Book Review: The Emperor of Gladness by Ocean Vuong
From the moment I heard that Ocean Vuong was releasing his second novel, I felt an irrefutable pull toward The Emperor of Gladness. Vuong’s debut, On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous, left me breathless with its poetic depth, and I couldn’t help but wonder what marvels lay in store for us this time. As I delved into East Gladness, Connecticut, I found myself not just reading a story, but stepping into a world that radiates love, loneliness, and the transformative power of connection.
At the heart of this poignant tale is nineteen-year-old Hai, an individual teetering on the precipice of despair. His life is an intricate weave of personal struggles—addiction, identity, and the weight of his family’s expectations—culminating in a moment on a bridge that could shatter everything. It’s here that the novel introduces us to Grazina, an elderly widow grappling with dementia. What starts as a seemingly mundane arrangement unfolds into a life-affirming relationship, rich in tenderness and mutual salvation. This pair serves as a quintessential example of how chosen families can emerge in the most unexpected forms; their dynamic resonates deeply, reminding us of the comfort found in shared vulnerability.
Vuong’s style, marked by his lyrical prowess, remains captivating yet evolves throughout the narrative. While initially drawing you in with brilliantly poetic prose, it shifts to a more straightforward dialogue that reflects the characters’ complex realities. This versatility allows the reader not only to feel the weight of Hai and Grazina’s relationship but also to grasp the ethos of the community around them—a group of characters, including Hai’s cousin Sony, each navigating their own barriers in life.
There are moments in the book that leave lasting impressions, each radiating a certain truth. One line that lingered for me was: "To remember is to fill the present with the past, which meant that the cost of remembering anything, anything at all, is life itself." It encapsulates the essence of vulnerability, underscoring how memory can both haunt and heal us. It’s no wonder that this book caught Oprah’s eye; it is a heartfelt examination of those living on the fringes, not just within society but within themselves.
What I appreciate most, though, is how Vuong fearlessly tackles themes of survival and resilience amidst despair. The story is layered with humor and moments of levity that juxtapose the underlying gravity of the characters’ existences, creating a rich tapestry of human experience that invites reflection. For me, the balance between heartbreak and hope resonates deeply, accentuating the beauty in our shared stories and struggles.
In terms of pacing, the book flows seamlessly through its seasons, capturing the cyclical nature of life and memory. As the narrative unfolds, you might find yourself flipping pages late into the night, propelled by both heartache and healing, knowing that the journey is just as vital as the destination.
The Emperor of Gladness is a narrative for anyone grappling with their place in the world. If you’ve ever felt lost, if you yearn for a deeper understanding of the human condition, if you believe in the transformative power of connection, this book is a gift waiting to be unwrapped. It left me reflecting not just on the characters’ lives, but on my own relationships and the stories we carry with us. I can’t recommend it enough—this beautifully crafted exploration of love and resilience will stay with you long after you close the cover.
You can find The Emperor of Gladness: Oprah’s Book Club: A Novel here >>