The crux of The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy lies in its exploration of forbidden love, social divisions, and the tragic consequences of breaking societal taboos in post-colonial India. Set in the state of Kerala, the novel follows the intertwined lives of twins Estha and Rahel and their deeply dysfunctional family, focusing on the tragic events of their childhood and the lasting impact of those events as adults.

Key Themes:

1. Forbidden Love and Caste: A central element of the story is Ammu's forbidden love for Velutha, a lower-caste man, which defies the rigid caste system in India. Their relationship leads to devastating consequences, particularly for their children, Estha and Rahel. The novel critiques the deep-rooted caste system and the social and personal costs of breaking these boundaries.

2. Family and Dysfunction: The novel delves into the complexities of family relationships, portraying dysfunctional dynamics within the family. Ammu's strained relationship with her children and the destructive secrets within the family contribute to the tragedy at the heart of the novel.

3. Trauma and Memory: The novel’s fragmented structure mirrors the fractured memories of the characters, especially Estha and Rahel. The trauma of their childhood—stemming from the events surrounding their mother and Velutha—shapes their adult lives, as they struggle with the emotional scars left by these experiences.

4. Political and Social Commentary: The novel also critiques the socio-political landscape of India, particularly in the 1960s and 1970s. It reflects on the impact of colonialism, social injustice, and political unrest on individual lives and families, suggesting how these larger forces shape personal identities and relationships.

5. The Power of Small Things: The title of the book reflects the idea that small, seemingly insignificant events or moments can have profound and lasting effects on people's lives. The "small things" refer to the minutiae of life—social codes, memories, and actions—that drive the larger tragedy in the narrative.

Core Message:

At its core, The God of Small Things is a story about the power of love and memory, the consequences of societal restrictions, and the tragic ways in which personal desires collide with rigid social structures. It emphasizes that the small things—those often overlooked or suppressed—can shape lives and histories in ways that are impossible to escape. The novel calls attention to the destructive nature of caste, family secrets, and forbidden love, while highlighting the complexity of human relationships and the long-lasting effects of trauma.