A Respectable Woman

Set in post-World War II Nagaland, this novel follows a woman's journey through societal change and the challenges of alcoholism and domestic violence, revealing the complexities of a transitioning culture.

In A Respectable Woman, author Easterine Kire delves into the aftermath of World War II in Nagaland, northeast India, a region significantly impacted by the conflict. As the Japanese forces withdraw, the area grapples with political unrest and profound social changes that give rise to new challenges. The return of soldiers and the community's struggle to cope with the war's consequences lead many to seek solace in alcohol, which becomes a means of escape from harsh realities.

The Church, a prominent institution in the region, responds to the growing issue of alcoholism by supporting the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition Act. However, this well-intentioned initiative inadvertently fuels the rise of bootlegging and exacerbates domestic violence, revealing the complexities of enforcing such a mandate in a society undergoing rapid transformation. Kire skillfully portrays the tension between traditional values and the encroaching modern issues that plague the community.

At the heart of the narrative is the journey of a woman navigating these turbulent times. Through her experiences, Kire illuminates the struggles faced by individuals in a society reluctant to abandon its customs while simultaneously confronting the challenges of contemporary life. A Respectable Woman serves as a poignant exploration of resilience and adaptation, highlighting the intricate balance between honoring heritage and embracing change in a world that is no longer the same.