Perspectives

Literary period

Written in 1950, the short story “Karma” fits the literary movement we call Realism, which developed in the mid-19th and early 20th century. Realist works can be recognised through themes, context, and narrative techniques.

In Khushwant Singh's short story, we notice that the author explores the themes of social status and power. The themes are explored in the historical context of British-ruled India and in connection to India’s class system. The topic of social class is often explored in realist works.

"Karma" may also be read as a postcolonial work. Postcolonial literature tends to focus on the negative effects that colonialism has historically had on various countries across the world. For example,...