ultimateimp – Oprah Winfrey revealed her latest book club pick during an appearance on CBS Mornings on Tuesday. Selecting The Emperor of Gladness by acclaimed author and poet Ocean Vuong. The announcement comes as part of Winfrey’s long-standing tradition of highlighting important and thought-provoking books for her vast audience.
A Powerful Recommendation from Oprah
In the interview, Oprah Winfrey shared her deep admiration for The Emperor of Gladness, calling it “some of the most beautiful writing I’ve experienced in my lifetime.” She praised Vuong’s ability to depict the lives of ordinary people with exceptional insight and beauty. Oprah encouraged viewers to read the first chapter, assuring them that it would capture their hearts and imaginations.
Vuong’s novel begins with a profound line: “The hardest thing in the world is to live only once.” It tells the story of 19-year-old Hai, who forms a deep connection with Grazina, an elderly widow battling dementia. Through this relationship, Vuong explores themes of life, loss, and the complexities of human connection.
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Vuong Opens Up About His Inspiration
Ocean Vuong spoke candidly about the inspiration behind The Emperor of Gladness, which stems from personal experiences. In the interview, he discussed the emotional impact of losing his uncle to suicide in 2012. Vuong explained that his novel shifts the focus away from the crisis moment of suicide and instead explores what happens to those who survive and continue to live with the aftermath.
Vuong shared that stories often emphasize the dramatic moments, such as a suicide attempt or intervention, and gloss over the days, weeks, and months that follow. “What happens on day two of that decision? Day three, day 20?” he asked. He expressed his desire to capture the struggle of those left behind. Focusing on the slow recovery and the journey of emotional healing.
Themes of Loneliness and Marginalization
At the heart of The Emperor of Gladness is the unlikely bond between Hai and Grazina. Vuong emphasizes that both the young and the elderly are often marginalized by society. Creating a shared loneliness between the two characters. This connection transcends generational gaps and highlights the universal need for human connection. Especially for those pushed to the fringes of society.
Vuong’s portrayal of loneliness in the novel is a poignant reminder of how both the very young and the elderly are often forgotten, left to face isolation in different ways. It is this shared experience of neglect and yearning for companionship that forms the emotional core of his story.
A Personal Connection with Oprah
There is a personal connection between Vuong and Oprah Winfrey, as Vuong revealed that his mother, a nail salon worker in Connecticut, was an avid fan of The Oprah Show. Vuong spoke of watching his mother and other women find empowerment through reading and learning from Oprah’s show.
When asked how his late mother would feel about his book being selected for Oprah’s Book Club, Vuong reflected on her pride. “This is the only thing that would be legible to her,” he said. He expressed his hope that she would be proud of his achievement, even as he grieved her loss.
Vuong’s literary success continues to grow, with The Emperor of Gladness now on sale. His previous works, including On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous and the poetry collection Time Is a Mother, have already established him as a significant voice in contemporary literature. With Oprah’s endorsement, The Emperor of Gladness is sure to reach even more readers and touch hearts around the world.
