Han Kang, the recent Nobel laureate in Literature, reflects on her whirlwind Nobel experience in Stockholm. The South Korean author, whose portrait adorned the Natur & Kultur publishing house, describes the unforgettable Nobel banquet, a marathon event where she found herself seated next to Chris O’Neill, Princess Madeleine’s husband. Contrary to some media portrayals, Han Kang found O’Neill to be a delightful conversationalist, their discussions revolving around everyday life and his family’s recent move back to Sweden. The banquet, though lengthy and formal, allowed her to reflect on the power of literature to connect people and foster understanding, a theme she emphasized in her acceptance speech.
The following day, Han Kang followed Nobel tradition by visiting the Rinkeby library, interacting with students from Rinkeby and Tensta. Over tea and pastries, she engaged in a youth-led discussion about her novels. This setting resonated deeply with Han Kang, whose childhood was marked by poverty but enriched by a love of books. She fondly recalled growing up with a readily accessible bookshelf, where she was free to explore diverse literary worlds without parental restrictions. Reading became a solace and constant companion during her family’s frequent moves, offering a refuge and stimulating her inquisitive young mind.
The Nobel Prize brought unexpected attention to Han Kang’s secret life as a co-owner of a small bookstore in Seoul, a passion project shared with her son. While this cherished secret was unveiled, the bookstore itself has since transitioned to new management, allowing Han Kang to focus on her writing. This love of books and literature connected her to one of her literary idols, Astrid Lindgren. Han Kang was deeply moved by her visit to Lindgren’s preserved apartment, where she felt a personal connection to the beloved Swedish author. She was struck by the simplicity of Lindgren’s life and work environment, noting the presence of notes and shorthand on the desk overlooking the park.
Han Kang’s works, often exploring themes of violence, death, and trauma, are deeply informed by her own experiences and meticulous research. Her novel ”Human Acts” delves into the Gwangju massacre, a historical event that profoundly impacted her. She immerses herself in the locations and emotions of her characters, meticulously gathering and studying testimonies to ensure authenticity. While this immersive process can be emotionally taxing, as evidenced by the nightmares she experienced after completing ”Human Acts,” it is essential to her writing. This led to the writing of her novel, ”Greek Lessons,” a work that provided a unique form of emotional processing, almost akin to fusing broken pieces of glass back together.
Despite the gravity of her subject matter, Han Kang finds the writing process itself to be a source of light and warmth. The act of translating complex emotions into words for her readers is an inherently positive and enriching experience. Her work is driven by a constant stream of questions about human nature and our interconnectedness. She explores themes of violence, motivation, and the bonds that tie us together, constantly seeking understanding rather than definitive answers. These questions are what propel her writing forward, inspiring her to delve into the complexities of the human condition.
The Nobel Prize has not only brought international acclaim to Han Kang but has also had a tangible impact on the literary landscape in South Korea. She notes the emergence of ”Text-hip,” a newfound coolness associated with reading. While celebrating this literary renaissance, Han Kang remains acutely aware of the political unrest in her homeland, expressing both shock and admiration for the protestors who bravely challenged the government’s actions. As she returns to Seoul, she carries not only the weight of the Nobel Prize but also a lifetime ticket to the Junibacken fairytale train, a whimsical reminder of the power and enduring magic of stories.
