OCEAN Vuong’s debut novel, “On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous”, is a deeply touching exploration of family, identity, and love. Through beautiful writing and vivid imagery, Vuong takes us into the life of Little Dog, a young Vietnamese-American struggling with his past, his sexuality, and the scars of his family’s history.
At its heart, “On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous” is a letter from Little Dog to his mother, Rose, who cannot read. Through this personal and heartfelt format, Vuong delves into the complexities of their relationship, revealing moments of connection and pain that have shaped their lives. Little Dog’s memories and reflections paint a vivid picture of his upbringing, from the poverty of rural Vietnam to the challenges of immigrant life in America.
Vuong’s writing is powerful and evocative, bringing to life the sights, sounds, and emotions of Little Dog’s world. From the beauty of the natural landscapes to the struggles of everyday life, Vuong’s descriptions are immersive and captivating,
drawing readers into the story with every word. Through his poetic language and vivid imagery, Vuong captures the essence of Little Dog’s experiences and emotions, making them feel real and immediate.
At its core, “On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous” is a meditation on the power of storytelling to connect us to ourselves and each other. Little Dog’s letter to his mother is an attempt to bridge the gap between them, to make sense of their shared history, and to find a sense of belonging in a world that often feels hostile and alienating. Through his words, Little Dog seeks to understand himself and his place in the world, and to find meaning in his experiences.
One of the most compelling aspects of “On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous” is its exploration of love and intimacy. From the bonds between family members to the complexities of romantic relationships, Vuong explores the ways in which love can both heal and hurt us. Through Little Dog’s relationships with his mother, his grandmother, and his first love, Vuong captures the joy, the pain, and the longing that come with loving and being loved.
Another key theme of the novel is the legacy of trauma and violence on the lives of ordinary people. Little Dog’s family history is marked by war, displacement, and loss, and he grapples with the impact of these experiences on his own identity and sense of self. Through his characters’ struggles to find meaning and purpose in the face of adversity, Vuong offers a powerful commentary on the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of hope.
Overall, “On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous” is a stunning work of literature that will stay with readers long after they finish reading. With its beautiful writing, its profound insights, and its deeply human characters, Vuong’s debut novel is a powerful testament to the importance of storytelling in understanding ourselves and our place in the world.
