(Signed Edition*) Coitus Interruptus and Other Stories by Malachi Edwin Vethamani

Malachi Edwin Vethamani vividly presents characters with longings that remain unfulfilled, many a times unaware of their deepest desires. Whether it is Sunita’s blunderous Coitus Interruptus or Balan’s withdrawal from a dishonest relationship in Best Man’s Kiss, the search never ends. Incidents do not change them the way they would in stories with a more classic design. The longing continues. Like life, there are no easy resolutions.

Vethamani’s stories compel the reader to reflect on the future of his characters. You hope they find what they are looking for. Or you hope they ultimately know what they are looking for. Either way, they are memorable and remain with you long after you have put aside these beautiful nuggets. Peopled with characters of Tamil origin, these slices of life in Malaysia are more palpable after this fine read.

— Mahesh Dattani, Playwright and Director