Top 12 Essays Analyzing 'The Absurd Acts of Va-ren and Phan Boi Chau' by Nguyen Ai Quoc

Nguyen Ai Quoc, during his time living and working in France, wrote several stories in French, including 'Vi Hành,' 'The Lament of Mrs. Trung Trac,' and 'The Absurd Acts of Va-ren and Phan Boi Chau.' These works are intellectually rich and modern, reflecting the idea of using literature to serve political and national purposes.

'The Absurd Acts of Va-ren and Phan Boi Chau' was published in 'Nguoi Cung Kho' newspaper, issues 36-37, in September and October of 1925. The story consists of three scenes: Scene 1, Va-ren arrives in Saigon and is greeted grandly by his subordinates; Scene 2, Va-ren stops in Hue where the puppet regime hosts a banquet and adorns him with the Nam Long medal; Scene 3, Va-ren arrives in Hanoi and meets Phan Boi Chau, who is imprisoned by the French with a death sentence.

The encounter between Va-ren and Phan Boi Chau shows the sharp satire of the author Nguyen Ai Quoc. The author uses contrast and opposition to sharpen the narrative’s fighting spirit.

Va-ren enters the 'dark cell' where Phan Boi Chau 'is groaning.' Va-ren is described as 'a person who has betrayed the French proletariat, a politician expelled from his group, one who has forsaken his past, abandoned his faith, and his own class'... Phan Boi Chau is depicted as 'someone who has sacrificed his family and wealth,' forced to 'live far from his homeland' to find a way to save the country and the people, sentenced to death in absentia by the colonizers, and waiting to be 'led to the guillotine.' Two opposing personalities, one 'a shameful traitor,' and the other 'a hero, an angel, a liberator for independence,' admired by 20 million enslaved people. Nguyen Ai Quoc’s writing clearly and decisively conveys love, hatred, respect, and contempt.

With vivid imagination, the author exposes the deceitful, hypocritical face of the sly colonialist! Va-ren 'extends his right hand to shake hands with Phan Boi Chau in the gloomy prison.' Va-ren tries to tempt Phan Boi Chau to 'be loyal,' 'cooperate,' and 'join forces' with France for the cause of 'civilization and justice.' He advises the Vietnamese revolutionary not to 'incite' the people to rise up against the French... He boasts that the 'democracy' in Indochina is 'good, thanks to God!' Finally, he reveals his true nature as a traitor, an ambitious opportunist: 'Look at me, Mr. Phan Boi Chau! I was once a member of the Socialist Party, and now I’m the Governor-General!...'

In contrast, during this encounter, Phan Boi Chau remains calm, 'silent, indifferent,' 'smiling subtly.' Notably, in the postscript, the author mentions a witness who claims that 'Phan Boi Chau spat in Va-ren’s face.' A spitting gesture of disdain. The 'revered' Governor-General was humiliated!

Nguyen Ai Quoc wrote this story not only to praise Phan Boi Chau 'a renowned figure' but also to demand clemency for him, while exposing the deceitful and dirty nature of Governor-General Va-ren and the French colonizers in general.

The biting, sarcastic tone is full of contempt. A concise writing style that creates a unique situation for the encounter between Va-ren and Phan Boi Chau. Nguyen Ai Quoc’s narrative becomes a sword against colonialism, a weapon against the invaders! Extremely sharp!

'The Absurdities of Va-ren and Phan Boi Chau' is a remarkable story written by Nguyen Ai Quoc during his time in France. Through an imagined encounter between a cunning governor-general and the great revolutionary prisoner, Nguyen Ai Quoc subtly criticizes the deceitful nature of colonialism and praises the courage of national hero Phan Boi Chau.

The work was written shortly after the revolutionary Phan Boi Chau was arrested on June 18, 1925, in China and brought to Hanoi’s Hoa Lo prison, awaiting trial. During this time, a movement to demand Phan's release was gaining momentum in the country. Meanwhile, Va-ren was preparing to assume his duties in Indochina. There is no evidence that Va-ren ever visited Phan Boi Chau in prison.

Phan Boi Chau (1867–1940), also known as Sao Nam, was born in Dan Niem, Nam Dan District, Nghe An Province. He is regarded as one of Vietnam's greatest revolutionary figures in the early 20th century. He was also a renowned writer and poet, with a substantial body of work written in Chinese characters, Nom, and Vietnamese. His writings are deeply infused with love for his country and people.

The events in the story are products of the author’s vivid imagination. Nguyen Ai Quoc wrote this short story to reveal the deceptive tactics of French colonialism and expose Va-ren’s fraudulent, absurd games. It also serves as a tribute to the revolutionary Phan Boi Chau and expresses the author’s own patriotic sentiment.

The title 'The Absurdities of Va-ren and Phan Boi Chau' carries profound meaning. 'Absurdities' refer to ridiculous, foolish, and laughable actions. The title sparks curiosity, drawing readers in. It also reflects the story’s theme: exposing Va-ren’s false and absurd nature, showing that his actions toward Phan Boi Chau were nothing but comical and ludicrous. The title also highlights the stark contrast between the two main characters in the story.

