustrates how maternal figures can embody both strength and vulnerability.
One of the standout elements of this book is Roy's ability to weave personal anecdotes with broader social critiques. For example, when she describes her time of near homelessness. Mother Mary leaves her marital home and they had nowhere to go. Roy's grandmother owned a house in Ooty where Mary with her children started living. That was not the end - it could have been happily ever after episode but no, Mary was the daughter of the house and the Syrian Christian family law dictated that the house must go to the son,. So the grandmother arrives along with her son, Mary's brother in tow, to throw them out. It did not matter that the daughter of the house had nowhere to live, it was more important for the son of the house to inherit the property!!! One wonders, truely the norms of the society!! It was based on the long held view it seems that no matter what, women must give in. Through these little stories, Roy very well highlights the universal aspects of motherhood while contextualizing them within specific sociopolitical frameworks which invariably leaves physical and emotional scars.
Roy’s prose is simple and her use of vivid imagery captivates the reader. It does not matter which culture or continent, her feelings are universal human feeling that the reader truly relates to. Her descriptions paint such a powerful picture of her mother’s resilience, drawing parallels with the struggles and sacrifices many women endure within patriarchal societies. All the issues they faced and relationships that shaped the family is A scathing attack on patriarchy which is still so common at least in Indian societies.
The essay also prompts readers to question traditional narratives around motherhood and womanhood. Roy contemplates the societal expectations placed upon women, particularly mothers, and how these roles have evolved over time. By sharing her own story and those of other women, Roy critiques the idealization of motherhood, acknowledging the complexities that accompany it.
Additionally, Roy does not shy away from addressing contemporary issues, such as caste and class disparities, which impact women’s lives in India. This critical lens adds depth to her observations, demonstrating her commitment not just to artistic expression but to advocating for justice and equality.
Having grown up around the same era qand studying in DU, her little stories about male behaviour is spot on. when travelling in local transport she says "wowomenm are treated as snacks. Men helps themselves as required. " Anyone who has ever travelled by Delhi buses will relate to this abnoxious behaviour of men folfolk day in and day out. Women silently just endure.
"Mother Mary Comes to Me" ultimately encapsulates a blend of intimacy and urgency. Roy’s personal insights resonate on multiple levels, allowing her to connect deeply with readers from varying backgrounds. Her reflections serve as a reminder of the myriad ways motherhood can be both a source of strength and a site of struggle.
In conclusion, Arundhati Roy's "Mother Mary Comes to Me" is not just an exploration of maternal love but a profound meditation on the experience of women in a rapidly changing world. Through her masterful storytelling, Roy encourages readers to reevaluate their perceptions of motherhood while simultaneously urging for greater empathy and understanding in a world rife with injustice. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the overlaps of personal narrative and societal critique, showcasing Roy's ability to bring art and activism together in a meaningful way.
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