The Illicit Happiness of Other People is a critically acclaimed novel by Indian author Manu Joseph. This book is a compelling exploration of grief, mental illness, and the elusive nature of happiness. In this post, we'll dive into the key themes and plot points of the book.
Plot Summary
The novel follows the Mishra family, who are reeling from the disappearance of their eldest son, Unni. Ousep, Unni's father, is consumed by grief and becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth behind his son's disappearance. Meanwhile, Ousep's wife, Mariamma, struggles to cope with the loss of her son and the strain on her marriage. As the family begins to unravel, they must confront uncomfortable truths about themselves and their relationships with each other.
Themes
The Illicit Happiness of Other People is a rich exploration of several key themes. One of the most prominent is mental illness, specifically depression and suicide. Unni, the missing son, is portrayed as an enigmatic figure who may have been struggling with depression. His disappearance is a catalyst for his family's emotional breakdown, and the novel offers a poignant commentary on the challenges of living with mental illness.
Another important theme is the nature of happiness. The novel's title refers to the idea that happiness can be elusive and difficult to define. The characters in the book are all searching for happiness in their own way, but often find themselves feeling unfulfilled or disappointed. The novel raises thought-provoking questions about what it means to be happy and whether it's possible to truly achieve happiness.
Writing Style
Manu Joseph's writing style is distinctive and engaging. He has a talent for creating complex, flawed characters that readers can empathize with. The novel is also peppered with moments of humor and irony, which help to lighten the overall tone of the book.
The Illicit Happiness of Other People is a powerful, thought-provoking novel that explores important themes of mental illness and the nature of happiness. Manu Joseph's writing is skillful and engaging, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in contemporary literature.
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