The Theme of Alienation in Benyamin’s Goat Days

Abstract

Goat Days presents the story of brutal isolation undergone by Najeeb, the protagonist at the hands of an arbab, the Arab master.  His movements are controlled, supervised and surveilled throughout the day where he is detained.  The book goes on to chronicle his escape from the cruelty of the barren landscape.   Najeeb, a Keralite, struggling with the insufficient income he earns from sand mining is elated when he comes to know of a visa for sale.  By mortgaging, selling and borrowing he secures the money to reach the city of his dreams.  Najeeb along with Hakeem another boy who received visa, sets to 'the outside world’ together (GD 39).