Top 12 Essays Analyzing the Character of the Young Man in "Lặng lẽ Sa Pa" by Nguyễn Thành Long

In every literary work, the protagonist becomes the soul that embodies the full message the author wants to convey through their creations. This is also true for the young man in Nguyễn Thành Long's short story "Lặng lẽ Sa Pa." He is an optimistic and life-loving person, compassionate, deeply responsible for his work, and filled with ideals. By crafting such a character for his work, Nguyễn Thành Long aims to express a rich, humanistic perspective on people and life. The work was created in 1970, a time when the North was fully immersed in laboring for the socialist construction of the region and providing support for the South in its fight against America. Every individual in the North was acutely aware of their role in the common cause of the country: living beautifully and meaningfully to contribute to the building and protection of the homeland. The young man becomes a beautiful symbol of these active, responsible individuals. This young man works as a meteorologist and geophysicist, living alone on top of Yên Sơn mountain, which is over 2,600 meters high, amidst the grass and clouds of Sa Pa. Yet, the emptiness does not harden his emotions or humanity. He remains optimistic, affectionate toward everyone, and keeps his living space neat and clean. He cultivates flowers in his "home garden" and raises chickens to "increase his food supply." All these actions confirm that he desires to lead a normal life like people down below, undeterred by loneliness or boredom. When hearing about the taxi driver's wife recovering from illness, he gives him some ginseng as a gift. When visitors (a painter and an engineer) come to visit, he gifts them a large bouquet of flowers and eggs. These actions carry a deeply human message: live beautifully, care for one another, and approach each other with kindness and affection. He is also a person full of responsibility, passionate about his work, and humble. He understands that his job, though arduous, is essential to him: "without it, I would die of sadness" because it is his joy and source of life. He has found happiness in his work. To him, work is a companion, and therefore his life is never dull or lonely. He confides, "When I work, work and I are a pair, how can it be called 'alone'? Besides, my work is tied to my comrades down there." His simple but noble idea of happiness is to be able to labor, to contribute his strength to the country. Therefore, when he learned that his discovery of a dry cloud helped the air force shoot down many American planes, he felt truly happy. In summary, contributing to science and the nation is his ideal life. His perspective on life is beautiful and profound. Not only does he have beautiful thoughts, but he also knows how to act beautifully. Despite the extremely harsh conditions, living alone on top of Yên Sơn mountain, surrounded by forests, white clouds, snowstorms, and rain, he tirelessly measures the wind, rainfall, sunlight, calculates the clouds, and monitors seismic activity, contributing to daily weather forecasting for production and military efforts. No one supervises or checks him, but he continues his work diligently and responsibly. His job requires execution at difficult times, like in the dead of winter, but at the appointed time, he wakes up, grabs his lamp and equipment, and never misses a day, working persistently for many years. However, the hardest challenge for him is overcoming loneliness, being completely isolated for months without seeing anyone. Yet, he conquers this with his devotion to his work. He spends all his time, enthusiasm, and energy on his mission, and whenever he gets a moment, he reads and engages in conversations. Through these quiet, dedicated actions, he has contributed directly to the victory of the Northern army and people. Notably, in his conversation with the painter, he always dismisses the idea of the painter sketching him. Instead, he introduces his friends: the engineer of the vegetable garden, the engineer who monitors lightning, etc. He humbly acknowledges that his work is ordinary, while appreciating the contributions and sacrifices of his friends and comrades. The title of the story is "Lặng lẽ Sa Pa" (Quiet Sa Pa), but is Sa Pa truly quiet? The author explains simply to the reader: "In the silence of Sa Pa, under the old mansions of Sa Pa, a Sa Pa that, just by name, makes people think of rest, there are people working and thinking like this for the country." Through the title and the creation of the protagonist with such admirable qualities, the author aims to highlight the theme and the ideological message of the work: to praise people who live beautifully, work passionately, and selflessly for the nation, and to remind each reader: "Let us love one another and live better."

Nguyễn Trung Thành is a writer known for his short stories and memoirs, emerging from the anti-French resistance with many distinctive works that leave a profound impression on readers. His short story “Lặng lẽ Sa Pa” is one of his finest works. Created during a field trip to Lào Cai in the summer of 1970, the story successfully depicts the simple yet valuable lives of workers, with the most remarkable character being the young man. Through this character, the author conveys the deeper meanings and ideologies of the story.

As we know, the young man's job is “to work in meteorology and geophysics,” which essentially involves making accurate forecasts to aid in military efforts and production through activities like measuring sunlight, wind, seismic activity, etc. It is an extremely challenging and arduous job. However, what stands out even more is his living situation, which is sure to astonish and earn admiration from readers. At such a young age, the young man lives alone at the peak of Mount Yên Sơn, which is over 2600 meters above sea level. The area is surrounded only by “grass and cold seasonal clouds,” with harsh living conditions, yet the young man continues to exemplify admirable qualities.

In the young man, we first see the beauty of a person who is responsible, loves their work, and always completes the tasks assigned. Living alone at the top of a mountain and engaged in a job that requires high precision, with no one to supervise or manage him, the young man consistently meets his work deadlines, reporting his results back “home” at the prescribed hours—“four o’clock, eleven o’clock, seven o’clock in the evening, and again at one o’clock in the morning.” Even though his work is hard and full of challenges, he holds a beautiful perspective on his job: “When I work, I am one with the work, so how can you call it being alone?” More importantly, he deeply loves his work and views it as his life, as “If I were to stop, I’d be so sad I could die,” and perhaps it is this love for his work that makes him speak of it with such passion and enthusiasm.

Not only does he love work and take responsibility for it, but the young man also has an open heart, is hospitable, and knows how to care for those around him. Living alone at the mountain peak, he always longed for someone to visit and share stories from the lowlands because he constantly felt “lonely.” When visitors came, he welcomed them with warmth and kindness, offering them tea made from Yên Sơn rainwater and giving the girl a bouquet of flowers. When the visitors left, he gave them a basket of eggs. He also cared for others deeply. He gave the driver some ginseng he had just dug up, simply because he had heard that the driver's wife was ill. His actions and behavior left a lasting positive impression on everyone, so much so that the artist exclaimed, “That young man is truly lovable.”

