Art of feeling feelings
Reviewed by Aditi Garg

The Book of Emotions
By Salman Akhtar.
Lotus- Roli Books. Pages 13 Rs 450

Have you ever wondered what life would be without the due dose of emotions? Insipid, dull and boring... wait, even boredom is an emotion. In short, life would amount to nothing. So, how do we perceive this multitude of emotions that we feel? Apart from delving into the social relevance and repercussions of emotions, it is interesting to find out what causes them and how they manifest themselves. Internationally renowned psychiatrist, psychoanalyst, writer and poet, Salman Akhtar, has undertaken a momentous task of analysing emotions for the benefit of common man without delving into medical jargon and psycho-babble. Having authored many books and received many awards, he is also an internationally sought after speaker. He has also conducted teaching workshop in many countries like Australia, Belgium, Canada, China, England, Holland, Mexico and Turkey and maintains a clinical practice in Philadelphia.

Akhtar talks about 26 emotions — ranging from hate to love and boredom to joy — and dresses them with one-line punches that are apt descriptions for each. His insightful descriptions are a revelation. For instance, he says that anger is not such a bad emotion for it helps one express the negativity that they feel. Those who feel no anger may not always forgive the perpetrator but keep it bottled up. It is possible to truly forgive only after venting your feelings of anger.

He also notes that boredom is not caused by solitude or routine as is widely believed. For those who thought that hoping against all odds was a good thing, be in for a surprise for if it is not rooted in reality, it is not normal and similarly neither is all kindness good. Also, he casually remarks that being in love borders on lunacy.

He quotes historical examples to elucidate his point to great effect. The simplicity of his language remains unwavering even when discussing complex emotions such as ingratitude and obstinacy. For a better understanding of one’s own and also of other people’s feelings and emotions, this is a really helpful book that will open your mind to be receptive to the greater truth behind the subtle and not-so-subtle emotions.

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