The Spanish title of ''In Light of India'' is ''Vislumbres de la India.''

In a review from 1997, Raleigh Trevelyan noted that this title was ''difficult to translate perhaps, meaning glimpses dimly seen, as in twilight.''

This is indeed an apt description of this idiosyncratic series of essays. The essays vividly describe various aspects of India, including its rich history, diverse religions, magnificent art, and delicious cuisine.

What makes this work particularly interesting is the author's comparisons to Mesoamerica. These comparisons offer a unique perspective, allowing readers to see India in a new light and draw connections between two distinct and fascinating cultures.

Overall, ''In Light of India'' is a captivating exploration of India that combines historical research with personal insights and engaging writing. It is a must-read for anyone interested in learning more about this remarkable country.

This is now the third book by the author that I have perused, and not by mere chance, it is also the third one translated by the same gentleman.

In delving into this book about a place I have not (as yet) set foot upon, I am deeply impressed by how quintessentially Nathanish this particular work is.

Admittedly, there are numerous Nathanish kinds of books, but this specific one serves as a prime example of the sort of travel writings I engage in as an observant sojourner in other countries and someone who is generally intrigued by the people and situations I encounter around me.

Even more precisely, this book consists of essays that offer broad and comprehensive comparisons between one's homeland (in the author's case, Mexico), the country where one is residing (as the author was an ambassador from Mexico to India), and other countries with which the author is familiar from previous travels (such as European nations and the United States).

Consequently, this book presents the perspective of an observant outsider with questionable political acumen, who writes not only about his own life but also about how India illuminates his own experiences and background.

This particular book spans approximately two hundred pages and is divided into five parts and numerous smaller chapters, each of which functions as a semi-independent essay or treatise.

The author commences with the polarities of coming to and going from India, as he describes it (I), first discussing his time in Bombay as an attaché at the consulate there (1), his subsequent trip to Delhi (2), and his return over a decade later to Delhi as Mexico's ambassador to India (3).

After that, the author explores the issues of religions, castes, and languages within India (II), beginning with a discussion of the relationship between Rama and Allah (4), then contrasting India's characteristic view of the cosmic matrix with Christian and Western models (5), and highlighting the Babel of languages that compose India and have made its unity a challenging phenomenon (6).

Subsequently, the author examines India's pursuit of nationhood (III), looking at its feasts and fasts (7), the singularity of Indian history in comparison to other regions (8), Gandhi's paradoxical role as both the center and the extreme within Indian thought (9), and the issues of nationalism, secularism, and democracy that India grapples with (10).

After this, the author proceeds to a celebration of Indian religion (IV), with a look at the Aspara and the Yakshi (11), chastity and longevity (12), the critique of liberation (13), and the concept of time (14), before concluding with a farewell (V) and some acknowledgments.

The author, as is often the case, is limited in his work by his perspective.

In some respects, the author's perspective makes him a sympathetic observer of India's culture and its place in the world, such as his fondness for the paradoxes of Buddhism and Hinduism, as well as the way in which India's native culture and religion have not experienced the Reformation and Enlightenment that have shaped European thinking.

The author also cautions against the negative impacts of the Hindu nationalism that has gained increasing popularity in India and which poses a threat to India's ability to coexist peacefully with its large and diverse minorities, many of whom justifiably view Hindu nationalism as a terrifying phenomenon.

However, at times, the author's belief that statist (socialist) economies are essential for poor countries to progress leaves him unable to explain how some countries manage to outperform others in providing prosperity and dignity to a significant portion of their population, thereby enhancing the legitimacy of their governments and cultures among the general populace.

Cansativo.

It means being extremely tired or exhausted.

Quase não consegui ler. This phrase indicates that almost couldn't read.

Maybe it's because of a long day of work, study, or other activities that have drained all the energy.

The feeling of being cansativo can make it difficult to focus and concentrate on reading, or any other task for that matter.

It can also lead to a lack of motivation and enthusiasm.

However, it's important to take breaks and rest when feeling cansativo to recharge and恢复 energy.

This could involve taking a short nap, going for a walk, or engaging in a relaxing hobby.

By taking care of ourselves and listening to our bodies, we can better manage our energy levels and avoid feeling cansativo all the time.

So, the next time you feel cansativo, don't push yourself too hard.

Take a step back, relax, and give yourself the time and space you need to recover.

Your mind and body will thank you for it.

I was actually anticipating some sort of memoirs. However, in this book, Octavio Paz presents an account of the intricate interweaving of religion, politics, invasions, colonialism, languages, and literature in India.

It is a rather good work. Nevertheless, I felt that the parallels drawn with Mexico were somewhat superfluous. The selection of poems, which are translated from Sanskrit and included in the appendix, is quite excellent.

Overall, Paz's exploration of India's rich and complex history through these various lenses provides valuable insights. The detailed examination of how different aspects have interacted and influenced each other over time is both fascinating and enlightening.

Although the mention of Mexico may not have been entirely necessary, it does add an interesting dimension to the discussion. The inclusion of the translated poems further enriches the book, allowing readers to experience a taste of India's literary heritage.

All in all, this book offers a unique and engaging perspective on India's past and is well worth reading.

I had never learned so much about India, its culture, its history, its worldview, and its fascinating contrast with the Western mentality as I did through the pages of this book.

Octavio Paz's prose is of a dazzling mastery. It flows smoothly, painting vivid pictures in the reader's mind. With every sentence, he delves deeper into the essence of India, revealing its mysteries and charm.