Furthermore, the young man is also someone who organizes his work and life in a scientific and reasonable manner. Living alone on a high mountain, one might expect he wouldn't care much about organizing his living space, as the artist thought, “Guests arriving unexpectedly probably found that he hadn’t had time to clean up, hadn’t even gotten his bed ready.” However, when visitors saw his living space, they were completely surprised. His room at the peak of the mountain was neat, with everything carefully arranged. Despite living alone, he kept everything orderly, from his flower garden full of colorful flowers to raising chickens, drinking tea every day, and most notably, he loved reading. His books were his companions, enriching his soul and knowledge. Guests visiting would be struck by the sight of “a neat three-room house with desks, books, charts, and radio equipment. The young man’s private life was contained in a small corner of the room with a small bed, a study desk, and a bookshelf.”

Additionally, the young man displays the beauty of humility and sincerity. Although his work is closely linked to national defense and production, he views it as just a normal job, no more special than others. His humility is especially evident when the artist wanted to paint his portrait, and he declined, saying, “No, please don’t bother painting me. I’m not worthy. Let me introduce you to others who deserve to be painted more.”

Thus, the young man in “Lặng lẽ Sa Pa” embodies many admirable qualities, which illustrate the meaning and theme of the story. Through this character, Nguyễn Thành Long celebrates those who work selflessly, contributing their strength to their homeland and country. Moreover, this simple yet noble life of labor highlights the beautiful inner spirit in each person.

In conclusion, with its gentle, clear prose and natural, engaging narrative style, the short story “Lặng lẽ Sa Pa” successfully builds the character of the young man, who represents the quiet, humble workers striving to contribute to the betterment of their homeland, making it more prosperous and strong.

Each piece of literature has its own fate. Some works fade away quickly, leaving a short-lived existence. Some stir public opinion for a time but are soon forgotten by readers. However, there are poems and stories that endure, living on in the hearts of readers with a unique charm. Nguyễn Thành Long's short story “Lặng lẽ Sa Pa” is one such exceptional story, one that evokes beautiful emotions in every reader.

The story does not feature extraordinary characters or heroic feats like many other war narratives set in the American war period. Nguyễn Thành Long employs a gentle, poetic writing style; nature is portrayed in a soothing, warm, lyrical way that touches the heart. The characters in the story are ordinary workers, lovable and yet great in their own right. The four individuals mentioned by the author—one elderly, one young, one male, and one female—are all socialist intellectuals: the artist, the young scientist, and the newly graduated engineer, aside from the kind-hearted driver. The story does not follow a traditional plot, yet the encounter between these characters is unforgettable for readers.

The friendly driver serves as a sort of narrator, though his role may seem secondary, he leaves a lasting impression. The experienced artist, who asked for a delay on a “farewell dinner” to make one last trip to the northwest before retiring, has a pen that he describes as “another heart of his, one that ‘goes’ and ‘paints’ his entire life.” He “yearns” for art, which deepens his love for life and people. After spending half an hour chatting with the young man, and expressing a fatherly affection towards the engineer, we feel admiration and affection for him, as he is a true artist, a cultured intellectual, and a person with a rich inner life and a beautiful character.

The young man is a character whom the author has given much attention to, describing in detail and leaving a deep impression. Physically, he is described as having a “small stature and a radiant face.” He lives and works alone at the peak of Mount Yên Sơn, 2600 meters high, surrounded by perpetual mist and cold. Labor and results are the measures of his worth. His job is in meteorology, where he “measures wind, rain, sunshine, calculates temperatures, records seismic activity, and participates in daily weather forecasting for production and military needs.” He records and reports his findings back to “headquarters” with precision. On snowy, cold nights, he still lights a lantern and heads out to the garden at one in the morning, enduring hardships that words cannot fully express.

He played a vital role in discovering a layer of soft clouds above Hàm Rồng, which allowed our air force to shoot down several American planes. “The loneliest person in the world, and yet so significant?” His true value lies in his beautiful life philosophy. Though he yearns for human connection, it is not “the longing for bustling city life.” He constantly questions himself: “What am I born for, where do I come from, who am I doing this for?” His sense of responsibility is inspiring. He uses books to “converse,” to study, and to improve his knowledge. He speaks of himself with innocence and humility. He does not wish for the artist to paint his portrait, and praises the engineer working in the Sa Pa gardens and the scientist mapping lightning. To him, these are the “people who work and think... for the country.”

He also possesses a beautiful, kind heart. He sends ginseng to the sick wife of the driver, and gives a large, beautiful bouquet to the engineer who visits his “home.” He offers his guests a basket of eggs for lunch—simple, homegrown gifts, but behind them lies a noble heart, full of human warmth. He is an intellectual who lives with courtesy and a deep love for others.

The young female engineer is briefly sketched by the author but with great charm. She holds the bouquet of flowers to her chest, listens to the young man’s story, and quietly ponders, moved by the sight of the book the young man was reading on his desk. Her first encounter with him acts as a mirror for her to reflect on herself, her feelings about a love she once rejected, and the “path she is walking towards.” She is as beautiful as the flowers she holds in her hands.

These characters are pure, simple, sincere, and full of love. Nguyễn Thành Long does not idealize them but subtly evokes “a page of life, a fragment, a trace of the life squeezed out… small observations that gently remind the reader” (Tô Hoài), and they resonate deeply. As the young man shared with the artist: “I find life so beautiful!” Indeed, the short story “Lặng lẽ Sa Pa” makes us love life more and cherish people more, and the poem by Thanh Hải suddenly resonates in our hearts, making us emotional about “a small spring season / quietly given to life…”.

Quietly Sa Pa is a short story excerpted from the collection 'Giữa trong xanh' by Nguyễn Thành Long. The story praises the people living in the silent green mountains who are deeply devoted to their country, with kind and noble hearts. Through a blend of realism and lyricism, the author transports us to Sa Pa – the misty city of the North West, which appears as a living legend, from its stunning landscape to its lovable people. The young meteorological technician leaves a strong impression on the reader.

The plot of Quietly Sa Pa revolves around a simple but unexpected situation on top of Yên Sơn, 2600 meters above sea level. The story carries a poetic essence, from the natural scenery to the human soul. The character of the young technician is depicted mainly through the perspective of a painter, the driver. Although their encounter lasts less than 30 minutes, it is enough for the characters to form a vivid impression of the young man, representative of the new socialist citizen.

Sa Pa is a beautiful and poetic land. The Lao Cai province, located in the North West of the country, is far from barren. Instead, it is picturesque and magnificent. As the vehicle ascends the hill, the rest stop is by a cascading white stream. Sa Pa, with its peach blossom trees and herds of cows with bells around their necks, seems to guide travelers into an enchanting land. This natural backdrop sets the stage for the people who emerge with a deep love for the country and a tireless commitment to serve the nation. The people of Sa Pa, quietly dedicated, are embodied in the young technician’s image, whose lifestyle, thoughts, and soul are strikingly beautiful.

