What is the point of view of the Interpreter of Maladies?

The short story "Interpreter of Maladies" is primarily told from a third-person limited point of view.

Understanding the Narrative Perspective

The narrative perspective in "Interpreter of Maladies" is crucial to how readers experience the story and understand its central characters. The third-person limited viewpoint means that the story is narrated by an outside observer, but the information provided, particularly thoughts and feelings, is confined to a single character's perspective.

Key Characteristics of the Point of View:

• Third-Person: The narrator uses third-person pronouns (he, she, it, they) to refer to all characters, rather than "I" (first-person) or "you" (second-person).
• Limited Focus: While the narrator is external, the story's events and the internal world are primarily presented through the perceptions of Mr. Kapasi. Readers gain deep insight into his thoughts, feelings, observations, and interpretations of the events unfolding around him.
• Objective Narration: The narrator largely remains objective, presenting Mr. Kapasi's perceptions without overtly inserting personal opinions or biases. This allows the reader to experience events as Mr. Kapasi does, influencing their understanding of the other characters through his lens.

Impact of Third-Person Limited POV

This specific point of view significantly shapes the reader's engagement with the narrative.

• Deep Character Immersion: By limiting the focus to Mr. Kapasi, the story allows for a profound exploration of his inner life. Readers become intimately familiar with his aspirations, his interpretation of Mrs. Das's confession, and his evolving perception of their relationship. This close perspective builds empathy and understanding for his unique circumstances.
• Selective Information: The reader knows what Mr. Kapasi knows and feels what he feels. This means that the internal thoughts and motivations of other characters, particularly the Das family, remain largely a mystery. We see their actions and hear their words, but their inner worlds are not directly revealed.
• Building Suspense and Irony: The limited perspective can create dramatic irony or suspense. For instance, Mr. Kapasi's hopeful interpretations of Mrs. Das's interest might contrast sharply with how a more omniscient narrator (or Mrs. Das's own perspective) might portray the situation, highlighting his eventual disillusionment.

Table: Point of View in "Interpreter of Maladies"

By utilizing this third-person limited point of view centered on Mr. Kapasi, the author effectively immerses the reader in his unique world, highlighting the nuanced internal struggles and hopes of a man often overlooked by those around him.