Cultural Conflict in R.K. Narayan’s Novel The Dark Room

Abstract

Rasikpuram Krishnaswamy Iyer’s The Dark Room vividly portrays the effect of Western culture, a legacy germinated from the Britishers’ colonial rule in India, on the primitive Indian culture. It has virtually engendered a dichotomy between the Indian people who embodied Western cultural life and those still devoted and faithful towards the cultural root of India. Ramani and Savitri, a couple, are representative characters of such dichotomy of cultural difference. Influenced by Western culture, especially individualism, Ramani tries to dismantle the culture of his forefathers to go beyond its excess to live a carefree life. So he steps to escape the traditional mores and values and his role of father. In this process he becomes irresponsible and alien to his family. On the contrary, Savitri believes in religion, superstition, manners and social norms of her ancient lineage being a submissive and dutiful wife. As Ramani shows his bossy role of a colonial agent to govern the ‘colonized’, his wife and children, Savitri leaves the house which marks the climax between the couple who are in confrontation because of the cultural differences.