Laughing through Adversity: Humor as a Coping Strategy in R.K. Narayan’s Works

Abstract

R.K.Narayan, a highly esteemed Indian author, is famous for his accessible yet deeply meaningful storytelling, primarily set in the fictional town of Malgudi. A significant aspect of his writing style is humor, which he uses not just for entertainment but as a therapeutic tool that eases psychological strain, builds resilience, and promotes community bonds. This paper examines how Narayan uses humor to help readers navigate personal and societal conflicts, providing a means to deal with the intricacies of life. Through a textual analysis of selected works like Swami and Friends, The Bachelor of Arts, The Guide, and Malgudi Days, the study explores how humor functions as a source of catharsis, psychological healing, and social critique. Additionally, it investigates the cultural and philosophical foundations of humor in Narayan’s writings, especially its connections to Indian traditions such as irony, satire, and the notion of Hasya Rasa from classical Indian aesthetics.