The Interplay between Spatial Injustice and City Space in Akhtar’s Melody of a Tear

Authors

  • Usama Shahid M.Phil. English Literature, Department of English Literature, Government College University Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan.
  • Muhammad Afzal Khan Janjua PhD Scholar/Lecturer in English, Department of English Literature, Government College University Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55737/qjssh.v-iv.24275

Keywords:

Spatial Injustice, City Space, Capitalism, Globalization, Spatial Segregation

Abstract

The present research explores spatial injustice in Akhtar’s Melody of a Tear (2019) by utilizing theoretical underpinnings of Edward William Soja and Henri Lefebvre revolving around city spaces and spatial injustice in the cotemporary capitalistic society. It examines how spatial injustice and inequality are institutionalized in Karachi’ city space and reveals how Karachiites are being segregated and exploited under the duress of encroaching capitalism and globalization. The research argues that space is not just living place; rather, it determines the inhabitants’ destiny and quality of life. Consequently, it is the individual who suffers due to spatial segregation and injustice. Furthermore, this study also exposes institutions and their exploitative role in the implementation of spatial injustice in the characters’ lives. Lastly, this research accentuates the struggles of assorted strata of society that is becoming the victims of spatial injustice while living in contemporary world. Therefore, the current research is of great significance as it explores factors associated with spatial injustice and spatial segregation in modern day living in city spaces. It adds a vital standpoint in the city space studies and contemporary scholarship on capitalistic societies.

Author Biography

  • Muhammad Afzal Khan Janjua, PhD Scholar/Lecturer in English, Department of English Literature, Government College University Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan.

References

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Shamsie, K. (2002). Kartography. London: Bloomsbury Publishing Plc.

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Zaidi, S. H. Z., Saleem, A. U., & Waheed, S. (2021). Spatial injustice in Shamsie’s kartography. Journal of Development and Social Sciences, 2(4), 343-352. http://doi.org/10.47205/jdss.2021(2-IV)30

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Published

2024-12-30

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Section

Articles

How to Cite

Shahid, U., & Janjua, M. A. K. (2024). The Interplay between Spatial Injustice and City Space in Akhtar’s Melody of a Tear. Qlantic Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities, 5(4), 213-220. https://doi.org/10.55737/qjssh.v-iv.24275