Book Details:

• Publisher: Sahitya Akademi
• Language: English
• Pages: 140
• Cover: Paperback
• Dimensions: 21.5 cm x 14 cm (8.50 x 5.50 inch)
• Weight: 170 gm
• Edition: 1998
• ISBN: 8126004959

About the Book:

First Comes the Night is the English translation of Mudhalil Iravu Varum, a Tamil short story collection by Aadhavan Sundaram that won the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1987. These stories are celebrated for their innovative narrative style, intellectual depth, and originality. They explore the complexities of middle-class Tamilian life, tackling themes such as the identity crisis faced by the youth and the challenges of bridging the generation gap.

Through these poignant stories, Aadhavan delves into the personal and social dilemmas of his characters, offering readers a window into their emotional and psychological struggles. The collection is notable for its intellectual rigor and literary sophistication, making it a significant contribution to Tamil literature.

About the Author:

K.S. Aadhavan Sundaram (1942-1981) was a gifted Tamil writer known for his keen observation of human emotions and social issues. Aadhavan’s works reflect his deep sensitivity to the human condition, often portraying characters caught in emotional turmoil with a detached yet empathetic perspective. His works include three novels and five short story collections. His other notable short story collections are Iravukku Munbu Varuvadu Malai (1974), Kanavuk Kumizhikal (1975), Kal Vali (1975), and Oru Araiyil Irandu Narkaligal (1980).

R. Sundaresan, the translator of this collection, is a poet and translator known for his ability to capture the spirit of the original text, successfully bringing Aadhavan's literary excellence to English-speaking audiences.