Unclosed Memories reveal the first diary pages of Dang Thuy Tram

On July 18, in Hanoi, on the occasion of the 78th anniversary of War Invalids and Martyrs Day (July 27, 1947 - July 27, 2025), the Vietnam Women's Publishing House and other units organized a discussion and exchange to introduce the book "Dang Thuy Tram and the third diary" within the framework of the program "Memories that have never ended".

This book is the first to publish many previously unpublished diary entries of martyr and doctor Dang Thuy Tram, especially those from the period before she volunteered to fight in the South.

According to Ms. Khuc Thi Hoa Phuong, Director and Editor-in-Chief of the Vietnam Women's Publishing House, in 2005, two war diaries by Dang Thuy Tram caused a sensation when they returned from the United States after 35 years of being lost. These simple yet emotionally rich writings touched millions of hearts in Vietnam and internationally, becoming a symbol of patriotism and a beautiful ideal of life. After 20 years, "Thuy Tram's flame" continues to burn, inspiring many generations.

A panel discussion introducing the book "Dang Thuy Tram and Her Third Diary"

The third diary was compiled by Ms. Dang Kim Tram, the doctor's sister, from personal documents and unpublished manuscripts. This is essentially the first diary, recording the thoughts, aspirations, and anxieties of Dang Thuy Tram while she was a medical student, living in peaceful Hanoi but with her heart yearning for the South. The book recreates the dreamy and idealistic youth of the female doctor who once wished to pursue a scientific career, write, and have her own happiness, but chose the path of dedication to service.

The book consists of two main parts: "The Ideal Class" and "The Bridge Across the Dividing River," accompanied by letters and memoirs from Dang Thuy Tram's mother, Doan Ngoc Tram, and other family members. Notably, the unfulfilled love affair with a South Vietnamese soldier, previously mentioned, is now presented authentically and emotionally through various perspectives.

At the exchange, literary critic and researcher Ha Thanh Van stated that the third diary entry is not simply a manuscript but profoundly reflects the depth of thought and character of martyr Dang Thuy Tram. Through the book, her family has "continued" writing about her 20s with love and memories, contributing to the development of a literary genre called diary. The book reflects the depth of Dang Thuy Tram's character and soul, while also contributing to the development of diary literature, inspiring ideals of life and a spirit of dedication in peacetime.

Dang Thuy Tram and her third diary are a profound tribute to the deceased, a bridge between memory and the present, affirming that patriotism does not belong to a particular era, but is always present in the heart of every Vietnamese person.

MAI AN

Source: https://www.sggp.org.vn/ky-uc-chua-khep-he-lo-nhung-trang-nhat-ky-dau-tien-cua-dang-thuy-tram-post804353.html