'An essential book for anyone invested, not only in Vietnamese literature, but the historic power of the national epic . . . and its perennial place in our species' efforts toward self-knowledge. Tim Allen's new translation offers clean fluidity while honouring the original's varied rhythms and jagged lyricism. A luminous feat.' Ocean Vuong, winner of the 2017 T. S. Eliot Prize
Ever since it exploded into Vietnam's cultural life two centuries ago, The Song of Kieu
has been one of that nation's most beloved and defining central myths.
It recounts the tragic fate of the beautiful singer and poet Kieu, who
agrees to marry to save her family from debt but is tricked into working
in a brothel. Over the course of a swift-moving story involving kidnap,
war, jealous wives and rebel heroes, she will become a queen, wife,
nun, slave, victim and avenger, surviving through the strength of her
words and her wits alone.
Translated with an introduction by Timothy Allen
If you’re looking for something new to listen to, watch or play, look no further than the musicMagpie Store. We sell over half a million new and used CDs, DVDs, Blu-Rays, Games and Vinyl, spanning all kinds of genres and consoles, with prices starting from just £1.09! We also sell a wide range of refurbished Mobile Phones and Tech from major brands like Apple, Samsung, Sony, Microsoft and much more. With a 12 month quality warranty, you can save with total confidence.