Introduction
The novel basically relate to a traveler’s narrative. As such, the writer recounts a tale of the experience of two Indians in Egypt. One of the narrations communicates the experience of a twentieth century slave while the other is about Ghosh’s experience. The later particularly takes the perspective of letters stable upon by the narrator. The letters had been written by the master of the slave. In pursuit of the slave’s experiences, Ghosh travelled to Egypt in a bid to understand better the experiences narrated in the letters. In the novel therefore, Ghosh looks at the slave’s journey from India to Egypt.
In his experiences in Egypt, Ghosh is able to relate his experiences to those of the slave despite the difference in epoch. Subsequently, in his narration, the author felt an incomprehensible compulsion to engage in research in Egypt. This is clear when the narrator confesses to not knowing anything about the slave except the fact that the latter had given him “the right to be there”. Further, the narrator perceives the research as an extension of an account of intercultural affairs.
The tale which centers its theme on historical cultural perspectives creates a vivid image of Egypt and the Middle East. Although the information provided as to the social aspects may not be apparent at present, the novel is an informative source of knowledge and cultural discovery. Consequently, the novel concentrates much on the narration of Ghosh’s trip in two villages in Egypt’s northern delta expanse. While in the villages, Amitav learnt the customs and practices within the village. The practices helped the narrator to know what an Egyptian entailed.
In comparison to the present times, the perceptions elucidated by the novel may be taken as oriental, modest and frail. Consequently, the narrative also has some honesty aspects which also clear some of the foregoing concerns. The book therefore offers an enthusiasm to readers with the view of unearthing fresh information. This is expertly depicts the situations where the contemporary urban cultures have led to the disregard of the conventional village lifestyle. As such, the novel successfully creates a different existence from the present day social and cultural practices.
With reference to the preceding, the narrator integrates freely with the villagers. Consequently, the locals are willing to provide information on issues without apprehension of who will ultimately have access to the information. However, in the modern societies, locals are reluctant to give up information due to the constant efforts aimed at managing personal affairs. Subsequently, there is also the fear of administrative authority. According to Ghosh, people are always determined to resist the unknown. However, the main aim of the writer may not necessarily have been to show the difference in the perception and the actual way of life in Egypt but this is evident from the writer’s narration (Ghosh, 1993).
Conclusion
The author’s pursuance of the life of slave and master in the 12th century era provides an interesting reading for Egyptians and other interested readers. A good example is the fact that the slave in the early period represented the master in financial transactions. The author is also perceived as sensitive. This aspect is depicted by the representation of the intricacies between the Imam and his wife. To this, Ghosh is of the view that the weakening of the family ties eventually lead to immense difficulties. With regard to the foregoing, Ghosh in his bid to get more information relating to life of fellow country man conveys seemingly little but impressive details relating to the anxiety and guile that encompass the Egyptian culture.
Work Cited
Ghosh, A. In an Antique Land: History in the Guise of a Traveler's Tale. New York: Vintage
Books, 1993. Print.
