Waiting Until 35 Years Old Novel Review

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By nan kang bai qi, 南康白起

4.7

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CompletedchinesePublished Novel

Genres

Browse Library →

shounen ai slice of life tragedy

Chapters

30 chapters

Started

2008

Description

The diary of Nan Kang of his relationship with his ex-boyfriend, expressing that he was willing to wait for him until 35 years old. From morning to night, from the moment of love, the ending should have been predicted. The world praises love, but never admits love. Why is it wrong? Nan Kang, 35 years old is too long, and the waters in Xiangjiang is too cold. For fear that you are alone in the distant heavens, and he, with a woman and maybe a child, in the paradise at home. Nan Kang, do you regret waiting? (It is said that this is a real story of a real person, Nan Kang, who has written other stories in his life. He had a loving boyfriend who, unable to withstand pressure from family and society, married a woman. In between March 9th and March 12th in 2008, Nan Kang jumped into the waters of Xiangjiang and ended his life. People found his body in the river on March 27th, after 15 long days drifting in the cold water. In 2016, readers commemorated his would-be 35th birthday.)

Publication Information

Original Publisher
Original Language: chinese
Type: Published Novel

Waiting Until 35 Years Old Review & Spoilers - Novel Translator

My Thoughts on Waiting Until 35 Years Old

First Impressions

"Waiting Until 35 Years Old" isn't your typical web novel. Diving in, I was immediately struck by its brevity and diary-like style. It feels incredibly personal, like stumbling upon someone's raw, unfiltered thoughts. The premise – a man deciding to wait for a past lover until a specific age – immediately sets a melancholic tone that permeates the entire story. It's a quick read, but one that lingers long after you finish.

What Works Well

The emotional impact of this story is undeniable. The author's writing style, while sparse, is incredibly effective at conveying the protagonist's pain and loneliness. The fragmented, almost stream-of-consciousness narrative pulls you into his headspace, making you feel the weight of his unyielding hope and the crushing reality of his situation. The novel explores themes of love, loss, and societal pressures with a sensitivity that's both heartbreaking and beautiful. The dedication of the protagonist is admirable, even though it is sad that the object of his affection did not reciprocate the same level of devotion.

Many will find the story even more poignant if they read "Six Chapters of a Floating Life" beforehand. This prequel provides a glimpse into the happier times, showcasing the deep love and connection between the protagonist and his "husband." Seeing that joy contrasted with the despair in "Waiting Until 35 Years Old" amplifies the tragedy and makes the protagonist's loss all the more devastating.

Areas of Concern

Because of the fragmented nature of the story, some may find it difficult to fully grasp the timeline or the nuances of the relationship. The lack of a clear narrative structure, while contributing to the diary-like feel, can also leave some questions unanswered. Furthermore, the heavy themes of depression and loss may be triggering for some readers, so it's important to approach this novel with caution.

⚠️ Spoiler Warning

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Final Verdict

"Waiting Until 35 Years Old" is a powerful and emotionally resonant novel that will stay with you long after you finish reading. While its tragic themes and fragmented structure may not appeal to everyone, those who appreciate introspective and character-driven stories will find it to be a deeply moving experience. Be prepared to shed tears and reflect on the complexities of love and loss.