Communication: Greek Lessons by Han Kang

Nobel Prize winner Han Kang’s novel Greek Lessons invites us to think about what counts as true communication.

Introverts take communication seriously. With respect to verbal communication, we choose our words carefully. We think before we speak. We try to say what we mean rather than just fill airspace with sound. We generally stick to the topic instead of blathering in free association. If we have nothing to say, we remain mum.

We’re equally intentional when it comes to nonverbal communication, such as touching others during a conversation.

So when I read that Han Kang’s 2023 novel Greek Lessons zooms in on the relationship between a teacher of ancient Greek who is losing his eyesight and an introverted student in his class who hasn’t been able to speak for years, I was intrigued. Reading it drove home the insight that when the process of communication is challenging, it can become exquisitely meaningful, even more so than mindful everyday speaking and listening.