The author’s narrative technique is highly engaging. The story recounts the entire interaction between Va-ren and Phan Boi Chau in Hoa Lo prison. The meeting unfolds like a theatrical performance, with Va-ren as the main performer—confident, shameless, and speaking endlessly in an attempt to persuade Phan Boi Chau to follow his disgraceful path of betrayal. Phan Boi Chau, however, remains completely silent, indifferent to Va-ren’s words.

What is the outcome? The reader eagerly anticipates, but the author reveals it subtly through the objective observations of a few witnesses to the encounter. Particularly, the commentary from a character in the postscript leaves a strong impression, while the author remains detached, withholding any personal emotions or judgments...

The entire story is a journey that exists only in the imagination of Nguyen Ai Quoc. However, through the author’s unique storytelling, it feels as if Va-ren’s steps are vividly portrayed, as though through the lens of a sharp and insightful news reporter. The characters of Va-ren and Phan Boi Chau are constructed in sharp contrast to each other. First, each character is introduced in a distinct manner:

Va-ren is portrayed as someone who has betrayed the French working class—a politician cast out by his peers, forsaking his past, his beliefs, and his class. He is a true traitor, a dishonest man in power. He talks incessantly, attempting to sway Phan Boi Chau’s resolve.

In contrast, Phan Boi Chau is shown as a man who sacrificed everything—his family and wealth—to distance himself from the colonizers, living in exile and constantly pursued by them. He has been sentenced to death in absentia, deserving of being called a hero, a martyr who fought for the independence of his country.

In their encounter, the positions of the two characters are completely reversed. Va-ren, the ruling oppressor, grows more desperate, while Phan Boi Chau’s stature as a national hero rises. Despite Va-ren’s enticements, Phan Boi Chau remains silent, his indifference representing his utter contempt for the traitor before him. The author’s attitude toward each character is equally clear: hatred and disdain for Va-ren, admiration and reverence for Phan Boi Chau.

From the very beginning of the story, Va-ren’s true nature is revealed through his “half-hearted promise” under pressure from public opinion in France and Indochina. The promise itself is laughable. Yet, Va-ren dares to present it as a commitment, even delivering it in the tone of a high-ranking official in Indochina...

The author’s commentary further highlights Va-ren’s behavior, emphasizing his duplicitous nature and opportunism. After his promise, his actions are leisurely, as though he intends to prolong Phan Boi Chau’s suffering in prison even further...

However, the full extent of Va-ren’s deception is revealed in his final farcical act when he confronts Phan Boi Chau in prison. He enters with a grandiose statement: “I bring freedom to you!” Yet, his actions are the opposite—one hand restraining Phan Boi Chau while the other tightens the shackles that bind him. Does this not show that the freedom Va-ren offers is a false freedom, a form of slavery and brutal oppression? His words and actions expose him as a two-faced, cruel, and despicable man.

Moreover, after boasting about his generosity, he begins to bargain as if he were a common street vendor: “But there must be something in return... I ask you to promise me...” He then proceeds with a barrage of questions in an attempt to undermine Phan Boi Chau’s resolve. Va-ren weaves an illusion of self-interest, attempting to trap Phan Boi Chau into a greater prison of eternal slavery. He believes he is succeeding, but the failure is evident in the profound silence of his captive audience.

The entire speech, with its boastful and theatrical tone, ultimately collapses into the silence of Phan Boi Chau. Va-ren’s words fall flat, much like “water poured on a leaf.” In the end, Va-ren’s arrogance and self-importance only serve to reveal his disgraceful nature as a traitor. The climax of absurdity is seen when Phan Boi Chau, with a mere glance or a subtle smile, shows his utter disdain and contempt for Va-ren.

The story culminates in the heroic Phan Boi Chau spitting in Va-ren’s face, a powerful act of defiance that symbolizes his unwavering commitment to his patriotic ideals. Through such actions, Nguyen Ai Quoc subtly conveys his admiration for Phan Boi Chau, while expressing his disdain for Va-ren and, by extension, colonialism itself. The sharpness of the author’s pen is evident in these moments of defiance and in the way the final postscript adds further weight to the portrayal of Va-ren’s moral decay and Phan Boi Chau’s unshakable bravery.

'The Absurdities of Va-ren and Phan Boi Chau' is a modern short story written in French, with the structure of a journalistic piece. The narrative technique is vivid, unique, and captivating. The portrayal of characters through dialogue, action, and gestures is exceptional, and the use of contrast is particularly effective. The author’s sharp wit, humor, and satirical tone bring the story to life.

Through his depiction of Va-ren, the author unveils the ugly face of French colonialism, represented by Va-ren, while simultaneously honoring Phan Boi Chau, the hero and leader in the fight for Vietnam’s independence.

In literature, there are unique cases where the creation and formation of a work go beyond the control of the author, leading to the emergence of extraordinary and distinctive pieces.

The short story "The Farce of Va-ren and Phan Bội Châu" by Nguyễn Ái Quốc is one such example. Commenting on this work, some have argued: "The author did not intend to make this encounter a comedic scene. However, the satirical art was widely applied to suit the perspective of the stage." One of the key features that makes this short story stand out is its exceptional satirical art.

