Thinking Activity- 'Gun Island' by Amitav Ghosh

This blog is written as response to the thinking activity given by Dr. Dilip Barad sir on the novel 'Gun Island' by Amitav Ghosh at the Department of English, MKBU.

Amitav Ghosh

Amitav Ghosh is a famous Indian writer known for his novels exploring identity in India and Southeast Asia. He was born in Kolkata in 1956 and grew up in various countries due to his father's job as a diplomat. After studying in Delhi and Oxford, he worked as a teacher before turning to full-time writing. His early novels like "The Circle of Reason" and "The Shadow Lines" gained international acclaim for their unique storytelling. Later, he ventured into science fiction with "The Calcutta Chromosome" and explored historical events in novels like "The Glass Palace" and "Sea of Poppies. In recent works like "Gun Island" and "Jungle Nama," Ghosh addresses themes like climate change. Besides novels, he has written nonfiction books and received prestigious awards, including the Jnanpith Award in 2018, making him the first English-language writer to win this honor in India. (Luebering)

Here is a video on YouTube of Author Amitav Ghosh speaking to The Quint's H R Venkatesh on the release of his new book, Flood of Fire. In this short clip, Ghosh speaks of using different language-words in his book, and the lack of diversity in English.

Introduction to the novel from the back of original Book Cover

On a visit to his birthplace, Kolkata, a Brooklyn-based dealer in rare books finds his life becoming entangled with an ancient legend about the goddess of snakes Manasa Devi. While visiting the temple, deep within the vast mangrove forest of Bengal, he has a disturbing encounter with the most feared, and revered, of Indian snacks, King cobra. This is followed by a series of increasingly uncanny episodes that seem to dissolve the borders of the human and non-human. 

Peopled with a diverse cast of characters, and set in places that range from the Sundarbans to Los Angeles and Venice, this is a story about a world in which creatures and beings of every kind have been torn loose from their accustomed homes by the catastrophic processes of displacement that are now unfolding across the Earth, at and ever-increasing pace. It is a story about a man whose faith in the world is restored by two remarkable women.

Plot of the Novel 'Gun Island'

"Gun Island" is a novel by Amitav Ghosh that weaves together elements of myth, history, and contemporary life. The plot follows the journey of Deen, an antiquarian bookseller based in Brooklyn, New York, as he becomes embroiled in a mystery surrounding an ancient legend and the impacts of climate change.

Deen's journey begins when he encounters a rare manuscript detailing the legend of the Gun Merchant, a mythical figure associated with the goddess Manasa. Intrigued by the story and its potential connection to his own life, Deen sets out to explore its origins.

His quest takes him from the bustling streets of Kolkata, India, to the remote islands of the Sundarbans, where he meets a diverse cast of characters, including Pia, an academic studying the effects of climate change on the region, and Rafi, a local guide with intimate knowledge of the area.

As Deen delves deeper into the legend of the Gun Merchant, he uncovers startling parallels between the ancient myth and contemporary issues, particularly the displacement of people due to rising sea levels and environmental degradation.

Along the way, Deen also grapples with personal challenges, including his own sense of identity and belonging as an immigrant in America, and his complicated relationship with his ex-wife.

As the narrative unfolds, Deen finds himself drawn further into the mystery surrounding the Gun Merchant, ultimately confronting powerful forces that seek to exploit both the legend and the land for their own gain.

In the end, "Gun Island" is a thought-provoking exploration of the intersections between myth and reality, tradition and modernity, and the urgent need to confront the global challenges of climate change and environmental justice. Through Deen's journey, Ghosh offers readers a captivating tale that illuminates the interconnectedness of human lives and the natural world.

How does this novel develop your understanding of a rather new genre known as 'cli-fi'?

Amitav Ghosh's novel "Gun Island" makes a significant contribution to the emerging genre of climate fiction, or "cli-fi," by adeptly weaving themes of climate change and its far-reaching consequences into a captivating narrative. Through his skillful integration of mythological elements, historical references, and contemporary issues, Ghosh expands the horizons of cli-fi, showcasing the genre's potential to engage readers and foster deeper discussions about the pressing environmental and social challenges of our time.

One of the ways in which "Gun Island" develops our understanding of cli-fi is through Ghosh's vivid depictions of extreme weather events and their impacts on the lives of the characters. The novel's references to the devastating Bhola Cyclone of 1970 and the Aila Cyclone of 2009 serve as powerful reminders of the devastation that climate-related disasters can wreak on vulnerable communities. By anchoring these catastrophic events within the narrative, Ghosh grounds the abstract concept of climate change in tangible, relatable experiences, allowing the reader to more fully comprehend the human consequences of environmental upheaval.

