Book Recommendation | Han Kang-THE NOBEL PRIZE IN LITERATURE 2024
About Han Kang
Han Kang, a renowned South Korean writer, was born in Gwangju, South Korea, in 1970. Her works are known for their delicate prose, poetic language, and profound philosophical insights, often exploring themes of violence, trauma, the fragility of life, and the internal struggles of humanity. Through her unique literary style, Han Kang delves deeply into the complex relationship between historical trauma and personal suffering, revealing both the cruelty and beauty of human existence.
Her notable work The Vegetarian won the International Booker Prize in 2016, catapulting her to international literary fame. In 2024, Han Kang was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature for her "for her intense poetic prose that confronts historical traumas and exposes the fragility of human life." This award is not only a high recognition of her personal achievements in literature but also highlights the universality and profound humanism embedded in her work.
#1 The Vegetarian
The Vegetarian is one of Han Kang's most representative works. The story's protagonist, Yeong-hye, suddenly decides to become a vegetarian after a dream, a choice that not only changes her own life but also impacts her family and friends. The novel gradually reveals her inner world through the perspectives of her husband, brother-in-law, and sister, showcasing her alienation from her family and society, as well as her intense pursuit of bodily and spiritual freedom.
Through stark and poetic language, Han Kang explores the individual's resistance to societal expectations, metaphors of inner trauma, and the struggles within the spiritual realm. The Vegetarian transforms an ordinary family story into a richly metaphorical literary work, revealing the conflict between personal freedom and social norms in modern society, as well as the fragility of the individual psyche when faced with extreme pressure.
#2 Fruits of My Woman
Fruits of My Woman explores the relationship between women's identity and nature, showcasing the deep connection between the protagonist and plants through a poetic narrative. It depicts her journey of self-discovery and how she rebuilds her relationships with those around her.
Han Kang's unique narrative style and profound psychological insights allow readers to experience the fragility and resilience of life. The work not only examines the individual's position within society but also reflects the pursuit of inner freedom and self-identity
#3 I do not bid farewell
I do not bid farewell is a novel that delves deeply into themes of life, death, and interpersonal relationships. The story revolves around loss and separation, presenting the protagonist's inner struggles and complex emotions as she faces the death of a loved one. Through delicate narration, the novel portrays her relationships with those around her, as well as her yearning for past memories and her helplessness regarding the future. Han Kang, with her unique literary style and poetic language, captures the characters' inner worlds, allowing readers to profoundly feel the fragility of life and death alongside the resilience of existence.
In this work, Han Kang not only explores the individual's response to death but also reflects on universal emotional experiences and the meaning of existence. The entire novel is filled with profound reflections on life, presenting a blend of sorrow and beauty that invites readers to engage in deep thought and resonance as they read.
The recommended books have all been shelved in the atrium on the third floor of the SLAC Library. Patrons are welcome to borrow.
Content | GU Mengmeng
Layout | HU Linxiao
Review | REN Yuanyuan & HU Linxiao
