“Your Name Engraved Herein” - A Touching French Tale of Forbidden Love and Societal Conformity

Within the vibrant tapestry of young adult literature, certain threads shimmer with an extraordinary brilliance, capturing the essence of human experience in all its complexity and nuance. “Your Name Engraved Herein” by Taiwanese author Chang Jia-hui (translated into French as “Ton Nom Gravé Ici”) is one such thread, weaving a poignant tale of love, loss, and the enduring power of connection amidst the backdrop of societal constraints.

This compelling novel transports readers to 1980s Taiwan, where homosexuality remained a taboo subject cloaked in silence and shame. We meet A-Han, a sensitive and introspective young man navigating the turbulent waters of adolescence in a conservative society. His world is forever altered when he crosses paths with Birdy, a charismatic and free-spirited classmate who awakens within him a love both intoxicating and forbidden.

Chang Jia-hui masterfully paints a portrait of their burgeoning relationship, capturing the stolen glances, whispered confessions, and clandestine encounters that define first love. Yet, their happiness is constantly shadowed by the ever-present fear of discovery, as societal norms dictate that their love must remain hidden from the world.

Themes of Identity and Belonging

“Your Name Engraved Herein” delves into profound themes of identity and belonging, exploring how external pressures can shape an individual’s sense of self. A-Han grapples with internalized homophobia, a product of his upbringing in a society that deems his love deviant and unacceptable. He struggles to reconcile his burgeoning feelings for Birdy with the expectations placed upon him as a young man expected to conform to traditional norms.

The novel also touches on the theme of isolation, highlighting the loneliness experienced by individuals who feel different or ostracized from their peers. A-Han and Birdy find solace in each other’s company, creating a safe haven away from the judgmental gaze of society. However, their connection is constantly threatened by the fear of exposure, leaving them perpetually on edge and yearning for acceptance.

Narrative Style and Production Features

Chang Jia-hui’s prose is both lyrical and evocative, painting vivid images of Taiwanese landscapes and capturing the raw emotionality of his characters’ experiences. The novel employs a non-linear narrative structure, weaving together past and present through flashbacks and dreams. This fragmented approach mirrors the fractured nature of A-Han and Birdy’s relationship, highlighting the constant tension between their desire for connection and the societal barriers that threaten to tear them apart.

The French translation captures the essence of Chang Jia-hui’s original work, preserving its poetic language and emotional depth. The novel has garnered critical acclaim both in Taiwan and internationally, praised for its sensitive portrayal of same-sex relationships and its exploration of universal themes of love, loss, and acceptance.

A Lasting Impression

“Your Name Engraved Herein” is more than just a coming-of-age story; it’s a powerful testament to the enduring strength of human connection in the face of adversity. The novel leaves a lasting impression on the reader, prompting reflection on societal norms and challenging us to embrace the beauty and complexity of all forms of love.

As we journey alongside A-Han and Birdy, we are reminded that true love transcends boundaries, societal expectations, and even the limitations of time itself. Their story serves as a poignant reminder that every individual deserves the freedom to love and be loved, regardless of who they are or whom they choose to love. This novel is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeply moving and thought-provoking literary experience.