The main characters in this work are two famous individuals whose names are directly mentioned in the title: Va-ren and Phan Bội Châu. Who are they? Phan Bội Châu was a man of great literary talent and a renowned patriotic intellectual. He initiated the Đông Du movement, urging progressive youth to foster a spirit of patriotism, travel abroad to learn, and return to modernize the country. However, the Đông Du movement failed, and from 1913 to 1916, he was imprisoned by the authorities in Guangzhou. After his release, he was abducted by the French colonialists and brought back to France. Under pressure from both Vietnamese and international public opinion, the French initially planned to eliminate him but eventually decided to put him on trial and sentenced him to life imprisonment.

Va-ren was the Governor-General of Indochina. When he came to Vietnam, he issued an amnesty for Phan Bội Châu (in reality, to win over the local population). After attempts to bribe and deceive him failed, Va-ren placed Phan under house arrest in Bến Ngự – Huế. Nguyễn Ái Quốc wrote "The Farce of Va-ren and Phan Bội Châu" to expose the devious plots of the French colonists and to encourage and uplift the patriotic spirit, affirming the noble status of the patriot Phan Bội Châu.

The story was written before Va-ren even came to Vietnam, which is why the encounter between the Governor-General of Indochina and the revolutionary intellectual is a fictional detail. This is also why Va-ren’s portrayal as a twisted, contemptible traitor was entirely a satirical creation. With a sharp satirical pen and abundant imagination, the author depicted the meeting of Va-ren, a shameful traitor, and a heroic figure, bringing it to life with authenticity and vividness.

At the center of the work is Va-ren’s portrayal. Nguyễn Ái Quốc uses a distinctive method to build his character. Although Va-ren does not directly appear with his appearance, gestures, and actions, he is indirectly presented through his "official mission" and semi-official promises. Throughout this grand journey, Va-ren's image gradually becomes clearer. The author imagines the scene where Va-ren is welcomed in Saigon. The local authorities’ attitude toward Va-ren is described with words like "cling to him," "drag him along," "rock him to sleep," and "hold him in the mess of banquets, receptions, and flattery." The people are deceived into welcoming him under the threat of a bullwhip and the shouting of the French officers. They attend to the Governor-General like spectators at a performance, commenting on his hat, coat, boots, and his grotesque and immoral appearance. No one shows respect for him:

– The man has a hat with two horns on top! – He looks like an animal!

Oh, what a beautiful coat! – He looks like an old woman dressing up.

He’s about to give a speech! – He just blathers and boasts.

– The man has a hat with two horns on top! – He looks like an animal!

– His calves are wrapped in boots! – He’s used to kicking and using force against others.

– Thick beard, deep eyes! – A deceitful and cruel person.

The author carefully describes two welcoming and banquet scenes in Saigon and Huế, ending each with the note that Phan Bội Châu remains in prison. The author mocks Va-ren’s attention, ridiculing his semi-official promise. In reality, Va-ren does not fulfill his promise to "take care of" Phan Bội Châu but is more focused on himself, enjoying his own farcical antics and relishing the flattery of his sycophantic followers. All of the Governor-General’s promises vanish into thin air.

Finally, when Va-ren reaches Hanoi and faces Phan Bội Châu, he must "begin" his task of bribing. Every word Va-ren says to Phan Bội Châu is aimed at persuading and deceiving him. Va-ren delivers a well-crafted argument, full of logic and evidence, citing not only "our" examples but also "Western" references. He talks about Nguyễn Bá Trác, and then mentions figures like Guy-xta-vơ, A-lếch-xăng, A-ri-xtít... But the more Va-ren speaks, the more his true nature as a treacherous betrayer is exposed.

The meeting between Va-ren and Phan Bội Châu is a strange encounter across two opposing sides. The two are entirely different in stature: Va-ren is deceitful and absurd, representing the French colonial oppressors in Indochina, while Phan Bội Châu is strong, unyielding, and a hero honored by the entire nation. Their meeting is filled with intense and fierce contradictions. In the conversation, only Va-ren speaks. The dialogue turns into a monologue, as Va-ren is stunned by his belief that he could convince Phan Bội Châu with his clever, sophisticated words. But no, he completely fails. He is even more stunned to realize that his conversation partner is a towering, dignified, and powerful figure, while he is nothing but a shameful traitor. In the face of Phan Bội Châu's indifferent silence, half-smile (uncertain), and the spitting in his face (also uncertain, as it was recounted by others), Va-ren transforms into a foolish donkey, a clown who only boasts and exaggerates.

The story is written with sharp satirical techniques, a tight and unique structure, making it highly engaging for the reader. It is one of many short stories that highlight Nguyễn Ái Quốc’s artistic style—intellectual sharpness and a modern writing approach. Through the "refinement" of various aspects of Va-ren’s character in different situations, culminating in the scene where Va-ren gives a speech before Phan Bội Châu, the author gradually exposes his true nature and assembles it into a unique satirical portrait.

