SHORT STORY

3.4 SOCIAL JUSTICE

THE SQUIRREL | AMBAI

SHORT SUMMARY OF THE TEXT:

This is a translation of Ambai's 'Anil' from Tamil from her book A Kitchen in the Corner of the House
(1988). It depicts a disheartened researcher in women studies trying to locate a few old books in a
library. The whole section is poorly maintained and abandoned. The books are beyond mending and are
about to be disposed of in a fire. It indirectly alludes to the state of women in society and the status of
their creative output. The story also assures a quest for rediscovery.

SUMMARY OF THE TEXT:

Ambai's evocative text delves into a surreal and poignant encounter in a library, offering a unique
perspective on forgotten narratives and the connection between individuals and literature.
The narrative begins with the observer discovering a librarian positioned precariously atop facing
shelves, enshrouded in dust, resembling a good, obedient genie summoned by the rub of a magical lamp.
The observer's curiosity prompts a conversation, seeking to explore the contents of the high shelves,
but the librarian's responses are initially elusive. Dust is the only treasure to be found, he claims, until
the observer insists on inquiring about the books.
As the librarian prepares to throw down some of these seemingly forgotten books, the observer's
anticipation grows, and the crashing impact of these volumes through the roof adds to the surreal
atmosphere. These books are not mere relics; each one encapsulates whole generations and the stories
of diverse women. The books bear titles like Penmadhi Bodhini and Jaganmohini, evoking a sense of
nostalgia and discovery.
These dusty volumes, discarded and seemingly unused, breathe life into their forgotten narratives. They
reveal stories of stately matrons in nine-yard saris, women dedicated to temples, dancing and singing
to exhaustion, and those who broke societal norms to chase their own aspirations and ideals. The text
beautifully highlights the myriad roles and experiences of women in a bygone era.
The narrative also delves into the librarian's peculiar attachment to a file labeled "Subject: String." This
mundane yet intriguing fixation serves as a reflection on the library's bureaucratic intricacies and the
curious idiosyncrasies of its caretakers. The presence of a squirrel in the room adds an element of reality
and continuity amidst the contemplation of forgotten books.
The most poignant revelation comes when the librarian shares that these old, "women's books" are
destined for destruction by the government. The observer is deeply affected by this revelation,
emphasizing the significance of these hidden narratives and the importance of preserving them. The
impending burning of these books becomes a symbol of the erasure of women's stories, mirroring the
historical neglect and marginalization of women's voices.
As the narrative comes to a close, the librarian turns off the light, signifying the impending end of these
hidden narratives. The final image of the squirrel lying prone before the window adds a touch of
surrender, reinforcing the idea that these stories may be lost to history.
Ambai's writing effortlessly weaves together elements of nostalgia, history, and reflection on the value
of forgotten literature, particularly the stories of women. The library, usually a sanctuary for knowledge
and quiet contemplation, transforms into a repository of untold narratives. The observer's encounter
with the librarian prompts a reconsideration of the importance of preserving these stories, highlighting
the richness and diversity within the dusty pages of forgotten books. Ambai's text is a thought-provoking
and moving exploration of the enduring power of literature and the necessity of preserving the voices
of the past.

“Ambai’s Squirrel makes a case for how women have been neglected in the society and the need
for their empowerment” – Discuss

