V.S. Naipaul : a writer's quest for wholeness

Abstract

V.S. Naipaul is amongst the most prolific contemporary authors who have written in depth about the state of exile and the effects of colonialism. For any scholar interested in exploring the literature of colonialism, imperialism and their affects, Naipaul is the optimal subject. A self-imposed exile, Naipaul's dominant theme is the alienation of the central characters and their quest for identity and wholeness. Naipaul's preoccupation with this theme is in fact largely the consequence of his own background. In my introductory chapter I seek to explain the relevant aspects of Naipaul's personal background and upbringing to throw light on his development as a writer. I try to expose the links between Naipaul as a postcolonial self, and Naipaul as an author to show how he ultimately accepts his status as an exile through his writing. Comparing and contrasting him to other Caribbean authors, I also develop an insight into the framework within which he operates and the criticism that he has received from both the Third and the First World. Thus the chapter progresses from a portrayal of Naipaul's ambiguous position, to a discussion of the process which he underwent to develop a recognised voice and finally describing his double vision as both a writer and a colonial.