"Gulmohar and Other Short Stories" by Priyanka Gaurav Arora — A Marvelling Meditation on Memory and Nature for Multigenerational Readership

"Gulmohar and Other Short Stories" comes to tell the readers everything ‘When Memories Bloom Like Gulmohar Blossoms’! 

A marvelling meditation on memory, nature and childhood that qualifies for multigenerational readership, Gulmohar and Other Short Stories, the third literary offering from Priyanka Gaurav Arora has narratives that will tough and linger - quietly, deeper - long after the last page is turned! A gentle and heartfelt look at life’s small but powerful moments.

A thoughtful collection of memoirs, short stories and vignettes for readers of all ages, this anthology has been written in a style known as autofiction, where the author mixes her own life experiences with imagination. Whether it is a moment of sadness or a simple joy, the author has deftly captured the subtle feelings with great care and candor.

The memoirs come with a fine retraction of cultural traditions, family ties, religious beliefs and social expectations. They not only offer glimpse into the emotional richness of human life but will gently fetch realization that how we stand at the cusp of generational metamorphosis.

The vignettes beaming with imagery and fine detailing are sure to leave the readers pause and reflect. Through these, the author shows the beauty that can be found in small things.

The short stories touch on wider social issues such as gender roles, cultural conflicts and socio-political developments which continue to impact our lives.  

The book takes a critical linguistic leap with the author’ tactical use of foreign words before each section. Prosaically penned, these foreign words are delightful read which prepare the readers for the deeper meaning in the narratives that follow and a gentle reminder of the anglophone world.

Priyanka’s writing style is simple, graceful and full of emotions. Her calm and thoughtful tone makes the book a peaceful, resonating and rewarding read.

A lovely read for all readers of ages, Gulmohar and Other Short Stories is a reflective work that will leave you thinking long after finishing.  It is a book that you might surely pick up to re-read and recommend for its pace and beauty of thoughts.