Romesh Gunesekera's collection "Monkfish Moon" presents nine stories that explore the aftermath of

Sri Lanka's independence in 1947. The narratives delve into the dichotomy of a nation divided between
tradition and modernity, revealing the personal impacts of political, economic, and social upheaval.
Through characters grappling with alienation and a yearning for expression, Gunesekera portrays the
intimate struggles against a backdrop of national transformation. The stories' settings at sunset or night
underscore themes of desire versus possibility and identity versus change.

"A house in the country", "Carpace" and "Captives" are part of "Monkfish Moon", a collection of nine
stories by Romesh Gunesekera published in 1992, that deals with the political and social instability that
followed Sri Lanka's independence in 1947. These four stories depict the multiple tensions that arouse
on one hand, from the coexistence of two Sri Lankas, one traditional and the other modernized, and on
the other, those tensions that were a direct consequence of the political, economical, and social
transformation, instability and violence.

But far from dealing with the clandestine mass graves of civilians, the stories follow the daily lives of
ordinary people, taking us from the beauty of their surroundings and inner wishes to their individual
feelings of alienation and their truncated need of expression. They are alien because they are unable to
communicate with themselves and with other people, whether they be their friends ("A house in the
country").

The whole narrative of "Monkfish Moon" takes place at night. "A house in the country" opens with a
night scenery abundant in noises distinctive to human settlements amidst nature: "frogs, drums, bottles,
dogs barking at the moon". (11) These, we are told, are sounds that have always been there.

In all of his texts, Gunesekera’s primary concern is not to (re)create a particular place, or a real
landscape, it is rather how to write the diasporic stories of individual lives based on personal and highly
private fragments of memories.

In Romesh Gunesekera's "A House in the Country," the protagonist Ray's decision to leave England and
return to Sri Lanka encapsulates the diaspora experience, marked by a search for identity and belonging.
Living in London, Ray achieves a stable lifestyle, yet it's marred by an underlying sense of emptiness. This
scenario is common among diaspora individuals who, despite external success in their adopted
countries, often grapple with a lack of deeper emotional and cultural connections. The transient nature
of Ray’s relationships in London further reflects the difficulty in forming lasting ties in a land not fully
perceived as home, leading to feelings of isolation and detachment from the host culture.

The turning point for Ray comes with his partner’s departure to her homeland and subsequent marriage.
This event symbolizes a return to roots, prompting Ray to confront his own sense of detachment from
his Sri Lankan heritage. The diaspora experience often includes this introspective journey, where
individuals yearn for a deeper connection to their cultural origins. For Ray, this longing is compounded
by the inheritance of a house in Colombo, offering a physical and symbolic link to his past. The house
becomes a beacon, drawing him back to his roots and offering an opportunity to reconnect with his
original identity.

Ray's financial stability plays a crucial role in his decision to return to Sri Lanka, highlighting a unique
aspect of the diaspora experience. Economic security allows him the freedom to explore his identity
without the immediate pressure of survival, a luxury not afforded to all. His move back to Sri Lanka
represents a common theme in diaspora narratives – the enduring pull of one's homeland and the
continuous negotiation of identity between the adopted country and the country of origin. In returning
to Sri Lanka, Ray seeks not just a physical relocation but a reclamation of his cultural identity and a sense
of belonging that he couldn't find in his life in London.

Summary of "A House in the Country" by Romesh Gunesekera:

The short story "A House in the Country" by Romesh Gunesekera is set against the backdrop of political
unrest in Sri Lanka. The narrative centers around Ray, a Sri Lankan who has returned to his homeland
after a long stint in London, and Siri, a local man who works for Ray and becomes an integral part of his
life in Sri Lanka.

The story opens with Ray noticing a peculiar silence one evening, a stark contrast to the usual
cacophony of nighttime sounds in Sri Lanka. This silence sets the tone for the story, highlighting the
undercurrent of unease and change in the country. Ray and Siri converse in slow Sinhala, finding comfort
in the unusual quietness, which Ray likens to the silence of winter in England.

Throughout the story, Gunesekera delves into Ray's past and his decision to leave London and return to
Sri Lanka. We learn about Ray's life in London, where he had a stable job and a comfortable, albeit
unfulfilling, lifestyle. A series of events, including a breakup and a realization of a lack of meaningful
connections, prompts Ray to leave England and seek a more meaningful existence in his homeland.