With a sharp writing style and rich imagination, the author has created a very meaningful narrative situation: the confrontation between the Governor-General of Indochina and the revolutionary fighter struggling for the national liberation cause. Through the depicted details and fabricated events, the author emphasizes the stark contrast between a crafty, deceitful colonial official and a steadfast revolutionary hero who refuses to yield to fame or the power of the ruling authorities.

During his time in France, our beloved leader wrote many short stories, one of which is 'Va-Ren and Phan Boi Chau’s Absurdities'. The central theme of the story is portrayed through a conversation between the Governor-General of Indochina and the revolutionary. In this reluctant conversation, the silence of Phan Boi Chau adds even more depth to the meaning of the piece.

Va-Ren, a Frenchman, was sent by the government to serve as the Governor-General of Indochina. To win the support of the public and solidify his new position, he promised to grant freedom to the patriot Phan Boi Chau. Nguyen Ai Quoc’s story revolves around this premise, but it is, of course, fictional. The author imagines this encounter to expose Va-Ren’s true face while honoring the character of Phan, a devoted patriot. The climax occurs when the two main characters meet. Va-Ren continuously speaks, attempting to convince the revolutionary, while Phan Boi Chau remains silent, showing nothing but a subtle sneer.

Phan Boi Chau’s silence is a meaningful one. After all, what could he say when faced with two individuals who are polar opposites in nature? One is a man who betrayed the French working class, a politician ousted from his own party, someone who abandoned his past, his faith, and his class. On the other side is a man who sacrificed his family and wealth to flee from the colonizers, living in exile, constantly pursued by them. In such a situation, any words from Phan would likely lead to a heated argument, filled with mockery and insults. In this context, silence seems the best way to preserve his dignity.

There is another reason for Phan Boi Chau’s silence. Let’s revisit Va-Ren’s speech: he mentions freedom, but it is a freedom based on 'bartering'. If Phan wanted freedom, it wouldn’t be hard to get, but only on the condition that he 'swears loyalty to France, collaborates, and helps the French in their mission of civilizing and establishing justice in Indochina'. How could someone who has dedicated his life to bringing betterment to Indochina possibly ally with the colonial oppressors? It is simply impossible.

Thus, Phan Boi Chau’s silence serves as the most resolute response. It rejects all of Va-Ren’s cunning and deceitful words. It is a smart, principled response that highlights the character of a person filled with courage and dignity. This silence also speaks to the unwavering patriotism of a man who is devoted to his country, his homeland.

While involved in revolutionary activities in France, Nguyen Ai Quoc penned several works that strongly advocated for and encouraged the national liberation movement in Vietnam. 'The Absurdities of Va-Ren and Phan Boi Chau' is one such work. This piece exposes Va-Ren’s deceitful, ridiculous, and despicable nature, portraying him as the embodiment of colonial powers oppressing Vietnam. In contrast, Phan Boi Chau emerges as the true hero, a selfless figure who sacrificed for national independence, embodying the unyielding spirit of the Vietnamese people.

Phan Boi Chau, a revolutionary leader who championed the democratic path, rose to prominence in the early 20th century. During his revolutionary efforts, the French colonizers sentenced him to death in absentia in 1913. In 1925, he was kidnapped in China, transported back to Hanoi, and imprisoned in Hoa Lo, awaiting trial. Under the pressure of public opinion, the French were forced to release him but placed him under house arrest in Hue until his death. Meanwhile, Va-Ren, preparing to assume the role of Governor-General of Indochina, promised to show concern for Phan Boi Chau. In response, Nguyen Ai Quoc wrote this piece to urge the public to demand Phan’s release and to reveal Va-Ren’s true fraudulent nature.

While describing Va-Ren, the author uses sarcastic and critical language, labeling him a 'class traitor' and 'a shameful betrayer.' On the other hand, for Phan Boi Chau, Nguyen Ai Quoc uses honorable and respectful terms such as 'revered compatriot,' 'hero,' 'angel,' and 'sacrifice.' These terms are entirely fitting for Phan Boi Chau, a figure who willingly sacrificed for the freedom and independence of his nation.

To highlight the heroism of Phan Boi Chau, the author consistently juxtaposes him with Va-Ren. Phan’s qualities are most evident during their confrontation, which the author describes as 'a dramatic scene,' 'a clash' between 'a dishonorable traitor' and 'an angelic figure.' In this encounter, only Va-Ren speaks, while Phan Boi Chau remains silent. This silence holds significant meaning. It reflects Phan’s indifference and disdain for Va-Ren. The threats and flattery from Va-Ren do not even reach Phan’s ears, not because he doesn’t understand, but because the words of a class betrayer are beneath his contempt.

Thus, Va-Ren’s words are nothing more than 'water poured over a taro leaf.' Furthermore, Phan’s silence conveys his disdain: 'The prisoner’s mustache twitched slightly, then immediately lowered again, smiling subtly and silently, like a fly brushing past.' This disdain reaches its peak when, in the final lines, the author describes Phan’s decisive action of spitting in Va-Ren’s face, symbolizing the ultimate expression of contempt. Phan Boi Chau’s demeanor throughout reveals his noble character: a life dedicated to the nation, unwavering even in the face of threats and temptations that could not change his resolute dedication to the cause of independence.

