It is often said that literature is the mirror of society. Yet, literature is no ordinary mirror—it reflects not just the present but also journeys through the past to offer a vision of the future.
While reading Indian literature, I have observed a marked trend over the past four decades—a particular brand of so-called “realism” that has dominated literary expression. Within this framework, themes such as women’s issues, rural life, poverty, Dalits, backward and elite-backward classes, tribal communities, social movements, love, historical and mythological figures, and religion have all been explored in depth across varied spaces and timelines. These subjects have indeed been vital and thought- provoking.
However, the problem began when we stopped looking beyond them. The world was transforming rapidly, yet our literary focus remained tethered to familiar grounds. We neither compellingly evolved these themes nor did we dare to imagine new horizons. The result? Our readership steadily declined, and we failed to engage with the pressing global issues shaping the modern world.
Today, the times have changed—and so has the atmosphere. The youth of today, especially those aged between 18 and 30, think with a scientific lens. They are far ahead of us in understanding and awareness. And yet, we lack the language, vocabulary and scientific sensibility to meaningfully connect with them. In such a landscape, why would the next generation feel compelled to read us?
Literature—particularly fiction and storytelling—still holds the power to awaken, educate and inspire. Through the lived experiences of characters, we can offer gentle yet urgent reminders of the path we are on. There is a common argument that literature is not meant to reform society, that it does not incite revolution, nor is it its duty to guide.
Its role, some say, is simply to hold a mirror to reality. I respectfully disagree. The most enduring spiritual and religious texts across the world have shaped human thoughts for centuries through stories. If they can do so, why can’t contemporary literature?
We have exploited nature recklessly, without taking responsibility or sounding a warning. Let us not forget: when the future generations grapple with the consequences of global warming and environmental collapse, and they look back on us and our literature, they will hold us accountable. And they will not for-give our silence. It is entirely possible that they may even come to despise us.
(Ratneswar Kumar Singh is the author of the novel 32,000 Saal Pehle)
This series explores the most pressing environmental issues through the prism of literature
This article was originally published in the May 16-31, 2025 print edition of Down To Earth