Abstract

Ashfaq Ahmed, with the ability to penetrate through the subconscious of his characters, has in his stories exploited his tremendous talent and brought out meanings related to apparent as well as inner reality contained in the subconscious mind of his characters. Using qualitative content analysis technique, the short stories of Ashfaq Ahmad are analyzed by focusing on his treatment of the elements of superstitions and traditions in his stories. These elements are found to have protective capacity for the people who could otherwise be shattered because of the tribulations of life. The characters take refuge in these superstitions consciously and unconsciously. Ashfaq Ahmad’s treatment of these elements in his stories has mystical touch which makes his stories different and unique.

Key words: Tradition, superstitions, mysticism, mythology