A Picturesque Description of Neuroticism in Anita Desai’s Cry, the Peacock

Abstract

Anita Desai is an eminent novelist who explores the women’s psyche and her quest for identity. In her debut novel, Cry, The Peacock, she deals with the theme of husband wife alienation and the marital discord. Desai very finely portrays the character of Maya, lost in the dark world of agony and loneliness. Maya and Gautama, her husband, both possess a different outlook towards life. Maya is very sensitive and emotional whereas Gautama has a practical approach. Maya is unable to relate to Gautama. Her Emotional needs are not fulfilled by him. Maya’s mental agony is further aggravated by the prediction of the astrologer. Cry, The Peacock reflects upon the mental state and agony of women in the Indian society.