This embodies the essence of a true noble figure: 'Power cannot bend him, wealth cannot corrupt him, and poverty cannot humiliate him.' Phan Boi Chau’s silence also served to expose Va-Ren’s true nature. The more Va-Ren spoke, the more he revealed himself as a deceitful, treacherous colonialist.

Though not extensively described, Nguyen Ai Quoc has skillfully crafted the image of Phan Boi Chau through subtle descriptions and the art of contrast. Phan Boi Chau stands as a resilient, unyielding hero, truly deserving of the title 'angel,' a symbol of the indomitable spirit of the Vietnamese people.

The short story 'The Absurdities of Va-Ren and Phan Boi Chau,' along with many other works written by President Ho Chi Minh under the pen name Nguyen Ai Quoc, holds lasting value as a true piece of Vietnamese literature, enriching the flow of national literature. In reading the story, we clearly encounter two opposing character portrayals: the historical witnesses and the moral characters. The author exposes Va-Ren as a cunning colonialist politician and a shameful traitor, while also praising the heroic qualities of Phan Boi Chau, a selfless martyr for national independence. Through the character of Phan Boi Chau, we also gain insight into the author's patriotic heart and literary talent.

When writing about the enemy, especially the Governor-General Va-Ren, Nguyen Ai Quoc’s pen carries a strong and combative tone. In contrast, when describing the national hero Phan Boi Chau, the pen becomes soft, respectful, and filled with admiration. Phan Boi Chau is always depicted alongside Va-Ren, presenting a stark contrast like two opposing colors in a painting. The repetition of phrases about Phan Boi Chau’s four weeks in prison highlights both the oppressive conditions and the author’s deep sympathy for the suffering of this great man. The author’s compassion and reverence are evident in every line, especially when comparing the two figures to expose Va-Ren’s wicked schemes. He deliberately prolongs Phan Boi Chau’s imprisonment in an attempt to break his spirit and force him to abandon his fight for independence.

Va-Ren’s promise to 'care for' Phan Boi Chau was nothing more than a half-hearted gesture under the pressure of public opinion in both France and Indochina. His true malevolence became clear during his encounter with Phan Boi Chau. While Va-Ren delivered his flowery and sweet speeches, Phan remained silent, indifferent, and composed, sitting like a statue. This silence stunned Va-Ren, showcasing the unwavering dignity and defiance of a true warrior standing against the enemy, rejecting all their deceptive schemes. Phan Boi Chau’s slight smile, as described by a soldier, and the eventual act of spitting in Va-Ren’s face, marked a decisive moment in their clash, confirming Phan’s victory in this symbolic battle.

For Phan Boi Chau, Va-Ren’s words and attitude were nothing but absurd, a ridiculous performance. In this short story, Phan Boi Chau is painted with subtle yet powerful strokes, using Eastern-style descriptions that evoke a vivid image of a noble, courageous hero. Phan Boi Chau stands as an unyielding warrior who remains firm against all the sinister, crafty plots of the colonial oppressors. He is not only a hero but a sacred figure who sacrificed everything for the freedom of his people.

The author uses the most beautiful words to describe Phan Boi Chau: calling him a revered compatriot who sacrificed family and wealth for the nation, elevating him to the stature of a hero, an angelic figure who selflessly gave his life. These descriptions border on the divine. The portrayal of Phan’s reaction to Va-Ren’s absurd words delivers a crushing blow to the enemy, symbolizing the sharp sword of resistance that the young patriot wielded in the early stages of the fight for independence.

Though the author does not describe Phan Boi Chau’s actions extensively, the contrast between the two characters — one a villain and the other a heroic figure — emerges as clear as night and day: a traitor versus a steadfast hero, loyal to his ideals and unyielding in his resolve. These are the historical witnesses, the true moral characters whose legacies will never fade. Behind these figures is the heart of Nguyen Ai Quoc, who simultaneously loathed the colonial invaders and cherished his love for the country. This passion is conveyed through the sharp and distinctive writing style of the author: vivid descriptions, dynamic word choices, natural flow, and biting satire, especially in the art of character development and creating unexpected situations.

The short story 'The Absurdities of Va-Ren and Phan Boi Chau' was originally written in French over half a century ago. While the events and characters may belong to the past, as we read and reflect, we recognize that Phan Boi Chau truly deserves the utmost respect from the Vietnamese people. The author’s unique satirical writing style, which emerged early in his career, solidifies his place as a writer and a patriot who fought for the nation’s freedom.

President Ho Chi Minh is not only known for his simple yet profound poetry, but also for his works written in French during his time abroad, particularly in France. One of these works is 'The Absurdities of Va-Ren and Phan Boi Chau,' which powerfully portrays the character of Phan Boi Chau as a hero while exposing the deceptive nature of Va-Ren.

'The Absurdities of Va-Ren and Phan Boi Chau' was published in the journal 'The Poor Man' in issues 36 and 37 in September and October of 1925. The excerpt from the third section focuses on the dramatic encounter between Va-Ren and Phan Boi Chau, showcasing Nguyen Ai Quoc’s sharp satirical style.

