Objectivity To Subjectivity In Arun Joshi’s Novel: The Foreigner

Abstract

Arun Joshi’s first novel The Foreigner (1968) explored in depth the problem of Sindi Oberoi’s sense of emptiness and isolation at being unable to find a meaning in survival. The Foreigner is one of the best novels of Joshi. A series of reflections on freedom, suicide, love, marriage, life and detachment are swirling throughout the story. It started as a thriller novel but ended as a mystery. Joshi was very clever to blend and balance the western beliefs with the tradition and wisdom of India without overemphasizing either. The story dealt with the theme of east-west encounter. It is also the study of a young uprooted man who is existing in the end half of the twentieth century; looks out for secure and meaning in his randomly moving life. Joshi had very masterly handled challenging, grave issues like rootlessness, detachment, and frustration, search for better substitute, self-predicament and self-realization. Due to the modern life style, this novel took us to the lower depths of social suffering and agony. The people could be surrounded by thousands and still be lonely.