Wednesday, February 12, 2025

The English Problem by Beena Kamlani

A story of empire, exile, and the longing to belong

Beena Kamlani’s The English Problem is a beautifully written, introspective novel that offers a fresh perspective on colonial identity and self-liberation. It challenges readers to consider the psychological weight of oppression and the complexity of resistance.

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Beena Kamlani’s The English Problem is a deeply introspective and nuanced novel that explores the intersection of personal identity, colonial history, and the burden of duty. Set against the backdrop of India’s fight for independence, the novel follows Shiv Advani, an 18-year-old Indian man chosen by Mahatma Gandhi to study law in England and return to assist in his country’s liberation. However, Shiv’s journey takes an unexpected turn as he grapples with the very forces he was meant to resist—British culture, literature, and even love.

This historical and literary fiction debut is a thought-provoking meditation on belonging, exile, and self-discovery. It captures the emotional and psychological struggles of a young man torn between his homeland and the allure of his colonial oppressors. Kamlani’s writing is rich and evocative, blending historical realism with introspective depth. However, while the novel offers compelling themes and a strong narrative voice, it also presents some structural and pacing challenges that may not resonate with all readers.

Plot Overview: A Journey of Contradictions

At its core, The English Problem by Beena Kamlani is the story of a young man’s internal and external conflicts. Shiv’s life is shaped by the expectations of his family and the weight of his country’s colonial history. Before leaving for England, he is hastily married to a woman he barely knows—a decision that sets the stage for his emotional turmoil throughout the novel.

Upon arriving in London, Shiv is immediately struck by the contradictions of the empire. The city is both repellent and fascinating, its literary culture intoxicating and its racism suffocating. As he navigates this world, he encounters historical figures like Virginia and Leonard Woolf, who introduce him to new ideas, further complicating his sense of duty. He is supposed to study the British legal system to dismantle its power over India, yet he finds himself drawn to its intellectual and cultural richness.

This conflict manifests in Shiv’s personal life as well. His marriage, which was meant to tether him to India, becomes an abstract obligation as he experiences love and desire in London. The tension between duty and self-fulfillment becomes the novel’s driving force, leading to a climax that forces Shiv to choose between his country’s future and his own.

Character Analysis: The Burden of Expectations

Shiv Advani: A Man of Two Worlds

Shiv is a brilliantly drawn character—idealistic, conflicted, and deeply human. He embodies the dilemma of many colonized subjects: How does one resist an empire that has shaped their very consciousness? His internal monologue is one of the novel’s greatest strengths, providing an intimate view of his evolving identity.

His struggle with Englishness is particularly compelling. Kamlani portrays the way colonialism seeps into the mind—not just through law and governance, but through literature, language, and even love. Shiv’s admiration for British intellectuals clashes with his anger toward their condescension, making his journey one of constant negotiation.

Supporting Characters: Contrasts and Complexities

  • Shiv’s Wife: While her role is limited, her presence looms over the narrative as a symbol of tradition and duty. Her absence from Shiv’s London life highlights his growing detachment from his roots.
  • Virginia and Leonard Woolf: These historical figures serve as both guides and obstacles, embodying the paradox of British liberalism—progressive in thought yet complicit in colonial structures.
  • Gandhi (in absentia): Though he does not play a direct role, Gandhi’s expectations shape Shiv’s mission. His philosophy hovers over the novel, presenting both a moral compass and an unattainable ideal.

Themes and Symbolism: A Rich Tapestry

1. Colonial Identity and Internalized Oppression

The novel’s most striking theme is how colonialism operates not just as political domination, but as a psychological force. Shiv’s struggle is not merely external—it is a battle within himself. His attraction to English culture mirrors the real dilemma faced by many educated Indians of his time, torn between admiration and resentment.

2. The Complexity of Resistance

Unlike typical independence narratives that frame resistance as a straightforward battle between oppressor and oppressed, The English Problem by Beena Kamlani complicates this notion. Shiv is not just resisting British rule; he is resisting himself—his desires, his conditioning, and the seductive power of the very system he was meant to dismantle.

3. Marriage as a Metaphor for Colonization

Shiv’s arranged marriage is not just a subplot—it is a metaphor for colonial imposition. Just as he is expected to adhere to familial and cultural expectations, he is expected to play his role in the anti-colonial struggle. His resistance to both suggests a broader question: Can true liberation exist without individual choice?

Writing Style: Elegant and Thoughtful, but Occasionally Dense

Beena Kamlani’s prose is undeniably beautiful—lyrical, introspective, and steeped in historical detail. She captures the weight of Shiv’s inner conflict with precision, making his journey feel deeply personal yet universally resonant.

However, the novel’s literary ambitions can sometimes work against its accessibility. There are moments where the introspection slows the pacing, making certain sections feel dense. Readers who prefer more action-driven historical fiction may find themselves struggling through some of Shiv’s lengthy inner monologues. That being said, for those who appreciate rich prose and psychological depth, the novel is a rewarding experience.

Criticism: Where the Novel Stumbles

While The English Problem by Beena Kamlani is a remarkable debut, it is not without its flaws.

  1. Pacing Issues: The novel is at its best when Shiv is interacting with others, but some of his solitary reflections—though beautifully written—drag on longer than necessary. The middle section, in particular, feels sluggish.
  2. Character Development Beyond Shiv: While Shiv is deeply explored, other characters, including his wife, remain somewhat underdeveloped. A deeper exploration of her life in India might have provided a stronger counterpoint to Shiv’s experiences.
  3. Abrupt Resolution: After a slow buildup, the climax and resolution feel somewhat rushed. The novel raises complex questions about identity and belonging but does not fully resolve them in a satisfying manner.

These flaws do not diminish the novel’s achievements but do prevent it from being a perfect read.

Comparisons and Recommendations

Fans of historical and literary fiction will find The English Problem by Beena Kamlani reminiscent of other novels that explore colonial identity and self-discovery. If you enjoyed:

  • A Passage to India by E.M. Forster – for its critique of colonial tensions
  • The Shadow Lines by Amitav Ghosh – for its deep exploration of identity and memory
  • Home Fire by Kamila Shamsie – for its themes of duty versus desire
  • Anita Desai’s works – for her introspective style and themes of exile

Then, The English Problem by Beena Kamlani will likely resonate with you.

  • The Night Watchman by Louise Erdrich
  • The Map of Salt and Stars by Zeyn Joukhadar
  • A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry

Final Verdict: A Thought-Provoking but Imperfect Debut

Beena Kamlani’s The English Problem is a beautifully written, introspective novel that offers a fresh perspective on colonial identity and self-liberation. It challenges readers to consider the psychological weight of oppression and the complexity of resistance.

However, its slow pacing, dense prose, and occasional underdevelopment of secondary characters prevent it from being a flawless masterpiece. Despite these shortcomings, it remains a significant and thought-provoking read.

Highly recommended for readers who appreciate literary historical fiction, introspective narratives, and themes of colonial identity.

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Beena Kamlani’s The English Problem is a beautifully written, introspective novel that offers a fresh perspective on colonial identity and self-liberation. It challenges readers to consider the psychological weight of oppression and the complexity of resistance.The English Problem by Beena Kamlani