Who is the Control Character of the Story Games at Twilight?

In Anita Desai’s short story Games at Twilight, the narrative revolves around a group of children playing hide-and-seek on a hot summer day. While the story primarily focuses on Ravi, the protagonist, another character plays an important controlling role. This character is Raghu, the eldest sibling. Raghu's actions and behavior show his authority over the other children. His dominance drives the events of the story and shapes the dynamics between the characters. By examining Raghu’s role, we can understand why he is the control character in the story.

Raghu: The Enforcer of Rules Raghu takes charge of the game by being the seeker in hide-and-seek. As the eldest child, he naturally assumes the role of enforcer. The text describes how Raghu loudly counts and searches aggressively, creating tension among the younger children:

g>"Raghu’s long, hefty, hairy legs and his hoarse voice were enough to shake them out of their hiding places."

This shows that Raghu is not only physically strong but also commanding. His strict approach to the game keeps everyone in line and maintains the structure of the activity.

Dominance Through Fear: Raghu’s control is further evident in the fear he instills in the younger children. The story highlights how the other kids dread being caught by him. For instance, when he finds someone, he does not hesitate to scold or intimidate them:

"He flung himself on them with such force that they could not help crying out."

This physical and emotional dominance sets him apart as the authority figure in the group. His intimidating personality ensures the younger children obey and fear him.

Contrasting Raghu and Ravi: Raghu’s authority becomes more noticeable when contrasted with Ravi’s vulnerability. While Ravi hides, Raghu’s loud movements and relentless pursuit create a sense of anxiety. Raghu represents power and control, while Ravi symbolizes weakness and insignificance. This dynamic reinforces Raghu’s role as the control character. The other children respect and fear him, while Ravi struggles to gain their acknowledgment, even after winning the game.

Raghu’s Role in Maintaining Order: Throughout the game, Raghu ensures that the rules are followed. His authoritative role is crucial in organizing the activity. The younger children do not question his position as the leader. For example, his aggressive counting at the start of the game and his thorough searching reflect his control. Without Raghu’s leadership, the game would lack direction and structure. His actions, though harsh, maintain order and keep the story’s events moving forward.

Symbol of Authority and Power: Raghu’s role extends beyond the game. He symbolizes authority and power within the family dynamics. The story portrays him as a figure the younger siblings cannot challenge. This hierarchy mirrors broader societal structures where older siblings or authority figures maintain control. The way the children react to Raghu highlights their dependence on his decisions, further cementing his role as the control character.

In Games at Twilight, Raghu serves as the control character who dominates the story through his authority and intimidating presence. He enforces the rules, instills fear, and keeps the game organized. His control contrasts with Ravi’s yearning for recognition, emphasizing the power dynamics among the children. Raghu’s character not only drives the plot but also symbolizes the authoritative figures that often shape childhood experiences. Through Raghu, Anita Desai explores themes of power, control, and the struggle for individuality.