In Sri Lanka, Ray inherits a house from his uncle, which he finds unappealing compared to his London
flat. He hires Siri to renovate the house, and Siri's role gradually expands from a carpenter to a
caretaker, cook, and a companion. Despite the changing socio-political climate and the violence
occurring in other parts of the country, Ray's life is relatively untouched, largely confined to his
interactions with Siri and the renovation of the house.

The relationship between Ray and Siri is complex. Ray grapples with the traditional master-servant
dynamic prevalent in Sri Lankan society, while Siri shows deep respect and dedication to his work and to
Ray. Siri's contentment with his simple life contrasts with Ray's more complicated desires and his
struggle to find his place in the Sri Lankan society after years abroad.

The story highlights the contrasts and conflicts between the old and new, the traditional and modern,
and the local and global perspectives. This is embodied in the characters of Ray and Siri, their
relationship, and the evolving dynamics between them. The renovation of the house symbolizes Ray's
attempt to rebuild his life and identity in Sri Lanka, while Siri's contentment and simplicity offer a stark
contrast to Ray's inner turmoil.

The narrative concludes with a moment of crisis that brings the outside turmoil into their lives, forcing
both characters to confront the reality of the situation in their country and in their relationship. The
story ends on a note of uncertainty, reflecting the complex and often conflicting nature of identity,
belonging, and the impact of socio-political changes on personal lives.

Certainly, here's a summary of "A House in the Country" by Romesh Gunesekera in bullet points:

- **Setting**: The story is set in Sri Lanka during a period of political unrest.

- **Main Characters**: Ray, a Sri Lankan who returns from London, and Siri, a local man who becomes
Ray's employee and companion.

- **Opening Scene**: The story begins with Ray observing an unusual silence one evening, contrasting
with the typical nighttime sounds of Sri Lanka.

- **Ray's Background**: Ray lived in London with a stable job but felt unfulfilled, leading to his return to
Sri Lanka.

- **Motivation for Leaving London**: Ray's decision is influenced by a breakup and a sense of
disconnection from meaningful relationships.
- **Ray's Inheritance**: In Sri Lanka, Ray inherits a house from his uncle, which he initially finds
unattractive compared to his London flat.

- **Siri's Role Expansion**: Siri is hired to renovate the house and gradually takes on more roles,
becoming a caretaker, cook, and close companion to Ray.

- **Ray's Isolation**: Despite the unrest in Sri Lanka, Ray's life remains largely unaffected, confined to
his house and interactions with Siri.

- **Master-Servant Dynamic**: The story explores the complex relationship between Ray and Siri,
marked by the traditional master-servant dynamic in Sri Lanka.

- **Contrast of Characters**: Siri's satisfaction with a simple life contrasts with Ray's complicated
desires and struggle to adjust to life in Sri Lanka.

- **Themes**: The narrative deals with themes of old versus new, tradition versus modernity, and local
versus global perspectives.

- **Symbolism of House Renovation**: The renovation of the house symbolizes Ray's effort to rebuild
his life and identity in Sri Lanka.

- **Climax**: A crisis brings the external chaos of the country into Ray and Siri's lives, leading to a
confrontation of their situation.

- **Conclusion**: The story ends on an uncertain note, highlighting the complexities of identity,
belonging, and the effects of socio-political change on personal experiences.

The short story "A House in the Country" by Romesh Gunesekera explores several compelling themes:

1. **Diaspora and Identity**: Central to the narrative is the theme of diaspora, specifically the
challenges faced by individuals like Ray who return to their homeland after a long period abroad. The
story delves into Ray's struggle with identity and belonging, as he attempts to reconcile his Westernized
perspectives and experiences with the realities of life in Sri Lanka. This theme highlights the complexities
and internal conflicts experienced by those living between two cultures.

2. **Tradition vs. Modernity**: The story juxtaposes traditional Sri Lankan ways of life against the
influence of modern, Western values. This is evident in the contrasting characters of Ray and Siri. Ray,
having lived in London, brings back with him modern ideas and expectations, which often clash with the
more traditional, simpler life led by Siri. This theme is a common thread in many narratives about post-
colonial societies grappling with the impact of globalization.
3. **Master-Servant Relationship**: The dynamic between Ray and Siri reflects the traditional master-
servant relationship prevalent in Sri Lankan society. The story examines this dynamic, questioning its
relevance and fairness in a changing world. It also explores how such relationships are complicated by
personal emotions and evolving social norms.

