The White Tiger Essay Example

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The school inspector's error in assuming that Buddha declared himself as God, when in fact he was a mere mortal, represents the deficiencies within educational institutions. It is ironic that someone tasked with inspecting schools would inaccurately answer a question that even an average student could respond to correctly. This incident also exposes the corruption prevalent in India and challenges the preconceived notions held by foreigners about the country. The book commences with Balram recounting details about his family, including his late mother and father.

Balram's father was suffering from tuberculosis and experiencing severe coughing and coughing up blood. Concerned, both Balram and his brother Kishan decided to take him to a government hospital. As Balram waited in line for the doctor, hours passed by without the doctor's arrival. In the end, Balram ironically stated that his father had been permanently cured of his tuberculosis (42). This ironic statement reveals the harsh reality in India, where the impoverished lack access to medical assistance for their injuries, infections, or diseases.

The government's disregard for the wellbeing of impoverished citizens is apparent in several incidents. For instance, Pinky madam, while intoxicated, caused the accidental death of a child and instead of accepting responsibility, she plans to pin the blame on Driver Balram. The next day, addressing Balram as "family" for the first time, the Mongoose invites him to his apartment and kindly offers him a seat with the words "Sit, sit, make yourself comfortable, Balram."

Although Balram was initially delighted upon being told he was "part of the family" (141), his joy swiftly vanished when the Mongoose ordered him back to the servants' quarters.

Subsequently, Balram was summoned once more and coerced into signing a contract that placed all blame for the accident on him, while no one else faced any consequences. This ironic turn of events revealed how, despite being referred to as part of the "family," Balram was ultimately manipulated into protecting his master at the risk of ending up in jail. This scenario serves as an illustration of corruption within the government system, which oppresses those who are less fortunate.

When Balram dropped off his master Ashok at the imperial hotel, he went to the train station. While at the station, he noticed a homeless woman peacefully sleeping on the floor and couldn't help but think, "Why couldn't things be so simple for me?" (213). It is ironic that Balram, despite having a place to live, food to eat, and a job, envies the homeless woman. Despite being more fortunate than her, Balram longed to be in her position.

The announcement of the election results prompted the great socialist to declare that "The election shows that the poor will not be ignored" (230). However, the poor still live in sewage and on subway platforms, emphasizing their continued oppression. Despite pledging to help the poor, the Great Socialist fails to fully deliver on these promises. In summary, the novel portrays irony, corruption, oppression of the poor, and a contrast between India's actual reality and how it is perceived by foreigners. These elements enhance our understanding of this narrative.

The book demonstrates corruption through examples such as a teacher stealing money from students and a school inspector answering a question incorrectly. It also portrays the

contrast between the reality of India and the perceptions held by foreigners, including instances of framing and a lack of doctors in government hospitals. Additionally, the oppression of the poor is depicted through scenes such as a woman lying on the floor of a train station and poor people living in sewage-filled slums. In summary, this book thoroughly explores various aspects of India from every angle.