Died Before the Wedding

My Thoughts on Died Before the Wedding

"Died Before the Wedding" is a short but impactful novel that left me with a bittersweet ache. It's a story of love, loss, and acceptance, and while it's undeniably tragic, it's also surprisingly calming in its exploration of grief.

First Impressions

The title alone hooked me, hinting at the heartbreaking narrative within. From the very first chapter, I was aware that there would be no miracle, no last-minute save. The protagonist, Lin Chu, is already gone, leaving his partner, Xie Chenmin, to navigate a world without him.

What Works Well

The novel excels in its portrayal of Lin Chu and Xie Chenmin's relationship. The flashbacks, interwoven with the present-day grief, paint a vivid picture of their eight years together. We see their first meeting in college, their confessions, their intimacy, and even their fights. The author masterfully captures the purity and depth of their love, making the tragedy all the more poignant.

I appreciated the focus on Xie Chenmin's journey of acceptance. It's not about wallowing in despair, but about finding ways to live a good life while cherishing the memories of Lin Chu. The story doesn't drag out the suffering unnecessarily, offering a sense of resolution that's both comforting and realistic. The author also made the correct choice when deciding who would pass away, with the story focusing on how the more affectionate of the two men would react to the more responsible and mature man's death. This caused the tragedy to be more impactful.

Areas of Concern

There isn't much to critique. The short length might leave some readers wanting more, but I felt it was perfectly paced for the story it wanted to tell. It is worth mentioning that Xie Chenmin does attempt suicide at one point. While it doesn't happen, this could be triggering for some readers.

Final Verdict

Despite the heartache, "Died Before the Wedding" is a beautiful and touching story that I highly recommend. It's a reminder to cherish the love we have and to find strength in the face of loss. It's a story that will stay with me for a long time, a testament to the enduring power of love and the inevitability of death. I was left smiling through my tears, and I can't ask for much more than that.