The Thief’s Story

By Ruskin Bond

Ruskin Bond is a celebrated Indian author known for his simple yet evocative storytelling, often set in the hills of India. His works frequently explore themes of nature, human relationships, and the everyday lives of ordinary people. Bond has received numerous awards for his contribution to literature, including the Padma Bhushan. “A Thief’s Story” is a short narrative about a young thief named Hari Singh, who tries to rob a man named Anil but transforms through kindness and trust. The story emphasizes themes of trust, redemption, and the impact of compassion on an individual’s choices.

Q: Who does ‘I’ refer to in this story?

The ‘I’ in the story refers to Hari Singh, a young thief who narrates the story. He uses the first-person perspective to recount his experiences with Anil.

Q: What is he “a fairly successful hand” at?

Hari Singh describes himself as “a fairly successful hand” at stealing. He prides himself on his ability to commit thefts skillfully and without getting caught.

Q: What does he get from Anil in return for his work?

In return for working for Anil, Hari receives food and shelter. Anil also teaches him to read and write, providing him with the opportunity to get an education and learn new skills. This education is perhaps the most valuable thing he receives, as it offers him a chance to change his life.

Q: How does the thief think Anil will react to the theft?

Hari Singh, the thief, believes that Anil will be sad when he discovers the theft, not because of the loss of money, but because of the loss of trust. Hari thinks Anil is kind-hearted and might not be angry, but he will certainly be disappointed.

Q: What does he say about the different reactions of people when they are robbed?

Hari Singh mentions that different people react differently when robbed. Some show fear, others show anger, and some try to keep their loss a secret. He reflects on how Anil would react, expecting him to be more hurt by the betrayal of trust than by the financial loss.

Q: Does Anil realize that he has been robbed?

The story implies that Anil does realize that he has been robbed but chooses not to confront Hari Singh about it. The next morning, he gives Hari money, perhaps as a sign of trust or forgiveness, and talks about teaching him how to write, which suggests that he wants to help Hari turn over a new leaf.

Q: What are Hari Singh’s reactions to the prospect of receiving an education? Do they change over time? What makes him return to Anil?

Initially, Hari Singh is skeptical about the value of education, seeing it as irrelevant to his life as a thief. However, over time, he starts to see the value in learning and the potential for a better life. The prospect of receiving an education becomes appealing to him. His decision to return to Anil is influenced by his guilt over the theft and the realization that Anil genuinely cares for him and offers him a chance to change his life.

Q: Why does Anil not hand the thief over to the police? Do you think most people would have done so? In what ways is Anil different from such employers?

Anil does not hand Hari Singh over to the police because he believes in giving him a second chance. He likely understands that Hari is young and has the potential to change. Anil’s reaction is compassionate and understanding, contrasting with what most people might do in a similar situation, which would be to involve the police. Anil’s behavior shows his belief in redemption and personal growth.

Q: Do you think people like Anil and Hari Singh are found only in fiction, or are there such people in real life?

People like Anil and Hari Singh do exist in real life. Anil represents those who see the good in others and are willing to help them change, while Hari Sing represents individuals who, despite making poor choices, have the potential for transformation. Their dynamic is realistic and reflects real-life situations where individuals have been given second chances and turned their lives around.

Q: Do you think it is a significant detail in the story that Anil is a struggling writer? Does this explain his behavior in any way?

Anil being a struggling writer adds depth to his character and explains his empathy and understanding. As a writer, Anil may have a more nuanced view of human nature, recognizing that people are complex and capable of change. This perspective likely influences his decision to give Hari Singh a chance rather than punishing him.

Q: Have you met anyone like Hari Singh? Can you think and imagine the circumstances that can turn a fifteen-year-old boy into a thief?

Many people encounter individuals who have made poor choices but have the potential for change. A fifteen-year-old boy like Hari Singh might turn to theft due to a lack of guidance, financial difficulties, or being influenced by negative role models. Circumstances such as poverty, lack of education, or an unstable family environment can contribute to such a path.

Q: Where is the story set? Which language or languages are spoken in these places? Do you think the characters in the story spoke to each other in English?

The story is set in a city in India, as indicated by the names of the characters, places, and cultural context. In such a setting, the primary language would likely be Hindi or some other regional language, although English could also be used, especially among educated individuals. It is quite possible that the characters spoke a mix of languages, but the story is written in English to reach a broader audience.