Tab Article

Ratings: ★★★★☆ (4.0/5)
Genre: Sri Lankan Fiction, Political Fiction, Literary Fiction, Historical Fiction

Book Review:
''Fragrance Lost'' (originally ''Reincarnation'') by Dr. Bandara Jayaweera is a compelling piece of Sri Lankan literature that blurs the lines between fiction and recent political history. More than just a story, it serves as a psychological and social exploration of the country's leftist movements during a turbulent era.

The novel's greatest intrigue lies in its characters, who, as highlighted in Professor Carlo Fonseka's insightful foreword, are thinly veiled portraits of real political figures. For readers familiar with Sri Lanka's modern history, identifying these models becomes an engaging intellectual exercise. The narrative is informed by the author's first-hand experiences, including imprisonment, lending it an authentic and gritty texture.

While it is a work of fiction, ''Fragrance Lost'' functions as a valuable document for understanding the ideologies, conflicts, and personal sacrifices that shaped a generation of Sri Lankan politicians. The prose is direct and impactful, focusing on the human dimension within the political struggle.

Recommended for readers interested in South Asian literature, political novels, and anyone seeking a fictional yet profound window into a critical period of Sri Lanka's past. It is a novel that stays with you, prompting reflection on power, ideology, and personal reinvention.