Hai tragically took his life at the age of 19. Grazena, now 81, lives alone while battling dementia. When she enters into a living arrangement with him, where they support each other—his assistance as an informal caregiver—a poignant dynamic unfolds that could lead to either their mutual upliftment or downfall.
In Ocean Vuong’s latest novel, we follow Hi as he works in a bustling casual dining restaurant, caring for Grazina while striving to support them both. The book, “Emperor of Joy,” delves into existential themes with a palpable intimacy, prompting readers to contemplate the tangled struggles of addiction, class disparity, and the relentless pursuit of second chances. It was soon selected as one of Oprah Winfrey’s latest book club picks.
The author draws heavily from his life experiences, escaping the shadows of High’s family influenced by the Vietnam War. Their jobs within the service sector shape their narrative, making “Emperor of Joy” resonate like an autobiographical tale. While the prose is straightforward, Vuong’s poetic sensibility infuses the book with vivid, colorful language, creating a sparse yet profound thematic thread throughout, directly relating to the title.
The story opens with a cinematic exploration of East Gladness, a small town near Hartford, Connecticut. The all-knowing narrator captures various scenes of decay and neglect, ultimately focusing on Hi during one of his darkest moments.
Rather than a conspiracy, the narrative feels like an assembly of individual lives and experiences. The characters’ stories intertwine, akin to real-life interactions. Through layered snippets that build upon each other, the novel unveils relationships marked by profound scars and transformative experiences. Vuong skillfully crafts a narrative that hones in on the character while keeping their journeys simple yet impactful.
In its raw honesty, “The Emperor of Joy” feels like a candid observation of the most intimate human moments in people’s lives.
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Source: apnews.com