Perfection in miniature is one way to view R.K. Laxman?s cartoons, which offer the richest delight through their many-layered appeal. The completely assured strokes ? the angle of a tiny eyebrow, the bewildered slackness of a mouth, an amazed twist to the neck ? convey, within a tiny square of often crowded space, drama, irony, derision, hilarious contrast and, always, deep aesthetic pleasure. The gentle but observant Common Man is the most enduring figure in this retrospective volume, BRUSHING UP THE YEARS: A CARTOONIST?S HISTORY OF INDIA 1947-2004 (Penguin, Rs 750), but as unforgettable are the familiar figures of India?s leaders, caught for ever in ludicrous situations of exposure. The relentless political commentary behind the fun is as keen and unerring as the witty hand that wields the brush.