The story opens with a tense situation: the meeting between two figures — the revolutionary leader Phan Boi Chau and Va-Ren, who was about to become the Governor-General of Indochina. In reality, no such meeting took place, and this scenario was purely fictional, crafted before Va-Ren’s appointment. The purpose of this fictional setup is to expose Va-Ren’s treacherous nature and highlight the noble character of Phan Boi Chau.

Va-Ren’s deception is revealed from the outset, as the author describes how Va-Ren only promised to 'care for' Phan Boi Chau under public pressure. However, this 'care' was conditional on Va-Ren settling into his position first. The satirical and mocking language guides the reader to understand the true nature of this character.

The true face of Va-Ren is exposed during his encounter with Phan Boi Chau. In this meeting, our revolutionary hero says nothing, allowing Va-Ren to engage in a one-sided monologue, revealing his own cunning. Before the dialogue begins, Nguyen Ai Quoc writes a remarkable commentary: 'Oh, what a tragedy! What a clash…' describing Va-Ren as a person who has abandoned his past, his beliefs, and his class, while Phan Boi Chau is depicted as someone who sacrificed his family and wealth to distance himself from the colonial oppressors, always hunted by them. This stark contrast illustrates the writer’s attitude: mocking and contemptuous towards one character, while revering and honoring the other.

Va-Ren begins the negotiations by trying to persuade Phan Boi Chau to abandon his fight for national independence, saying things like: 'Forget about those revengeful thoughts' and 'Give up your old schemes and stop inciting others to rise up.' He even suggests that by cooperating, Phan would receive everything he desires, both for his country and himself. He attempts to sway Phan by using examples of traitors who succeeded, such as Nguyen Ba Trac, Guistavo, and Aleksand. Va-Ren even brags about his own treachery, saying, 'I was once a socialist party member, and now I am a Governor-General.' The more he speaks, the clearer Va-Ren’s deceitful and despicable nature becomes, revealing him as a scheming, treacherous, and shameless character.

Throughout this farcical exchange, Phan Boi Chau remains silent. His silence speaks volumes about his revolutionary stance. First, he ignores Va-Ren entirely, making his words seem meaningless. This attitude of contempt is reflected in the description of his actions: 'The prisoner’s mustache twitched slightly, then dropped again, smiling discreetly, invisibly, and silently, like a fly passing by.' This gesture further confirms Phan Boi Chau’s noble character: a life dedicated to the revolution and the independence of his country, with an unshakeable will that cannot be swayed. The final lines of the story intensify this portrayal of Phan’s dignity: while he remains silent and dismissive earlier, he ends with a powerful act of defiance — spitting in Va-Ren’s face, symbolizing his utter contempt for this betrayer. This closing detail not only marks the climax of the story but also reinforces its theme.

The work is written in a biting, satirical, and humorous tone. The unexpected and engaging fictional scenario highlights the author’s vivid imagination. Through this, the noble qualities of Phan Boi Chau and the absurdity of Va-Ren’s character are starkly revealed.

'The Absurdities of Va-Ren and Phan Boi Chau' is a distinctive and unique short story by Nguyen Ai Quoc, written in 1925 following the kidnapping of the revolutionary intellectual Phan Boi Chau by the French colonialists from China, brought to Vietnam, and sentenced to life imprisonment. In response to the massive national movement demanding his release, the authorities granted him a pardon and placed him under house arrest in Ben Ngur, Hue, until his death in 1940.

Va-Ren was originally a member of the French Socialist Party. After betraying the Party, he was appointed as the Governor-General of Indochina, replacing Méc-lanh, who had narrowly escaped an assassination attempt by the revolutionary Pham Hong Thai. Before departing for Indochina, Va-Ren declared his intent to care for Phan Boi Chau. This prompted Nguyen Ai Quoc to write 'The Absurdities of Va-Ren and Phan Boi Chau' to expose Va-Ren’s ridiculous actions and his vile character.

The form of the story resembles a journalistic account but is actually a fictionalized short story (imagining real events). The real characters are Va-Ren, the new French governor of Indochina, and Phan Boi Chau, the patriot imprisoned by the French colonial authorities in Hanoi. The true event was the rising tide of public protests calling for Phan’s release across the three regions.

The fictional elements include the fact that the story was written before Va-Ren arrived in Indochina, and in reality, there was no meeting between Va-Ren and Phan Boi Chau at the Hoa Lo prison in Hanoi. The interaction between Va-Ren and Phan is also a creation of the author. Through these two characters, we grasp Nguyen Ai Quoc’s hatred and disdain for the colonial invaders as well as his deep love for his homeland.

The title, 'The Absurdities,' was intentionally chosen by the author to highlight Va-Ren’s deceptive, absurd, and morally corrupt behavior. The narrative follows a chronological structure: from Paris, Va-Ren boards a ship to Vietnam, then visits Phan Boi Chau’s prison at Hoa Lo. The journey unfolds in four phases: Phase 1: Va-Ren spends four weeks aboard a ship from Marseilles to Saigon. Phase 2: Va-Ren arrives in Saigon, where he is enthusiastically welcomed by the local government. Phase 3: Va-Ren travels to Hue, where the imperial court warmly receives him, holds a banquet, and awards him medals. Phase 4: Va-Ren arrives in Hanoi and conducts his meeting with Phan Boi Chau in prison, where his absurdity is fully revealed. The excerpt in the textbook covers phases 1 and 4.

