The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese
’The Last Night in Travancore’ serves as the opening chapter of Abraham Verghese’s novel, 'The Covenant of Water, ’ setting the stage for a sprawling family saga that spans three generations and encompasses themes of death, faith, and love in a changing India. The chapter takes place in 1900 in Travancore, South India, and follows the story of a twelve-year-old girl named Mariamma, belonging to a long-standing Christian community, as she prepares to marry a widower who is three decades older and has a young son. Mariamma, also known as Big Ammachi, contemplates the life she is leaving behind as she bids farewell to her only home and expresses her thoughts through writing.
Verghese paints a vivid picture of the landscape of Travancore, where the convergence of the sea and white beaches merges with meandering rivers flowing down the lush slopes of the Ghats. It is a land of enchantment for a child, with cascading torrents, rippling waterways, intricate pools and canals, a labyrinthine network of swamps and emerald lotus wetlands, and an extensive interconnected system where water is ever-present and integral to the lives of its inhabitants.
Before delving deeper into the main narrative of the book, it is crucial to comprehend the history of Kerala, situated at the tip of the Indian peninsula. Verghese explores the historical backdrop of this region located along the Malabar coast, emphasizing its rich cultural heritage that has evolved over centuries. Kerala is renowned for its picturesque lagoons and wetlands, which profoundly influence the way of life for its people. Religion holds significant sway in Kerala’s culture, with Hinduism, Christianity, and Islam being the dominant faiths.
Through the novel, readers gain profound insights into Kerala’s history and culture. Among the notable themes explored in the book are the drownings, a frequent occurrence in Kerala due to its geographical features.
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