Ambai's "Squirrel" is a profound literary work that makes a compelling case for the historical neglect
of women in society and emphasizes the urgent need for their empowerment. Through a rich and multi-
layered narrative, Ambai addresses the systemic inequalities, societal expectations, and the forgotten
stories of women. The following discussion will delve into how "Squirrel" highlights these themes and
advocates for the empowerment of women.
First and foremost, "Squirrel" provides a powerful critique of the traditional roles and expectations
imposed on women in society. The story is set in a library, and the librarian's disregard for the books
on the higher shelves, which he dismisses as "rubbish," symbolizes how women's narratives have been
devalued and overlooked. The protagonist's curiosity and determination to explore these forgotten
stories represent the broader societal shift towards recognizing the worth of women's voices.
The neglected books in the library contain a treasure trove of women's experiences, from the stately
matrons playing badminton to the devadasis dedicated to temples, each representing a unique facet of
women's lives. Through these narratives, Ambai underscores the diversity and richness of women's
experiences, often marginalized or overshadowed by the dominant male narratives. The act of reading
and preserving these stories becomes a means of empowerment by acknowledging and valuing the lives
of women.
Ambai's narrative also addresses the complex issue of social and religious norms that have suppressed
women's agency and autonomy. The story of a Brahmin priest who refuses to perform the last rites for
an unshaven widow is a striking example. This anecdote reflects how dee ply ingrained patriarchal
beliefs and practices have denied women their basic rights and dignity. "Squirrel" underscores the
importance of challenging and dismantling these oppressive norms to empower women to make their
own choices.
The text delves into the role of women in the Indian freedom struggle, with Gandhi's address to women
spinning at the charka serving as a reminder of their active participation. Ambai highlights how women,
such as Uma Rani of the journal Tyagabumi, declared their independence and their refusal to be slaves.
These stories are a testament to the resilience and strength of women in their pursuit of equality and
justice. The text, therefore, becomes a historical account that inspires contemporary women to continue
the struggle for empowerment.
Through the character of the librarian's fixation on a file about string and his lack of reimbursement,
Ambai critiques the bureaucratic and often arbitrary rules that women must navigate. The librarian's
obsession with a seemingly trivial matter highlights the absurdity of such restrictions on women's lives.
This element of the story demonstrates the need for women to challenge and change the structures that
constrain their potential.
The impending burning of the old books by the government serves as a somber reminder of the erasure
of women's stories from history. It symbolizes how the contributions and experiences of women have
been systematically marginalized and discarded. Ambai's narrative, however, calls for a collective effort
to preserve these stories, to ensure that women's voices are heard and valued.
In conclusion, "Squirrel" by Ambai is a poignant literary work that advocates for the recognition and
empowerment of women in society. By spotlighting the historical neglect of women's narratives, the
story urges us to challenge societal norms and expectations that have confined and limited women.
Ambai's narrative becomes a rallying cry for the empowerment of women, emphasizing the richness,
diversity, and significance of their stories. This literary masterpiece serves as an inspiration to
acknowledge, preserve, and empower the voices of women in a world where their contributions and
experiences have often been dismissed and forgotten.

“Ambai’s Squirrel indirectly but sensitively presents the state of women in society and the status
of their creative output.” – Discuss.

Ambai's "Squirrel" is a poignant literary work that indirectly, yet sensitively, delves into the status of
women in society and their creative output. Through its intricate storytelling, symbolism, and the vivid
portrayal of characters, the story sheds light on the multifaceted challenges faced by women and their
resilience in the face of adversity.
The protagonist's encounter with the librarian, who is precariously perched on dusty shelves in a
forgotten corner of the library, serves as a metaphor for the obscured and marginalized status of women's
stories and experiences in society. The librarian's dusty, forgotten location mirrors the neglect and
indifference that women's narratives often receive.
The books that the librarian reluctantly retrieves from the dusty shelves are described as "rubbish" and
dismissed as unimportant. These books, primarily focused on women's stories, represent the creative
output of countless women whose voices have been silenced or overlooked. The dismissive attitude
towards these books reflects the broader societal tendency to disregard women's contributions to
literature and art.
As the librarian throws these books down, they crash through the roof, splitting open and revealing their
contents. This symbolic act highlights the force with which women's stories, once uncovered, can break
through the constraints placed upon them. The breaking open of the books parallels the liberation of
women's voices, allowing their stories to be heard and acknowledged.
The titles of the books, such as "Penmadhi Bodhini" and "Jaganmohini," evoke the rich and diverse
experiences of women in different eras and backgrounds. The books represent not just stories but entire
generations, each narrating the lives of women from various walks of life, from stately matrons to
devadasis to activists. Ambai skillfully weaves these stories together, emphasizing the multifaceted
nature of women's experiences.
The librarian's fixation on a file about string and the lack of reimbursement for it serves as a poignant
metaphor for the societal neglect of women's needs and contributions. The string, which is essential for
organizing and preserving the old magazines, reflects the often-unseen labor and effort of women who
work behind the scenes to maintain order and continuity in society. The librarian's plea for
reimbursement for the string, ignored and unanswered, highlights how women's contributions are taken
for granted and often go unrecognized.
The squirrel in the room, with its repetitive chirping of "Keech, Keech," serves as a connection to reality
amidst the musings. It is a reminder that even in the face of neglect and obscurity, there are those who
continue to acknowledge and seek out the stories of women. The squirrel's presence represents the hope
that these narratives will not be entirely forgotten.
The government's plan to burn the old, seemingly unused books signifies the ongoing disregard for
women's stories and their historical significance. The protagonist's distress at this revelation reflects the
broader concern about the erasure of women's voices and the loss of their narratives. The burning of
these books is a metaphor for the destruction of women's histories and the cultural amnesia that often
prevails.
In conclusion, Ambai's "Squirrel" is a powerful commentary on the state of women in society and the
status of their creative output. Through subtle yet impactful storytelling, the story highlights the neglect,
dismissal, and erasure of women's narratives. It underscores the need to recognize and celebrate the
diverse experiences and contributions of women, as well as the importance of preserving their stories
for future generations.

