Conflicting Readings of R.K. Narayan’s The Guide

This research article is a criticism of William Walsh’s criticism of The Guide. Walsh says about the theme of The Guide:(p.114) “The complex association of sincerity and self-deception is indeed the organizing theme of The Guide It seems that the European critic has failed to understand Indian ethos. Raju, the protagonist first becomes a tourist guide and then spiritual guide due to circumstances peculiar to India. He undertakes fast due to the demand of the villagers. He was mistaken for a sadhu first. The secret of Narayan's success in this novel is Raju’s transformation;he really becomes a holyman when he transcends his ‘limited self’.