A review by aashima
Seahorse by Janice Pariat

4.0

Seahorse was nothing short of a magical experience. The way its written is sheer music or poetry.
Nem is a literature student in DU. He is roaming aimlessly one day so, as he can't sit on the lawn due to scorching Delhi heat, he attends a lecture by a guest lecturer, Nicholas, on Representation of the Buddha in art. This encounter made possible by slim coincidence (or destiny if you believe in it) results into them having a passionate relationship.
But one day, Nicholas disappears without leaving behind any trail for Nem to follow.
Some years later, Nem is working for an art journal in South Delhi when he is awarded a fellowship to London. While he is in a recital program in London, he recieves a note from Nicholas which plunges him into a frantic search for the art historian.
The characters are as real as they can be. they are not white or black but lead grey.
I went with my friends to a beach when I first came to Kerala. That side of the beach is not known to many people. Only some tourists or a few people lurk around there. It was the most breathtaking place. When I was standing at the shore, the water didn't touch my feet, so I went further. The second time also the water didn't come up to me. It was as if the sea was calling me towards it. I felt the same for this book. Every page was like a wave. Breaking at the shore. Drenching my feet. The next wave breaking nearer to the sea.