Stories Old and New - Paperback

by Ananta Narayan Nanda (Author)

Stories Old and New is a carefully curated collection of 15 short stories that highlight the author's creative journey spanning the last four decades. This anthology offers a diverse range of narratives, each crafted with keen observation and deep insight into human nature, relationships, and society.
What makes this collection unique is its linguistic diversity-some stories were originally written in Odia and Hindi and later translated into English by the author, while others were penned directly in English. This blend of languages not only showcases the author's literary versatility but also reflects the varied cultural and emotional landscapes that have influenced his storytelling over the years.
Each story in the collection offers a distinct theme and flavour. One for the Road portrays an ironic encounter between the author and an ungrateful co-passenger harassed by hawkers. In Waiting for Vishnu, an old school rivalry resurfaces, revealing the enduring nature of jealousy. Ganga, a Quiet Reverie, evokes the wistfulness of first love, lingering in memory long after time has moved on.
Humour also finds a strong presence in the collection. The Godsend narrates a comical episode where an act of kindness is met with indifference, while The Bovine Justice presents a clever battle of wits between a milkman and his persistent customer. A Hungry Afternoon humorously depicts the tussle between an adult and a child over a plate of snacks, while A White Lie captures the playful absurdity of a fabricated afternoon gossip session.
Other stories delve into deeper social and personal struggles. The Nest follows a government servant's unending quest for stable housing for his large family amidst frequent job transfers. Will-o'-the-Wisp paints a stark picture of poverty in the seventies and eighties, bringing forth the hardships of that era. Kamini Bai Returns, a detective story, unravels a tale of deception and divine justice, while God of Lost Letters offers a humorous yet insightful resolution to a peculiar postal dilemma.
Through these varied narratives, Stories Old and New not only captures the evolution of the author's storytelling but also presents a window into the changing times and emotions that shape our lives. This collection is an engaging read for anyone who appreciates stories that blend nostalgia, humour, human complexity, and social insight into a compelling literary experience.