Ambivalence in “How to get filthy rich in rising Asia”- A novel by Mohsin Hamid

Abstract

This article describes the ambivalence in the novel of Mohsin Hamid “How to Get Filthy Rich in Rising Asia”, highlighting the contradictory statements in the novel, by exposing the contradictory nature of the ‘lover’ who proves to be an unfit member of aristocracy and is ultimately treated as an outsider. All this shows ambivalent societal standards. Like other works of Hamid, this novel also manifests the comparison East and West by highlighting the ambivalence in the development of Asian Society. The love story of the protagonists is dysfunctional and show ambivalence more than any other aspects, as the protagonists always loves his teenage lover even after getting married with another woman. The narration style of this novel i.e the indirect narration also contributes to the ambivalence as we are the protagonist and we are the reader at the same time. The style of ‘self- help genre’ sincerely cross examine for the methods of helping one-self. This novel discloses are two level story of love and ambition underline the social and economic changes in Asia, metaphorically. The title of the novel and the titles of some chapters in the novel also indicates ambivalence as these present contrasting stories. This novel truly presents ambivalence in the form satire
and mockery of the Asian Society.