Eugene Lim, the celebrated author known for his genre-defying works and keen insights into the human experience, is not only a gifted writer but also an avid reader. As we delve into his reading habits and current literary interests, we gain a deeper understanding of the influences that shape his writing and the themes he explores. In this essay, we take a look at the books currently resting on Lim’s nightstand and what he anticipates diving into next.

Current Reads

At the moment, Lim’s nightstand is a veritable treasure trove of literary exploration. Top of the stack is “The Tenth Muse” by Catherine Chung, a novel that intertwines the worlds of mathematics and art, touching on themes of identity, loss, and the pursuit of passion. Lim finds Chung’s exploration of the complex layers of life, particularly regarding femininity in a male-dominated space, fascinating. He often emphasizes how crucial it is to highlight diverse voices in literature, and Chung certainly resonates with that ethos.

Next is “Book of Delights” by Ross Gay, a collection of essays that captures the joy and beauty of everyday moments. Lim appreciates Gay’s ability to find delight in the mundane, a theme that resonates deeply with his own writing style. He notes how Gay’s work reminds readers of the importance of mindfulness and appreciation of life’s small pleasures—concepts that Lim strives to weave into his storytelling.

Lim is also revisiting “Speak, Okinawa” by Elizabeth Miki Brina. This memoir explores the intersections of identity, culture, and trauma, reflecting on the author’s upbringing as a mixed-race child in Okinawa. For Lim, Brina’s poignant narrative offers rich insights into the complexities of belonging and heritage—elements that often color Lim’s own narratives.

Bringing a dose of fiction to his reading list is “Klara and the Sun” by Kazuo Ishiguro. Lim is captivated by Iguro’s deep philosophical musings on artificial intelligence and the nature of love and humanity. This novel, with its speculative edge, sparks Lim’s imagination, leading him to ponder the future of storytelling in an age ever-more dominated by technology.

Lastly, nestled among these influential titles is a collection of poetry by Maggie Smith. Lim appreciates poetry for its ability to distill complex emotions into succinct and powerful lines. He believes engaging in poetry allows him to tune into his emotions more deeply, enriching his own writing process.

What’s Next

Looking ahead, Lim has a carefully curated list of books he’s eager to delve into. At the top of this list is “The Overstory” by Richard Powers, a Pulitzer Prize-winning novel that intricately weaves together the lives of various characters with the life cycles of trees. Lim is excited about how Powers intertwines environmental themes with personal narratives. He hopes this book will inspire him to reflect on human interconnectedness with nature in his own work.

Following that, Lim intends to explore “Women Talking” by Miriam Toews, a fiction piece based on the real-life events of women in a Mennonite community grappling with traumatic experiences. Lim finds the examination of faith, feminism, and community dynamics to be an essential conversation in today’s society. He is particularly drawn to narratives that challenge societal norms and offer a platform for marginalized voices.

Lim is also looking forward to reading “The Vanishing Half” by Brit Bennett, a multi-generational narrative about twin sisters whose lives diverge in unexpected ways. With its exploration of race and identity, he feels this novel will resonate with his own explorations of family and the notion of self.

Lastly, he aims to read “Deacon King Kong” by James McBride, which has garnered acclaim for its rich portrayal of the community life in a Brooklyn neighborhood. Lim appreciates McBride’s ability to weave humor and heartache into his narratives, and he believes that this book will provide valuable lessons in resilience and the power of community.

Conclusion

Eugene Lim’s nightstand is a reflection of his multifaceted approach to writing and storytelling. Infused with empathy, curiosity, and a steadfast commitment to representing diverse voices, his reading list not only influences his work but also serves as a mirror to the themes that resonate within him. As Lim continues to engage with literature that challenges perceptions and invites introspection, readers can only anticipate that his upcoming works will be enriched by the profound connections he forges through the pages of the books he loves. Whether you’re looking for book recommendations or insights into the writing process, following Eugene Lim’s reading journey offers an inspiring perspective on the literary world today.