Through the author’s storytelling and descriptions, readers can visualize Va-Ren’s long, drawn-out journey and the absurdities of this colonial ruler’s actions. The main characters in this passage are Va-Ren and Phan Boi Chau. These two characters are portrayed using contrasting techniques: Va-Ren, the villainous ruler, stands in sharp opposition to Phan Boi Chau, the prisoner, who is noble and great.

The language used to portray each character differs as well. The author uses a narrative tone to depict Va-Ren’s character, while Phan Boi Chau is portrayed through the method of silence. This is a subtle and clever literary technique that powerfully evokes emotion and imagery.

Va-Ren, having just assumed the position of Governor-General, is the head of the colonial machinery in Indochina (comprising Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia). His first absurdity is his promise to take care of Phan Boi Chau. The author subtly implies that Va-Ren, newly appointed, is attempting to placate public opinion. Therefore, his promise is an empty one, designed to ease the growing anti-French sentiments. This reveals Va-Ren as a scheming and insincere figure, making the promise merely a forced and reluctant gesture.

The author comments on this situation: He made such a promise; even if we assume that a Governor-General of Indochina could indeed keep his word, one must still ask: when exactly will Va-Ren 'care for' Phan, and in what manner? The author exposes the contradiction between the content of the promise and the timeline for its fulfillment. The promise is distant, as Va-Ren has just boarded the ship, and the journey will take about four weeks, while Phan Boi Chau remains imprisoned.

Thus, his promise becomes the first absurdity. The author uses the phrase 'half-heartedly promised' with a mocking tone and rhetorical questions to emphasize this. In reality, Va-Ren is still a colonial ruler in charge of the Indochinese administration, while Phan Boi Chau is the imprisoned revolutionary leader. The two figures represent opposing forces.

Flowing through the river of Vietnamese literature from the early 20th century to the August Revolution of 1945, the short story 'The Absurdities of Va-Ren and Phan Boi Chau' by Nguyễn Ái Quốc carries a unique tone and style: written in French, published in France, highly combative, with exquisite craftsmanship that showcases modernity. While many domestic authors wrote about the critique of cowardly feudal lords who kept the people starving (like Phạm Duy Tôn, Nguyễn Bá Học), or expressed their patriotic sentiments and subtle concerns for the people (like Tản Đà, Trần Tuấn Khải), Nguyễn Ái Quốc boldly exposed the colonialists' cunning and savage aggression, revealing a powerful and burning patriotism. The heart of the writer is clearly defined in terms of love and hatred.

Therefore, despite being published abroad and written in a foreign language, this short story, along with other works by the author under the pen name Nguyễn Ái Quốc, still holds its value as a true Vietnamese literary work, contributing to the vibrancy of the national literary stream. As we read the story, we can distinctly feel the two opposing figures: historical witnesses and human characters...

First is the character of Va-Ren – a deceitful colonial politician, a shameful betrayer. From the very beginning of the story, Va-Ren is introduced as a person with ambiguous and half-formal promises… making vague pledges about keeping promises... but when will the Governor-General take care of it? These words are sarcastic and subtly mocking! The author skillfully presents the character's appearance in specific times and with concrete characteristics.

When Va-Ren was in France, he only cared about looking after Phan Bội Châu once he was securely settled there. In other words, he first cared about securing his own position. He wanted to showcase colonial power to the public in Indochina before anything else. As for Phan Bội Châu, that would be dealt with later! Therefore, after leaving France with a half-official promise to look after Phan Bội Châu, Va-Ren made a leisurely trip, enjoying good food and flattery from his subordinates. The author uses storytelling with vivid descriptions, contrasting through repetition and lengthy sentences, breaking down Va-Ren's journey into four stages. Stage one: four weeks on the ship.

During these four weeks, Phan Bội Châu was still imprisoned. Stage two: Va-Ren arrived in Saigon and went on an extravagant tour... Meanwhile, Phan Bội Châu remained in prison. In Huế, stage three: Va-Ren enjoyed a feast, which was followed by lively celebrations. Meanwhile, Phan Bội Châu still languished in prison... And finally, when reaching Hanoi – the ultimate destination, the official absurdities took place. Va-Ren was nothing but a liar – he showed no concern for Phan Bội Châu, a diligent official in his work. Va-Ren's nature was that of a power-hungry man who loved to indulge in luxury. Let us listen to how the author exposes Va-Ren's ugly, vile nature through two of his stops in Saigon and Huế.

Upon reaching Saigon, Va-Ren was surrounded, greeted, and flattered, experiencing a tour filled with admiring words, basking in the pride of the prosperous city — a city that France had supposedly 'civilized'. Then, Va-Ren made his way to Huế, where he was again welcomed with subservient admiration from the Nguyen Dynasty officials. The author narrates these receptions with sharp wit. The sentences sparkle, mixing humor with seriousness, creating both literal and figurative meanings. The true face of Va-Ren gradually emerges. In the eyes of the people of Saigon, the governor-general was ridiculous. He had horns on his head... Isn't that a beautiful coat? His calves were covered in boots... With a thick beard and deep-set eyes...