How does the narrator of the story “Squirrel” relate herself to the squirrel?

In Ambai's short story "Squirrel," the narrator forms a unique and symbolic connection with the squirrel
that inhabits the dusty, forgotten room in the library. This connection is central to the narrative and is
rich with meaning, reflecting the narrator's own experiences and emotions. The narrator relates herself
to the squirrel in several ways, and this relationship serves as a poignant commentary on the status of
women in society and the importance of their stories.
1. Shared Marginalization: The narrator and the squirrel both exist on the periphery, physically
and metaphorically. The room in which they find themselves is a neglected and dusty space,
cut off from the central activity of the library. This physical separation represents the
marginalization and isolation that women often experience in society. The squirrel, like the
narrator, is pushed to the margins, overlooked, and forgotten. Their shared marginalization is a
reflection of the societal neglect of women's experiences and stories.
2. Companionship in Isolation: In this isolated and dusty room, the narrator and the squirrel are
the only living beings. This isolation mirrors the loneliness and neglect that women's voices
and stories endure. Both the narrator and the squirrel find a form of companionship in their
shared isolation. The squirrel's presence, while silent, is a reminder that even in the most
forgotten spaces, life endures, and there are those who persist in seeking out neglected
narratives.
3. Link to Reality: The squirrel's repeated chirping of "Keech, Keech" serves as a link to reality
amidst the narrator's musings. It acts as an auditory anchor, pulling the narrator back from the
 depths of contemplation to the present moment. This link to reality highlights the importance
of acknowledging and preserving women's narratives. The squirrel's chirping becomes a
symbol of hope and a reminder that even in obscurity, there are voices seeking recognition.
4. Voice Amidst Silence: While the librarian remains largely silent and unresponsive to the
narrator's inquiries, the squirrel provides a vocal presence in the room. This contrast between
silence and chirping underscores the idea that women's voices, like the narrator's, need to be
heard. The squirrel's consistent chirping stands in stark contrast to the silent neglect faced by
women's stories. It symbolizes the persistence and resilience required to bring these narratives
to light.
5. Persistence: The squirrel's presence and its persistent chirping can be seen as an act of
determination and resilience in the face of neglect. Similarly, the narrator's engagement with
the forgotten books and her commitment to preserving and acknowledging the stories o f women
reflect her own persistence. Both the squirrel and the narrator serve as reminders of the
importance of persistence in the face of adversity and the need to bring women's narratives out
of obscurity.
In conclusion, the relationship between the narrator and the squirrel in Ambai's "Squirrel" is a rich and
symbolic one, highlighting themes of isolation, companionship, persistence, and the need for
recognition. The narrator sees herself in the squirrel as they both navigate the neglected and dusty
corners of the library, reminding us of the importance of acknowledging and preserving women's stories
in a society that often pushes them to the margins. The squirrel's presence and chirping become a symbol
of hope and resilience, offering a connection to reality and a call to action to ensure that women's
narratives are heard and valued.

