Book Review

Name of the book: Two States


Author: Chetan Bhagat

Analysis:

The book shares the real life story of the author on his inter cultural marriage and the interesting phases he passes through to make it possible. Written in very simple and crisp English, the linguistics give a very Indian feel. In places, visible earthy effect can be felt and thus, makes it everybody’s read. The lead characters that is the author himself and the girl ‘Ananya’ (his present wife in real life) study together in IIM. Impressed by the lady’s charm and beauty, the hero races against the other admirers to win her. Realizing the fact that she belongs to rich Tamil Brahmin family, hero imagines if he ever could match his Punjabi background. He decides to propose her and make her his wife. Then follows the process of wooing her and proposing her for marriage. The story highlights on youth being involved in physical relationship, smoking and alcohol too.

The story projects outstanding humor which feels like someone is sharing it verbally among friends and later penned it down. The lines easily bring smile while you progress with the reading. Few areas where you cannot keep your light laugh away are; description of Ananya’s family members, convocation and their wedding. The entire story encompasses interesting characters such as the parents from both sides, her spectacled brother and lastly not to forget Chetan’s aunt. In the middle of the comedy of various errors, comes is in a serious element of Chetan’s father who happens to be strict and unfriendly at home. His rude behavior and ignorance towards family influences the hero to great extent and also shows how he is emotionally affected. Later, it relates to the girl’s father who is not impressed at all with the Punjabi cuisine or the people which makes it tough for Chetan to pursue his dream. The story deals on how he impresses his in-laws and convinces his parents on the other side. The language troubles he encounters while staying in Chennai and the description he gives for it makes us notice of his good observation power. His strong sense of humor and yet tough journey to chase his lady is what the entire book offers. Yes, the expressions have been presented really well. This gives us a clear idea of smart writing a real life story showcasing good and bad aspects of life thus, maintaining a strong balance.

Since, the language is in very easy English, the reader is not bored in the midway which is why it is nonstop read. Not being boring is the most striking part of the novel and no wonder why we understand the book is best selling till date. His previous novels too have witnessed remarkable success and have given a run for money to many writers such as ‘One night at the call center’, ‘five point someone’, and ‘Three mistakes of my life’. Minimum usage of tough English words, fun filled dialogues and an unbeatable chemistry between the lead actors make the book a must read. The comic timing is apt and marks its effect in the further read. In addition to it, the novel being economical in purchase is giving tough competition to well known writers in market? Without losing on connection with the reader, he manages to share feelings of anybody who did inter cultural marriage. Though the book is a good time pass but doesn’t relate to everybody in life. In nutshell, the book is the best read to kill time in any boring journey and can be recommended too.