The young man, as seen through the eyes of the painter, is a 27-year-old who is an anonymous figure. After graduating, he volunteered to return to his hometown to work as a meteorologist and geophysicist at the peak of Yên Sơn, 2600 meters above sea level, 'one of the most isolated people on Earth'. His job involves measuring the wind, rain, sunshine, cloud density, and seismic movements to support production and military efforts. It requires a high level of responsibility and great perseverance. 'It’s terribly cold here! We even have snow!' he says. But the hardest part is his isolation, living alone year-round without another soul nearby. Despite the hardships, he has created a fulfilling life for himself: growing flowers, raising chickens, studying, and reading outside of work hours. Occasionally, he descends the mountain to visit the driver and help travelers, alleviating his loneliness and yearning for people. He has learned to live with purpose, feeling fulfilled when his work contributes to national defense, such as when he helped detect a dry cloud that allowed the army to down several enemy jets. 'Since then, I’ve felt truly happy,' he reflects.

Not only is he lovable in his way of life, but also in his thoughts. For him, the concept of solitude is simple: 'When we work, we are one with our work, and especially when my work is connected to that of my comrades down there.' Clearly, his life is no longer dull and lonely because he finds joy in his work. He shares with the female engineer, 'I always have someone to talk to—that’s my books.' He sees books as his cherished friends with whom he converses. When explaining his homesickness, he reflects, 'Who doesn’t miss home? Why was I born? Where was I born, and for whom do I work?' He’s not a special person, but his longing for others and for home, though suppressed, is his way of completing his duty for the country.

Though his work is tough, important, and physically demanding, he remains humble, always feeling insignificant compared to others. Comparing his work with that of his friend, who works on top of Phanxipang at 3142 meters, the young technician insists, when the painter wants to sketch his portrait, that others are more deserving of recognition: 'The engineer in the vegetable garden, sitting motionless day after day to observe how bees pollinate the cabbage flowers, or the scientist who’s been working for eleven years without leaving the lab to find a wife.' His modesty and commitment to his country are evident in these reflections.

He also shows a warm and noble heart. He sends some ginseng to the driver’s wife, who’s recovering from illness. He gives the female engineer a large bouquet of beautiful flowers during her visit. He offers guests a basket of eggs for lunch. These simple, homegrown gifts are symbolic of his deep, selfless love for others. He is a man of intellect, demonstrating courtesy and warmth in his interactions. This young man truly lives with high ideals in the quiet green mountains, selflessly contributing to his homeland. He seems to understand the profound sentiment of Tố Hữu:

If I were a bird or a leaf

The bird must sing, the leaf must stay green

How could I borrow without repaying?

Living is giving, not just receiving

It seems that in every scene and portrait, the writer imbues his affection. Through 'Quietly Sa Pa,' Nguyễn Thành Long not only draws readers in with events, characters, and the virtues of each person, but also expands and elevates the soul of every individual. The landscape portraits painted with pure literary language convey the writer’s sensitivity and talent. How fortunate are those who live with lofty aspirations, finding their place in life! There is no need to seek grand, magnificent jobs to reveal the full depth of one’s character. In any circumstance, even when living in remote mountain regions, alone in 'the most isolated place on Earth,' a person with a beautiful soul and noble life still exudes an irresistible charm. Along with the painter, Nguyễn Thành Long has successfully sketched the portrait of a truly beautiful character in life—one drawn in mere moments but with a profound beauty…

Pushkin once wrote: 'The soul is the impression of a work. Just as plants thrive on sunlight, birds live on song, a work thrives on the inner voice of the writer.' In the work 'Quietly Sa Pa', Nguyễn Thành Long lets his inner voice rise, allowing the soul of the work to soar through the character of the young man.

The story itself is quite simple. It revolves around a chance meeting between the characters: the artist, the engineer, and the young man working on the peak of Yên Sơn mountain. This brief conversation, lasting only 30 minutes, leaves behind sweet memories.

The first beauty we observe in the young man is his passion and sense of responsibility towards his work. As a young person, he surely has many dreams and aspirations to explore distant horizons and discover new lands. Yet, at this vibrant age of youth, he has chosen a demanding job in meteorology and geophysics on the peak of Yên Sơn, 2,600 meters above sea level, where mist and fog surround him all year round. The work is hard and solitary, but he never complains or laments, sharing his story enthusiastically: His duties include measuring the wind, rain, sunshine, clouds, and earth vibrations, forecasting daily weather, and serving both production and defense needs. He speaks about his equipment like it’s his companions: the rain gauge, the heliograph, the wind meter, and the seismograph. His job is arduous, especially with the harsh weather: every day, he reports back to his 'home' via radio four times: at four o'clock, eleven o'clock, seven in the evening, and one in the morning.

The most grueling task is the 1 a.m. report, especially when snow and rain accompany the cold. While others may turn off their alarm and sleep through it, he rises, grabs his lantern, and heads to the garden. Truly, humans are small in the vastness of the universe, but the will of the human spirit is invincible. Within the young man is the fire of youth, the flame of passion for his work, a warmth that drives away some of the cold from the lonely peak. His job may seem easy, but it demands high precision. He accomplishes it with conscientiousness, diligence, and care. But the hardest part, more difficult than the harsh weather, is the loneliness, being without human company all year round.

We also see a beautiful soul within the young man. He has a compassionate heart, always caring for others. Living surrounded by forests, snowstorms, and mist, we understand why he yearns for human interaction. Thus, he cherishes every connection with others even more. Knowing that the driver's wife is ill, he sends her some ginseng, and when the artist and the engineer visit his home, he serves them tea made from the aromatic rainwater of Yên Sơn. As a parting gift, he gives them baskets of eggs—simple gifts from his own land.

His life is far from dull; it is organized and scientific. He grows flowers, raises chickens, teaches himself, and has books to keep him company during lonely moments. The young man is also endearing in his thinking. He no longer feels lonely because his work has become his companion: 'When we work, we and the work are one. How can it be called being alone? Moreover, my work is connected to the work of so many comrades down there. It’s hard, yes, but if I didn’t do it, I’d be so lonely that I’d be miserable.' Work, to him, is the source of joy and happiness, a bond that connects him to others. And his work becomes even more meaningful when he knows his contributions are aiding the homeland. To him, happiness lies in working, in contributing:

'If I were a bird or a leaf,

The bird must sing, the leaf must stay green.

