The story of a middle-aged woman who has lost the ability to speak and an Ancient Greek teacher who is slowly losing his sight and how, through each other, they find connection. 

 

Although ‘Greek Lessons’ deals with similar themes to Han Kang’s other works, ‘The Vegetarian’ and ‘Human Acts’, the writing has a distinct, softer feel, as if the grief and suffering have been painted in pastel hues, rather than the bolder tones of the other books, while still retaining the stunning and understated lyricism typical of all Han Kang’s works. 

 

I found myself both wanting to devour this book and to savour it, and the moment I finished it I wanted to go back to the beginning and read it again. It feels like a book that needs many rereads in order to appreciate its full beauty, offering new insights and depth each time. 

 

If you’re a fan of Han Kang’s other works, you should definitely give ‘Greek Lessons’ a try.