Some say that humans always want more than what they have, more than what is sufficient. (고길지) Go Gil-ji explored this topic in his new novel, “Empty Hands.” Kim Minhoe has more.




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‘Empty Hands’ by Go Gil-ji

Local author (고길지) Go Gil-ji has published his second full-length novel “Empty Hands,” which followed his first work, “Tears of the Sun,” about the April Third Incident.

The new novel begins with a man who strongly desires to be successful in life.

The man moves into a high position through dishonest means and tries to obtain wealth by abusing his power.

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A story of desire distorting the human character

His endless desires are built on the tears of others and completely destroy his life.

In the end, his hands are left empty.

The author observes his life cynically, but also sadly.

INTERVIEW
Go Gil-ji / Author
The man can’t stop until he has lost everything.
<인터뷰: 고길지/ 작가>
"(주인공은) 빈손이 될 때 까지는 절대 멈출 수 없는 그런 인물이에요"

The author, (고길지) Go Gil-ji, taught in schools for 35 years.

After his retirement in 2001, he started writing novels.


The “Empty Hands” was written from the author’s experience.

He has learned throughout his 70 years that no matter what we might earn in life, we all leave this world empty handed.

INTERVIEW
Go Gil-ji / Author
The man in the novel is a reflection of us all ? you can’t just say that he’s bad. But we shouldn’t go too far. I hope readers stop and reflect on their own lives.
<인터뷰: 고길지 / 작가>
"(주인공의) 모습은 누구나 가진 일반적인 모습입니다. 꼭 나쁘다고만 말할 수 없죠. 하지만 지나치면 안 된다는 거죠. 한번쯤 인생을 되돌아보고 멈출 줄도 알았으면......"

Humans have a tendency for endless desire, and as readers, we should take stock of our own lives as we see the man’s futile quest for more and more.

The author quietly asks us throughout the novel, “What do you desire?”

[Reporter] Kim Minhoe
[Camera] Hyeon Gwang-hoon

Perfect for a reading on a quiet fall day, “Empty Hands” is the latest novel from author Go Gil-ji.

Kim Minhoe, KCTV