How can one borrow without paying back?

To live is to give, not just to take for oneself.'

When the artist intended to paint him, the young man humbly refused, suggesting others were more deserving of the honor: the engineer working in the Sa Pa vegetable garden, the researcher studying lightning—people who sacrifice their personal happiness to contribute wholeheartedly to the collective. He also embodies a spirit of progress. He admires his friend working on Phan-xi-păng peak and wishes to do even more to serve his homeland.

Through his natural and engaging narrative style, the author portrays the young man successfully: a person living amidst the tranquil green mountains but with a vibrant heart and a warm spirit. His work might go unnoticed, and his name might be forgotten, but the quiet beauty emanates from his simple and humble nature. The young man, along with countless others doing humble work like his, contributes daily to transforming the country and improving life for everyone.

After reading the work, one might ask: Is Sa Pa truly quiet? Sa Pa is quiet in its dreamy, poetic landscape, yet behind that quietness is an intense passion, a dedication, and selfless contribution. Through this story about seemingly quiet lives, the author conveys the message: Live a life of meaning, not only for yourself but for society and the nation:

'Do not ask what the nation has done for you,

But ask what you have done for the nation today.'

In conclusion, through the character of the young man, we can see the beauty of his way of living, his soul, and his thoughts. The image of the young man may only be a brief sketch, but it is enough to make readers admire and respect him. He is a symbol of the beauty of the young generation of Vietnam in the early years, when the North was both producing and fighting against the destructive war of the Americans. This generation, this shining example, is one for the youth to learn from, to follow, and to cultivate that beauty.

When we mention the writer Nguyễn Thành Long, we are referring to a prominent author who specialized in short stories and memoirs, a key figure in the modern Vietnamese literature of the 1960s and 1970s. With a writing style that is gentle, lyrical, and poetic, Nguyễn Thành Long has left us with works that resonate with lasting beauty, echoing across time.

The short story "Quietly Sa Pa" stands as a prime example of his artistic style. The story successfully depicts the image of an anonymous, ordinary worker who tirelessly contributes to enriching the homeland and country. Within it, the character of the young man who works as a meteorologist and geophysicist at the summit of Yên Sơn Mountain, 2600 meters high, is a representation of the new generation's idealism in the early years of building a new life and socialist construction in Northern Vietnam.

"Quietly Sa Pa" is the result of Nguyễn Thành Long's visit to Lào Cai in the summer of 1970. Through the story, the author aims to affirm and praise the beauty and significance of the silent work done by individuals who are quietly contributing.

The young man is the main character in the story. However, he does not appear directly at the beginning but is introduced through the words of a bus driver to a painter and a young female engineer as they rest along the road. This clever narrative technique by NTT allows the character to be portrayed in a very natural, authentic, and objective way through the eyes and assessments of others. The brief encounter between the young man, the painter, and the engineer is enough for readers to deeply understand his living and working conditions, his admirable qualities, and his silent contributions to the country. As the author has described his work: "Ultimately, Quietly Sa Pa is a portrait..." It is a beautiful portrait—spiritually radiant—of a 27-year-old young man working as a meteorologist atop Yên Sơn Mountain, 2,600 meters above sea level amidst the forests of Sa Pa.

Through the bus driver's perspective, the young man is referred to as "the loneliest person in the world." This description is truly fitting considering his life, where for months on end, he is surrounded only by trees, clouds, and the mountains of Sa Pa. His life is so lonely that he would even lower the car's barrier just to see and hear human voices because he is "so hungry for company." His work involves: "measuring wind, rain, sunshine, calculating clouds, measuring seismic activity, and forecasting daily weather to serve production and defense." This job requires precision, attention to detail, and a high sense of responsibility. At midnight, at the scheduled time, he must rise and step outside, regardless of snow or freezing cold, to carry out his duties. Especially with the harsh weather at such a high altitude, he finds it impossible to fall back asleep once his work is done. Yet perhaps the greatest hardship for this young man is his isolation, the absence of human contact all year round. His living and working conditions are exceptional, but despite all the hardships, he overcomes them and strives for a better life through his contribution to society.

Despite living in solitude, facing only himself every day with no one else for company, he never feels bored or discouraged. He firmly believes: "When I work, the work and I are one, so how can I be considered alone? Moreover, my work is linked to that of many comrades below. Even though my work is arduous, if I were to put it aside, I would die of boredom." He considers his work to be his companion in life. In fact, he realizes that his contributions form a connection between him and those around him. For him, happiness lies in dedication to work. When he discovered a cloud formation that helped the military shoot down several American jets over the Hàm Rồng Bridge, he felt "truly happy." His happiness was meaningful because he knew that his work had contributed to the victory in the nation's war against America. It is likely that his positive attitude and outlook on life have helped him overcome the difficulties of his living and working conditions, moving toward a more meaningful and fulfilling life.

In both work and life, he is always serious, disciplined, punctual, and well-organized. Every day, without fail, at the appointed time, whether it is freezing or snowy, he rises and steps outside to work. He performs his duties punctually four times a day: at 4 AM, 11 AM, 7 PM, and 1 AM. The young man always finds ways to enjoy solitude, such as reading books to "talk" and improve his knowledge. Perhaps it is his passion for his job and his love for life, combined with his diligent spirit, that makes him excel at his work: "At night, I don't look at the instruments, I look at the trees swaying in the wind or at the sky, seeing which star fades and which shines, and from that I can predict the clouds and wind..." He knows how to contribute to the greater good while also improving his own life. His home is surrounded by a garden full of colorful flowers, and he raises chickens and grows vegetables to sustain himself. When inviting the painter and the agricultural engineer to his home, he rushed ahead not because he "didn’t have time to tidy up," as the painter thought, but because he wanted to pick flowers and prepare tea for his guests. This shows that he is a person who is truly considerate, thoughtful, and caring.

Although he lives alone in a remote and cold place, he still cares deeply about what happens below. In his interactions with others, he is warm-hearted and thoughtful. He warmly greets his guests, offering ginseng to the bus driver's sick wife, flowers and eggs to the agricultural engineer and the painter. When saying goodbye, he feels a sense of longing and promises to meet again... This shows that he is a sincere, open-minded person and truly hospitable.

Not only that, but the young man also demonstrates humility and honesty. He always feels that his work and contributions are small. When the painter wanted to draw his portrait, he hesitated but "to avoid being rude, he still sat still for the portrait." He spoke with enthusiasm about others whom he felt were more deserving of being painted than himself, such as the engineer at the vegetable garden or the researcher studying lightning maps.

