VICTIMHOOD OF DISPLACEMENT: EXPLORING THE PARALLELISM BETWEEN THE COVID-19 VICTIMS AND VIKRAM SETH’S CHARACTER

Abstract

In Vikram Seth's novel, A Suitable Boy, the themes of post-modernism, post-colonialism, and migration are intricately interwoven with the personal memories of the characters. This article delves into how Seth has masterfully incorporated these aspects into his work. A Suitable Boy explores themes of religious intolerance, love, marriage, and arranged marriage against the backdrop of post-British rule India in the early 1950s, during the India-Pakistan partition. The novel delves into the psychological struggles faced by individuals during this tumultuous time, drawing parallels to the challenges faced by characters like Lata. The purpose of this article is to shed light on the ongoing debate surrounding migration in the midst of the pandemic. It examines the concept of displacement and draws parallels between the experiences of COVID-19 victims and characters in Seth's novel. By delving into the inner psyche of the characters, the article highlights the clash of cultures and the struggle for identity that arises from displacement. The novel's characters face similar challenges to COVID-19 victims, emphasizing displacement. The article compares the hardships faced by migrants and the barriers they face, drawing parallels to the pandemic's impact. It specifically highlights the plight of COVID-19 victims and the struggles they face due to displacement, highlighting the similarities between the experiences of migrants and those affected by the current global crisis.