BOOK REVIEW: "The White Tiger" by Aravind Adiga

 

The White Tiger by Aravind Adiga
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

"The White Tiger" is 50-year-old Indian writer and journalist Aravind Adiga's debut novel. It won the 2008 Man Booker Prize and was adapted into a well-received film.

It is a satirical novel that offers a scathing critique of Indian society, particularly its class system and the stark contrast between the rich and the poor. Narrated by Balram Halwai, a young man from a rural village, the story follows his journey from poverty to success, challenging the traditional narrative of India's progress and development.

Some of the salient points of the novel include:

The stark contrast between the rich and the poor: The novel vividly portrays the vast chasm between the haves and the have-nots in India, highlighting the rampant poverty and inequality that exists alongside the country's economic growth. Balram's experiences as a driver for Ashok, a wealthy businessman, expose the disconnect between the two worlds and the exploitation faced by the poor.

The corrupting influence of money and power: The novel explores how money and power can corrupt even the most seemingly virtuous individuals. Ashok, despite his initial sympathy for Balram, ultimately succumbs to the temptations of wealth and status, revealing the dark underbelly of Indian society.

The importance of education and opportunity: Balram's education, though limited, plays a crucial role in his transformation. He recognizes the importance of knowledge and uses it to his advantage, ultimately breaking free from his impoverished background. However, the novel also highlights the limited opportunities available to the poor, emphasizing the need for greater social mobility.

The role of the "white tiger": The white tiger, a rare and elusive creature, symbolizes Balram's unique individuality and his ability to break free from the constraints of his social circumstances. He sees himself as a "white tiger" who has defied the odds and achieved success, even if it means resorting to unconventional and morally ambiguous means.

Adiga's writing style is a captivating blend of several techniques:

Black humor and satire: The novel is laced with dark humor and biting satire, often using exaggerated situations and cynical observations to critique Indian society, its class system, and the gap between the rich and the poor.

First-person narrative: Told entirely from the perspective of Balram, the protagonist, the first-person narrative provides a unique and intimate voice, allowing readers to experience his journey, thoughts, and feelings directly.

Unreliable narrator: Balram is not always a reliable narrator, often manipulating the truth or presenting a biased viewpoint to suit his own agenda. This adds a layer of complexity and intrigue to the story.

Vivid imagery and descriptive language: Adiga employs vivid imagery and descriptive language to paint a picture of both the beauty and the harsh realities of India, from the bustling cityscapes to the impoverished villages.

Social commentary: The novel is a sharp social commentary on various issues plaguing India, including poverty, inequality, corruption, and the exploitation of the poor.

This combination of stylistic elements makes the novel a powerful and thought-provoking read, leaving a lasting impact on the reader.

“The White Tiger” is Adiga’s thought-provoking and disturbing novel that offers a unique perspective on India's social and economic realities. It challenges the reader to confront the harsh realities of poverty and inequality, and to question the narratives of progress and development that often obscure the deep-seated problems that continue to plague the country.

View all my reviews