4. **Impact of Socio-Political Unrest**: Set against the backdrop of political unrest in Sri Lanka, the story
highlights how larger socio-political events can seep into and impact personal lives. The external turmoil
of the country acts as a catalyst for change and reflection in the lives of the main characters, especially
in how they view their roles and relationships.

5. **Search for Meaning and Fulfillment**: Ray's journey is also a quest for personal fulfillment and
meaning. His move back to Sri Lanka and the renovation of the inherited house symbolize his attempt to
find purpose and contentment in his life, a journey that resonates with anyone who has ever felt
disconnected or in search of a deeper sense of belonging.

In summary, "A House in the Country" is rich in themes that explore the nuances of identity, culture, and
personal relationships within the context of a rapidly changing society. Gunesekera's storytelling weaves
these themes into a narrative that is both deeply personal and universally resonant, reflecting on the
human experience in the face of cultural and societal shifts.

In Romesh Gunesekera's "A House in the Country," several symbols and motifs are used to enrich the
narrative and deepen the themes:

1. **The House**: The most prominent symbol in the story is the house that Ray inherits in Sri Lanka. It
represents Ray's connection to his past, his heritage, and his attempt to reconcile his identity. The
process of renovating the house symbolizes Ray's personal transformation and his efforts to rebuild his
life in a way that bridges his experiences in London with his roots in Sri Lanka.

2. **Silence and Nighttime**: The recurring motif of silence and the setting of many scenes at night are
symbolic. The silence represents the unspoken tensions and undercurrents in both Ray's personal life
and the socio-political landscape of Sri Lanka. Nighttime settings often symbolize introspection, mystery,
and sometimes unease, reflecting the internal struggles of the characters and the uncertainties of the
country's future.

3. **The Contrast of Landscapes**: The stark difference between the landscapes of London and Sri
Lanka serves as a motif for the cultural and personal dichotomy Ray experiences. The bustling, modern
landscape of London contrasts with the more traditional, serene, and sometimes tumultuous
environment of Sri Lanka, symbolizing the internal conflict between modernity and tradition.

4. **Renovation and Construction**: The ongoing renovation and construction work on the house is a
significant motif. It not only symbolizes the rebuilding of Ray's life but also reflects the broader theme of
change and progression in Sri Lanka. The physical changes in the house mirror the transformative
journey of the characters.

5. **Cultural Artifacts**: Various cultural artifacts, like the sarong worn by Siri, serve as symbols of
traditional Sri Lankan culture. These items contrast with Ray's more Westernized lifestyle, highlighting
the cultural gap between him and Siri.

6. **Nature and Environment**: The natural environment in the story, such as the garden, the trees,
and the wildlife, often reflects the emotional states of the characters. For instance, the lushness of the
garden might symbolize growth and vitality, whereas the unsettling quietness of the night can reflect
tension and foreboding.

In summary, Gunesekera uses these symbols and motifs to deepen the exploration of themes such as
identity, cultural dislocation, and the impact of socio-political changes. They serve to enrich the
narrative, providing layers of meaning that resonate with the story’s exploration of personal and
national identity.

I apologize for the oversight. Here are some quotes from the text of "A House in the Country" by
Romesh Gunesekera that you provided, along with a critical analysis for each:

1. **Quote about the Unusual Silence**:

- _"The nights had always been noisy: frogs, drums, bottles, dogs barking at the moon. Then one
evening there was silence."_

- **Analysis**: This quote sets the stage for the story, highlighting a stark change in the environment
that reflects the broader socio-political changes in Sri Lanka. The silence symbolizes a break from the
past and a sense of foreboding, indicating that the tranquility of familiar life is being overshadowed by
the tension and uncertainty of the times.

2. **Quote on Ray's Reflection on Silence**:

 - _"Ray liked this extraordinary silence. He liked the way their few words burst out, and then hung in
the air before melting."_

- **Analysis**: This quote captures Ray's complex relationship with his homeland. His appreciation for
the silence reflects his longing for peace and simplicity after his life in London. However, the transient
nature of this peace, much like their words 'hanging in the air before melting,' suggests the
impermanence and fragility of this quiet amidst the country's unrest.

3. **Quote about Siri’s Simple Life**:

- _"Siri's contentment with his simple life contrasts with Ray's more complicated desires..."_

- **Analysis**: This quote contrasts the differing worldviews of Ray and Siri. Siri's contentment
represents a traditional, uncomplicated approach to life, deeply rooted in Sri Lankan culture. In contrast,
Ray's 'complicated desires,' shaped by his experiences in the West, highlight the theme of diaspora and
the internal conflict faced by those who live between two cultures.

