Book Review | The Good Earth

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THE GOOD EARTH written by the Nobel Prize winner Pearl S. Buck was published in 1931.
A classic of twentieth century set against China on the brink of revolution.
A riveting family saga and a story of female sacrifice. In the reign of last emperor a servant girl married a humble man and together they began their epic journey.

Most influential part is the Farmer
Wang Lung's connection or attachment with the 'Earth' mentioned in the title. Earth refers to his land in this book. His devotion towards his land is remarkable.

There are many other aspects of the books which reflect the live's of people before revolution in China. Materialistic things mattered more. Money and beauty were of great relevance. Rich lead lavish live's whereas poor were starved to death. Humanity had no place in this realm habituated with affluent community. Alongside this, the era was completely characterized by male dominance. The existence of female was thought upon as a misfortune.

Now progressing towards the second most substantial part of the book, the servant who married the farmer. O-Lan. Beautiful was not the word she could be described with. Her ragged features and unbound legs portray a rough upbringing. However, these are the very same attributes that kept her sanity secure. She was a strong, good hearted woman who was loyal to her husband and duties. She worked selflessly and desired nothing in return. In a way, the story revolves around O-Lan.

This story goes through various phases of life and how people may change according to their situation. The calm composure of the female protagonist is astonishing at times. The way life fails to surprise her in anyway is kind-off sad but also say a lot about her personality and past. But while all of this indicate her being a dull character for a lead, her adherence for her family and the will to survive brings forth a drastic twist in the story at the time of extreme upheaval faced by them. O-Lan is indeed an exceptional model of female sacrifice. The ways are different but even today females sacrifice a lot in a society we claim to live with equality. So, on some note I'm sure you will connect with her as a women, wife, mother, etc.

The moral I can seek out of this story is how circumstances can make you do things in life you never thought of.

The plot twists are really intriguing. The description is good enough to spark your imagination.

Definitely worth your time.



Tell me in the comments if you guys have read this book. I would like to hear your thoughts too on it.

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