Exploration of a Literary Work | Healing Wounds of Exile: The Influence of Travel versus Tales
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Aatish Taseer, a renowned writer and journalist, has recently published his latest book, "A Return to Self: Excursions in Exile." This work is a continuation of Taseer's introspective narrative style, focusing on his experiences in exile, a consequence of losing his Indian citizenship in 2019 due to his critical coverage of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Unlike Taseer's previous book, "Pakistan, to a woman's eyes," "A Return to Self" does not feature a meeting with an unfamiliar father in an enemy country. Instead, it delves deeper into Taseer's personal journey, offering insights into his identity and self-discovery.
Food and exile continue to be recurring themes in "A Return to Self." The narrative takes readers on an exploration of several countries, including Spain, Istanbul, Uzbekistan, Morocco, Mexico, Sri Lanka, Bolivia, Mongolia, and Iraq. Taseer meets people who open doors for him, encounters spirituality, and discovers the evolution of a polity and the scars it leaves behind on generations.
"A Return to Self" is rich in personal experiences and anecdotes, providing a unique perspective on the history, culture, and politics of these nations. The book is priced at Rs 499 and has a page count of 226.
In contrast to the comforting imagery of a freshly watered flower bed and feeling like being home, which was used to describe Taseer's previous book, "A Return to Self" offers a more introspective and analytical narrative. The author meets people, experiences spirituality, and delves into the evolution of a polity, all while navigating his own identity and self-discovery in exile.
Taseer's book, "Pakistan, to a woman's eyes," was a collection of travel pieces from various countries. It included a first-wave Indian feminist as a character, a feature not present in "A Return to Self." However, the new book does present a multi-talented first-wave Indian feminist in its narrative.
"A Return to Self: Excursions in Exile" is published by Fourth Estate. This thought-provoking and personal work is a must-read for anyone interested in travel, politics, and the human experience.
