Literary Arsenal
Bhagat Singh, a name synonymous with courage, found his intellectual ammunition within the pages of books. His library logs reveal five significant works
that deeply influenced his revolutionary ideals. These books weren't just read; they were internalized, their messages meticulously examined and underlined, reflecting a mind actively shaping a nation's future.
Mother's Influence
Maxim Gorky's 'Mother' appears among the crucial texts. This novel's themes of societal struggle and the awakening of the working class likely resonated deeply with Bhagat Singh. The book's exploration of resistance and the fight for justice provided a framework for understanding and challenging existing power structures, fueling his commitment to change.
Bakunin's Principles
Michael Bakunin's 'God and the State' provided another key intellectual ingredient. This work likely reinforced Singh's skepticism towards established institutions and ideologies. His philosophical arguments against authority probably influenced his perspective on societal structures and the fight for individual liberty.
Hugo's Narrative
Victor Hugo's 'Les Misérables' offered a humanistic and emotionally charged depiction of societal injustice. The struggles of the downtrodden resonated with Singh. The novel’s narrative would've given him a more comprehensive viewpoint of oppression. The book became a source of inspiration and a reminder of the strength of the human spirit.
Marxist Insights
Karl Marx's 'The Civil War in France' provided an analysis of class struggle and revolution. Its insights into political power and social transformation offered a theoretical framework. Singh's engagement with Marxism helped shape his understanding of historical forces and the path toward a fairer society. This offered the ideology needed.
