Summary of The Riddle of Midnight

Salman Rushdie: "The Riddle of Midnight" Summary (Long Answer)

A Comprehensive Analysis for University Exams and Literary Studies

Introduction

"The Riddle of Midnight" is a powerful essay written by Salman Rushdie in 1987 to mark the 40th anniversary of India's independence. In this work, Rushdie returns to his birthplace to investigate the state of the nation. He focuses on the "Midnight's Children"—those born at the exact moment of independence in 1947—to see if the high hopes of that era have been fulfilled. The essay is a deep meditation on national identity, secularism, and the challenges of democracy.

The Central Riddle: Defining India

The "riddle" mentioned in the title refers to the difficulty of defining what India is. Rushdie argues that India is not just a geographical space but a "collective dream" or a myth that its citizens choose to believe in. Because India is so diverse in terms of language, religion, and culture, the central challenge is how to keep such a vast and varied population united under a single national identity.

The Decline of Secularism

A major theme of the essay is the transition from Nehru’s vision of a secular India to a more divided society. Rushdie expresses concern over the rise of communalism (religious extremism). He observes that 40 years after independence, people are increasingly identifying themselves by their religion rather than their nationality. He warns that if the secular fabric of India is destroyed, the very idea of a united India will cease to exist.

Reality vs. Hope

Through his interviews with real-life "Midnight's Children," Rushdie highlights the gap between the promises of 1947 and the reality of 1987. He finds a generation struggling with poverty, government corruption, and political instability. For many, the "magic" of independence has been replaced by the hard struggle for daily survival. This contrast between the dream of a new nation and the harsh reality of its citizens is a key focus of his critique.

15-Mark Answer Points:

• Context: Written for India's 40th Independence Anniversary (1987).
• The Riddle: The paradox of unity in extreme diversity.
• The Dream: India as an act of faith or a "collective fiction."
• Secularism: The threat of religious communalism to the nation's survival.
• Disillusionment: The failure of the state to solve poverty and corruption.

Meta Description: Complete 15-mark long answer and summary of Salman Rushdie's "The Riddle of Midnight." Understand the themes of Indian identity, secularism, and communalism in simple English.

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