 Ghosh's descriptions of other climate-related phenomena, such as the beaching of dolphins, the proliferation of shipworms and spiders in Venice, and the wildfires in Las Vegas, all contribute to a sense of a world in flux – a world grappling with the far-reaching and often unpredictable effects of a rapidly changing climate. These vivid depictions not only heighten the sense of urgency within the story but also serve to educate and inform the reader about the multifaceted ways in which climate change is already transforming the natural and human landscapes.

Ghosh's adept use of these climate-related plot points and imagery demonstrates the ways in which cli-fi can move beyond the confines of purely scientific or factual approaches to climate change. By weaving these elements seamlessly into a captivating work of fiction, the author showcases the genre's ability to engage readers on an emotional and experiential level, fostering a deeper understanding of the very real and human consequences of environmental degradation.

 "Gun Island" expands the boundaries of cli-fi by seamlessly integrating mythological and historical elements into the narrative. Ghosh's use of the myth of the "Gun Merchant" ('Bonduki Sadagar') and the goddess Manasa Devi provides a cultural and spiritual framework through which the reader can explore the complex intersections of climate change, migration, the refugee crisis, and human trafficking. This blend of the mythic and the modern not only captivates the reader but also encourages a more holistic understanding of the ways in which these pressing issues are rooted in both historical and contemporary dynamics.

By drawing on these rich cultural references, Ghosh demonstrates the potential for cli-fi to transcend the limitations of purely scientific or factual approaches to climate change. The novel's innovative synthesis of myth, history, and contemporary concerns serves as a testament to the genre's ability to engage readers on a multifaceted level, inviting them to consider the deep-rooted connections between environmental and social crises.

 Amitav Ghosh's "Gun Island" stands as a groundbreaking contribution to the field of cli-fi, expanding the genre's horizons and showcasing its transformative potential. Through his masterful blending of climate-related themes, mythological elements, and historical narratives, Ghosh has created a work of fiction that not only entertains but also educates and inspires its readers to grapple with the urgent challenges facing our world. As the genre of cli-fi continues to evolve, "Gun Island" will undoubtedly remain a seminal work, illuminating the power of storytelling to raise awareness, foster empathy, and ultimately catalyze meaningful action in the face of the ever-evolving climate crisis.

How does Amitav Ghosh use the myth of the Gun Merchant ('Bonduki Sadagar') & Manasa Devi to initiate discussion on the issues of climate change, migration, the refugee crisis, and human trafficking?

Amitav Ghosh's novel "Gun Island" masterfully employs the myth of the Gun Merchant ('Bonduki Sadagar') and the goddess Manasa Devi as a powerful narrative device to initiate discussions on a range of pressing contemporary issues, including climate change, migration, the refugee crisis, and human trafficking.

Climate Change:

- The mythological narrative surrounding the Gun Merchant and Manasa Devi represents the deep interconnectedness between ancient wisdom, folklore, and the natural world.

- As the protagonist, Deen, delves into the legend, he comes to realize the relevance of these myths in the context of modern climate change.

- Ghosh uses this connection to highlight the profound impact of environmental degradation and climate-related disasters on human societies, drawing striking parallels between the ancient stories and the contemporary ecological crises.

- The myth of the Gun Merchant and Manasa Devi serves as a metaphorical framework through which Ghosh explores the complex relationship between humanity and the rapidly changing climate.

Migration and Refugee Crisis:

- Throughout the novel, characters are compelled to migrate due to environmental upheavals, such as floods and droughts, which are exacerbated by climate change.

- The myth of the Gun Merchant becomes a powerful symbol for the plight of migrants and refugees, as individuals are forced to leave their homes in search of safety and livelihood.

- Ghosh delves into the complexities of displacement and the human consequences of environmental crises, shedding light on the intricate linkages between climate change and mass migration.

- The diverse cast of characters, including Rafi, Tipu, Bilal, Kabir, Lubna Khala, and Munir, represent the diverse experiences of those affected by these global upheavals.

Human Trafficking:

- The narrative also explores the darker aspects of human trafficking, as vulnerable migrants become ensnared in exploitative networks.

- Ghosh draws a parallel between the exploitation depicted in the myth of the Gun Merchant and the contemporary realities of human trafficking.

- This narrative device highlights the commodification of human lives in the face of environmental crises, underscoring the urgent need to address the root causes of exploitation and injustice.

- By intertwining myth and reality, Ghosh prompts readers to confront the harsh realities of human trafficking and the dehumanizing impact of such practices.

Etymological Explorations:

• Ghosh skillfully uses the etymology, or the history and origins of words, to add depth and intrigue to the narrative.
• The exploration of the word "bundook," meaning "gun" in Hindi, leads the protagonist on a journey to unravel the mysteries surrounding the Gun Merchant and the intertwined histories of the myth.
• Similarly, Ghosh incorporates the etymologies of words like "refugee" and "trafficking" to shed light on the human stories and interconnected struggles behind these labels.
• The play on words and the incorporation of different languages, such as Italian and Bengali, further contribute to the richness and cultural diversity of the storytelling.

