Mohsin Hamid's Moth Smoke offers a riveting tale of disenchantment set in Lahore, capturing readers with its deft narrative and complex characters. The protagonist's struggle against societal norms is both compelling and relatable. However, some critics find the pacing inconsistent and the ending abrupt. Overall, it's lauded for its profound social commentary and vivid imagery.

Readers who enjoyed The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald and The White Tiger by Aravind Adiga will be captivated by Moth Smoke by Mohsin Hamid. Ideal for those intrigued by social complexities, moral dilemmas, and the nuanced depiction of contemporary Pakistan. Enthusiasts of character-driven narratives will find it particularly compelling.

Moth Smoke follows Darashikoh Shezad, or Daru, as he spirals downward in 1990s Pakistan, facing issues of class disparity, drug addiction, and complicated relationships. Daru starts losing control of his life after reuniting with his wealthy friend Ozi and becoming infatuated with Ozi’s wife, Mumtaz. Multiple narrators recount Daru's moral decline, leading to a trial where he is falsely accused of murdering a boy. Discussions of drug addiction and child death are present.

Dark / Mysterious / Melancholic / Challenging / Gritty

- Moth Smoke was Mohsin Hamid's debut novel, published in the year 2000, and it gained significant critical acclaim for its innovative narrative style.
- The novel was shortlisted for the PEN/Hemingway Award, which is given for a distinguished first book of fiction.

**Darashikoh “Daru” Shezad**  
Known as Daru, he is a central character whose life is portrayed through multiple perspectives, including friends and acquaintances. His experiences include his adjustment to life changes, relationships, and navigating his social status.

**Mumtaz Kashmiri aka Zulfikar Manto**  
She is the wife of Daru's best friend and has an alter ego as a journalist writing under the pen name Zulfikar Manto. Her character explores themes of identity and personal independence.

**Aurangzeb “Ozi” Shah**  
Ozi is Daru’s wealthy childhood friend, whose family connections and social status influence much of his life. The dynamic between Ozi and Daru is central to the narrative, highlighting themes of privilege and friendship.

**Murad Badshah**  
He is Daru’s drug dealer and occasional accomplice with grandiose ambitions and a complex view of society. His character adds an element of intrigue through his schemes and interactions with Daru.

Mohsin Hamid 

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Moth Smoke reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Moth Smoke | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Moth Smoke and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Moth Smoke Summary and Study Guide

Background

Moth Smoke Background

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Prologue-Chapter 5

Moth Smoke Prologue-Chapter 5 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 6-9

Moth Smoke Chapters 6-9 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 10-13

Moth Smoke Chapters 10-13 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 14-Epilogue

Moth Smoke Chapter 14-Epilogue Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Moth Smoke Character Analysis

theme

Themes

Moth Smoke Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Moth Smoke Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

Important Quotes

Moth Smoke Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

Moth Smoke Essay Topics

Moth Smoke

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Moth Smoke?

Reading Age

Book Details