English
I had read about 20 pages of the book “The nightingale” before I stopped. Luckily for me, I later returned and continued turning the pages of this deeply moving book.
The entire book follows the lives of a few individuals, but it seems to encompass the emotional ups and downs of millions who experienced World War II. They once had happy lives with their families and promising futures – until an unjust war stole those futures away.
Initially, I didn’t like the character Vianna. Her wishes seemed like illusions; she chose to endure, compromise, and accept living with her enemy. However, as the story progressed, the author portrayed Vianna as a strong woman, a Vianna with hope towards the future. Vianna endured because she wanted to keep her loved ones safe, and Vianna, after enduring many hardships, humbly accepted further sacrifices to contribute to the future of others.
And what about Isabelle – Vianna’s younger sister? Outspoken, straightforward, daring, unconventional, brave, and full of ideals. From childhood to adulthood, Isabelle has always faced the distance from her father and sister. She longs for love and yearns to be loved. Perhaps that is why Isabella chose to jump into the war – because that is where she is needed, where she can be herself and become important.
Perhaps female authors like Kristin Hannah don’t want readers to be crushed completely, so in the end, she gives the characters an ending that is quite beautiful (even if it isn’t perfectly happy).
In short, this is the kind of book that can stir your heart. War is not unfamiliar to us. However, no matter how many times we read about it, watch it, or write about it, war remains a distant realm where we can never fully grasp its inhumanity because we are not the ones living through it.
I think all our generation can do is to cherish. Cherish peace, cherish what we have and cherish the sacrifices of those who came before us – by continuing to learn, to understand, to love, and to contribute to the overall development of our nation and humanity. If you’re interested, please read “The Nightingale”!