A journey to Hà Nam

Like many other journeys, we planned to leave at 7 a.m. in a tiny van for Ha Nam, a region in Vietnam's Red River Delta. On the way, we visited the writer Nam Cao's temple and heard about his genealogy as well as his life as a warrior, martyr, and journalist who devoted themselves to the August Revolution in Vietnam.

Incensed at Nam Cao temple

Learnt about genealogy and writer's life

Nam Cao Temple

One of Nam Cao's signature works is Chi Pheo, a renowned short tale about the tragedy of a poor farmer, partly re-enacting the period's unjust society. Nam Cao has affirmed his position via his work through his gifted writing and sophistication through a talented pen. I was especially impressed by the dialogue between the characters Chi Pheo and Ba Kien. Hence, after visiting Nam Cao temple, we were able to follow (the man in the image, whose name I don't know) to Ba Kien's house, where the famous short story by the writer took place.

After a while of sightseeing and researching, we stopped to rest and experienced making braised fish in Vu Dai village—a specialty here.

Instructions for making braised fish

Practiced making braised fish

Driving a short distance, Ha Nam province loomed in front of my eyes. I and my team visited the Disabled People's Association and gave them presents while listening to them share and confide.