A Matter Of Time [Paperback] Deshpande, Shashi

Book Details

• Author: Shashi Deshpande

• Publisher: Penguin Books India

• Language: English

• ISBN: 9780140263909

• Pages: 256

• Cover: Paperback

• Release Date: 14-10-2000

• Dimensions: 7.8 x 5.1 x 0.9 inches

About the Book

• A Matter of Time* is a poignant multi-generational novel by Shashi Deshpande that delves into the intricacies of family dynamics, silence, and personal growth. Set in present-day Karnataka, the story revolves around the lives of Sumi, her three daughters, and her estranged parents. When Sumi’s husband, Gopal, abruptly walks out on her and their daughters, leaving no explanation behind, the family is left in a state of shock and confusion. Despite the absence of answers, Sumi does not question Gopal's departure, a silence that deeply unsettles her daughters.

Sumi moves with her daughters to her ancestral home, where her parents, Kalyani and Shripati, have been living together in silence for over thirty years. As Sumi's daughters—Aru, Charu, and Seema—spend time with their grandparents, the family slowly begins to unravel the reasons behind the long-standing silence. Kalyani begins to open up, sharing her emotional journey and bonding with her daughters and granddaughters.

The narrative is primarily centered around Aru, the eighteen-year-old daughter, who believes she is the reason for her father's departure. This guilt leads Aru to question the meaning of family and the concept of passive suffering in her own life. As Aru matures, she learns profound life lessons that not only affect her own understanding of relationships but also those around her.

• A Matter of Time* is a deeply reflective and introspective novel that captures the essence of personal transformation, complex family relationships, and the struggle of identity within the confines of tradition. Deshpande blends Hindu values with modern-day realities, addressing themes of silence, suffering, gender expectations, and the search for personal meaning.

About the Author

Shashi Deshpande is an acclaimed Indian author known for her exploration of women's experiences and struggles within Indian society. With a keen eye for the complexities of family dynamics and personal growth, Deshpande’s work resonates deeply with readers, particularly women, offering nuanced insights into identity, gender roles, and relationships. Her books often tackle sensitive social issues, and * A Matter of Time* is no exception. Deshpande’s candid prose invites readers to ponder the true meaning behind life’s complex and often painful moments.