'From Heaven Lake' by Vikram Seth is a travelogue detailing the author's journey from China to India, specifically focusing on his experiences hitchhiking through northern China and Tibet. Seth compares life in China with conditions in India, highlighting the cultural differences and societal changes he observes along the way. The book captures Seth's struggles to navigate bureaucratic hurdles, natural obstacles, and societal challenges, providing a vivid depiction of the landscapes, people, and customs encountered during his adventurous trek.

Writing/Prose:

The writing is characterized by sensitivity and engaging descriptions, mixing humor with insightful commentary while maintaining a clear and concise prose.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative follows Vikram Seth's adventurous trek through China, Tibet, and Nepal, blending personal experiences with insightful reflections on culture and politics.

Setting:

The setting spans remote areas of China, Tibet, and Nepal, offering a vivid portrayal of diverse landscapes and socio-political contexts.

Pacing:

The pacing alternates between thrilling adventure and contemplative reflection, providing a dynamic reading experience.

Genres:

nonfiction

travel literature

memoir

Topics:

chinese political system

indian political system

Notes:

From Heaven Lake is Vikram Seth's first travel book, published after his studies in several countries.

Seth describes his travels through China, Tibet, and Nepal in 1983 with an open and empathetic style.

He effectively captures the emotions of his friendship with various Chinese ethnic groups, particularly the Han and Uighurs.

Seth's journey includes challenges like obtaining numerous visas and dealing with bureaucratic hurdles in China.

He hitchhiked across remote regions, providing a unique perspective on travel during that time.

The book contrasts the Chinese political system with India's, noting that China's social care is better despite its lack of democracy.

Seth highlights the daily realities of life for common people in China during the early 1980s, revealing both humor and adventure in his experiences.

He describes the yaks he encountered, detailing their importance for transportation and sustenance in the region.

Vikram Seth was multilingual, also known as Xie Binlang in China, reflecting his diverse background.

The travelogue serves as a historical snapshot of China and Tibet, presenting conditions that have changed significantly in the decades since.

From The Publisher:

After two years as a postgraduate student at Nanjing University in China, Vikram Seth hitch-hiked back to his home in New Delhi, via Tibet. From Heaven Lake is the story of his remarkable journey and his encounters with nomadic Muslims, Chinese officials, Buddhists and others.

What can you read after
From Heaven Lake?

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From Heaven Lake

Vikram Seth