Analyze the development of the narrator's character throughout the story. How does her
interaction with the librarian and her observations of the squirrel shape her as a character?

The narrator's character development in "The Squirrel" by Ambai is a central element of the story. Her
interaction with the librarian and her observations of the squirrel play a significant role in shaping her
character. Let's analyze this development:
Initial Perception: At the beginning of the story, the narrator appears to be an ordinary visitor to the
library. She is curious about the dusty, forgotten section and is intrigued by the librarian's peculiar
position on the shelves. Her willingness to engage in conversation with the librarian demonstrates her
open-mindedness.
Inquisitive and Empathetic: As the interaction progresses, we see the narrator's inquisitiveness. She
asks questions about the books at the top of the shelves, revealing her curiosity about the contents and
her sensitivity to the librarian's efforts. Her willingness to climb up to get the books demonstrates her
empathy and her interest in exploring the neglected stories of women.
Respect for Forgotten Stories: When the librarian dismisses the books as "rubbish," the narrator's
insistence on obtaining them showcases her respect for forgotten stories. She is not ready to accept the
librarian's judgment and wants to give these stories a chance.
Connection to the Squirrel: The presence of the squirrel in the room serves as a symbol and a
connection for the narrator. She identifies with the squirrel's role as an observer in the library. The
squirrel's chirping, "Keech, Keech," becomes a reassuring presence amidst the musings and the sneezing
librarian. The squirrel serves as a link to reality, grounding the narrator in the present moment.
Nostalgia and Reflection: As the story progresses, the narrator delves into her own thoughts and
memories. The library, the old books, and the librarian's fixation on the string file evoke nostalgia in
her. She reflects on the women's stories within the books, triggering her own memories and emotions.
Empowerment and Understanding: The interaction with the librarian and her observations of the
squirrel ultimately empower the narrator. She gains a deeper understanding of the value o f these
forgotten stories, particularly those of women. The tremor that runs through her when she touches a
mended, nineteenth-century book signifies the emotional impact these stories have on her. She
recognizes the importance of preserving and acknowledging the experiences and struggles of women.
Resilience and Connection: The narrator's character also demonstrates resilience. Despite the
librarian's dismissal and the impending burning of the books, she continues to connect with these
women's stories. The "magic string" that holds them together symbolizes her determination to preserve
and honor these narratives.
In summary, the narrator's character in "The Squirrel" evolves from a curious visitor to a compassionate
and determined advocate for the forgotten stories of women. Her interaction with the librarian and her
observations of the squirrel shape her character by deepening her appreciation for the value of literature
and her understanding of the experiences of women. The story highlights her empathy, re silience, and
connection to the past, ultimately making her a character who stands for the importance of preserving
and acknowledging these stories.

Discuss the symbolic significance of the squirrel in the story. How do es the squirrel serve as an
allegory for broader themes within the text?