4. **Quote on Socio-Political Context**:

- _"These were troubled times in Sri Lanka, people said, but nothing had happened in this
neighborhood. Nothing until this surprising silence."_

- **Analysis**: This quote subtly ties the personal experiences of the characters to the larger socio-
political context of Sri Lanka. The 'troubled times' in the background loom over the narrative, creating a
sense of unease. The silence in their neighborhood, once a haven from turmoil, now becomes a symbol
of the pervasive impact of national unrest.

Using these quotes in your presentation will provide depth to your analysis, illustrating how Gunesekera
uses language to weave together personal experiences with broader themes of cultural identity, change,
and socio-political tension.

Certainly, here are additional quotes from "A House in the Country" by Romesh Gunesekera, along with
critical analyses:

5. **Quote about Cultural Displacement**:

- _"It was the silence of this winter England transplanted. The silence of windows and doors closed
against the cold."

- **Analysis**: This quote highlights Ray's experience of cultural displacement. The reference to
"winter England" in the context of Sri Lanka underscores his struggle to reconcile his life in England with
his return to his homeland. The imagery of closed windows and doors symbolizes Ray's sense of
alienation and detachment, both from his past in Sri Lanka and his life in England.

6. **Quote on Ray's Reflection of Sri Lanka**:

- _"Lately Colombo had become too noisy. He had never expected such peace would come so close to
war."

- **Analysis**: This quote touches on the theme of unexpected contrasts. Ray's observation of the
peace amid the looming war in Colombo illustrates the unpredictable nature of life in a country
grappling with internal conflict. It also reflects his internal conflict, as he navigates the complexities of a
society that is both familiar and drastically changed.

7. **Quote on Siri's Role Expansion**:

- _"Siri himself was too deep in this world of manners to feel the pull of revolution being preached
across the country."

- **Analysis**: This quote provides insight into Siri's character, who is deeply rooted in traditional
values and societal norms. His detachment from the revolutionary sentiments spreading across the
country highlights a generational and ideological gap. It also underscores the theme of tradition versus
modernity, as Siri represents the traditional fabric of Sri Lankan society that remains untouched by the
changing tides.

8. **Quote Reflecting Socio-political Change**:

- _"But in recent months there had been a new wall to build, shutters to fix. Each day had been
shattered by hammer blows aimed at protecting this future privacy."

- **Analysis**: The literal building and fixing in Ray's house serve as a metaphor for the broader socio-
political changes in Sri Lanka. The 'new wall' and 'shutters' symbolize defenses against the external
turmoil, reflecting the desire for security and stability in times of uncertainty. The 'hammer blows' could
also be seen as the disruptive forces of change impacting the personal lives of the characters.

These quotes further illustrate how Gunesekera intertwines personal narratives with the socio-political
context of Sri Lanka, using rich imagery and symbolism to explore themes of identity, cultural
displacement, and the impact of national events on individual lives.

**Critical Appreciation of "A House in the Country" by Romesh Gunesekera**

"A House in the Country" by Romesh Gunesekera is a profoundly evocative short story that brilliantly
captures the essence of life in Sri Lanka during a period of political upheaval. This narrative stands out
for its poignant exploration of themes such as diaspora, identity, tradition versus modernity, and the
personal impacts of political unrest.

**Narrative and Style**: Gunesekera's narrative style is richly descriptive and immersive, creating vivid
imagery that transports the reader to the heart of Sri Lanka. His use of sensory details, especially in
depicting the quiet, tense atmosphere against the backdrop of a country on the brink of turmoil, is
masterful. The narrative flows seamlessly between the present and flashbacks, providing depth to the
characters and their experiences. The juxtaposition of Ray's life in London with his life in Sri Lanka is
skillfully handled, highlighting the cultural and psychological dissonance experienced by those living in
the diaspora.

**Characterization**: The story's strength lies in its character development, particularly of Ray and Siri.
Ray’s character embodies the conflict of a person caught between two worlds - the modern, western
world he experienced in London, and the traditional world he returns to in Sri Lanka. Siri, on the other
hand, represents a more traditional, grounded perspective, deeply rooted in the local culture and
lifestyle. The dynamic between Ray and Siri is a microcosm of the larger societal shifts occurring in Sri
Lanka, reflecting the complex interplay of social, cultural, and historical forces.

