The Day I Stopped Drinking Milk

“The Day I Stopped Drinking Milk”
Sudha Murthy’s The Day I Stopped Drinking Milk is a collection of short stories that navigate the intricacies of human emotions, relationships, and the unspoken bonds that tie people together. In these stories, Murthy takes readers on a journey through moments of joy, sadness, humor, and even despair. While the stories are set in ordinary circumstances, the author infuses each narrative with extraordinary insights into the human condition, making even the simplest moments feel monumental.
The beauty of The Day I Stopped Drinking Milk lies in its storytelling style. Murthy’s approach is never elaborate or grandiose, yet her writing resonates deeply with readers. She has an innate ability to capture the essence of her characters—whether it’s a mother, a child, or a stranger—through their actions and thoughts, often leaving room for reflection. One story that stands out is about a young girl who stops drinking milk, a small act that represents her rebellion against societal norms. This simple, everyday occurrence serves as a metaphor for the struggle between conformity and independence.
While the stories in the book touch on different aspects of life, one common thread runs through them all: the importance of kindness, understanding, and the ability to see the goodness in people, even in the most unexpected places. The characters, despite their flaws and shortcomings, are relatable and endearing. The emotional depth of Murthy’s writing allows readers to connect with them, making each story feel personal.
Another remarkable aspect of The Day I Stopped Drinking Milk is the way Murthy brings attention to the small details that make up everyday life. Whether it’s a fleeting conversation or a subtle gesture, these little moments shape our experiences in profound ways. Through her words, she highlights how the simplest actions can have lasting impacts on people’s lives.
A collection of 23 stories, The Day I Stopped Drinking Milk recollects the narratives Murty has encountered through the years and each story has a different focus. There’s a heart-warming story that deals with a Muslim boy being adopted by a Hindu family who insists he be brought up in his own faith; there’s a cautionary tale with a man who took a personal loan from Murty with a verbal promise to return it, and his blatant refusal to do so after running into her in the U.S.A. years later. There are stories about villagers with exemplary courage and drive to serve their own people by setting up services like providing water for baths, all for free. The emotional quotient of Murty’s book aims to be rather high, and truth be told, it hits most of the top notes (whether effortlessly or not). In a book that is perhaps meant to target all age groups, Murty’s writing has a way of being easily accessible and readable.
In conclusion, The Day I Stopped Drinking Milk is a beautifully written collection of stories that showcases Sudha Murthy’s ability to find meaning and wisdom in the ordinary. The book leaves readers with a sense of hope, reminding them that even the smallest moments can have a profound effect on our lives.