Reimagining Home: A Reading of Oikopoetics in Sara Joseph’s Gift in Green

Abstract

Sara Joseph, a prominent writer and social activist from Kerala, has made noteworthy contributions to the literary field and activism through her novel Gift in Green. The novel acts as a compelling source that advocates green consciousness which offers justice and resists the environmental imbalances that exist in the society. This paper explores the disruption that severs this vital connection, particularly through the destruction of lands. Deep-rooted in the philosophies of ‘oikopoetics’ the novel examines the symbiotic relationship between humans and nature which highlights the interconnectedness of human existence with the natural world. By applying oikopoetic theory, the study aims to elucidate the behavioural patterns of society and examine how the dominance of anthropocentric views and ego consciousness perpetuates urbanization and commercialization, leading to the contamination and exploitation of the earth.