Through this masterful blending of ancient myths and contemporary realities, Amitav Ghosh encourages readers to reflect on the interconnectedness of human experiences across time and space. By using the myth of the Gun Merchant and Manasa Devi as a narrative device, Ghosh prompts readers to consider the urgent need for collective action in responding to the pressing global issues of climate change, migration, the refugee crisis, and human trafficking.

How does Amitav Ghosh make use of the 'etymology' of common words to sustain mystery and suspense in the narrative?

 Amitav Ghosh's novel "Gun Island," he masterfully employs the etymology of common words to infuse the narrative with mystery and suspense. One striking example is his exploration of the word "bundook," meaning "gun" in Hindi. Deen, the protagonist and a rare book dealer, stumbles upon this term while researching the legend of the Gun Merchant. As he delves into its origins, he unveils a web of connections to ancient myths and historical events, propelling him on a quest to unravel the enigma surrounding the Gun Merchant and the truths it conceals. This discovery of intertwined histories between the Gun Merchant and Manasa Devi ignites Deen's pursuit to comprehend the profound impacts of climate change on both human lives and ecosystems.

Throughout the narrative, Ghosh intricately weaves in the etymology of various words, including "refugee" and "trafficking," shedding light on urgent global issues. As Deen encounters refugees fleeing environmental catastrophes and individuals ensnared in human trafficking, he reflects on the origins and meanings of these terms. This prompts readers to delve into the human narratives underlying these labels, fostering a deeper understanding of the interconnected struggles faced by individuals worldwide.

Ghosh's utilization of etymology extends beyond mere linguistic exploration. Even in the choice of titles and character names, such as the Italian-named character Gisa, and the incorporation of languages like Bangla, Ghosh enriches the narrative with layers of cultural and historical significance. Thus, the interplay of words not only sustains intrigue but also serves as a vehicle for deeper thematic exploration, rendering "Gun Island" a captivating and thought-provoking literary journey.

What are your views on the use of myth and history in the novel Gun Island to draw the attention of the reader towards contemporary issues like climate change and migration?

In Amitav Ghosh's book "Gun Island," he uses old stories and events from the past to talk about important problems we face today, like climate change and migration. By mixing these old stories with modern issues, Ghosh makes the book interesting and makes us think about the world we live in.

Ghosh talks about ancient myths like the Gun Merchant and Manasa Devi to show how nature and people are connected. He shows how things from the past can help us understand the problems we have now, especially with the environment getting worse. By using these old stories, Ghosh wants us to think about how our actions affect the planet.

He also talks about history to show how migration and people moving from one place to another have always been happening. Ghosh compares the past with what's happening today, like refugees running away from places affected by things like floods. He wants us to see that these issues are still around and need our attention.

Ghosh's use of myths and history in "Gun Island" helps us see how things from the past can teach us about the problems we face today. By mixing old stories with modern issues, Ghosh wants us to think about how we can make things better for the future.

Is there any connection between 'The Great Derangement' and 'Gun Island'?

Amitav Ghosh's novel "Gun Island" can be viewed as a creative extension of the themes and ideas he explored in his non-fiction work "The Great Derangement: Climate Change and the Unthinkable." In "The Great Derangement," Ghosh critically examines the lack of literary and cultural discourse surrounding the pressing issue of climate change, arguing that despite the urgency and the far-reaching implications of the climate crisis, it remains largely absent from contemporary fiction and intellectual discussions. This work serves as a thought-provoking critique of the literary and artistic community's relative disengagement with the realities of climate change. In "Gun Island," Ghosh directly engages with the themes of climate change, environmental degradation, and their profound impacts on human societies and ecosystems, weaving these themes into the narrative of the novel. By doing so, Ghosh addresses the very issues he raised in "The Great Derangement," representing his creative response to the lack of literary engagement with the climate crisis and using the power of fiction to explore these complex and pressing concerns. While "The Great Derangement" operates within the realm of academic discourse and critical analysis, "Gun Island" allows Ghosh to translate these ideas into a more accessible and immersive narrative format, bridging the gap between the scholarly examination of the problem and the imaginative exploration of its human consequences. This approach enables Ghosh to engage a wider audience in the discussion around climate change, using the emotive power of fiction to complement the intellectual rigor of his non-fiction work. "Gun Island" can be seen as a continuation of Ghosh's overarching exploration of climate change and its cultural implications, building upon the ideas and concerns raised in "The Great Derangement" and offering a creative platform for Ghosh to further examine the interconnections between the environment, human societies, and the urgent need for collective action.