53 pages • 1 hour read
Moth Smoke
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Book Brief
256
Novel • Fiction
Lahore, Pakistan • 1990s
2000
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Moth Smoke follows Darashikoh Shezad, or Daru, as he spirals downward in 1990s Pakistan, facing issues of class disparity, drug addiction, and complicated relationships. Daru starts losing control of his life after reuniting with his wealthy friend Ozi and becoming infatuated with Ozi’s wife, Mumtaz. Multiple narrators recount Daru's moral decline, leading to a trial where he is falsely accused of murdering a boy. Discussions of drug addiction and child death are present.
Dark
Mysterious
Melancholic
Challenging
Gritty
Reviews & Readership
12,789 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Mohsin Hamid's Moth Smoke offers a riveting tale of disenchantment set in Lahore, capturing readers with its deft narrative and complex characters. The protagonist's struggle against societal norms is both compelling and relatable. However, some critics find the pacing inconsistent and the ending abrupt. Overall, it's lauded for its profound social commentary and vivid imagery.
Who Should Read Moth Smoke?
Readers who enjoyed The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald and The White Tiger by Aravind Adiga will be captivated by Moth Smoke by Mohsin Hamid. Ideal for those intrigued by social complexities, moral dilemmas, and the nuanced depiction of contemporary Pakistan. Enthusiasts of character-driven narratives will find it particularly compelling.
12,789 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Mumtaz Kashmiri aka Zulfikar Manto
Mumtaz Kashmiri aka Zulfikar Manto
She is the wife of Daru's best friend and has an alter ego as a journalist writing under the pen name Zulfikar Manto. Her character explores themes of identity and personal independence.
Aurangzeb “Ozi” Shah
Aurangzeb “Ozi” Shah
Ozi is Daru’s wealthy childhood friend, whose family connections and social status influence much of his life. The dynamic between Ozi and Daru is central to the narrative, highlighting themes of privilege and friendship.
Murad Badshah
Murad Badshah
He is Daru’s drug dealer and occasional accomplice with grandiose ambitions and a complex view of society. His character adds an element of intrigue through his schemes and interactions with Daru.
256
Novel • Fiction
Lahore, Pakistan • 1990s
2000
Adult
18+ years
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