BOOKS & MORE BOOKS: GREEK LESSONS BY HAN KANG

 

In the wake of her acclaimed work, The Vegetarian, Han Kang delivers another powerful novel, Greek Lessons, hailed as the Book of the Year 2023 by The New Yorker, TIME magazine, and Kirkus. This poignant tale explores the redemptive power of language and human connection.

Set in a classroom in Seoul, Greek Lessons follows the story of a young woman who has lost her voice, metaphorically and literally. As she watches her Greek language teacher at the blackboard, she grapples with the silence that surrounds her. Her teacher, gradually losing his sight, finds himself drawn to her enigmatic presence.

Their shared pain becomes evident as they explore their respective pasts. The young woman has recently endured the loss of her mother and a custody battle for her seven-year-old son. Meanwhile, the teacher navigates the complexities of growing up between Korea and Germany, torn between two cultures and languages.

Greek Lessons is a tender exploration of human connection, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Han Kang's prose vividly captures the essence of life, awakening the senses and evoking profound emotions.

Translated beautifully by Deborah Smith and E Yae Won, Greek Lessons emerges as another stunning gem in Han Kang's literary repertoire. Quiet yet sharply faceted, the novel leaves a lasting impact, traversing the depths of human experience.

In a few lines, Han Kang manages to encapsulate the complexities of existence, offering readers a glimpse into the vast tapestry of human emotions. Greek Lessons is not just a story; it's a profound meditation on life, love, and the power of language to bridge the divides between us.

Katie Kitamura aptly describes Han Kang as a writer like no other, whose words resonate with readers long after the final page is turned. Greek Lessons is a testament to her unparalleled talent and the transformative power of storytelling. 

It's a book I savored at a leisurely pace, allowing myself to linger over its poetic prose and relish its beauty without rushing through.

Chalepà tà kalá. Beautiful things are difficult.