In conclusion, with just a few details and a brief moment in the story, the author has successfully portrayed the main character's idealistic beauty, his living conditions, his working style, and his noble qualities. He is an exemplary figure representing the people of Sa Pa, the portrait of a worker in the new era—the era of socialist construction.

Art is focused on beauty. If beauty is something inherently connected to life, emerging from labor, and representing the beauty of life, then life itself must be considered the main subject of artistic depiction. Perhaps it is from this perspective that Nguyễn Thành Long, in his short story *Lặng lẽ Sa Pa*, focused on crafting characters that are beautiful both in soul and in character. Among these characters, the young man working in meteorology in Sa Pa evokes a powerful emotional response in the reader.

At twenty-seven, an age full of enthusiasm for life and activity, he willingly undertakes his job alone on top of the 2,000-meter Yên Sơn peak. His work, seemingly simple—measuring wind, rain, clouds, and sunshine—requires him to overcome numerous challenges. He shares with the old painter, 'The hardest part is when I have to report at one in the morning. It's freezing. There’s snow and rain here. When I go out into the garden, the snow and wind are silent, but then it gets terrifying, as if it's chopped into pieces. The wind is like a broom, sweeping everything away, scattering it all...' But perhaps the most difficult thing is living alone on the mountain peak, surrounded only by plants and misty cold, with no one around for months on end.

There, meeting or speaking to another person is a rare and difficult event. Yet, he overcomes this isolation, deeply immersed in his work to the point of passion, never feeling lonely because he sees his work as part of a larger effort that serves the people. And especially, he realizes that his work contributes to forecasting daily weather, supporting production, and aiding in military efforts. To understand this gives us a glimpse into his happiness—knowing that his efforts played a role in the struggle to bring down American bombers at Hàm Rồng Bridge. The more we read *Lặng lẽ Sa Pa*, the more we discover the admirable qualities of this young man. He loves reading and studying, taking care to always have books at hand. He confides in the young girl, 'As you see, I always have someone to talk to.'

He has created a dynamic, lively life full of enthusiasm. He raises chickens for eggs, grows bright, beautiful flowers like gladiolus and yellow-red dahlias. He tends a medicinal garden and organizes a neat, tidy three-room house... His spiritual life is as clear as crystal, free of any dust. In his brief thirty-minute interaction with the driver, the old painter, and the young agricultural engineer, his hospitality, kindness, and human warmth are moving. He worries about finding medicinal plants to cure the driver’s wife, picks flowers to gift the girl, and offers eggs and food to unexpected guests.

These traits highlight the beauty of his soul—the soul of a young man living in a new era, a collective society. Typically, authors pay great attention to naming their characters. But in *Lặng lẽ Sa Pa*, this is not the case. Our protagonist is unnamed. The author simply refers to him as 'The young man,' accompanied by a brief description: 'small stature, radiant face.' Perhaps this is an artistic choice, reflecting his selfless nature. When talking about his solitary work, he does not center himself, instead referring to others: 'The man on top of Phanxipang, 3,142 meters high, is even more alone than I am.' When the old painter decides to sketch him, he introduces himself modestly: 'I’m the engineer from the vegetable garden below Sa Pa, a scientific officer who is making a special map for our country.' His humility prevents him from elevating himself.

As I write this, I am reminded of the poem *Dáng đứng Việt Nam* by Lê Anh Xuân. The lyrical character in his poem is also a hero 'without a photograph, without an address,' whom the poet calls 'The Liberation Soldier.' These unsung heroes of the country share the selflessness and sacrifice that define them. Like the characters in *Lặng lẽ Sa Pa*, they work tirelessly and think constantly about their country, quietly and without fanfare. They work with fervor but without boasting, their souls are pure and beautiful, though never simplistic.

In *Lặng lẽ Sa Pa*, we see a collective— the man on Phanxipang, the engineer, the scientific officer. Through the life and story of a simple person from the masses, the writer reflects the new ideals of the revolutionary era. Thus, this character becomes an exemplary figure with a powerful educational impact.

On the other hand, the supporting characters— the driver, the old painter, the young girl— all contribute to making the image of the young man more vivid and distinct. The driver’s role is merely to introduce the main character, but his words capture the reader’s attention. The old painter, with his deep passion and quiet reflection upon encountering a subject he’s long sought, brings a fresh, natural beauty to the young man’s image.

Especially striking is the unexpected meeting between the young agricultural engineer and the young meteorologist. The girl is astonished to discover, in the unfinished pages of his book, the magnificence of his spiritual life. The author’s delicate descriptions of his thoughts, gestures, and actions subtly enhance the portrait of the main character.

In *Lặng lẽ Sa Pa*, there are no negative characters, yet this does not diminish the story’s realistic value. Nguyễn Thành Long’s characters are familiar and relatable because their personalities are revealed through daily interactions, thoughts, and emotions, not through dramatic events or sensational incidents.

The victories and defeats, joys and sorrows, the clash between the old and the new— these are happening vibrantly, day and night. New seeds, new hopes, continue to sprout and grow. This is the feeling we are left with after reading the final pages of the story. The clear, beautiful images of people tirelessly working and loving life fill the pages. These characters captivate our imagination and emotions, making us want to follow their example and live like them.

