Author: Mohanlal Gangopadhyay
Genre: Novel (Upanyas)
Binding: Hardcover
ISBN: 9789350405673
Pages: 184
Weight: 222 grams
Book Description
"All Quiet On The Western Front", translated by Mohanlal Gangopadhyay, is a profound reflection on the harrowing impact of war. The narrative revolves around the absurdity and futility of violence, where courage and patriotism are overshadowed by cruelty, bloodshed, and brutal sacrifice. The protagonist, as well as the readers, are reminded that no matter how much war glorifies sacrifice, it is rooted in hatred and savagery.
In this timeless work, the narrative questions the concept of heroism and sacrifice in the context of war. It emphasizes the deep contradictions inherent in warfare—the juxtaposition of valor with barbarism, the irony of selfless sacrifice leading to self-destruction, and the ultimate conclusion that true peace cannot be built on the ruins of conflict.
Mohanlal Gangopadhyay's translation brings forth these universal truths, making the story accessible to a Bengali-speaking audience. The novel beautifully encapsulates the devastating effects of war and its toll on human relationships and individual psyche. The silence after war, as mentioned in the title, represents the unspoken void left in the wake of destruction—peace in the form of stagnant silence rather than reconciliation.
About the Author
Mohanlal Gangopadhyay was born on August 19, 1909, in Kolkata. He was the son of Manilal Gangopadhyay and the grandson of Abanindranath Tagore. Educated at Hare School, Presidency College, and the London School of Economics, he made his name as a statistician and was deeply involved with Calcutta University and the Statistical Institute.
From an early age, he was encouraged by Abanindranath Tagore to explore his passion for writing. His first published book, ‘Sonar Jharna’, marked the beginning of a literary career that would produce a wealth of stories, especially for young readers. His works like ‘Boarding School’, ‘Babuiyer Adventure’, and ‘Lafa Jatra’ enriched Bengali literature. His translations, including ‘All Quiet On The Western Front’, made significant contributions to Bengali’s teen fiction genre. He passed away on January 14, 1969.
Key Highlights of the Book:
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War’s Futility: The novel underscores the senselessness of war, demonstrating how it is rooted in hatred, violence, and self-destruction.
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Contradictions of Heroism: It explores the contrast between patriotism and brutality, emphasizing how heroic sacrifices often lead to irreversible consequences.
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Universal Relevance: This translation brings out the global resonance of the themes, making it relevant across generations and geographies.
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The Silence of Peace: The novel portrays true peace not as a triumphant victory, but as a stifling silence that follows devastation.
