Crime and Punishment

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This blog is written in a response of task given by Megha Ma'am as we are having two short stories written by RK Narayan in our syllabus of MA Department of English, MKBU. 

RK Narayan :

RK Narayan, born as Rasipuram Krishnaswami Iyer Narayanaswami, was an acclaimed Indian writer and one of the leading figures in the world of Indian English literature. He was born on October 10, 1906, in Madras (now Chennai), British India, and passed away on May 13, 2001, in Chennai.

Narayan is best known for his works set in the fictional town of Malgudi, which served as the backdrop for many of his stories. His writing style was characterized by simplicity, humor, and a keen observation of everyday life. His works often captured the essence of Indian society, culture, and the human condition with great depth and sensitivity.

Narayan's literary career began with the publication of his first novel, "Swami and Friends," in 1935, which marked the beginning of the Malgudi series. He went on to write numerous novels, short stories, and essays, earning him both critical acclaim and a dedicated readership. Some of his most notable works include "The Bachelor of Arts," "The Guide," "The English Teacher," and "The Man-Eater of Malgudi."

His writing brought Indian literature to a global audience, and he received international recognition, including the Sahitya Akademi Award, one of India's highest literary honors, in 1958 for his novel "The Guide." In 1980, he was also honored with India's highest civilian award, the Padma Vibhushan, for his contributions to literature.

Narayan's stories often revolved around ordinary characters and their everyday struggles, presenting a realistic and relatable portrayal of Indian society. Through his works, he explored themes such as identity, social hierarchy, cultural clashes, and the pursuit of individual aspirations.

RK Narayan's literary legacy continues to inspire generations of readers and writers. His ability to create vivid narratives filled with humor, warmth, and insight remains unmatched. His works have been widely translated and adapted for both film and television, further cementing his status as one of India's most influential and beloved writers.

Teacher's crime

 The teacher asked the question several times, but the child gave the wrong answer repeatedly. Clearly, the child was doing it on purpose to fool the teacher. It was too much for the teacher, and having lost his patience he slapped him on the cheek. Quickly he regained control and realized the problem, but the child started crying. He threatened him to report the matter with his parents. 

Parents' attitude 

The parents considered him a little angel without wings. They gave him abundant affection and ample money. A nursery was set up near the house with necessary furniture and sweets in the cupboard. He went around the garden in a pedal motor car. The parents believed that any suppression of his feelings would prevent his development as a healthy citizen. Every day before the class the parents gave the teacher a set of instructions regarding child psychology. However, he knew that without using cane at times he would not become a normal citizen. 

The punishment 

The child now ordered him to stop the lesson for the day. The teacher had no other option but to obey the child. He wanted to play the engine and the teacher would be the station master. Even though the teacher was unwilling, the boy's blackmailing made him do whatever he demanded. When the engine stopped he asked him to repair it. But the teacher was absolutely non-mechanical and could not even turn a screw of it. Now he demanded the teacher to tell stories. When he finished he wanted him to repeat. Already exhausted by taking class for long he refused it. Now the child ran out to report the incident to the parents. He ran after the child around the garden and at last collapsed on the portico step.