Shawkat Ali's Short Stories: An Exquisite Tapestry of Subaltern Voices and the Silent Revolt of the Oppressed

Abstract

Although measuring literature by decades may not be entirely justifiable, Shawkat Ali (February 12, 1936 – January 25, 2018) firmly stands as a prominent figure of the 1960s. His literary journey stemmed from profound contemplation, with fiction emerging as his chosen medium of expression. In his short stories, the lives, customs, and ideologies of society’s underprivileged classes are vividly portrayed. Alongside this, the dynamics of relationships between the upper echelons and the marginalized are intricately woven into his narratives. In the socio-economic and political contexts of the nation, the lower strata of society have historically endured the brunt of neglect and deprivation. Ali's stories resonate with the poignant cries, agonizing despair, and profound helplessness of these marginalized communities. Moreover, he explores the social crises and economic disparities that plagued the nation in the post-independence era. His narratives delve into the experiences of various societal groups, particularly the marginalized. Works such as Unmul Bashona (1968), Lelihan Shadh (1978), Shuno he Lokkhindor (1988), and Baba Apne Jan (1994) offer diverse representations of these social inequalities. Among the aforementioned stories, this essay examines depictions of exploitation and oppression of the lower classes by the elite. These stories, set against the backdrop of Bangladesh, significantly reflect the influence of "Subaltern Theory." This discussion endeavors to analyze the lifestyle, customs, and ideologies of the marginalized under the lens of Subaltern Studies, shedding light on their lived realities and cultural ethos in the context of socio-economic disparity.