The world is full of stories, each one unique in its own way. Some stories are tales of love, some are about war and struggle, while others revolve around courage and perseverance. Among all these stories, there are some that stand out for their gripping plot lines and thought-provoking themes. One such story is “That Which Flows By”, a tale of survival and identity set in the Joseon era.
The Plot
The story follows Dani, a Jurchen girl who is rescued by General Gyeol Seo during a bandit attack. Grateful for his help, Dani becomes a servant at Gyeol’s house in Hanyang. However, she has to keep her true identity a secret and pretend to be from Joseon, due to rumors that the general is hostile towards Jurchen people.
Things take an interesting turn when Gyeol reveals that he can’t drink clear water because of a tragic incident from his childhood. This same incident left him with numerous enemies who are out to get him. As Dani and Gyeol grow closer, they find themselves navigating through a maze of lies, secrets, and danger.
The Theme
At its core, “That Which Flows By” is a story about survival and identity. Dani’s struggle to conceal her true self reflects the plight of many individuals who have been oppressed or discriminated against for their identity. On the other hand, Gyeol’s inability to drink clear water symbolizes the weight of past trauma and how it can shape a person’s present.
The Historical Context
To fully understand the story and its themes, it is essential to provide some historical context. The Joseon era in Korea was marked by political instability and power struggles, making it a dangerous time for those outside the ruling class. Jurchen people were considered outsiders and often faced discrimination and violence from those in power.
The character of General Gyeol Seo is based on a real-life figure known for his military prowess during this period. His enemies saw him as a threat due to his popularity among the common people, which led to multiple attempts on his life.
The Significance
The story of “That Which Flows By” holds great significance, especially in today’s world. It sheds light on the harsh realities of discrimination and trauma, while also showcasing the strength and resilience of individuals in the face of adversity. Through Dani and Gyeol’s journey, we see how love and understanding can overcome societal barriers and heal even the deepest wounds.
The Writing Style
Author Baek Hee-na’s writing style is both captivating and poignant. She effortlessly transports readers to the Joseon era with vivid descriptions and well-developed characters. Her use of foreshadowing adds an element of suspense to the story, keeping readers on edge until the very end.
Character Development
The strength of “That Which Flows By” lies heavily on its rich and intricate character development. Dani, the female protagonist, is portrayed as a multifaceted individual with a blend of vulnerability and inner strength. Her journey from a frightened girl on the run to a resilient woman capable of navigating the treacherous waters of Hanyang is meticulously detailed. Dani’s internal struggle of hiding her true identity while trying to stay true to who she is, is a compelling narrative that resonates deeply with readers. Her acts of bravery are not just physical but also emotional, as she fights to protect her secrets while developing a bond with Gyeol that transcends mere survival.
General Gyeol Seo, on the other hand, provides a contrasting dynamic with his stoic demeanor and tragic backstory. The complexity of his character is unveiled slowly through the narrative, revealing layers of psychological trauma that have left him unable to drink clear water. His transformation from a seemingly ruthless general to a more humanized figure as his relationship with Dani deepens adds depth to his character. Gyeol’s persistent struggle with trusting others, coupled with his ironclad sense of duty, paints a picture of a man haunted by his past and weighed down by the expectations of his role.
Supporting characters in the story also play crucial roles in enriching the narrative. From loyal servants to cunning adversaries, each character is crafted with a distinct personality that contributes to the overall theme of survival and identity. These secondary characters are not mere foils but rather integral parts of the story, each with their unique motivations and backstories that intersect with the lives of Dani and Gyeol in meaningful ways.
Overall, the character development in “That Which Flows By” is masterful, ensuring that readers are deeply invested in the fates of Dani, Gyeol, and the ensemble cast that populates this gripping tale. It is through their growth and interactions that the story achieves its emotional depth and enduring resonance.
Symbolism in the Story
Symbolism plays a vital role in “That Which Flows By,” adding additional layers of meaning and enhancing the reader’s engagement with the narrative. One of the most poignant symbols in the story is the clear water that General Gyeol Seo cannot drink. This element represents purity and transparency, both of which Gyeol finds unattainable due to his past traumas and the murky waters of political and personal betrayals he has navigated. The water stands as a constant reminder of his buried memories and unresolved fears, making it a powerful symbol of his internal struggle.
Another significant symbol is Dani’s identity as a Jurchen hidden under the guise of a Joseon servant. This duality embodies the theme of concealed truths and the lengths individuals go to protect themselves in a hostile world. Her hidden identity is a metaphor for all the marginalized voices in society who must disguise their true selves for survival. This aspect of the story brings to light issues of racial and ethnic discrimination, showing how systemic oppression forces people into roles that suffocate their identity.
Nature, with its unpredictable beauty and fierce power, also serves as a symbol throughout the narrative. The seasonal changes, particularly the flow of water in rivers and streams, reflect the constant flux in Dani and Gyeol’s lives. The cyclical nature of the seasons mirrors the characters’ continuous process of confronting and overcoming their pasts. Storms and serene landscapes metaphorically portray the tumultuous and calm phases they endure, adding a layer of natural symbolism that underscores their emotional and psychological journeys.
Lastly, the house where Gyeol and Dani reside serves as a microcosm of the broader world, a sanctuary that is both a refuge and a place fraught with its own perils. Within its walls, the dynamics of power, trust, and secrecy play out, reflecting the larger themes of control, vulnerability, and revelation. This abode becomes more than a setting; it transforms into a symbolic space where the characters wrestle with their pasts and envisage their futures.
Through these symbols, Baek Hee-na enriches “That Which Flows By,” making it a profound exploration of human resilience and the quest for identity amid adversity. The symbolic elements weave seamlessly into the storyline, offering readers deeper insights and a more immersive experience, allowing them to connect with the narrative on a multifaceted level.
