The Wounds of the Dead
Vikram Paralkar
2017
Harper Collins
pp. 215
Parlkar is trained as a physician. In this fictional work he has used his knowledge of medicine and combined with horror, fantasy, and some bits of folklore. You will also find traces of mythology here and there or may be that is just my interpretation.
The story revolves around a doctor working in rural India. I don’t remember if there is a mention of India but the concerns raised are so true to India that I have presumed that this is where it is based. The first few chapters talk about the woes of doctors in rural India and the apathy towards health care at the grassroots level. This tone changes quickly as the story turns to take central focus on a family of dead people who come to him for treatment. If not treated, they are likely to die again by dawn. I am not sure how else to describe it. Everything transpires within that one night. I would have said that it would have made for a good horror film if I was sure of labelling the genre as horror. This is where the predicament lies. I cannot label the genre of this book except calling it fiction. It has elements of medical fiction, thriller, and horror in it. Much like life, it is difficult to categorise it.
I found the writing style engaging at most places but at some places, I found the descriptions of medical procedures distracting and sometimes disturbing. Another intriguing aspect is that none of the characters in the book have names. I find it related to medical training. Treating patients with detachment is required if doctors have to stay sane in the midst of so much suffering. And while we expect doctors to be compassionate, it is sure to take a toll on them. I guess not remembering identifying details of patients is one way to cope.
Overall, it was a good read. It may just be my own state of mind, but I found the writing reflective on larger issues of life as well.