The squirrel in Ambai's "The Squirrel" serves as a powerful symbol with multiple allegorical layers,
representing broader themes within the text. Let's delve into its symbolic significance:
1. Observer and Witness: The squirrel's role as an observer and witness within the library room
mirrors the narrator's position. It is a silent and unobtrusive presence, just like the narrator who
quietly observes the librarian's activities and listens to his explanations. In this sense, the
squirrel symbolizes the act of witnessing, suggesting that both the narrator and the squirrel are
custodians of these forgotten stories.
2. Connection to Reality: The squirrel's chirping, "Keech, Keech," serves as a grounding element
amidst the musings and interactions in the room. Its presence provides a link to the external
world, reminding the narrator of the reality beyond the books and the dusty shelves. This
connection to reality is significant, as it highlights the importance of staying connected to one's
surroundings and not getting lost in the past.
3. Resilience and Survival: Squirrels are known for their adaptability and resilience. They store
food for the winter, facing challenges and uncertainties with determination. In the context of
the story, the squirrel's resilience mirrors the narrator's determination to preserve and honor the
forgotten stories of women. Despite the impending burning of the books, the narrator remains
resilient, much like the squirrel facing adversity.
4. Feminine Symbolism: The squirrel can also be seen as a symbol of femininity. In many
cultures, squirrels are associated with nurturing and caring for their young. They are often seen
as symbols of motherhood and the domestic sphere. In this context, the squirrel represents the
themes of femininity and the domestic roles that are explored in the women's stories within the
books.
5. Silent Rebellion: The squirrel, though silent, becomes a form of rebellion against the
impending destruction of the books. Its presence challenges the librarian's decision to burn these
stories, as if silently protesting the erasure of these narratives. This silent rebellion aligns with
the broader themes of resistance and the importance of preserving women's stories.
6. Connection to Nature: Squirrels are creatures of nature, often associated with trees and the
outdoors. In a story set within the confines of a library, the squirrel's presence is a reminder of
the natural world. This connection to nature suggests that women's stories are intertwined with
the natural world and should not be confined to the dusty shelves of a library.
7. Symbol of Time: The squirrel's presence, with its repetitive actions and vocalizations, can
symbolize the passage of time. In the context of the story, it alludes to the enduring nature of
women's stories across different generations. The stories persist, like the squirrel's ongoing
chirping.
In conclusion, the squirrel in "The Squirrel" serves as a multi-faceted symbol that represents the
narrator's role as an observer and witness, resilience in the face of adversity, femininity, silent rebellion,
a connection to nature, and the enduring nature of women's stories. It is through this symbolic element
that Ambai conveys and reinforces the broader themes of the story, emphasizing the importance of
preserving and honoring the neglected narratives of women.

Explore the themes of women's experiences and creative output in "The Squirrel." How does the
story address the societal status of women and the value of their stories?

In Ambai's "The Squirrel," the themes of women's experiences and creative output a re central to the
narrative, and the story addresses the societal status of women and the value of their stories in several
ways.
1. Neglected Stories: The story opens with the narrator's encounter with a librarian who is tasked
with mending old and seemingly forgotten books. These books, referred to as "women's books,"
contain the stories of women from different backgrounds and time periods. The fact that these
books require mending and are stashed away in a remote corner of the library symbolizes how
women's stories have been neglected and marginalized by society.
2. Narratives of Women: Through the narrator's examination of the books that crash through the
roof, the narrative highlights the rich tapestry of women's lives. The stories include those of
stately matrons, devadasis dedicated to temples, activists, and women from diverse
backgrounds. The stories encompass a wide range of experiences, reflecting the complexity and
diversity of women's lives.
3. Empowerment and Activism: Some of the women featured in the stories are portrayed as
activists, challenging societal norms and advocating for women's rights and empowerment.
This underscores the resilience and agency of women in the face of adversity. These stories
serve as a reminder of the importance of women's contributions to society.
4. Feminine Wisdom: The stories also contain elements of feminine wisdom, such as advice on
how to please husbands or discussions on women's dharma. While some of this advice may
seem traditional or outdated, it reflects the historical context in which these stories were written.
The story doesn't necessarily endorse these perspectives but presents them as part of the broader
narrative of women's experiences.
5. Unconventional Narratives: The story of the Bengali girl who sets herself on fire to prevent
her father from selling their house to fund her marriage expenses is particularly powerful. It
demonstrates the extreme lengths to which some women have gone to assert their autonomy
and resist societal pressures. This narrative challenges conventional expectations and norms.
6. Silent Rebellion: The squirrel in the story can be seen as a symbol of silent rebellion. Its
presence in the room where these forgotten stories are kept is a quiet protest against the
impending destruction of these narratives. It represents the collective voice of women's stories,
even when they are not explicitly expressed.
7. Value of Preservation: The impending burning of these books by the government highlights
the urgent need to preserve and recognize the value of women's stories. The librarian's
indifference to these stories and the government's decision to destroy them reflect a broader
societal attitude that underestimates the importance of women's narratives.
In "The Squirrel," Ambai sensitively portrays the richness and complexity of women's experiences and
creative output. The story calls attention to the historical neglect and undervaluation of women's stories
and serves as a reminder of the need to preserve and celebrate these narratives. It underscores the
importance of recognizing the agency, wisdom, and resilience of women throughout history and the
significance of their contributions to society.

