From above the middles path
These are not just middles to entertain. Being musings they can cover a range beyond editorials. Narayanan's deft use of language, his wry humour and sense of proportion ensure that while they educate, they also entertain. Belonging to an earlier generation of well-read Indians and obviously a patient listener, an added bonus of apt quotations from himself and others can be found throughout the book.
Directed at the readers of The Hindustan Times, Delhi is the focus as the group headings Capitalist Roader and the Harlot's Prerogative indicate. Its authorities are targeted and so are the inhabitants. The arrogance of Delhiites is exemplified by their unhappiness when not permitted to throw litter everywhere. Their contempt of laws matched by their subservience to power. The plight of tenants and the hard hearts of landlords are depicted with biting sarcasm. South Delhi seeing itself in a fantasy as the 51st state of the US is hilarious.
The erosion of institutions is mourned. But being more clearsighted than most, the analysis that there is a systemic crisis is rejected. The prescription is a recovery of clear perspective. One need is to restart the real process of education. Perhaps the individual and the tribe have to see more clearly their responsibilities to the community and nation, and carry them out.
Also, one must learn to look askance at those allegedly close "to corridors of power" who drop names and ideas like the pompous busybodies confetti. There is much more wisdom here to be absorbed than these instances show.
Every reader would share Narayanan's repeated expressions of ire over VIP security in Delhi. His conclusions that concentration on this detracts from national security and that it is often a status symbol are unfortunately entirely correct. On the other side, he draws attention to the law-abiding citizen who cannot get electricity, water, or a working telephone. Can we hope that the promised reform and devolution will bring more transparency and accountability?
The author reminds us that there is a better world outside Delhi. Kamraj and Kairon come at the top of his political pantheon. Brief mentions about Haryana and Punjab, coming from his experiences during a very difficult time spent there, give a sense of nostalgia for a simpler, earthier world and whet the appetite for more.
A younger reader may be bemused by the gentle fun Narayanan pokes of conveniences like the washing machine or the fax. He is harsher with globalisation. He is harshest with faddists whom he says can become fascists, even in good causes like feminism or environment. He has seen enough fundamentalism to abhor it. But that is the secret of civilisation, moderation combined with consideration for others.
An excellent bedside book recommended to be taken in small doses to restore one's equilibrium after a difficult day, and to gird oneself for the next day's travails.