A psychological analysis of Ikramullah's novel "Gurg-e-Shab"

اکرام اللہ کے ناول ’’گرگ ِشب‘‘ کا نفسیاتی جائزہ

Abstract

Ikram Ullah’s Gurg-e-Shab )1978( is a distinctive work in Urdu literature, known for its fearless portrayal of psychological and social taboos. The novel follows Zafar, whose illegitimate birth in a conservative society leaves him burdened by shame and emotional isolation. His struggle with identity and relationship is shaped by the stigma of his origin and his mother’s controversial past. The narrative’s shifting perspectives mirror Zafar’s fractured psyche, while his efforts to find love are continually undermined by inner conflict and trauma. The novel addresses sensitive Themes like incest sexual repression, and mental aguish, not for shock value, but to expose the damaging impact of societal hypocrisy and inherited guilt. By tracing Zafar’s journey, Ikram Ullah critiques. The rigid moral codes of traditional society and reveals how such environments can crush individuality and lead to despair.