KIRAN DESAI’S THE INHERITANCE OF LOSS: THE IMPACT OF HISTORICAL, POLITICAL, AND CULTURAL LEGACIES ON PERSONAL LIVES

Abstract

The Inheritance of Loss by Kiran Desai is a compelling novel that explores the substantial impact of historical, political, and cultural legacies on individuals' lives. The story portrays how external forces can alter one's destiny by interweaving the histories of several characters set in the Indian Himalayas during the mid-20th century. The author, Desai, creates a diverse array of characters in the book who grapple with their historical duties and cultural heritages. Hence, the objective of this article is to emphasize the impact of these legacies on the characters in the novel. Furthermore, it will examine how historical events like British colonization and the fight for independence continue to influence the characters' identities and choices in contemporary times. The novel will also be analyzed for collisions of cultural influences. Moreover, this article aims to shed light on the challenges faced by characters as they juggle multiple identities in a society that is changing and where conventional values coexist with modernity and Western influences. This investigation will clarify the complex interaction between cultural legacies and individual experiences. Through a detailed analysis of the nuanced portrayal of historical, political and cultural legacies in the novel, the article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how these forces shape the lives of individuals. It aims to bring to light the profound impact that broader societal, political and historical contexts have on personal aspirations, relationships, and journeys of self-discovery.