An Astrologer’s Day
R.K. Narayan's short story analyzes human psyche. It is a satire on the weaknesses of the human mind. However, the irony is gentle and infused with humor. The plot is simple, and the language is unpretentious.
Guru Nayak has been fortunate to evade a near-fatal accident. He wants to find his assailant and seek revenge. He is anxious, vindictive, and bitter. Narayan provides a vague description of Guru Nayak, but the latter seems aggressive and combative. He is prone to drinking and gambling.
The astrologer is the central character of the story. Narayan gives a detailed description of his appearance and paraphernalia. The astrologer bears the guilt of assaulting a man during his earlier years and leaving him to die. When the same man, Guru Nayak, shows up as his client, the astrologer is relieved. The smart, conniving professional, reassures Nayak that his enemy has met his fate. Soon, Nayak accepts the astrologer's word, and the reader discovers his gullibility. Nayak proves his dishonesty when he pays the astrologer less than what he had promised. It is indeed ironical that Guru Nayak rewards the same person who he wants to destroy.
The Missing Mail
“The Missing Mail” is a portrayal of the arranged marriage system in which parents decide upon their daughter's future husband. Ramanujam struggles to find a groom for his daughter, Kamakshi. Thannappa is the friendly, neighborhood postman, who reads out letters to their recipients. On his advice, Ramanujam arranges a suitable match for Kamakshi. When everything seems settled, Ramanujam's close relative passes away. Thannappa decides to conceal the news to ensure that the wedding is not affected. The bride’s family learns the truth later.
The postman’s act, though unethical, is in the family's interest. The story depicts a collective sense of identity among the inhabitants of Malgudi. The townsfolk share struggles, insecurities, triumphs, and frustrations. The simplistic story embodies the charm of human relationships and the essence of semi-urban India.
The Doctor’s Word
The story explores the nature of the doctor-patient relationship when the patient happens to be a long-standing friend. An ailing Gopal requests a prognosis from Doctor Raman so that he can settle his will. The doctor is unable to tell his friend the truth. He violates his professional ethics in the interest of friendship. He reassures Gopal that he will recover. The doctor sends an assistant to the patient, who he believes could die at any moment. To his surprise, Gopal survives the ailment and is on the path of recovery.
The story seems simple, but the naivety is deceptive and deliberate. Narayan raises several questions. How did the doctor’s word save the patient’s life? Is there an association between faith and healing? Is it ethical for a doctor to suppress information regarding a patient’s health status? At what point should the doctor give up on his efforts? The master story-teller leaves the reader to seek answers and draw conclusions.