Every detail of his appearance was scrutinized by a child’s remark, a compliment from a young girl, the admiration of a rickshaw driver, and the criticism of a Confucian scholar. Va-Ren’s portrait was one of absurdity, combining the features of an animal (with horns), a frilly woman (the beautiful coat), and a stiff soldier (with boots). The key point: Va-Ren was a vile and brutal character. During the royal reception in Huế, Va-Ren’s spiritual face revealed itself, as he was invited to the royal banquet. The extravagant act of receiving him was performed with a ridiculous ceremony. This “easygoing” demeanor reveals nothing but greed, hunger for food, and a craving for fame. The sentences are filled with dramatic flair, portraying a humorous meeting where both parties—one the visitor and the other the host—appear as absurd clowns in a farcical comedy. The satire in Nguyễn Ái Quốc's writing is deep and impactful!

Finally, in Hanoi, the final absurdities of Va-Ren unfolded, and the true face of this deceitful, vicious colonial politician was laid bare. Through the imagination of the writer, the reader is led to the prison gates, to the solitary confinement where the beloved national hero, Phan Bội Châu, languished. The scene was truly a dramatic performance, one that unfolded with both comedic and tragic elements. The author dedicates a lyrical passage to summarize Va-Ren's disgraceful history, while praising Phan Bội Châu’s heroic virtues. The portrayal of Va-Ren revealed the depths of betrayal and lies. In the confrontation between the two, Va-Ren took the stage as the 'generous' figure, claiming to bring freedom to Phan Bội Châu. He spoke in long, sincere, but ultimately mocking and condescending terms. His words were the poisonous sweetness of a betrayer. He promised freedom for Phan Bội Châu, provided he abandoned his efforts to rally the people and cooperate with the French. This was not a gesture of respect for Phan, but an attempt to coax the resilient warrior into betraying his lifelong ideals.

Va-Ren’s words were as sweet as honey but laced with the poison of betrayal. He spoke of other famous figures who had turned traitor, including Nguyễn Bá Trạc and several French politicians. Va-Ren proudly boasted of his own success: once a Socialist, now a colonial governor. How absurd that this colonial ruler would elevate betrayal as a virtue! Phan Bội Châu’s reaction to Va-Ren’s words was indifference. His calm demeanor showed that Va-Ren’s offers were as empty as hollow promises. The hero’s silence was more powerful than any speech. When Phan’s mustache twitched or when he spat in Va-Ren’s face, it marked the victory of the hero. For Phan, Va-Ren’s words were nothing but a farce.

As the story progresses, Va-Ren’s true, despicable nature becomes ever clearer. His absurdities expose the face of the deceitful colonial politician, a betrayer of shame. Nguyễn Ái Quốc uses a cold, humorous, sharp, and insightful pen to describe Va-Ren, blending European dynamism with the deep, resonant tones of Eastern style. As the story draws to a close, the narrative grows ever more profound.

In contrast, when depicting Phan Bội Châu’s reactions to Va-Ren’s absurdities, the writer delivers a direct blow to the enemy. It is a sharp sword wielded by a youth who fought for independence and freedom. The writing style was tender, respectful, and full of admiration for Phan, who represents the steadfast heroism of the people. Even though Phan Bội Châu was not the central character in the story, his figure stood in parallel with Va-Ren, providing a stark contrast. The repetition of phrases such as 'During the four weeks, Phan Bội Châu remained in prison…' not only emphasizes the suffering of the hero, but also conveys the writer’s deep sympathy and respect.

By portraying Phan Bội Châu as a national hero, the author elevates him to a level of reverence, describing him as a figure who sacrificed everything for his people. Throughout the encounter, Phan remained silent, undisturbed by Va-Ren's sweet talk. His silence spoke volumes about his unwavering commitment to the cause of independence. How could Va-Ren not be stunned by Phan's dignified silence? This marked the battle against the enemy, the rejection of all their cunning tricks and lies. The hero, through silence, emerged victorious. It is clear that, in this short story, the portrayal of Phan Bội Châu, crafted with a few strokes of the pen, vividly presents a character of immense dignity and honor. Phan Bội Châu represents the unyielding warrior, resolute against the deceptive plots of the colonial enemy. This powerful portrayal of the hero by Nguyễn Ái Quốc continues to resonate with us today.

Originally written in French over half a century ago, 'The Absurdities of Va-Ren and Phan Bội Châu' features characters and events that are now part of the past. At first, reading the translation may seem disorienting. However, as we read and reflect, we clearly see two contrasting figures: the petty betrayer and the heroic individual who remains loyal to his ideals, standing tall and unwavering. These are historical witnesses and human figures whose legacies will never fade.

Behind these two characters lies a heart filled with passion and a talent honed through years of dedication, giving birth to a sharp, unique pen: one that describes vividly, using flexible and natural language, with irony and wit. Nguyễn Ái Quốc – our beloved Hồ Chí Minh – from the earliest days of writing, has rightfully earned his place as both a writer and a patriot.