The season when the wind is shoulder-length

"The Season of Winds Across the Shoulder" (Vietnam Women's Publishing House) - a collection of short stories by young writer Le Ngoc - is 12 vibrant pieces in the colorful tapestry of life.

There, readers can encounter the lives and stories of people from cities to rural areas, those emerging from war, young people struggling to make a living in the city, those grappling with strained family relationships, and those grappling with unfulfilled romantic relationships...

Cover of a collection of short stories

Using the short story "The Season of Winds Across the Shoulder" as the title of the book, Le Ngoc tells a heartwarming story about the days when grandchildren could still gather around their beloved grandmother. She was like a connecting thread, strengthening family bonds, so that even those who went far away always longed for the day they could return to their hometown, to the old house, where her image sat by the fire, meticulously cooking delicious meals for her children and grandchildren. She was the only one who remembered everyone's preferences and understood each family member's personality. Then, time flew by, and that invisible thread broke when she passed away. Her children and grandchildren scattered to different corners of the world, no longer enthusiastic about reunions or trips back to their hometown. Because in the old house, the old garden, the green pond, the loving presence of their grandmother waiting at the door was gone. Losing her meant losing the peaceful haven of their homeland.

The short stories in the collection "Season of Winds Across the Shoulder" retain the clear, simple, and distinctly Northern Vietnamese countryside flavor of Le Ngoc's previous works. In the short story "Startled and Restless," it's the poignant shock of young people leaving their hometowns to find refuge in the city. They leave behind the endless fields, the misty green mountains, the verdant slopes of the countryside to confine themselves within the cramped concrete walls of their rented rooms in the city. One might think that amidst the bustling city, amidst the vast, cold sea of people, genuine affection would be lacking. However, in times of hardship, amidst the raging pandemic, they realize that human kindness in the city remains warm and abundant. Whether in the countryside or the city, hearts are always warm with love, protection, and support.

"The Day of Return" offers a different perspective on war from young author Le Ngoc. It tells the story of a woman whose lover died in battle. This pain lingers, tormenting her for decades, from her youth to her old age. The pain isn't just about the broken vows of their youth, but also about her husband's irrational jealousy of the deceased. This blind jealousy prevents the husband from recognizing his wife's love until he accidentally overhears a conversation between his wife and son. One July, they embark on a pilgrimage to the cemetery where the young soldier rests, returning mementos to his family and closing a chapter of their sorrowful memories.

"The most precious thing in life is memory, especially memories of loved ones," and the short story collection "The Season of Winds Across the Shoulders" brings readers many beautiful memories.

Phuong Hoa (according to hanoimoi.vn)

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