On the Eve of Uncertain Tomorrows

Ian Calder is a Toronto-based free-lance writer.

In his second collection of short stories, Bissoondath presents a wealth
of well-defined characters. What they have in common is suggested by the
title and the theme, an uncertainty of the future.

In “Security,” Ramgoolam thinks that “even pigeons . . .
occasionally needed a point of reference from which they could reassure
themselves of their place in the world,” revealing his lack of
direction and his sense of alienation. Ramgoolam tries but fails to feel
at home in his adopted country. Although Bissoondath focuses on the
frustration and the pain of his characters, his tales are not without
humor and hope.

Monica, in “The Power of Reason,” struggles to provide a home in
Canada for her children. With the power of reason she redefines the
meaning of love, and—secure in that knowledge—asks her unruly sons
to leave. Monica hopes they will gain something from the experience. She
knows, however, that without their disruptive behavior her daughter will
have a better home. Bissoondath brings a humane, intelligent,
understanding voice to the plight of new immigrants to Canada.

Although many of the stories deal with new Canadians, not all of them
are concerned with the problems of coping with a new culture and
country. The masterfully woven tale “Things Best Forgotten,” which
is told from a sons’s perspective, concerns a visit by Martin
Dominguez to his father’s native country. The father, convinced that
his own father was a Fascist, learns that he was executed for his
perceived Communist beliefs. The son’s insecurity and the father’s
shame are vanquished by the revelation; they become closer and filled
with hope.

Bissoondath writes with clarity and sympathetic voice, creating
wonderful images of life. On the Eve of Uncertain Tomorrows is a
marvelous second collection.