CC - III: Critically comment on the title of the novel Clear Light of the Day

 

                The title "Clear Light of the Day" has been borrowed by Anita Desai from a passage written by herself in this novel at a crucial moment in the life of the protagonist, Bim. In section IV of the novel, the novelist, while describing Bim's mediations over her past life, tells us that, although the room was shadowy and dark, Bim could perceive distinctly that she still loved her brothers(Raja and Baba), Sisters(Tara) and also her dead aunt Mira Masi. In the author's words -"Bim could see as well as by the the clear light of day that she felt only love and yearning for them all". At this point Bim felt overwhelmed by her affection for all those who had lived in this old house, and with whom she had shared most of her experiences in life. In other words, she now felt that there had been much fault in her own attitude towards all these persons including Raja who had caused her deep anguish by the letter which he had written to her as a landlord, forgetting that he was her brother too. In this connection, she felt the need to forgive raja for That "unforgivable letter". Besides, she realized that somehow she would also have to obtain Baba's forgiveness for having spoken to him harshly. She understood that together they would form a whole which would be perfect and pure. 

                         Thus, the title "Clear Light of Day" refers to that moment in the life of the protagonist when she realizes the most important and the most essential fact of her existence, i.e. her inextinguishable love, affection and understanding for all the members of the family. In fact, the title suggests the clarity of vision which Bim achievers at that moment. She is able to see things in their proper perspective, Her mind is rid of all the grudges, irritations, tensions and misunderstandings. It is the clarity of thought and vision as expressed by the novelist thought and vision as expressed by the novelist through the title.