The Telling

THE TELLING eluded me for years. For a long time it's been the only Hainish novel I haven't been able to get my hands on. Finally, with the Library of America collection of Hainish stories, I've been able to get a proper paper copy of it. It took some time off in the winter and me deciding to read the books I truly want to read, and now I've finally finished this book.

It's so interesting to read a Hainish story so late in Le Guin's career. It's so different from the other Hainish stories- it feels less narrative-driven and more “I've got something to say” than usual. Many of Le Guin's core themes and passions are featured here– the importance of narrative, revolution, the obliteration of one culture by another... all so quietly, gently brought. A magnificent read.

A short, gentle, beautiful and poetic book that guides you through a narrative, encouraging you to ponder and question issues of culture, materialisim, prejudice, spirituality and religion.

For a book that centres around “telling”, it's ironic that I just can't put into words my feelings about this masterpiece.

Somehow, through words, Ms LeGuin goes beyond words, and right to the heart.

I loved it.