Alienation and Rootlessness in the Novels of V.S. Naipaul

Abstract

Abstract

Displacement and complexities prevalent in the life of expatriates have emerged as a major theme in the 20th century authors crossing the barriers of caste, creed and nationality. It has become a universal phenomenon. Modern literature abounds in alienated individuals. It reflects the general disillusionment that hassles the two post war generations and the deep spiritual isolation felt by men in a universe which he feels himself to be inconsequential and a stranger. Owing to socio-cultural and historical region, Indian literature in English of the recent decades also could not help being affected by it. V.S Naipaul, the first Nobel Prize winner of 21st century has become spokesman of emigrants. He delineates the Indian immigrants dilemma, his problems and plights in a fast changing world. In his works one can find the agony of an exile; the pangs of a man in search of meaning and identity: a daredevil who has tried to explore myths and see through fantasies. Out of his dilemma is born a rich body of writings which has enriched diasporic literature and the English language. The present paper will examine the feelings of rootlessness and alienation undergone by expatriates with reference to selected works of V.S Naipau