Violence
Narratives of violence both implied and overt can be found throughout the novel. Sailor, Sarath’s Wife, Sarath, Anand’s Wife, Anand’s suicide attempt, as well as the many nameless victims of state sponsored killings—all of them victims of violence. The descriptions of violence help to give the reading audience an understanding of the sheer magnitude of the atrocities committed as well as a better understanding of the sense of urgency that the protagonist, Anil, displays in trying to solve the mystery of Sailor’s identity.
Corruption
Similar to the narratives of violence the descriptions of government corruption are present both as implied and overt mentions. The very reason Anil is present in Sri Lanka is to help investigate instances of crimes against humanity that come in the form of state sponsored killings. In the novel’s narrative there is a deliberate omission of the identities, dates, and general information that might provide a clearer idea of the precise scope of the crimes committed. The hazy information is contrasted however in a section in the novel where a list of victims along with identifiable data is included as a poignant introduction. This is done in order to not just make it more relatable to a wider reading audience but also to deliver a message: this scope of violence and dehumanization can occur anywhere to any nation so long as a population remains passive enough.
Religious Allegories
Sri Lanka is a cultural melting pot where many major world faiths are practiced and as such there are several religious allegories that are mentioned in the novel ranging from Buddhist, Christian, and Hindu beliefs. Being a largely Buddhist nation, Buddha’s image makes a frequent appearance in the narrative. Christian allegories are also present in the form of the Pieta and some allusions to Adam and Eve. These religious allegories however, despite the reverence in their mentions, are often presented in a negative light. These religious effigies are often presented as metaphors and symbols for powerlessness and the indifference of people.
Troubled Pasts
Nearly all of the characters in the novel, Anil, Sarath, The Mouse, Sailor, carry with them deep, emotional scars from a troubled past. These tragic back stories are brought up during flashbacks and all of these characters are affected by violence in one form or another. This specific detail is brought up in the narrative to point out one thing: the effects of the Sri Lankan civil war, and by extension any and all wars, regardless of where and when, will have a profound impact upon people that will last for several generations.
