The Big Boring Book Blog

The plot revolves around the fortunes of three people: Lin Kong, the army doctor; his wife Shuyu, whom he has never loved; and the nurse Manna Wu, his girlfriend at the hospital where he works. Beginning in 1963 and stretching over a twenty-year period, Waiting is set against the background of a changing Chinese society. It contrasts city and country life and shows the restrictions on individual freedoms that are a routine part of life under communism. But Waiting is primarily a novel of character. It presents a portrait of a decent but deeply flawed man, Lin Kong, whose life is spoiled by his inability to experience strong emotions and to love wholeheartedly.

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I really enjoyed reading this novel and exploring the differences in Chinese culture throughout the years. I was extremely impressed with how entertaining this novel was and how much it can relate to more modern times.

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Common Theme

Lin Kong longs to be part of the more modern China. He reveals his efforts to leave his past and move onto more modern times as he attempts to divorce Shuyu to be with Manna. His desire to be a different person leaves him with nothing but guilt and regret.

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Quotes

“You strive to have a good heart. But what is a heart? Just a chunk of flesh that a dog can eat.”

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