One Part Woman: Book Review

Book review

Title: One Part Woman
Author: Perumal Murugan
Genre: Fiction/Translation

Regional literature has some stories that entices the readers  into another world with strange beliefs and rituals. It manages to raise eyebrows and evoke certain emotions.

The author of ‘Poonachi’ has authored one such book that explores a bold theme.

Set in a village in Southern India during the British Colonization period, One part woman is the story of a married couple who are unable to conceive.

Kali and Ponna are married for 12 years and are still childless. They have tried all methods including drinking bitter potions made out of neem leaves and performing several rituals to appease their local deity.  Things take a turn for the worse when both their mothers push Ponna to go to the annual  chariot festival.

This is a celebration of Maadhorubaagan ( half male and half female God). On the 18th night of the festival, it is believed that all men are considered Gods and that adults are permitted consensual sex.  This suggestion puts a considerable amount of strain on the marriage and creates a certain tension between the couple. What will eventually be the outcome?

One part Woman is a book that deals with a common issue faced by many couples. It showcases the family and societal pressure and also the caustic remarks meted out to those who are unable to traverse down the family way.

Unabashed and brutally honest, the author explores the themes of love, sexuality, rituals and beliefs. It captures the essence of a rural setting to perfection. While the book is set around an early era, the issue faced by the Protagonists can be reflected in the modern day scenario as well.

This book is bound to elicit some strong reactions and intense discussions with regards to family and marriage. Interesting and thought provoking, One part woman isn’t a book that will be forgotten easily.

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