Staying On by Paul Scott (1977)

 

Introduction

"Staying On" is a novel by Paul Scott, an English novelist and playwright. The novel was published in 1977 and won the Booker Prize that same year. The book is set in India, where Scott had lived for many years, and explores the lives of two British people who have stayed on in the country after India gained independence from Britain. The novel is a deeply insightful and moving account of the lives of people who are struggling to come to terms with the changes brought about by India's independence.

Characters

The novel revolves around two main characters, Tusker and Lucy Smalley. Tusker is a retired British colonial officer who has lived in India for many years. Lucy is Tusker's wife, and the daughter of a railway worker. The novel also features a range of other characters, including the staff at the hotel where Tusker and Lucy live, and the other British expatriates who have stayed on in India.

Summary

"Staying On" is set in the fictional town of Pankot, in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India. Tusker and Lucy Smalley are the only British people left in the town after India gained independence in 1947. Tusker is in poor health, and is struggling to come to terms with the changes that have taken place in the country. Lucy is a kind-hearted woman who is trying to make the best of their situation. The novel follows the couple as they come to terms with their new lives in post-independence India.

Themes

"Staying On" explores a range of themes, including the legacy of colonialism, the clash of cultures, the struggle to adapt to change, and the importance of human connection. The novel is a poignant exploration of what it means to be human, and how we can find meaning and purpose in our lives even in the face of adversity.

Analysis

"Staying On" is a beautifully written novel that is both deeply moving and thought-provoking. Paul Scott's writing is lyrical and evocative, and he paints a vivid picture of life in post-independence India. The novel is a powerful meditation on the nature of human existence, and the ways in which we can find meaning and purpose in our lives. "Staying On" is a must-read for anyone who is interested in exploring the complexities of the human condition.

Benefit of Reading this Book

"Staying On" is a novel that has the power to change the way you think about the world. It is a deeply insightful and moving account of the lives of people who are struggling to come to terms with the changes brought about by India's independence. The novel is a powerful meditation on the nature of human existence, and the ways in which we can find meaning and purpose in our lives. Reading "Staying On" is an enriching experience that will leave you with a deeper understanding of the world and the people who inhabit it.

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