©REUTERS/Kim Soo-hyeon
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- soar /sawr/
- deplete /dih-PLEET/
- poignant /POIN-yuhnt/
- acclaim /uh-KLYEM/
- elevate /EL-uh-veyt/
[verb] – to rise very quickly to a high level
The company’s stock prices soared after the successful product launch.
[verb] – to use up or reduce the amount of something
The hikers quickly depleted their supply of water during the long trek.
[adjective] – causing a strong feeling of sadness or emotion
The movie’s poignant ending left the audience in tears.
[noun] – public approval and praise
The young pianist received widespread acclaim after her stunning performance at the concert.
[verb] – to raise something or lift something up
Volunteering elevates a person’s sense of purpose and community involvement.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
On Friday, October 11, South Korea celebrated the unexpected victory of novelist Han Kang, who was awarded the 2024 Nobel Prize in Literature. This achievement is a significant milestone for the country, as it is the first time a Korean author has received this prestigious honor. Following the announcement, bookstores across South Korea experienced overwhelming demand for her works. Sales soared, and stocks of her books depleted rapidly. According to Kyobo Book Centre, nine out of the current ten best-selling titles were authored by Han Kang.
The enthusiasm surrounding this recognition reflects a deep sense of national pride, especially considering South Korea’s historically low success rate in winning Nobel Prizes. Han Kang’s poignant narratives delve into the complexities of South Korean history, resonating deeply with readers. Despite her monumental win, Han has chosen to remain out of the public eye. Her father, esteemed writer Han Seung-won, shared that Han Kang received news of her win shortly before the official announcement, expressing initial disbelief. Han’s literature, including notable works like “The Vegetarian” and “Human Acts,” often explores themes of trauma and loss. This provides profound insights into painful moments in South Korean history. The translation of her novels has played a crucial role in their international acclaim. Han Kang’s recognition not only elevates her literary contributions but also highlights the importance of cultural representation in global literature, offering a voice to her nation’s historical experiences.
The enthusiasm surrounding this recognition reflects a deep sense of national pride, especially considering South Korea’s historically low success rate in winning Nobel Prizes. Han Kang’s poignant narratives delve into the complexities of South Korean history, resonating deeply with readers. Despite her monumental win, Han has chosen to remain out of the public eye. Her father, esteemed writer Han Seung-won, shared that Han Kang received news of her win shortly before the official announcement, expressing initial disbelief. Han’s literature, including notable works like “The Vegetarian” and “Human Acts,” often explores themes of trauma and loss. This provides profound insights into painful moments in South Korean history. The translation of her novels has played a crucial role in their international acclaim. Han Kang’s recognition not only elevates her literary contributions but also highlights the importance of cultural representation in global literature, offering a voice to her nation’s historical experiences.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever read a book that made you feel proud of your culture or country? If so, what was the book and how did it make you feel? If not, what kinds of books or authors from your culture do you think you might explore in the future?
- Have you ever seen an author from your country gain international recognition? If so, how did it impact how you view their work? If not, how do you think it would feel to see such success?
- Do you agree that Han Kang’s Nobel Prize win is a significant milestone for South Korea’s literary culture?
- How important do you think translation is for international recognition of literary works?
- What challenges do you think authors face when their work is translated for international readers?
Summarization
Please summarize the whole article using your own words and expressions. You will have one minute to prepare before you answer.
Describe:
Please explain the definition of each word listed below based on your understanding. You can provide example sentences if needed.
- best-selling
- global literature
- prestigious honor
- overwhelming
- significant milestone