Vietnam Women's Publishing House has just introduced to readers the novel "Leader of the nation", the latest work of Associate Professor, Dr. Pham Quang Long. Set in a familiar Northern countryside, "The Chief of Clan" tells the story of a clan, which is also a typical picture of rural Vietnam. Instead of following the traditional novel structure, the author chooses a simple and concise way of storytelling. The intertwined stories and characters appear naturally, as if they are the daily breath of the countryside.
Through many generations of characters, the work depicts the historical journey of a countryside from the time of establishing a village, building a hamlet, through two resistance wars against France and the US, to modern times. The story of the Vo family in the book reflects the conflicts and movements of rural society: the conflict between the old and new generations, between preserving traditions and the desire to change; competitions within the family line, the negative aspects of local management, and changes in ethics and lifestyle.
From everyday details, the author raises a profound question: Although rural Vietnam today is richer and more modern, can it still preserve its old ways? Because the struggle between good and evil, between old and new, between preservation and loss, is never over.
Not only a matter of clan, "Clan Chief" is also a reflection on people, society, and the changes of Vietnamese countryside in the flow of modernization. Amidst the constant changes, the author still devotes emotional pages to his hometown memories: the gentle lifestyle, the mossy beauty of the ancient village, the noble houses of the Northern people, and the deep love for the land and people of the "roots" place.
Critic Nguyen Thanh commented in his opening words: Among countless stories about clans and clans, about patriarchal families, along with village and people, Tribe Heads inspire in readers, especially middle-aged and elderly people, the remembrance of old days, and at the same time, evoke young peoples reflection on the origin, race and todays world.
With a experienced and contemplative voice, Associate Professor, Dr. Pham Quang Long continues to affirm his writing style through a profound and humane work, where reality and memory blend in the pages of writing imbued with humanity.
Associate Professor, Dr. Pham Quang Long, former Principal of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities (Vietnam National University, Hanoi), held the position of Deputy Director of Hanoi National University and Director of the Hanoi Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism.
He is a cultural researcher, writer, and the author of many highly appreciated novels such as "Lost in the Human World" (2016), "A Time of Friendship" (2017), "Fly" (2018), "The Village Story" (2020), "The War Reeds Season" (2020) and "The City Story" (2024).
"Chief of clans" is his latest work, continuing the cycle of composition about rural life, people and Vietnamese culture.
