Within a short number of pages, Lahiri successfully articulates characters that are multifaceted, dynamic and wholly original. In addition to being a story full of profound eternal truths, such as the potentially terrible weight of a secret on a person, it is one of intricately weaved relationships between complex characters. Kapasi's role of medical confidant, she begins to reveal her own unexpected confidences, and for Mr. Das particularly enamoring, partly due to of the special attention she pays him relative to her husband and children. Something about the Das family captivates Mr. Das deems him an “interpreter of maladies.” Kapasi translates people’s woes for them, a skill for which Mrs. As he is able to speak many of the languages of India, Mr. Kapasi also works as an interpreter for a physician who does not speak his patient’s languages. It is soon revealed to the family that Mr. Kapasi, the family’s local tour guide and driver. Lahiri tells the story from the perspective of Mr. The title story involves the Das family, composed of a first-generation American couple of Indian descent and three young children, as they tour India. Crafting a short story is no easy feat, yet each within the “Interpreter of Maladies” collection is stunning.

Lahiri’s writing is beautiful and effortless. I have now read her book of fictional short stories “Interpreter of Maladies” three times, and the latest instance has only reinforced my admiration.

Jhumpa Lahiri is one of the most talented writers I have ever had the pleasure of reading.

Lahiri jhumpa interpreter of maladies