Samsoncruz

  RICHES TO RAGS  (Vaazhnthavar Kettal) Novella. 82 p. 1951 World rights available Copyright with Govt of TN Key theme: Raghu's feud with  Mammaliyaar, narrates the  societal prejudice. “Vaazhnthavar Kettal” is a poignant novella set in 1930s Tanjore. The narrator, revisiting after a decade, stays with his friend Raghu, a widower. They relive school memories, explore Tanjore, and frequent eateries.Intrigue arises when Raghu vehemently refuses a particular route, only to confront and curse a man from Mammaliyaar, once wealthy but now destitute. The narrator learns of a similar encounter at a coffee shop involving Mammaliyaar boys who couldn't pay the bill. He then learns the societal prejudices against the Mammaliyaars who face malicious judgment for their financial downfall. As the novella unfolds, it takes us into human psychology, exploring prejudice, preconceived notions, guilt, and the impact of unfulfilled desires on one's psyche. The narrative, akin to a det...

ASURAGANAM   Novel. 110 p. 1959 World rights available Copyright with Govt of TN Key theme: Psychological  journey of Raman exploring  trauma, desires, and existence  complexities "Asuraganam" follows the psychological tumult within Raman, navigating early maternal loss, suppressed desires, and existential questions. Departing from a simple Ramayana retelling, the novel incorporates Freudian and Oedipus psychology. Raman's eccentric yet profound journey unfolds through contemplative walks, illuminating his exploration of human existence. Initiated by existential queries, the narrative prompts profound reflections on life and death. Despite being labeled eccentric, Raman emerges as an intellectually gifted thinker, grappling with self-control, obsession, and fantasy to evade his father's traits. His self-centered perspective, tinged with self-pity, raises doubts about recovery, leading to a fixation on a woman symbolizing a mother figure, aligning with Freudian philos...