**Themes and Symbolism**: Gunesekera explores several significant themes, including the struggle for
identity in the face of cultural dislocation and the impact of socio-political changes on individual lives.
The house in the story is a powerful symbol, representing Ray's connection to his past, his heritage, and
his efforts to find a place in his homeland. The renovation of the house serves as a metaphor for
rebuilding and transformation, both personally for Ray and for the nation of Sri Lanka. Additionally, the
motifs of silence and night effectively underscore the themes of introspection and the lurking sense of
unrest.

**Socio-political Context**: The story is set against the backdrop of Sri Lanka's political unrest, and
Gunesekera does an excellent job of weaving this context into the personal lives of his characters. The
looming sense of unease and the subtle undercurrents of tension reflect the realities of living in a
country fraught with conflict. This backdrop serves as a catalyst for the story's events and significantly
impacts the characters' thoughts, feelings, and actions.

**Conclusion**: In conclusion, "A House in the Country" is a remarkable piece of literature that offers a
nuanced and deeply human perspective on the complexities of returning to one's roots, the search for
identity, and the impact of historical and political forces on personal lives. Gunesekera's storytelling is
both intimate and expansive, capturing the personal and the universal in a narrative that is as thought-
provoking as it is emotionally resonant.
But the smooth surface of daily routine is cracked by silence. Night and silence are abnormal, since we
are diurnal and social creatures, and, within these stories, may be associated with two handicaps,
blindness and muteness. We find characters who vehemently dream or reflect in a future or present
that somehow slips trough their fingers. These settings may stand for the the alienation between desire
and possibility, thought and action, between the oppression of politics, economics, social aspects, and
the individual freedom, between a cherished identity linked to the stability of the far past

"A House in the Country" by Romesh Gunesekera is a poignant narrative that delves deep into the
complexities of human relationships against the backdrop of Sri Lanka's civil unrest.

The story opens with a striking description of an unusual silence in Sri Lanka, a country typically bustling
with life and noise. Gunesekera writes, _"The nights had always been noisy: frogs, drums, bottles, dogs
barking at the moon. Then one evening there was silence."_ This opening sets the stage for a narrative
that is both introspective and reflective, highlighting the sudden and unsettling changes in the
environment that mirror the broader socio-political shifts in the country.

Central to the story are the characters of Ray and Siri, whose relationship embodies the theme of
tradition versus modernity. Ray, having returned from London, represents a more global, modern
perspective, while Siri, deeply rooted in the local culture, symbolizes traditional Sri Lankan values. Their
interactions and the evolving dynamics between them serve as a microcosm of the broader societal
changes occurring in Sri Lanka. Ray's struggle to find his place in the Sri Lankan society after years
abroad is palpable, as is Siri's contentment with his simpler life.

One of the most profound themes in the story is the impact of civil unrest on individual lives.
Gunesekera masterfully intertwines the personal with the political, making the violence and fear of the
civil unrest a crucial backdrop that influences the characters' lives and decisions. The brutality of this
unrest is vividly captured in a disturbing scene where Siri reveals the fate of his brother: _"They've used
a lamp-post for him."_ This line starkly portrays the violence characteristic of the civil unrest and serves
as a powerful reminder of its human cost.

Ray's concern for Siri, particularly his desire for Siri to own land and have a home of his own, reflects a
deepening of their relationship and an acknowledgment of Siri's aspirations and needs. But ray also
knows that

‘Siri's life would be, at best, only a life of subsistence. He would sink into the earth, unless something
radical could be done.’

In this chaotic situation, the significance of home becomes a central theme. For Siri, owning land and
having a home symbolizes stability and a sense of belonging—valuable commodities in turbulent times.
The house, and by extension any home, becomes a symbol of normalcy and a refuge in a world marred
by violence and uncertainty.

'I'll buy the land. I'll give you a portion. You for your part can plant the trees for us both. Cinnamon, or
cadju or whatever.'
Gunesekera uses the house as a central symbol in the story. The renovation of the house is not just a
physical transformation but also a metaphor for the characters' attempts to create order and peace in
their lives amidst the chaos. The state of the house reflects the inner state of the characters, particularly
Ray, whose journey in rebuilding the house parallels his personal journey of understanding and coping
with the realities of his homeland.

In conclusion, "A House in the Country" is a compelling narrative that masterfully blends the personal
with the political, capturing the essence of human experiences in times of turmoil. Through its vivid
imagery, complex characters, and powerful themes, the story leaves a lasting impact, making it a
significant work in contemporary literature.