Top 8 Best Analyses of Kim Lân's 'The Ugly Dog'

When we mention Kim Lân, we immediately think of him as the writer of the Vietnamese peasantry. He always focuses on the lives of the oppressed and brings forth humanitarian values. 'The Ugly Dog' is one of his most famous short stories, reflecting his distinctive writing style: cold yet warm.

The short story 'The Ugly Dog' was first published in 1962. It tells the story of a dog with an unappealing appearance, bought by the wife of the narrator at the market for three hào and brought home to be cared for a child who is under a year old.

Kim Lân’s brilliance lies in choosing the ugly dog as his central character. The dog symbolizes the fate of individuals in society at the time. From its appearance, it is described as “Its face droops, its eyes wet and watery, two white lumps visible. Its hunched back reveals each bone of its spine. This poor dog no longer even has enough fur to cover its body.” The dog is pitifully weak, its sorry appearance evoking sympathy from the reader. The dog, rejected by society, mirrors those who are despised and neglected, denied the rights of humanity.

Kim Lân masterfully uses unique literary techniques. He develops the character 'I', a person who appears indifferent, but deep down still retains a conscience. The dog is a symbol—representing people with unfortunate fates who are mistreated, neglected, and cruelly abandoned. The story also presents an interesting narrative situation where the dog, despite being abandoned, drags itself back to its owner, wagging its tail in joy upon the reunion, only to die afterward.

The story teaches us the value of love and compassion, especially towards the unfortunate.

The works of Kim Lân are captivating, marked by his unique touch, with themes often revolving around the tough and weary lives of impoverished peasants. After the success of the August Revolution, Kim Lân turned his focus to realistic short stories, with 'The Ugly Dog' being a clear example of his success in this genre.

The story depicts a dog with an unattractive and dirty appearance, which the narrator dislikes. Kim Lân describes the dog in vivid detail: “Its face droops, its eyes wet with two white lumps. Its hunched back shows each vertebra, and even its fur is unattractive, falling off in patches, like scattered dry grass.” The dog, once beloved by its owner, is now rejected, and its life is tragic. It is not until the end of its life that the dog is referred to as 'Mực the family pet'.

The narrator initially detests the dog, indifferent and callous, but later, deep within, he recognizes his mistake and feels guilty. Despite being abandoned, the dog remains loyal, eagerly wagging its tail and licking its owner's hand when reunited, even shedding tears in its final moments.

Kim Lân masterfully portrays the dog's tragic appearance and fate, invoking pity in the reader. Additionally, he conveys the message that the lives of the poor and struggling are often judged by their outward appearance, much like the dog. Yet, within them lies loyalty and goodness, much like the dog’s unwavering devotion.

Through 'The Ugly Dog', Kim Lân gives voice to the struggles of society, using his words to speak out against the coldness of human nature. The story carries with it a timeless message, one that will forever resonate in the hearts of readers.

Kim Lân is a prominent writer of the Vietnamese people, known for his authentic storytelling, unique perspectives, and the emotions he imbues into his works. 'The Ugly Dog' is one such story that leaves readers with profound thoughts and valuable lessons.

Kim Lân is often called the writer of 'pure, original rural Vietnam,' focusing on the picturesque rural landscapes. 'The Ugly Dog,' one of his standout works, was first published in 1962 as part of a collection with the same title.

The story centers on an unattractive dog, initially despised and neglected by the narrator, who eventually abandons it. Yet, despite this, the dog remains loyal, continuing to long for its owner. This loyalty eventually leads the narrator to realize his mistake and feel deep regret.

The story is written in the first person, with the narrator using 'I,' which makes the narrative feel more real and personal. Readers can clearly feel the emotional changes and reflections of the narrator, deepening their understanding of the author's intended message. The ugly dog represents the downtrodden class—those with unfortunate fates, oppressed by society, enduring hardship without complaint.

Despite its unattractive appearance, the dog possesses noble traits—loyalty and deep affection for its owner. The dog’s plight mirrors the people of that time, who, though flawed and despised, carried hidden virtues and worth beneath their rough exteriors.

Even after being abandoned by its owner, the dog remains faithful, determined to reunite with the person who mistreated it. Its determination and eventual death upon meeting its owner is deeply moving. The narrator, initially indifferent, becomes reflective and remorseful, realizing the value of empathy for those with lower social status, just as he should have treated the dog better.

'The Ugly Dog' is a story told with simplicity and authenticity, touching readers’ hearts deeply. This storytelling approach, paired with its clear and simple language, is why the story has remained successful, offering readers profound insights and messages.

