Unconventional Blessing

My Thoughts on Unconventional Blessing

"Unconventional Blessing" is a short, but impactful, story that really stuck with me. It's a slice-of-life oneshot that tackles themes of love, discrimination, and self-acceptance in a way that feels both realistic and hopeful. While brief, it manages to pack an emotional punch that resonated deeply.

First Impressions

Going in, I was a little wary because of the tragedy tag, but I was pleasantly surprised. The story follows Xu Ji as he navigates his feelings for a childhood friend while grappling with the realities of being gay in a society that isn't always accepting. The initial setup is pretty straightforward, but the author's writing style immediately drew me in.

What Works Well

The author's writing style is a major strength. It's described as minimalistic and smooth, creating a relaxing reading experience even when dealing with heavy themes. Many praised the realistic portrayal of emotions, from the excitement of first love to the sting of rejection and discrimination. The story doesn't shy away from the harsh realities faced by the MC, which only makes his eventual self-acceptance all the more powerful. I especially appreciated the MC's strength and resilience. He faces negativity with understanding and ultimately chooses to embrace himself, which I found incredibly inspiring. The ending, while not a fairytale romance, feels satisfying and hopeful, especially with the author's note hinting at a brighter future for Xu Ji.

Areas of Concern

The only real criticism I could find was that the time skip felt a little rushed. I would have liked to see more details about the MC's growth and journey toward self-acceptance. Also, I can see how some might find the sham marriage aspect distasteful, but it does serve to highlight the societal pressures faced by the MC.

Final Verdict

Despite its brevity, "Unconventional Blessing" is a powerful and moving story that I highly recommend. It's a realistic portrayal of love, discrimination, and self-acceptance, told with a beautiful and calming writing style. If you're looking for a quick read that will leave you feeling hopeful and inspired, this is definitely worth your time.