Analyze the role of nostalgia and memory in the story. How do the old books, the librarian's
fixation on the string file, and the narrator's musings reflect the theme of preserving and
remembering the past?

Nostalgia and memory play a significant role in Ambai's "The Squirrel," contributing to the theme of
preserving and remembering the past. The old books, the librarian's fixation on the string file, and the
narrator's musings all reflect the importance of preserving and honoring the past.
1. Old Books as Vessels of Memory: The old books in the library represent vessels of memory.
These forgotten tomes contain stories of women's experiences from various eras. Each book
encapsulates a piece of history and a segment of women's lives. By mending these books, the
librarian is essentially engaged in a process of preserving and restoring the past. His dusty and
isolated workspace resembles a treasure trove of memories and histories waiting to be
uncovered.
2. String File as a Symbol of Tradition: The librarian's fixation on the string file reveals the
importance of tradition and the preservation of established practices. The string file serves as a
symbol of the library's bureaucratic adherence to tradition and resistance to change. By insisting
 on separating old magazines with string, the librarian demonstrates a commitment to
maintaining the past, even if the practice seems outdated and unnecessary. This fixation on the
string file is a reflection of how institutions, like the library, can be resistant to modernization
and new ways of thinking.
3. Narrator's Musings as Reflections on the Past: The narrator's musings as she observes the
librarian and the falling books serve as a lens through which to explore the past. The stories
within the old books trigger her reflections on the history of women and their experiences. She
contemplates the lives of women who wrote or were depicted in these stories, highlighting the
interplay between memory and imagination. Her musings are an attempt to remember and
acknowledge the voices and stories of women who may have been overlooked or silenced by
society.
4. Impending Loss and Nostalgia: The impending loss of these old books, which are slated to be
burned by the government, creates a sense of nostalgia and urgency. The impending destruction
of these stories generates a feeling of loss and sadness, as if a part of history is being erased.
Nostalgia is evoked by the idea that these books, despite their obscurity, hold valuable
memories and narratives. The impending burning of the books is a stark reminder o f the fragility
of memory and the importance of preserving it.
5. The Squirrel as a Link to the Past: The squirrel in the room is a unique element that adds to
the theme of memory and nostalgia. It is a constant presence amidst the librarian's dusty and
antiquated workspace. The squirrel's presence serves as a link to the past, a living connection
to a world that may have been forgotten or ignored. It symbolizes the persistence of memory,
even in the most unexpected places.
In "The Squirrel," Ambai explores how the past is preserved, remembered, and sometimes overlooked.
The old books, the librarian's traditional practices, the narrator's musings, and the presence of the
squirrel all contribute to the theme of memory and nostalgia. The story encourages readers to reflect on
the importance of honoring the past and recognizing the value of historical narratives, especially those
of marginalized groups such as women.

Examine the references to women's struggles, such as the devadasis, activists, and women's
journals in the story. How do these elements tie into the broader themes of feminism and activism?

