Kazuo Ishiguro's "Klara and the Sun" is one wherein the author tries to explore a fundamental question: "What does it mean to love?".
Through the story of a technologically advanced world, the concept of Artificial Friends originates from humanoids meant to help children get through loneliness. The narrator 'Klara' is one too. Klara is an AF with exceptional observational and thinking qualities, though being from a relatively inferior series (of solar humanoids).
The story is set off in the US, wherein Josie (a kid) is adamant about having an AF, and her mom eventually agrees to get her one. Once they pick Klara, the story revolves around Josie's life, wherein Klara tries to learn it all and help Josie through. Going deep into the account, one starts to understand the complexities of Josie's life and family. With various complicated instances involved, Klara (being the humanoid) has shown signs of being a faithful companion by giving everything up for her, even though, with time, her importance reduces.
The story signifies the relationship of Klara (a solar humanoid) with the sun and how a mosaic is formed at the end of this story through the involvement of emotions with the changes that occur throughout time.
Klara and the Sun is a beautiful story written in an unconventional format. Even though the story moves slowly, it captures the essence of the minute details that make it an exciting read.
When Irrfan Khan said, "Life's all about letting go, but what hurts is someone never took a moment to say goodbye", this is one wherein the moment is taken, and the efforts of the protagonist are appreciated. But after it all ends, you'll be left with the same question, "what does it mean to love?"
fin.