Book Review: Before We Visit the Goddess
Title:
Before We Visit the Goddess
Author:
Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni
Publication:
Penguin Random House
Publication Year:
2016
Genre:
Fiction, Literary, Women's Fiction
Language:
English
About the Author
Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni is an acclaimed Indian-American author, poet, and teacher. She is known for her evocative storytelling and exploration of themes such as identity, migration, and the South Asian women's experience. Her other well-known works include "The Mistress of Spices", "Sister of My Heart", and "The Palace of Illusions". Divakaruni's writing is deeply rooted in cultural narratives and often blends personal stories with historical and social issues.
About the Book
"Before We Visit the Goddess" is a poignant and thought-provoking novel that traces the lives of three women across generations, exploring themes of ambition, love, betrayal, and self-discovery. The story unfolds around the lives of Sabitri, a Bengali woman from India, her daughter, and granddaughter, focusing on the emotional complexities that shape their identities. The novel spans continents and time periods, connecting the past and the present, as each woman navigates her own path toward self-realization. Through their stories, Divakaruni explores the sacrifices women make and the courage required to live authentic lives. The title refers to a Bengali tradition that shapes the characters' beliefs and the way they approach life.
Language of the Book and Writing Style
Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni's writing in "Before We Visit the Goddess" is lyrical, reflective, and deeply resonant. She masterfully weaves together personal and cultural stories with vivid descriptions and sensory details. The narrative is both intimate and universal, as the author captures the emotional nuances of her characters’ lives, filled with longing, joy, and sorrow. Divakaruni’s prose is marked by its elegance and emotional depth, drawing readers into the hearts and minds of the women whose stories unfold over time. The novel's structure, with its interconnected tales, adds layers to the reading experience, revealing the intricate web of relationships that shape the characters' lives.
My Opinion About the Book
"Before We Visit the Goddess" is a beautiful and immersive novel that explores the rich inner lives of women across different generations. I was struck by the way Divakaruni captured the emotional complexities of her characters, especially how their pasts influenced their present identities. The book resonated with me on a personal level, as it addressed universal themes of family, sacrifice, and the pursuit of one's dreams. I appreciated the way the author highlighted the strength and resilience of women, as well as the delicate balance between tradition and modernity. The novel is a heartfelt exploration of the bonds that define us, and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in stories about family, identity, and the paths women walk toward self-discovery.
Morals
"Before We Visit the Goddess" teaches readers about the power of self-determination, the complexities of familial relationships, and the sacrifices women make in their quest for fulfillment. The novel encourages reflection on the importance of understanding one's heritage while carving out a personal identity. It also highlights the strength of women in the face of adversity, their courage to break free from societal expectations, and their ability to reshape their own destinies. Ultimately, the novel speaks to the human desire for connection, self-realization, and the bonds that tie generations together.