Dynamics of Rationality and Irrationality in The Painter of Signs

Abstract

R. K. Narayan occupies a significant place in the Indian literary scene. He remains one of the most read, cherished, and appreciated novelist and is an integral part of the University curriculum. The Painter of Signs (1976) is a well-known novel by R.K. Narayan. The text provides a beautiful scope to unearth the intricate dynamics of rationality and irrationality distinction that in fact provides much content for the plot of the novel. The present paper makes an attempt to explore the dynamics of the conceptual framework of rationality and irrationality distinction through a scrutiny of certain instances taking place within the space of the novel.  The paper also tries to illustrate that the criticism made by the main protagonists, Raman and Daisy using the conceptual framework of rationality and irrationality are targeted towards ritual practices prevalent in Indian society. Thereby, the paper attempts to build a background to make intelligible the comments and attitude of the main characters towards the incidents taking place around them. At the same time, the paper explores the way in which the novel thus provides a significant space to examine the interplay and dynamics of the framework of rationality and irrationality and how it can impact one’s experience of life.