A Life in Urdu

This book brings together writings by Ralph Russell, the eminent twentieth-century Urdu scholar. Written in his lively, accessible style, it provides a unique introduction for those new to Urdu literature, and unusual insights for those familiar with it. Part 1 is autobiographical, describing contacts with Urdu speakers over a long life, Part 2 discusses key figures in Urdu literature, and Part 3 has esssays on Urdu's literary history and its social context.