The Funeral Cryer by Wenyan Lu
“I’d never asked Mum and Dad what they would have liked to have done in their lives. I didn’t know what I would like to do, but I had a vague idea what I would like to have.”
The Funeral Cryer (2023) by debut novelist Wenyan Lu invites readers into the absorbing world of rural China with a narrative that seamlessly blends humour with profound insights. Lu’s deep understanding of rural China shines through, allowing readers to not only witness the protagonist’s personal transformation but also to develop a profound appreciation for the complex tapestry of rural existence, its challenges and its enduring resilience. As we navigate this rustic landscape, we are reminded of the power of place and culture in shaping the lives of its inhabitants.
Initially, we meet a protagonist who has grown accustomed to the monotony of her life, but her unique profession as a funeral cryer, someone hired to express grief and mourn during traditional funeral ceremonies, sets her apart from others in her village. She finds herself alienated and cast aside by her community, and she grapples with the tumultuous presence of her reckless husband, who casts a perpetual shadow over her existence.
“I felt sad, for him and for myself. I could imagine how awful and old I looked. We had been married and spent many years together, but neither of us knew how many years there were left for us.”
Yet it’s within this darkness that a serendipitous encounter with a local barber ignites a glimmer of hope within her world. This unexpected friendship serves as a lifeline, guiding her on a journey of self-discovery and transformation. As the story unfolds, readers are invited to witness the awe-inspiring evolution of a character whose indomitable spirit defies all adversity.
One unique aspect of the book is the use of descriptive monikers instead of conventional character names. The husband is known as ‘Husband’, the barber is known as ‘Barber’, and the daughter is known as ‘Daughter’. This adds depth and uniqueness to the narrative, even though it may require a brief adjustment period. The deliberate, slower pace of the story compliments its melancholic essence and offers a unique exploration of themes such as death, grief, societal stigmatisation and personal identity.
Overall, The Funeral Cryer offers a dark, poignant, and subtly humorous narrative. It conveys the timeless message that it’s never too late to embrace change and seek a more fulfilling life all the while effectively conveying the societal pressures faced by women in such a community. The metaphor of The Funeral Cryer beautifully reflects the uncertainties inherent in the grieving process, where she helps others express their grief authentically.
For those who enjoy the works of authors like Yiyun Li and Julie Otsuka, The Funeral Cryer is a compelling addition to your reading list. It offers a fresh and insightful perspective on identity, grief, and transformation in rural China, making it a must-read for those seeking a thought-provoking literary experience.
Emma is a British-born Hong Kong-Chinese writer. She contributes to The Mekong Review, The Hong Kong Review, Being Asian Australian, HerCanberra, Aniko Press, and Books + Publishing. Emma is the Senior Content Manager at Future Women and is devoted to amplifying Asian voices within the Australian literary landscape. She is also passionate about advocacy work in the migrant women's space. You can find her on IG @emmapeiyin