Review: Rashid Javed Ahmed
The English version of Fareha Arshad’s short stories, written and translated by the author herself, is now in my hands. Having read all 12 stories in this collection, I deliberately focused on the English text, setting aside the Urdu version I read two years ago.
Fareha Arshad has cultivated a unique narrative style that allows her to convey even the most intricate themes with remarkable clarity. While she describes her work as a “Montage,” her stories transcend the boundaries of this technique. Grounded in realism as her primary narrative approach, she seamlessly weaves in elements of surrealism, making them an integral part of her storytelling. This interplay uncovers multiple layers of truth within her tales, skillfully connecting readers to a singular narrative thread that branches into diverse emotional experiences.
The power of her stories lies in their brevity and precision, creating a profound chain of meaningful expressions. Fareha Arshad possesses the rare gift of knowing exactly what to say and how much to say, a quality that distinguishes her from many other storytellers. This artistic precision enables her to delve deeply into complex subjects without losing focus. Before her discerning gaze, society—with all its class-based arrogance—stands exposed, yet she endeavors to dissect and understand its core.
A recurring focus in Fareha’s work is her nuanced portrayal of women, depicted in a range of roles that highlight their experiences within specific social and cultural contexts. Her characters, often subjected to various forms of oppression or injustice, are explored with meticulous care and an objective lens. Whether it’s Bilqisi in “Repent Leisure”, the aunt in” The Eclipse Gaatha”, or Shah Bano in” Ameer Sadqain”, Fareha’s stories vividly bring to life the multifaceted realities of the society she lives in.
Her narratives span a wide spectrum—from the stage drama of an elite school attended by underprivileged children to the poetic grace of the dancer in” Shab Jaye Ki Man Boodam.” These characters are deeply embedded in Pakistan’s socio-economic and cultural fabric, with their spiritual and emotional realities portrayed authentically. Fareha ensures her characters are more than mere symbols; they are fully realized human beings, resonating with the complexities of their environment.
Empathy is at the heart of Fareha’s storytelling. While she immerses herself in her characters’ struggles, she avoids overt emotionalism. This delicate balance showcases her mastery as a writer—deciding when to share in her characters’ suffering and when to mourn alongside them. She explores their psychology through a thoughtful and observational lens, walking beside them to uncover their pain. This approach engages readers and sharpens her critique of societal issues and individual challenges.
Her stories encapsulate society’s collective grief and struggles, offering an unflinching look at its realities. Fareha’s keen perception of her surroundings is evident in her portrayal of both tribal justice systems and urban life. With unwavering consistency, she underscores the timeless essence of human nature. Her narratives open new windows of understanding, providing perspectives that illuminate the turbulence of various eras and dimensions.
The essence of short storytelling lies in encapsulating profound thought within a compact form. Fareha excels in this craft, blending innovative styles, fresh perspectives, and experimental techniques. She rejects the constraints of traditional storytelling, embracing the challenge of crafting narratives that resonate with contemporary readers. While respecting enduring values, she dares to explore modern characters’ psychological, social, and moral dimensions.
The stories in Montage showcase Fareha’s innovative use of language and narrative techniques, offering layers of interpretation. She belongs to a cadre of storytellers who have ventured beyond conventional paths, carving out a distinct trajectory. In examining the relationship between men and women, she takes an unconventional approach, upholding the dignity of women in her narratives. This distinctive style makes her work stand out.
Each story possesses its own narrative identity, with its message subtly woven into the fabric of the text. The rhythm of her storytelling lingers in the reader’s consciousness, a hallmark of her creative genius. Fareha’s work is infused with deep emotion, intense passion, and innovative techniques. Her narratives connect to a collective consciousness and reflect a commitment to envisioning a better world for women.
Her meticulous attention to detail—be it character development, narrative coherence, symbolism, or even the thoughtful selection of titles—reveals a contemplative mind. This dedication to craftsmanship elevates her storytelling, making her a beacon of creativity in contemporary literature.
A successful translation of fiction captures the nuances and essence of the original text while making it accessible and engaging for a new audience. Fareha, as the translator of her work, strikes a delicate balance between fidelity to the source material and creative adaptation. Her translation retains the original tone, style, and emotional depth, allowing the characters, dialogues, and cultural references to resonate authentically.
Through her careful attention to idiomatic expressions, rhythm, and pacing, Fareha ensures her stories feel like they were originally written in English. This skill enables readers to fully immerse themselves in the narrative, preserving the richness and integrity of the original text.
The book is published by Saanjh Publications, Lahore.
- MONTAGE: by Fareha Arshad - 02/01/2025
- A Review on Sarosh Latif’s Book Let’s Barter Silence and Sounds - 31/05/2021
