Book Lovers Scholarship

During a summer semester at college, I read one of the most impactful pieces of fiction: “A Brief History of Seven Killings” by Jamaican author, Marlon James. This ironically titled novel (nearly 700 pages long) is an ambitious, historical epic that chronicles events leading up to a general election & Bob Marley’s attempted assassination in December 1976 and the subsequent fallout leading up to 1991. This novel covers various issues (during a relatively overlooked time in history) including public disapproval of Bob Marley & the Rastafari religion, gang violence, poverty in the City of Kingston, colorism, political turmoil, misogyny, class dynamics, & Cold War-era foreign policy. Most notably, this novel is often written in Jamaican Patois & in stream of consciousness. I was initially averse to reading stream of consciousness, after I was assigned to read William Faulkner’s “As I Lay Dying” in high school. Nonetheless, ‘A Brief History’ opened my eyes to the immense power of said writing style. By not following orthodox prose, I was transported to the unfiltered thought processes of the novel’s 75 characters including posse/gang members & leaders, a deceased politician, a music journalist, a Jamaican woman, and a government agent. By utilizing stream of consciousness, Marlon James personalizes complex, geopolitical issues. As an avid follower of history & public policy, this novel was immensely refreshing to read. Although non-fiction is important, the rawness of individuals’ experiences and the emotional resonance is sometimes lost in erudite & plodding language. As a prospective MPP student, this book has been truly informative to my understanding of society due to the novel’s use of non-linear storytelling & multiple POVs. Oftentimes, people believe that history follows a simple, linear story. However, we do a disservice to ourselves by oversimplifying history. Of course, there are basic, general truths. However, it is equally important to understand the nuanced & diverse experiences of various people affected by policy & history. The general populace would also benefit from reading ‘A Brief History.’ Unfortunately, Jamaica is often perceived as a mere vacation destination and is frequently parodied. However, like everywhere else, Jamaica is a real place with real people. This sentiment can also be extended to other countries that are mistreated or misunderstood. One of the best aspects of reading is its ability to expand worldviews and to challenge preconceived notions of people & ideas. “A Brief History of Seven Killings” certainly achieves this.

As a young student striving for success, I stumbled upon Viktor E. Frankl's profound masterpiece, "Man's Search for Meaning," during my high school years while immersed in the grueling preparation for the NTSE exam, India's most prestigious and demanding test. One fateful afternoon, I devoured the entire book in one sitting, captivated by its narrative and insights. At that juncture, my life was a relentless pursuit of academic excellence, leaving little room for typical childhood interactions. The book became my solace, providing not only intellectual nourishment but also emotional sustenance during those solitary days. In the years that followed, the wisdom gleaned from this book became my guiding light through the labyrinth of college. Its lessons ingrained in me the power of perspective, reminding me that while circumstances may be beyond our control, our response to them is not. This realization fortified my resilience, enabling me to conquer academic challenges and excel in my chosen field. The book's core message, that life's meaning can be discovered even in the face of suffering, guided me to confront obstacles head-on, embrace discomfort, and extract purpose from adversity. This isn't just a book; it's an existential roadmap that urges us to unearth the profound purpose inherent in our lives. Frankl's vivid recollections of surviving the Holocaust underscore the triumph of the human spirit over unimaginable suffering. The book compels us to reflect on our own lives, encouraging us to evaluate our priorities and seek deeper fulfillment. By sharing his transformative experiences, Frankl imparts a universal truth: that the pursuit of meaning, not mere happiness, fuels our existence. This book isn't a mere read; it's an awakening that empowers us to navigate life's trials with grace, finding meaning in the seemingly mundane and inspiration in the direst of circumstances. "Man's Search for Meaning" has indelibly shaped my perspective, influencing my decisions, actions, and relationships. Its lessons continue to resonate, underscoring the importance of empathy, resilience, and introspection. If I could gift the world one book, it would undoubtedly be this timeless masterpiece. Its pages hold the potential to revolutionize countless lives, fostering a global community of individuals who recognize that meaning isn't a pursuit—it's a profound discovery awaiting each one of us, regardless of our circumstances. The book's enduring message echoes across generations, a testament to the enduring power of human resilience and the boundless capacity for growth, even amidst the darkest of times.