I recently immersed myself in the pages of Celeste Ng’s latest literary creation, a gripping dystopian narrative set in an America where right-wing extremism has ascended to power, draped in the cloak of patriotism. Ng’s artistry with words, characterized by an eloquent rhetoric of euphemism and her skillful crafting of montages, imbues this novel with the essence of a production-ready script.
What particularly stood out in Ng’s storytelling was her ability to capture the most compelling details and place them squarely at the center of her narrative lens. This deliberate choice creates a visual impact that lingers in the reader’s mind long after the book is closed.
One memorable scene that exemplifies Ng’s unique narrative style unfolds when Margarita makes her inaugural visit to Ethan’s apartment. Her unconventional entrance via the fire escape and her deft act of placing a ring on Ethan’s shoulder using her teeth encapsulate the essence of Ng’s storytelling philosophy. It is a moment that speaks volumes without the need for further embellishment or exposition.
Throughout the book, Ng consistently employs this concise yet powerful narrative approach, leaving ample space for the reader’s imagination to roam freely. It’s a style that invites readers to become active participants in the story, encouraging us to fill in the narrative gaps with our own interpretations and emotions.
In Celeste Ng’s capable hands, words become a canvas upon which the art of storytelling flourishes. Her latest work is a testament to her prowess as a writer, a masterful storyteller who wields language with precision and impact. It’s a book that resonates deeply, prompting contemplation and discussion long after the final page is turned.
Many western authors have penned popular dystopia tales. To name a few, J.K Rowling’s Harry Potter, George Orwell’s 1984, Marvel’s story about Thanos and the Handmaid story, all of which were made into screenplays. But they often render the story unimaginative about evil and poverty. I remembered George Orwell described Winston have to live with a broken lift, eat boiled cabbages for weeks, use the same shaving blade for months. These are not real poverty. As for evilness, killing half the population with a snap? Scare people with gunmen? No, killing people is not the worst, real evil destroys humanity. In the past, there were generations mentally destroyed, lost trust even between kin family members, and miseducated on value, history, and reasoning. Ms. Ng clearly has an advantage over others. Maybe because she is a Chinese descendant.
In closing, I’m reminded of Mark Twain’s timeless words: “Truth is stranger than fiction, but it is because Fiction is obliged to stick to possibilities; Truth isn’t.” Celeste Ng’s work embodies this sentiment, weaving a tale that transcends the boundaries of the imaginable to explore the profound truths of our world.
