Salted Biscuits: Jasper Daniel

For the longest time, I had put off reading this book because of time constraints. When I finally began reading it, I didn’t realize the time pass. Combining humor and dark thoughts through vignette like short stories, poetry, and illustrations, “Salted Biscuits” by Jasper Daniel is a mixed bag of thoughts. 

There is a strong personal flavor in the book in terms of religion, relationships and experiences. Some of the short stories reminded me of haikus. The depiction of a scene or a moment in vivid words that remains with you for a while even after you finish reading. Like “The Timekeeper.” This is a short narration of a man who timed the number of times his wife had to feed their baby by winding a clock on a table in their home. Although barely a page long, the story is chillingly effective. 

“Traces” is another example of a prosaic haiku, which projects strong imagery through a few words. 

“The forensic experts came this morning with their dusters, blades and little poly bags. Thy searched what was left of his heart, and found traces of sympathy carelessly scattered around its chambers, by the sweet maid who made his bed every morning.”

How evocative. To think of people coming with dusters to clean away pieces of a broken heart.

I liked “Summer” as well. It reminded me of my own summers spent in the sun, enjoying the dirt and grime associated with it. 

“Television was for older people. We watched flat stones skip on water and counted how many times they hopped.” 

Indeed. Television used to be for older people while, we, children used to play with sticks and stones. I too “think of Summer when she was a friend.”

One of my favourite “haikus” from this collection has to be “My Direction.” Punning on his wife Disha’s name, Jasper says, 

“I asked God

To show me the direction.

He got me married to one.”

There were, of course, parts that I didn’t understand or completely comprehend. I am sure a second reading might be beneficial to achieve a different perspective. 

I am keeping this review short and sweet, just like Jasper Daniel’s small, little slices of life. Thanks to Disha for sending us this book for review!

Verdict: Read this for a break from the ordinary

Rating: 3.7/5