The Last Light of Glory Days: Stories from Nagaland

In “The Last Light of Glory Days,” Avinuo Kire showcases her profound compassion and mastery of storytelling to transport readers to a world both mesmerizing and heartbreaking. Within this realm, military occupation and magic intertwine, creating a rich tapestry of interconnected narratives.

“The Disturbance” weaves together three stories, spanning generations within a family, against the backdrop of the Indo-Naga conflict that emerged in the late 1940s and remains unresolved to this day. Through the eyes of resilient women, Kire paints a vivid picture of the Naga people’s unwavering determination to preserve normalcy amidst occupation, state-sanctioned torture, family separation, and racism.

In “New Tales from an Old World,” everyday life in the mountains takes on an enchanting quality, as the supernatural effortlessly intertwines with mundane events. Naga myths and folk legends seamlessly blend with stories of challenging farm life, childhood fears and adventures, love, and grief. Within these tales, hunters, predators, Tekhumevi (weretigers), secret potions, elusive Kamvüpfhi demons, mystical spirits, and enchanted forests find a natural place in contemporary Nagaland.

Avinuo Kire’s remarkable volume serves as both a political declaration and a heartfelt love letter to her homeland. It dismantles tired tropes that often relegate Nagaland to an undistinguished piece of the “Northeast.” Through her formidable storytelling skills, Kire showcases her profound connection to the land and establishes herself as a formidable writer.

The book unravels the complexities of Nagaland’s identity, offering a unique and nuanced perspective that challenges preconceived notions. It is a testament to the power of storytelling, allowing readers to delve into the depths of a captivating world while shedding light on the struggles and resilience of a community often overlooked in the broader narrative.