Kim Lân (1920-2007) was one of Vietnam's most famous writers, known for his works that deeply reflect the life and people of rural Vietnam. His writing style is rooted in realism and rich in humanism, characterized by the following key features:

• Profound Realism:
  • Kim Lân often wrote about rural life, focusing on the struggles of poor, hardworking farmers. He vividly portrayed both the material and spiritual lives of peasants, especially during difficult periods such as the 1945 famine, land reform, and post-war times.
  • His works not only objectively reflect reality but also delve into the psychology and fates of his characters, presenting a multifaceted picture of life and society.
  • For example, in the short story "The Village," Kim Lân masterfully describes the life and mindset of Ông Hai, a simple farmer who loves his village and country. Through this, Kim Lân conveys patriotism, national pride, and a deep connection to the homeland.
• Humanism and Love for People:
  • Despite writing about the downtrodden, Kim Lân always displayed deep love and empathy for his characters. His protagonists, though poor and suffering, retain their dignity, optimism, and family bonds.
  • Respect for human values and life is a prominent trait in his style. Kim Lân found beauty in the seemingly ordinary people around him.
  • In the short story "The Wife Picked Up," he skillfully depicts the psychological developments of characters, from Tràng, the young man who 'picks up' a wife, to Bà Cụ Tứ, the elderly woman. Especially poignant is the depiction of a mother's mixed feelings of anxiety and hope during such extreme poverty, which highlights human compassion and a fierce desire to live.
• Simplistic and Unpretentious Language:
  • Kim Lân uses language that is very genuine and relatable to rural life. His words are simple yet vivid, clearly expressed, and full of rural charm.
  • The dialogue and descriptions of characters feel natural, reflecting the true language and psychology of peasants.
  • For example, in "The Wife Picked Up," Kim Lân uses straightforward language, fitting the rural setting and character personalities. The characters' dialogues and actions are down-to-earth, making the dire poverty and fragile hope in the story palpable to the reader.
• Concise and Focused Story Structure:
  • Kim Lân is famous for his short stories, where he condenses everyday life into meaningful and emotionally resonant works.
  • His short stories are often tightly structured, focusing on a specific situation that explores the characters' inner thoughts, conveying a powerful humanistic message.
  • For instance, "The Village" has a concise, well-organized structure that centers on Ông Hai, a farmer who loves his village and country. The story focuses on Ông Hai's psychological turmoil upon hearing that his village has sided with the enemy, only to find joy when the news is corrected. The story is streamlined, with every detail contributing to the portrayal of Ông Hai's love for his village, his country, and his national pride, while also reflecting the farmer's deep faith in his homeland.
• Realistic and Progressive Ideals:
  • Kim Lân not only reflected on the state of society but also expressed a desire for social change for the better. He valued humanistic principles, the sanctity of life, and the promotion of progressive social values.
  • For example, in the short story "The Wife Picked Up," set during the horrific 1945 famine, Kim Lân realistically portrays the poverty and suffering of the people, where death looms and human nature becomes more hardened. This harsh realism not only depicts material hardships but also explores the psychology and actions of people in desperate circumstances. Despite this grim setting, Kim Lân introduces progressive thought through his characters. Tràng, the protagonist, though poor, still finds hope in 'picking up' a wife, symbolizing the desire for life, family happiness, and belief in a better future. This progressive mindset shows that even in dire conditions, people can maintain hope and belief in change.

Kim Lân's style has left a distinct mark on Vietnamese literature, with works rich in realism and humanism that continue to resonate deeply with readers.

"The Ugly Dog" is a renowned short story by the writer Kim Lân, skillfully depicting the emotions and lives of rural people.

Below are the key points to analyze when studying this work:

