Prakash Books - The Orders Were To Rape You : Tigresses in the Tamil Eelam Struggle

Overview: The Orders Were To Rape You delves into the harrowing experiences of female fighters in the Tamil Eelam struggle, particularly focusing on the violence and sexual abuse they faced during and after the civil war in Sri Lanka. Through personal narratives and poetry, Kandasamy sheds light on the resilience and vulnerability of these women, offering a poignant examination of their lives as they navigate the aftermath of conflict.

Key Themes:

• Violence and Trauma: The book confronts the brutal realities of war, particularly the targeted violence against women. Kandasamy’s exploration of the orders given to rape women in the Sri Lankan camps highlights the systemic abuse that often accompanies armed conflict.

• Female Empowerment and Vulnerability: While the Tamil tigresses are celebrated for their bravery and strength, Kandasamy also addresses their vulnerability in a post-war context. The juxtaposition of their powerful roles as fighters and their experiences of victimization reveals the complexities of gender in war.

• Poetry as Resistance: The inclusion of poetry from Tamil women combatants serves as a powerful form of resistance. Kandasamy presents their words not only as expressions of personal grief but also as a broader commentary on the struggles faced by Tamil women. This intertwining of poetry and narrative enriches the text, elevating the women’s voices.

Writing Style: Kandasamy’s writing is both evocative and impactful. Her prose captures the emotional depth of her subjects, while her analytical approach provides context to their experiences. The interspersed poetry enhances the narrative, allowing for a multi-layered understanding of the women’s realities.

Impact and Relevance: This book is crucial for understanding the intersection of gender and conflict in contemporary society. It highlights the ongoing struggles of women in post-conflict scenarios and calls attention to the need for awareness and action regarding gender-based violence in war.

Conclusion: The Orders Were To Rape You is a powerful and essential read that exposes the harsh realities faced by Tamil women fighters. Meena Kandasamy’s dedication to bringing their stories to light not only honors their experiences but also serves as a call to acknowledge and combat the systemic violence against women in conflict. This book is a vital contribution to feminist literature and the discourse on war, gender, and resilience.