Amitav Ghosh's 'Ghost-Eye' Review: A Climate-Crisis Novel Let Down by Its Prose
In his 11th novel, Ghost-Eye, Amitav Ghosh delves into the spiritual interconnectedness of a globalised world, using reincarnation as a metaphor for ecological unity. However, this ambitious climate-crisis narrative is significantly hampered by clichéd prose, which detracts from its powerful plot and urgent message.
Plot Intricacies and Global Themes
The story follows Dinu, a semi-retired antiquarian in Brooklyn, who narrates his tale during the 2020 pandemic. He seeks to memorialise his aunt, Shoma, a therapist who specialised in cases of reincarnation, particularly involving children. One such case centres on Varsha, a three-year-old from a wealthy Jain family who inexplicably craves fish, leading Shoma to uncover a past life as a fisher in the Sundarbans. The narrative weaves together multiple quests, including Dinu's personal history and a secret plan by his activist ward, Tipu, to harness the power of "ghost-eyes"—spiritually gifted individuals—to combat corporate polluters.
Ghosh's exploration of globalisation, post-World War II collisions, and climate emergency is timely and important. The novel posits a shared spirituality among humans, animals, and plants, envisioning an eternal ecological hive mind. This provocative idea aims to highlight our interconnectedness in an age of environmental crisis.
Prose That Falls Flat
Despite its intricate plot, Ghost-Eye is marred by a reliance on clichés that deaden the prose. Examples abound, such as "manicured gardens," "apple of their father’s eye," and "venerable patriarch." These workhorse phrases undermine the narrative's credibility and urgency. Dialogue further suffers, with characters like Tipu, meant to represent Gen Z, speaking in forced slang that feels inauthentic, while boomer characters deliver exposition-heavy lines that lack realism.
The accumulation of these clichés erodes the novel's impact. A late revelation about Dinu's identity, which should resonate powerfully, instead feels contrived. The climax involving corporate polluters fizzles out in an offstage supernatural showdown, leaving the argument against environmental exploitation underdeveloped.
Highlights and Missed Opportunities
There are moments where Ghosh's talent shines through, particularly in his vivid portrayal of Shoma's meticulous intelligence and his rich attentiveness to food as a metaphor for globalisation. These elements demonstrate the novel's potential, but they are overshadowed by the pervasive clichés. For readers familiar with Ghosh's earlier works, such as the acclaimed Ibis trilogy and his polemic The Great Derangement, this novel may feel like a step back in literary craftsmanship.
In summary, Ghost-Eye offers an important message on climate and interconnectedness, but its execution is let down by prose that fails to elevate its themes. While the plot intrigues and the ideas provoke, the reading experience is often bogged down by familiar phrases that lack freshness. As with many novels, individual mileage may vary, but for those seeking Ghosh's usual narrative riches, this one might not fully deliver.