Nguyen Thanh Long began his writing career during the resistance against the French, quickly establishing himself as a prominent figure in Vietnam's revolutionary prose literature. He achieved success in both short stories and essays. His works feature a writing style that is both authentic and simple, yet rich in lyrical quality, focusing on depicting the beauty of the new Vietnamese citizen in both work and combat. The character of the young man in the story 'Lặng lẽ Sa Pa' serves as an exemplary portrayal of the Vietnamese people's beauty during their labor and efforts to build a new life. The plot is relatively straightforward, revolving around the brief, chance meeting between a painter, a female engineer, and the young man who works as a meteorologist atop Mount Yen Son in Sa Pa. This encounter allows the author to introduce the character in a favorable way, particularly through the impressions and perspectives of the other characters. This technique helps make the image of the young man more objective and realistic. The young man lives and works in an extremely unique environment. He resides alone on the top of Mount Yen Son, shrouded in clouds year-round. His duties include meteorology and geophysics, where he measures rainfall, sunshine, and forecasts the weather, contributing to both military efforts and production. His solitary, harsh living conditions provide an opportunity for him to reveal his admirable and precious qualities. First and foremost, he has a clear, correct view of his work, as well as his philosophy on life and happiness. He is passionate and dedicated to his work, even wishing to work at an even higher location, Mount Fansipan, because the higher the elevation, the more ideal the working conditions are for a meteorologist. He does not consider his work lonely; he believes that when one works, they are not alone, for the work itself is a companion. Additionally, he deeply understands the importance of his work. Despite its hardships, including late-night hours, he would feel miserable without it. His heartfelt confession is both endearing and sincere: 'My work is tough, but if I didn’t have it, I would be incredibly sad.' This also reflects his noble ideal of contributing fully to his country, always pondering the purpose of his existence, where he was born, and for whom he works. These views demonstrate the high-minded, healthy ideals of the young man. Regarding happiness, he believes it comes from contributing to the collective cause of the nation. When he learned that a timely discovery of a cloud helped the military shoot down an enemy plane over the Ham Rong Bridge, he felt immense joy. He maintains a highly optimistic view of life: 'Although I’m alone atop Mount Yen Son, the world is so beautiful, and I never feel lonely or bored.' This is because, in Sa Pa, there are always silent workers like him who serve the people and the nation. Additionally, he finds joy in reading books, which are his companions for conversations and reflection. Moreover, he is a person who takes beautiful actions and shows responsibility in his assigned work. Despite living alone atop Mount Yen Son, with no one to supervise him, he remains persistent and overcomes the harsh conditions to complete his tasks with a high level of self-discipline. Even during the cold winter, he gets up at the same time each day to complete his duties. Through these quiet, unassuming actions, he contributes to the victories of the Northern soldiers and people. Beyond that, he leads a virtuous lifestyle, working seriously and scientifically. He is also open, sincere, and values others. He sends medicine to the driver’s wife, gives eggs to others, and picks flowers for the female engineer. All these gestures reflect his heartfelt sincerity toward others. He is also humble, always feeling that his work and contributions are too small. Therefore, when the painter offers to sketch his portrait, he declines and suggests other individuals he deems more worthy. Additionally, we cannot forget the young man’s beautiful way of life. He maintains an organized, tidy living space. His small, simple home is always clean and orderly, a stark contrast to the painter’s initial assumptions. He also engages in healthy hobbies to balance his spiritual life, such as gardening, reading, and raising chickens. The young man represents the ideal image of the youth during the anti-American resistance. They were ordinary workers, quietly dedicating themselves to the nation. To highlight the young man’s character, the story is told in the third person, primarily from the perspective of the painter. This narrative point of view allows the story to be more objective and realistic, offering a multidimensional view of the character. Through the painter’s impressions and feelings, the image of the young man becomes clearer and more lovable. Additionally, the character’s simple, sincere language contributes to the portrayal of his personality and plays a crucial role in the success of the story. The young man is a representative figure of the Vietnamese youth in the late 20th century. His beauty will serve as an inspiring example for future generations to follow in their silent contributions to the nation.

Albert Einstein once said, “Only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile.” This quote compels us to reflect on our responsibilities and duties towards others and life itself. At the same time, it reminds us of the image of a young man quietly contributing to his country in the story 'Lặng lẽ Sa Pa'. He stands as a prime example of a life devoted to sacrifice and service for the community and the nation.

This twenty-seven-year-old man from Lao Cai works in the field of geophysics and meteorology. His workplace is not far away but is perched on top of Yen Son Peak, over 2000 meters above sea level. Despite his small stature, his unwavering determination and strong sense of duty make him a resilient individual who takes his work seriously.

First and foremost, this young man faces harsh challenges. His duties include “measuring wind, rainfall, sunshine, cloud cover, and seismic activity, and providing daily weather forecasts to support production and military efforts.” At first glance, his job may seem simple, but it is actually a significant challenge, requiring precise execution—waking up at exactly the right time, even at one or two in the morning, enduring freezing cold and snow to make sure everything is done correctly.

As a young person filled with passion and love for life, living alone in such a remote, isolated place is a huge test. Not only is he isolated, yearning for human company so much that he has to block the road with a tree branch, but his work is also somewhat monotonous. The biggest challenge for him is overcoming loneliness, spending months on end without seeing anyone in a place where the mountains seem endless and empty. Yet, driven by passion, love for his work, and a sense of responsibility, he conquers every obstacle.

These difficulties serve as a test, revealing the young man’s beautiful and positive qualities. In order to fulfill his demanding tasks, he demonstrates deep love for his profession and a strong sense of responsibility. He understands that his small job holds great significance for the country's production and defense. Despite working alone with no one to push him, he remains diligent and dedicated to his duties. Throughout his years of service, he has never once reported the wrong time, even when it was a freezing, snowy day—he would still take his lantern and make sure to get the measurements right.

He loves his job and sees it as a close companion: “When I work, my work and I are one; how can it be considered solitary? Besides, my work is connected to the work of many others down there. It’s a tough job, but if I were to give it up, I’d feel miserable.” In his words, there is both excitement and pride, expressed in such simple and sincere terms. These humble and candid words reveal the true beauty of his character. He takes great pride in seeing that his work contributes to the country’s success, such as his discovery of dry clouds that helped the air force win at the Hàm Rồng Bridge. Indeed, for him, work has become both a joy and a purpose in life. With his noble and clear motivations of serving the people and the country, one cannot help but admire this young man.

To combat his loneliness, he has created a well-organized, pleasant life for himself. Living alone on a high mountain, he has made sure that his home is neat and orderly: “a clean three-room house, with tables, chairs, notebooks, charts, and a radio.” Everything is neatly arranged, and his life can be summed up by the small corner in his room with a tiny bed, a small study desk, and a bookshelf. Although he lives alone, he constantly strives to enrich his knowledge, asking the driver to buy books for him. To him, books are a way to alleviate loneliness and connect him to the world beyond. They help to nourish his soul and keep his mind active.

Additionally, to make his life more vibrant and poetic, he has planted charming flower bushes in front of his house, filling the air with various colors and fragrances. He also keeps a flock of chickens that not only serve a practical purpose but also add some liveliness to his life. The young man is not just concerned with his work but also takes time to make his material and spiritual life richer and more enjoyable.

Moreover, he has other qualities that are admirable, such as being open, sincere, and caring for those around him. A gift of ginseng for the driver's wife, a basket of eggs, and a bouquet of flowers have helped a female engineer gain more confidence in her chosen path. He is also incredibly humble and modest, always saying that his contributions are small. When the artist was painting his portrait, he readily suggested that others, whom he thought more deserving, should be painted instead.

Even with just a few simple sketches and a brief conversation, these moments reveal the depth of the young man's character and spirit. He lives exactly as Albert Einstein believed: giving to others brings happiness to oneself. He is a representative of the new generation of workers contributing to the nation's development and defense.

