"Moth Smoke" is a novel set in Lahore, Pakistan, exploring the lives of individuals caught in the turmoil of a rapidly changing society. The story revolves around the character of Daru, an unemployed, disillusioned man who turns to drugs and crime after losing his job. His descent into a world of addiction and turmoil serves as a backdrop for a broader commentary on the social and economic disparities in contemporary Pakistan.
The narrative reflects the complexities of relationships, particularly through Daru’s interactions with his former friends and lover, experiencing the ramifications of their choices and circumstances. As the plot unfolds, themes of class struggle, betrayal, and the search for meaning emerge, highlighting the pervasive sense of hopelessness among the characters.