A modern, multicultural fable set in the UK with echoes of family roots in Nepal.
One man’s emotional journey to redefine success and the elusive work/life balance.
Aman has just sealed a massive deal at the digital art company where he is climbing the corporate ladder. A top job is within reach. The exclusive holiday resort is booked. He looks slick and has the technical chops, but why does he feel so bad? Aman’s stress levels are sky high and his stomach is constantly churning.
It soon becomes apparent that all Aman’s energy and time are spent on his work, leaving precious little for his wife, children and wider family. Things might be going well at the office, but at home, it’s not only bits of the house that are falling apart.
Aman has also been asked to arrange his niece’s wedding. It’s an honour and an important family role. But his procrastination is driving a wedge between him and his niece, not to mention stirring up old wounds with his cousin, Lekh.
Watching his wife loading the dishwasher is a metaphor for standing by as she shoulders all the domestic burdens alone. And the children, fed up with all his management speak have all but given up trying to get his attention.
A crisis starts to build, sparked by the death of Raff, Aman’s best friend and mentor. Aman is plunged into grief. He throws himself even harder into work, shunning the love and support of his family. He stops exercising, neglects interests, and seeks solace in chocolate and alcohol.
But an unlikely catalyst for recovery and learning gives Aman the time to reflect and be himself. He is depressed but slowly makes connections with people and passions again.
The finale shows our hero making the most of all his personal and professional skills, while the epilogue suggests Aman is on the brink of a fresh start.
Fusion of Reality is easy to read yet thought-provoking. Its themes will resonate strongly with anyone who has worked in corporate culture. The author weaves in memories of Aman’s childhood in Nepal. And sprinkles the story with cultural references and vernacular.
It’s also a humorous read, with lots of funny moments, often centred around family dynamics. As Aman’s soul warms up again he rediscovers his passions – for his own interests, but most of all for his family.
It’s a relatable, hopeful, colourful and emotional odyssey for our times.
Lisa Cunningham