The book not only provides a wealth of information but also offers a unique perspective on India. It makes the reader realize that there is much more to this ancient country than meets the eye.

Through Paz's words, one can sense the rich tapestry of India's past and its influence on the present. It is a journey of discovery that leaves the reader with a newfound appreciation for India and its people.

In conclusion, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in India or in exploring different cultures and worldviews. It is a literary masterpiece that will surely leave a lasting impression.

A book that compares Mexico with India. Their religions, their traditions, their food, their culture, their cosmology, their people, their nature, their mysticism, their history and their resources.

Octavio Paz was the ambassador of Mexico in India for several years. He is interested in knowing everything he can about this ancient country and makes a connection and comparison with his homeland.

This book is a great resource that helps to understand and enjoy the complex culture and ideology of a country like India, which captivates all those who visit and get to know it. It provides valuable insights into the similarities and differences between the two countries, allowing readers to gain a deeper appreciation for both. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or simply learning about new places, this book is sure to be a fascinating read.

In this essay, Octavio Paz reveals to us how Joe arrived in India and the profound impact its diverse arts, encompassing literature, music, architecture, history, and religion, had on his life and work.

He meticulously reviews numerous aspects of India, including its rich religious tapestry, complex history, unique social structure, and vibrant arts. Despite presenting his own opinions, this work serves as an excellent resource for explaining these aspects to foreigners such as myself.

In conclusion, it can be regarded as a book of glimpses (vislumbres in Spanish) into India. However, these glimpses are not superficial; rather, they are deep and insightful, offering a valuable perspective on this fascinating country.

A beautifully written book is a precious gem that has the power to transport readers to different worlds, evoke a wide range of emotions, and leave a lasting impression.

The words within its pages are carefully crafted, like a delicate tapestry, to create a vivid and engaging narrative.

The author's use of language is masterful, with rich descriptions, powerful metaphors, and a flowing prose that makes it a joy to read.

Whether it's a work of fiction or non-fiction, a beautifully written book has the ability to touch the hearts and minds of its readers, inspiring them, educating them, and entertaining them all at the same time.

It is a literary masterpiece that will be cherished and passed down for generations to come.

Octavio Paz had the opportunity to live in India on two distinct occasions. During these times, he was representing the Government of Mexico. It was during his stay that he developed a deep love for India. He was not just a lover but also a keen observer of various aspects of India, including its rich history, captivating poetry, diverse religions, and delicious food.

His book is a remarkable collection of essays on India. It offers unique insights and perspectives into the country. Each essay is a treasure trove of information and thoughts. Among all the essays, my favorite is the one where he skillfully compares and contrasts Indian food and Mexican food.

He delves into the flavors, ingredients, cooking methods, and cultural significance of both cuisines. It is fascinating to read how he highlights the similarities and differences, and how he brings out the essence of each cuisine. This particular essay not only makes you appreciate the diversity of food cultures but also gives you a new perspective on the connection between food and culture.

Overall, Octavio Paz's book is a must-read for anyone who is interested in India or in exploring different cultures through the lens of food.

This is probably more of a 4.75, and it really might even be a 5.

It has taken me most of the year to read this book. Despite being small in size, it is filled to the brim with ideas that require careful consideration and ample think time.

I found the perspective that Paz brings to the subjects he tackles to be truly refreshing. He is a Mexican with an in-depth knowledge of western philosophy, religion, and culture. He also served in a political capacity in India during the 1950s, a time of great change and upheaval in the country.

His insights are honest and untainted. As an Anglo-Indian, I have often pondered certain aspects of my upbringing that differed from the dominant Western (English) culture. For example, my attitudes towards time have always seemed at odds with Western culture. However, I now realize that they are greatly influenced by the Hindu concept of time.

It is comforting, if not affirming, to know that my views are shared by an entire continent and that there is a place on this planet where my concepts of time can coexist peacefully with the dominant culture.

Paz's writing style is conversational, making it easy to imagine oneself sitting with him in a café or walking along a riverbank. Despite the dense and difficult material, it is still within my grasp, without the feeling of being "dumbed down."

We explore a wide range of topics, including poetry, yoga, karma, the Jains, and the Muslim/Hindu question. We also tackle love and redemption, original sin, and the Brahmins. Reincarnation, food, and art are all part of the discussion.

It's all there, all the aspects of India that are so difficult for Westerners to understand. This is a book that I fully intend to read again and again, as I believe it will offer something new and different each time I pick it up.

This is a truly great book.

It offers a wealth of knowledge and profound insights. In particular, one can learn a great deal from Paz's perceptive comparisons.

He delves into the differences and similarities between Hindu and Islamic philosophy and culture, highlighting the unique characteristics and shared elements.

The comparisons between Hinduism and Christianity are also fascinating, shedding light on the diverse religious beliefs and practices.

Moreover, the contrasts between India and Mexico provide a broader perspective on different cultures and their development.

Overall, this book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of human thought and culture.

His statements are far too general to be accurate every single time.

Particularly, his views on the dharmic religions are not only contradictory but also seem unfounded.

Nevertheless, the beginning and the end of his work are truly enchanting.

They are filled with captivating geometry, vivid visions, and his own unique poetic experience.

It is a pity that he did not dedicate more of the book to these truly fascinating topics.

One can't help but wish that he had delved deeper into these aspects and explored them in greater detail.

Perhaps then, the readers could have gained a more profound understanding and appreciation of the beauty and complexity within.

As it stands, while there are these enchanting elements, the overall work leaves one with a sense of longing for more.

It makes one wonder what could have been if he had focused more on these captivating themes.