Analysis of The Financial Expert

Introduction

Published in 1952, The Financial Expert is one of R.K. Narayan’s most acclaimed novels, often considered a masterpiece for its insightful portrayal of human ambition, greed, and the complexities of financial life in a small Indian town. The novel introduces Margayya, a unique and memorable character, whose relentless pursuit of wealth leads him through a series of comical and ultimately tragic events. It is a brilliant satire on the pursuit of money and the moral compromises it often entails.

Plot Summary

The story centers on Margayya (meaning “the pathfinder”), a self-proclaimed financial expert who operates under a banyan tree outside the Malgudi Bank. His initial business involves advising villagers on how to secure loans and helping them with their financial paperwork, for which he charges a small commission. He dreams of becoming immensely wealthy and gaining respect in society.

His ambition leads him to a series of ventures. He first tries to publish a book on domestic harmony, believing it will make him rich. This venture fails. He then encounters a mysterious figure, a priest who gives him a mantra for wealth. Following the priest’s advice, Margayya engages in a bizarre scheme involving a red lotus and a series of rituals, which he believes will bring him prosperity. This leads him to a partnership with a dubious character named Dr. Pal, who has written a scandalous manuscript on sexology. Margayya publishes this book, which becomes a runaway success, making him incredibly rich.

With his newfound wealth, Margayya transforms into a respected financier, lending money at exorbitant rates and building a reputation. However, his obsession with money alienates him from his family, particularly his son, Balu, whom he spoils excessively. Balu grows up to be irresponsible and rebellious, squandering his father’s money. The novel culminates in Margayya’s downfall, as his financial empire collapses due to Balu’s recklessness and his own moral compromises. He returns to his original spot under the banyan tree, having come full circle, stripped of his wealth but perhaps gaining a deeper understanding of life.

Major Characters

• Margayya: The protagonist. He is a complex character driven by an insatiable desire for wealth and social status. He is resourceful, cunning, and often comical in his schemes. His journey is a cautionary tale about the corrupting influence of money and the emptiness of material pursuits.

• Balu: Margayya’s son. He is spoiled and undisciplined, representing the negative consequences of his father’s excessive indulgence and neglect of moral upbringing. His recklessness directly contributes to Margayya’s downfall.

• Dr. Pal: A dubious and opportunistic character who provides Margayya with the scandalous manuscript. He represents the morally ambiguous means Margayya employs in his pursuit of wealth.

Major Themes

• The Pursuit of Wealth and its Consequences: The central theme is the relentless pursuit of money and how it can corrupt an individual and destroy family relationships. Margayya’s journey illustrates the emptiness of material success when divorced from ethical considerations.

• Ambition and Morality: The novel explores the fine line between ambition and greed. Margayya’s initial desire for financial security gradually transforms into an obsessive pursuit of wealth, leading him to compromise his morals.

• The Irony of Fate: Narayan employs his characteristic gentle irony to highlight the unpredictable nature of fate. Margayya’s success often comes from unexpected and morally questionable sources, and his downfall is brought about by the very son he doted upon.

• Family Relationships: The novel delves into the strained relationship between Margayya and his son, Balu. It shows how the father’s obsession with money leads to a breakdown in communication and a lack of genuine connection within the family.

Critical Reception and Legacy

The Financial Expert is widely regarded as one of Narayan’s finest novels. Critics have praised its sharp social commentary, its memorable characters, and its humorous yet poignant exploration of human nature. William Walsh hailed Margayya as “probably Narayan’s greatest single comic creation.” The novel remains a relevant and insightful work, offering a timeless critique of materialism and the complexities of the human desire for prosperity.