The article discusses the release of “Light and Thread,” the first new book published by novelist Han Kang following her Nobel Prize in Literature win last year. Set to be available online from April 23 and in physical bookstores from April 24, the book contains a total of 12 pieces, including five poems and three unpublished essays. Notably, three of these writings relate to the Nobel Prize ceremony: her Nobel lecture “Light and Thread,” her acceptance speech “In the Darkest Night,” and a message titled “A Small Teacup” about donating a teacup to the Nobel Museum.
Among the newly unveiled works are essays such as “A North-Facing Garden,” “Garden Diary,” and “After Living More.” “A North-Facing Garden” recounts Han’s experience tending a garden with minimal sunlight, with reflections on the presence of light. The essay describes how Han planted suitable plants for a north-facing garden and used mirrors to direct sunlight towards them, which gave her a sense of Earth’s rotation.
“Garden Diary” is structured like a diary, capturing experiences and changes in the garden. It includes a note from April 26, 2021, where she mentions completing a novel after seven years. “After Living More” is a brief, poetic essay reflecting on the impact of writing on her life.
The collection also includes one previously released essay and five poems that have been previously published. “After Publication” shares her thoughts after releasing the novel “I Do Not Say Goodbye,” and the poem “Sounds” was tailored for a performance at the Gwangju Biennale.
What adds a unique touch to “Light and Thread” are the photographs taken by Han herself, portraying her garden, workspace, and donated teacup. Additionally, the book features a childhood poem she wrote at eight years old, reflecting themes of love explored in her Nobel lecture.
Han, highlighting the use of the body in writing, expressed that the vibrant sensations of being a mortal with warm, flowing blood get infused into her sentences, resonating with readers.