Though I have not read the book myself,its quaint title set me thinking.Was it a reflection on Mr Nehru himself, whom was the quintessiential 'nice guy' or 'gentleman of the old school'?Or was it a statement of a fact thats perhaps does hold true today?
First,what is a 'nice guy'?I really can't say-but one thing, he would be surely devoid of the artificial gallantry and courtliness characteristic of the middle ages and more recently, in the erstwhile 'confederate' or southern states of the United States.
This century is the century of Mammon, of achievement.Being 'nice' is not really an asset if it hinders success and progress.
Success and progress which is measured in tangibles like how palatial is your home,the number of fancy cars lodged in your garage, the designer labels in which you strut, a wealthy husband or the society wife hanging on your arm........
'Nice' connotes some characteristics or values like politeness towards your elders or rather , during all interactions,playing each thought and action straight,doing at least all good that is possible without unduly hampering yourself.To put it very succintly, to avoid any action which is 'not cricket'!
It is frequently said that nice guys ( or gals) never make it to the top due to their refusal to do something morally troubling or personally distasteful to them.But then, 'achievement' is a fuzzy term.One may get as much satisfaction by avoiding a unpalatable action as by earning your first million.
I bet I'm sounding like one fuddy duddy loser-yet I maintain my right to remain nice:)