References to women's struggles, such as the devadasis, activists, and women's journals, play a crucial
role in Ambai's "The Squirrel" and tie into the broader themes of feminism and activism. These elements
shed light on the challenges women faced and the various ways they sought to empower themselves
and be heard.
1. Devadasis and the Consequences of Tradition: The reference to devadasis highlights the
consequences of traditional practices on women. Devadasis were often dedicated to temples
and forced into a life of dancing and servitude. Their exhaustion and suffering reflect the
oppression that women have historically endured due to entrenched societal norms. This
element underscores the need to challenge and change such traditions, a core tenet of feminism.
2. Activism and Resistance: The presence of activists in the narrative signifies women's efforts
to resist oppression and bring about change. Gandhi addressing women spinning at the charka
and Uma Rani of the journal Tyagabumi declaring her refusal to be a slave exemplify women's
activism. These women were instrumental in advocating for their rights and the rights of others.
Their activism represents a pivotal aspect of feminist struggle—women mobilizing to confront
injustice and inequality.
3. Women's Journals as Tools of Empowerment: Women's journals, such as Tyagabumi, are
platforms for women to express their thoughts, opinions, and creativity. They serve as tools of
empowerment, enabling women to share their stories, perspectives, and ideas with a broader
audience. These journals provided a voice to women who might otherwise have been silenced
or marginalized. This aligns with the feminist principle of creating spaces for women's
narratives and empowerment.
4. Preservation of Women's History: The story's focus on women's struggles and the historical
context of these women's journals emphasizes the importance of preserving women's history.
It highlights the richness and diversity of women's experiences and their efforts to bring about
 change. Recognizing and recording these histories are essential aspects of feminist activism.
5. Multiple Generations of Activism: The story also suggests that activism and feminist
struggles have occurred over multiple generations. The reference to activists from different eras
underscores the enduring nature of the fight for women's rights. It suggests that each generation
of activists builds upon the work of those who came before, contributing to an ongoing
movement.
In "The Squirrel," Ambai employs these references to women's struggle s, activists, and women's
journals to illustrate the multifaceted nature of feminist activism. By highlighting the challenges women
have faced and their various strategies for empowerment, the story underscores the significance of
raising awareness about women's issues, promoting change, and ensuring that women's stories are heard
and preserved for future generations.

What message or commentary do you believe Ambai is conveying through "The Squirrel"? How
does the story's narrative and character interactions serve to communicate this message?

In "The Squirrel" by Ambai, the author conveys a poignant message and comm entary on several
interconnected themes, primarily focusing on women's experiences, the status of their creative output,
and the preservation of their stories. The story's narrative and character interactions serve to
communicate these messages effectively.
1. Neglect of Women's Stories: Ambai's narrative highlights the neglect of women's stories in
society. The neglected library section, filled with dusty and forgotten books, serves as a
metaphor for the erasure of women's experiences from the cultural and historical narrative. The
librarian's casual dismissal of these books as "rubbish" reflects a broader societal attitude that
diminishes the value of women's stories.
2. Empowerment through Storytelling: The story subtly emphasizes the empowerment of
women through storytelling. As the books crash through the roof and open, revealing volumes
with titles like Penmadhi Bodhini and Jaganmohini, they symbolize generations of women and
their diverse experiences. These stories, despite being marginalized and forgotten, hold
immense power and the potential to inspire and empower future generations of women.
3. Preservation of Women's History: Through the librarian's fixation on the string file and the
protagonist's interactions with him, Ambai underscores the importance of p reserving women's
history. The file, which may seem insignificant, represents the meticulous record -keeping and
documentation required to ensure that women's contributions are not lost to time. It highlights
the collective responsibility to protect and archive these narratives.
4. The Role of the Squirrel: The squirrel in the story serves as a symbol of resilience and
adaptability. Amidst the musings and neglect, the squirrel remains a constant presence, offering
a connection to reality. The squirrel's actions represent the strength of women, their ability to
persist and adapt in the face of adversity, and the importance of retaining a connection to one's
roots and heritage.
5. Value of Forgotten Literature: "The Squirrel" speaks to the value of literature and stories that
are often overlooked. Ambai's narrative encourages readers to seek out and appreciate forgotten
or marginalized texts, as they often contain powerful insights and perspectives that contribute
to a more comprehensive understanding of society and h istory.
6. Feminism and Activism: The story subtly supports feminist ideals by recognizing the need for
women's stories to be heard and preserved. The references to activists, women's journals, and
women's struggles suggest the importance of feminist activism in challenging traditional norms
and striving for gender equality.
In summary, Ambai's "The Squirrel" conveys a message of recognizing and preserving the stories and
experiences of women. The story's narrative, characterized by a neglected library and interactions with
the librarian, serves as a microcosm of the broader societal neglect of women's narratives. It encourages
readers to value the empowerment found in storytelling, the importance of preserving women's history,
and the significance of forgotten literature. Ultimately, the story underscores the enduring strength and
resilience of women in the face of adversity.