The story 'Lặng lẽ Sa Pa' was written by Nguyễn Thành Long in 1970. The work begins with a very simple situation. Through a poetic narrative, the author takes readers to the poetic Sa Pa to feel the lives of those who quietly work and think about the country. The main character in the story is a young man working in meteorology and geophysics. His thoughts and actions reflect the beauty of his soul, as well as the character of his generation. The poetic nature of the story is not only found in the beautiful images of nature but also in the noble soul of the main character – the young man.

The central figure in the story, the young man, appears for only a brief moment but is the most prominent point in the scene the author focuses on. His appeal lies in his attitude and thoughts on life and work, especially when living and working alone amidst the stillness of nature. The author vividly portrays the image of the young man in a unique living and working environment: alone on the peak of Yên Sơn, surrounded year-round by the vast quietness of the trees, clouds, and mountains. His job is indeed hard and challenging. He 'measures the wind, rain, sunshine, counts the clouds, and measures the earth’s tremors'. He has to wake up at 1 a.m., when the cold outside makes it almost impossible to sleep.' He recalls, 'The silence at that time is truly terrifying: It feels like the wind is cutting the air into pieces, and the wind is like big brooms wanting to sweep everything away, throwing things around.' His account shows that he has endured great hardship to complete his tasks. However, the greatest challenge for him is the constant loneliness, always 'craving for people.'

The author places the character in a poetic yet harsh, romantic yet challenging environment. So, what helps the young man overcome these difficulties? First and foremost, it is his sense of responsibility and love for his work. His job, 'measuring the wind, rain, sunshine, counting clouds, and measuring the earth’s tremors', is difficult, but he completes it quietly. He understands his mission as 'serving production and serving the military'. It is known that his report about a dry cloud helped the military shoot down an enemy plane over the Hàm Rồng bridge, and he 'felt truly happy.' His sense of responsibility is the main driving force that keeps him living and working devotedly alone, realizing that happiness comes from working and contributing.

The author allows the young man to express his heartfelt thoughts. These are profound, serious reflections on his profession and work. Regarding his work, he thinks, 'When we work, we are one with the work, how can we be alone?' This reflects his love for the job and his deep attachment to it. Perhaps when we love our work, it brings joy, and then we no longer feel alone. He further understands, 'Moreover, my work is connected to the work of many comrades down below. My work is so difficult, but if I were to abandon it, I would feel miserable.' Clearly, to him, the profession is his purpose in life. His passionate love for his profession, his strong connection to it, is what keeps him from feeling lonely even though he is alone in Sa Pa surrounded by trees and mist.

Not only does he think deeply about his work and profession, but the young man also has profound thoughts about life. He reflects, 'Who doesn't crave companionship, right? What am I born for... who am I working for?' Clearly, these are his concerns with life. He realizes that everyone must work for their own survival and for the community. What is truly admirable is that he has distanced himself from trivial thoughts and a trivial way of living, saying, 'I suddenly asked myself: What is this feeling of longing for vehicles and people? If it's a longing for the hustle and bustle of the city, then it's nothing special.' It can be said that his serious thoughts reveal his pure soul, beautiful way of life, and responsible attitude towards life.

He has overcome loneliness, isolation, and his environment with a way of living that is both serious and romantic. Even though he lives alone, his home is well-organized and tidy. It is a three-room house, with the young man’s life condensed into a corner with a small bed, a study table, and a bookshelf. He raises chickens, has more eggs than he can use, and grows flowers. In his garden, there are many flowers: lilies, dahlias in yellow, purple, red, pink, and bee hives. He finds joy in books. In short, in his tidy home, garden full of flowers, chicken coop, and bookshelf... these things reflect a beautiful, romantic soul. All of this is created by him to overcome loneliness amidst the cold Sa Pa and the mist.

Not only does he overcome difficulties to complete his work with a love for his profession and a sense of responsibility, but the young man is also always caring and devoted to others.

He sends a package of ginseng to the sick wife of the driver, prepares hot tea for travelers, a basket of eggs for the old painter, and gives flowers to the engineer both when meeting and saying goodbye. These gestures of kindness are natural, sincere, and thoughtful. They show his respect, love, and care for others. When the painter sketches him, he introduces a technician studying how bees collect pollen to cross-pollinate cauliflower to create a bigger and sweeter variety for people in the North; a comrade who waits for lightning and has never taken a day off for eleven years to map lightning for the country... He introduces a friend from the distant peak of Phan Xi Phăng. He cares about the silent people who are tirelessly working and innovating to serve the people. He understands, admires, and praises each job, each person, and honors the labor of all. He is portrayed as a humble person with a deep respect for creative labor and selflessness for the happiness of the people.

Reading the short story 'Lặng lẽ Sa Pa,' we empathize with the painter’s feelings when thinking about him. That young man is truly lovable, but the painter finds his work difficult. It is indeed true that he is lovable – lovable in his soul, in his way of life, and in his passion for his profession to contribute. The lovable beauty of the young man is also the beauty of the new generation eagerly building the country. The beauty that the painter compares, 'Young people these days are truly amazing! You all seem like butterflies,' could this represent the vibrant and attractive beauty of the diverse and surprising new generation? Perhaps from his way of life, from the soul of the young man in the story, the painter and all readers feel a renewed appreciation, trust, and hope for the younger generation in the effort to build the country. Nguyễn Thành Long has created a simple plot that evokes many deep thoughts about the way of life. The character of the young man stirs feelings of trust, love, and admiration for those quietly thinking and contributing to building the beautiful life we have.

If 'Lặng lẽ Sa Pa' praises those who quietly work and contribute to the Fatherland, then the character of the young man is the epitome, the center. Like many others, his silent work has formed the foundation of life. Just like so many laborers outside of this life, overcoming difficulties and passionately contributing, they are the ones who create the multifaceted beauty of the new life. His work, his attitude towards life, his thoughts, and his soul contribute to the pure poetic quality of the work. Should we call him a silent hero with his silent achievements, which readers feel deeply honored?

As we close the short story "The Quiet Sapa" by Nguyễn Thành Long, we are left with a sense of admiration for the people depicted, for their sincere and heartfelt emotions in a life filled with hope. Whether described in detail or briefly, every character in "The Quiet Sapa" stands out with admirable qualities, and among them, the young man who works as a meteorologist and geophysicist has made a lasting impression on us.

