A Passage to India
E.M. Forster
1924
Around 400 pages
We've come to the last E.M. Forster novel on the List. This is a much better farewell than Henry James gave us. Instead of smacking us in the face with the Golden Bowl of symbolism, Forster presents a thoughtful piece that actually doesn't reek of early twentieth century bigotry.
Dr. Aziz, a Muslim Indian widower, accompanies his British friend Mr. Cyril Fielding, Mrs. Moore, and Miss Adela Quested on a trip to see Marabar Caves. Adela plans on marrying Mrs. Moore's son, but wants to see the "real India" first. Adela thinks she is alone in a cave with Dr. Aziz, panics, and flees. It is assumed by the other members of the party that Dr. Aziz assaulted her. There's a trial, which brings to a boil many of the racial tensions brewing under the surface.
I know some people can't stand stories based on a misunderstanding or false accusation, as the experience of reading it is too frustrating. I enjoyed this story, though. It wasn't preachy and even the most flawed character wasn't portrayed cartoonishly.
Not that certain sections won't make you cringe, but he does a good a job of depicting the irremediable impasse between two cultures.
OFFICIAL FORSTER RANKING:
1. A Passage to India
2. A Room With A View
3. Where Angels Fear to Tread
4. Howard's End
RATING: ****-
Interesting Facts:
Forster began writing the novel during a stay in India from 1912 to 1913.
Chosen by Modern Library as one of the top 100 works of 20th century English literature.
UP NEXT: We by Yevgeny Zamyatin.
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