Tab Article

Ratings: ★★★★☆ (4.2/5)
Genre: Sri Lankan History, Political Science, War & Conflict Studies, Memoir/Analysis, Current Affairs

Book Review:
T.D.S.A. Dissanayaka's ''War or Peace in Sri Lanka: Volume V – The Anguish of Sri Lanka'' is a poignant and critical installment in a seminal series that examines the long-running civil conflict in Sri Lanka. Written by a distinguished Sri Lankan diplomat and scholar, this volume delves deep into the human and national cost of the war, capturing the profound suffering and complex dilemmas that defined this period.

Dissanayaka brings a unique insider-outsider perspective to the subject. As a former Ambassador and international civil servant, he analyzes the conflict not only through the lens of domestic politics but also with an understanding of international relations and diplomacy. The title ''The Anguish of Sri Lanka'' aptly frames the book's focus on the collective pain, social fractures, and moral crises experienced by the nation.

This book is more than a historical record; it is a reflective analysis from a seasoned public intellectual who has witnessed the trajectory of his country's struggle firsthand. It likely explores themes such as failed peace attempts, the impact on civilians, the role of the international community, and the elusive search for a political solution.

For students, researchers, and anyone seeking to understand the depth of Sri Lanka's recent past from a thoughtful, articulate, and deeply concerned Sri Lankan perspective, Dissanayaka's work is invaluable. It stands as an important contribution to the historiography of the conflict and a testament to the author's commitment to his nation's future.