Pushpa Suriyaarachchi’s eco-centric novel “Lost in Floral Rain”
The above work of art, which is a narrative fiction, is essentially based on the biographical resonance of the author. Though biographic in semantic structure it possesses an eco-centric element overwhelmed with the aesthetic presence that links “lively blooming Jacaranda flowers of Sydney” with “torrential monsoon weather” and “Robarosiya pink flowers” of the University Park at Peradeniya.
The highlight of the language usage by the author is amplified by the relevant use of imagery, both visual and tactile portrayed eloquently.
“I move from one class to another, following her, holding on to the end of this ‘throw’, draped over her shoulder…..” (page 17).
“A gush of rainwater hits me right in the face. It is icy cold….” (page 9).
“The raindrops tumble down on to the ground and break into fine droplets, scattering in all directions….An army of frogs is performing a croaking symphony celebrating the rain.” (page 11).
The author’s forceful insight and mindful observation has inevitably resulted in a keen display of minute details so as to create an authentic and realistic picture.
“The front of the line of houses is in my view. This is where the children play. There are about twenty children of different ages. They go around and around in circles or play hopscotch while their mothers watch them, washing the cooking pots or chatting with each other. The dogs go around sniffing for food. There is a little girl with long platted hair and round face who has seen me looking at them playing. When she looks up, I have waved at her a few times. Now she always looks for me…” (page 23).
There are many instances in the narrative that are similar to the example cited above, that create a vivid atmosphere before the enthusiastic reader.
The cluster of poems at the prelude, dialogues and prose content enriches the narrative fiction to a status of a novel, with distinct techniques and character development. The inclusion of Sinhala folk poem and a translation of a contemporary Sinhala poem describing the major rivers of Sri Lanka gives an additional impetus to its literary validity.
When considering the specific literary techniques used by the author, we observe that the descriptive narrative is coherently interspersed with dialogue to keep the story moving and to keep the reader’s attention piqued. Further, there is a mosaic of scenes, sometimes not chronologically placed, allowing the process of suspense, thereby leading the reader to gain a sense of mystery amongst the cadence.
The character development in this fiction pivots around “Kusum”, literally meaning a flower in Sinhala and her family. While the relatable strength of the novel lies in the realistic portrayal of major characters from childhood to adult professional status, the backdrop of picturesque Nuwara-Eliya presented by the author, elevates its authenticity.
An in depth appreciation of this work of art reveals the socio-cultural economic and political fabric of Sri Lanka in the 1970’s and 1980’s. None the less, it is reminiscent for all persons of Sri Lankan origin living overseas. Incidentally, the intuitive behaviour of characters emerge in the vicinity of tea plantations where the innocence of childhood is highlighted irrespective of socio-ethnic diversity. The English educated middle class sensibility and value system prevalent in Sri Lanka is symbolised by the reference to popular English nursery rhyme- “rain rain go away, come again another day” and “Alice in Wonderland”.
In conclusion it is worthwhile stating that ecology is not merely a background but an integral part of the theme that evolves throughout the fiction.
The author deserves our congratulations and encouragement for her skilful devotion to produce this valuable work of art and wish her all the best in her future literary endeavours.
Dr Ubeyasiri Wijeyananda Wickrama
(This review is based on the speech made by Dr Wickrama at the book launch ceremony held in Sydney, Australia on 14 July 2019).
Copies from the second print of the novel "Lost in Floral Rain" are available for sale in Australia. Those who are willing to purchase a copy are kindly requested to refer to information given in the following location: https://lostinfloralrain.blogspot.com/2023/05/how-to-buy-copy-of-lost-in-floral-rain.html
All revenue raised from the sale of "Lost in Floral rain" will be used for the charity named "Project Home Owl". For details of "Project Home Owl" charity please visit: https://lostinfloralrain.blogspot.com/2019/05/introducing-project-home-owl-charity.html
For details contact: pushpa.suriyaarachchi@yahoo.com.au.
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