Description
Introducing Mirror Nation by Don Mee Choi, the concluding masterpiece of the KOR-US trilogy, this brand new trade paperback is a profound exploration of memory and history. Published by Wave Books in 2024, this book seamlessly weaves personal narratives with the collective trauma of South Korea's past. Choi's poignant prose, reminiscent of literary giants W. G. Sebald and Walter Benjamin, invites readers to reflect on sorrow and resilience. The story takes readers on an evocative journey that begins with a chance sighting— a spinning Mercedes-Benz ring seen from a Berlin window, invoking memories of Choi's father and the historical significance of the Glienicker Bridge. As the narrative unfolds, the horrors of the Gwangju Uprising from May 1980 come alive, illustrated through a mosaic of photographs, news footage, and cultural relics, culminating in a moving testament to grief and loss. Mirror Nation is more than just a collection of poetic reflections; it serves as a timeless reminder of how spaces can harbor the weight of history. For those seeking literature that tackles colonial and neocolonial themes with grace and emotion, this book is an essential addition. Discover the magnetic field of memory and broaden your understanding of South Korea's tumultuous past with Mirror Nation, a literary gem that resonates deeply with contemporary society. This is a must-read for fans of modern poetry and historical narratives.