First and foremost, this young man is remarkable for his love for life, his passion for his work, and his strong sense of responsibility towards his challenging job. When introducing him to the old painter and the young woman, the driver refers to him as "the most solitary person in the world." For years, he has been "living alone on top of Yên Sơn mountain, 2600 meters high, surrounded only by cold, misty clouds and vegetation." His daily tasks include "measuring wind, rain, and seismic activity," recording the data, and sending it to the central station. On many nights, he battles "the snow and the eerie silence." Yet, he remains deeply passionate about his job.

He believes: "When you work, the work and you are one, how can it be called being alone?" He fully understands: "My job is difficult, but if I stop it, I'd be miserable." Though he lives alone, he is never lonely, because "I always have someone to talk to. I have books to keep me company." Despite living in sparse conditions, this young man remains committed to his work and manages his personal life with order and stability. He raises chickens, grows flowers, and reads books. Occasionally, he visits the driver and fellow passengers to chat and ease his homesickness.

In such circumstances, some might withdraw into loneliness, but this young man is endearing in his "yearning for human connection," his warm hospitality, and his attentiveness to others. From the very beginning of his encounter with the old painter and the young engineer, his welcoming and enthusiastic nature wins them over. His joy in hosting guests is evident in his face and gestures: he offers the driver a gift of ginseng, eagerly accepts the book the driver bought for him, happily invites them to visit his "home," and shares stories about his work, colleagues, and life in the silent Sa Pa. One of the first things he does when guests visit his place is to pick a vibrant bouquet for the young woman he just met. The flowers for the young woman, tea for the old painter, and eggs for the two elderly visitors—all of these actions not only show that he is a considerate young man but also represent the warmth and devotion of his heart.

Despite his arduous job, which contributes significantly to the country, this enthusiastic and hospitable young man remains humble. He feels that his contribution is modest and insignificant compared to that of others. Hence, he feels embarrassed when the old painter sketches his portrait in his notebook. The modest man enthusiastically suggests to the old painter to sketch others who are more deserving: "No, no, don’t waste time drawing me, let me introduce you to others who are more worthy of your drawing." These include the engineer in the vegetable garden who overcame many hardships to cultivate larger and sweeter kohlrabi, and the "researcher who has never left the station for eleven years"... Though young, he deeply appreciates the meaning and sentiment of Sa Pa, understanding the silent sacrifices of the people who work day and night for the country.

With a simple plot, detailed and vivid elements, and lively dialogue, Nguyễn Thành Long narrates a chance yet profound encounter in the quiet Sa Pa. Within less than 30 minutes of meeting the young man, the old painter is left reflecting on the beauty of life that can never be fully expressed, while the young engineer feels an overwhelming sense of admiration for the young man.

With this short story, perhaps the author wishes to assert: Our lives are built upon great and silent sacrifices. The diligent and passionate people, like this young man, make life truly precious and lovable.

Nguyễn Thành Long (1925 - 1991) was one of the outstanding authors known for his short stories, often focusing on the silent and selfless contributions of individuals working on the home front for the country. One of the most emblematic characters in his work is the young man in the short story 'Lặng lẽ Sa Pa,' written in 1970. This character embodies admirable qualities, as well as a profound philosophy about life and work in a new era.

Despite facing difficult living and working conditions, the young man overcame them to live meaningfully and contribute to society. The author introduces him through the character of a driver who describes the 27-year-old man, living alone atop the 2600m high Yên Sơn mountain. The surroundings were harsh, enveloped in mist and treacherous. At times, he longed for company so much that he would even chop down trees to clear the road just to meet someone. His work, which involved meteorology and geophysics—"measuring wind, sunshine, clouds, and seismic activity..."—required precision, attention to detail, and a strong sense of responsibility. Even in the loneliest and most remote areas of the country, he never neglected his duties, enduring the coldest of hours at 1 AM to complete his tasks. This reveals a valuable character trait of the young man, who, despite his isolation, faced the challenges of his work with unwavering commitment.

The young man also embodies beautiful thoughts, ideals, and high emotional values. He was always dedicated to his country's cause, responsible for his life, and constantly sought to contribute to the nation's ideals. This is evident in his volunteer efforts to join the army during the war, and when that failed, he volunteered for meteorological work in the mountains. He truly cherished his work, knowing it was vital for the community. His dedication to his duties was such that he referred to his work as a companion: "The work may be hard, but without it, I would be lost." Thanks to this mindset, he never felt lonely on the mountain; instead, he found happiness in his work. His positive perspective on his job further deepened his love for life and the people around him, providing him with the strength to overcome challenges and lead a meaningful life for his country and the greater good.

Moreover, his character is marked by actions that inspire respect. His ability to rise above adversity and succeed, to conquer himself and his circumstances, is commendable. He willingly took on his responsibilities and excelled in his work, demonstrating proficiency in his field. So much so that, "at night, even without seeing the wind or the leaves shaking, or the sky, he could determine the wind and cloud conditions." His contributions were instrumental in national victories, including helping the military down several American planes at Hàm Rồng Bridge by identifying dry clouds.

His admirable actions did not stop there. Despite his successes, he remained humble and continued learning to better himself. He often read books to improve his knowledge, seeing them as both a friend and a source of joy. Through his actions, the young man developed a lifestyle that was both fulfilling and warm. He planted flowers of various types to enrich his spiritual life and even raised chickens, which not only provided food but created a homely atmosphere.

Through these examples, we can see that his life, though simple, was refined, scientific, and full of vitality. Despite the harsh and lonely conditions, he rose above them. Furthermore, he was a man full of warmth and hospitality. Living alone with only his ginseng root for company, he readily shared his belongings, offering gifts such as flowers, eggs, and even a ginseng root to others in need. He was also immensely proud of his father, who had served in the military, and was eager to engage in conversations with others. His humility stood out when the artist wanted to paint his portrait, but he suggested others more worthy of such recognition, like the engineer in charge of the vegetable garden or the researcher on lightning.

In this way, through depicting the young man's beautiful lifestyle, the author highlights the anonymous laborers—"those whose names are not remembered but who contribute to the country—The Land of Nguyễn Khoa Điềm." Through the third-person narrative, seen through the eyes of the engineer, the artist, and the driver, Nguyễn Thành Long successfully portrays the virtues and character of the young man.

Thus, in a brief 30-minute meeting, the author skillfully sketches the character of the young man in 'Lặng lẽ Sa Pa,' portraying him as a figure with admirable mental, emotional, and philosophical qualities about life and the significance of work. He stands as a representative of the new generation of laborers in Sa Pa.