• Love and Compassion:
  • Love for Animals: The story centers on the bond between the narrator and the ugly dog. Despite the dog’s deformities, the narrator loves it unconditionally, illustrating the humane compassion of people, particularly poor farmers, who find joy and comfort in the simplest aspects of life.
  • Empathy for the Disadvantaged: The ugly dog symbolizes the forsaken and scorned members of society. Through the narrator, Kim Lân conveys a message of empathy and compassion toward society’s vulnerable individuals.
• The Value of Loyalty and Friendship:
  • Friendship Between Human and Dog: The relationship between the narrator and the dog is not merely that of an owner and pet, but a deep, emotional friendship. Despite its unattractiveness, the dog remains loyal, serving as the narrator’s close companion, much like a confidant.
• Loneliness and the Desire to Be Loved: Both the narrator and the dog crave affection and care. Through his care for the dog, the narrator finds purpose and meaning in his life.
• Realistic Life and Humanistic Message:
  • The Harshness of Life: The story reflects the harsh realities of rural life, where people struggle to survive and find solace in small joys.
  • Humanistic Message: Through "The Ugly Dog," Kim Lân imparts a message of kindness, tolerance, and love. Even when society rejects or overlooks individuals, love and compassion still endure, providing value to life.
• Kim Lân’s Artistic Style:
  • Psychological Depictions: Kim Lân masterfully portrays the inner feelings of the narrator, particularly the emotions of loneliness, longing for affection, and attachment to the dog.
  • Simple, Rustic Language: The language in the story is simple, relatable, and mirrors the essence of human nature and rural life, which is a hallmark of Kim Lân’s writing style.
• Symbolism in the Story: The ugly dog is a symbol of those rejected and discarded by society yet still holding on to their dignity and loyalty. Through this image, Kim Lân honors the values of love and loyalty, despite external circumstances.

Analyzing "The Ugly Dog" allows readers to better understand the humanistic values in life, empathy, and the love between humans and animals. This short story not only portrays the reality of life but also emphasizes the beauty of good values, even in the most difficult times.

6. Reference Essay 1

Kim Lân is one of the most distinguished writers in Vietnamese literature. With his keen eye for detail and skill in expression, he has produced many remarkable works. Among them, his short story "The Ugly Dog" stands out as one of his best. The story's themes and artistic qualities are skillfully depicted through the author's masterful writing.

Kim Lân, a specialist in short stories, is well-versed in the customs and rural life of northern Vietnam. His expertise lies in portraying the countryside and the lives of farmers. His writing style is gentle, simple, and humble, yet captivating, with a rich and lively language that mirrors the everyday speech of rural people, giving his works an unmistakable rural flavor. His story "The Ugly Dog," part of the collection of the same name published in 1962, showcases his unique style. The story revolves around an unattractive dog who is treated coldly by the protagonist. Despite being abandoned during the chaos of war, the dog remains loyal, affectionate, and keeps a deep connection with the protagonist's family—a realization that awakens regret and sympathy in the protagonist.

Through the tale of the animal, the author emphasizes the theme of valuing loyalty, compassion, and condemns the lack of empathy. This theme, often explored in literature, resonates deeply with readers due to its humanitarian values. The theme is clearly reflected in the story as the dog, due to its unattractive appearance, is shunned and neglected. During the war, the protagonist's family is forced to leave it behind, and when they return, they forget about its existence. Despite this, the dog remains faithful to the family, sneaking away from another home to return to its owner, waiting patiently until it is finally reunited with the protagonist's wife. This contrast between the dog's unwavering loyalty and the protagonist's indifference highlights the difference between those who live with empathy and those who live detached from others' feelings.

The character of the ugly dog, loyal to its owner, conveys a message about how we should judge others not by appearances but by their inner qualities, their character, and values. This story, while a familiar theme in literature, becomes more poignant and impactful through the way the author uses the dog as a symbol of good qualities and loyalty. Through the theme, Kim Lân teaches readers a profound lesson about human kindness and the proper way to assess people and situations in life.

On the artistic level, the story is remarkable. It is narrated from the first-person perspective, with the protagonist "I" directly telling the story, which allows readers to connect emotionally with the character's feelings and thoughts. The author creates a complex yet engaging situation that is not overly dramatic or suspenseful but still manages to captivate the reader. This situation, from when the ugly dog is first introduced to the protagonist's family until its death, helps develop the characters, especially the dog, the protagonist, and his wife. Kim Lân’s portrayal of the character's psychology is subtle yet natural, without delving into dramatic internal conflicts, but instead focusing on the gradual change in the protagonist's perspective. This is especially clear in the way the protagonist’s feelings evolve: from indifference to the ugly dog, to fleeting concern, to sorrow upon learning of its death, and finally regret over his past treatment of the animal. Furthermore, the author’s careful character construction—choosing an indifferent owner and a loyal, affectionate animal—further emphasizes the critique of detached, unfeeling lifestyles and highlights the work’s humanitarian values. The simple yet profound plot, the smooth narrative voice, and the deep emotional resonance make the story's lesson come across naturally to the reader.

Thus, through a straightforward narrative, an engaging plot, and the emotional development of the protagonist, Kim Lân elevates the theme of compassion and condemns indifference. The story of "The Ugly Dog" imparts a powerful lesson about the value of empathy and the importance of acknowledging true qualities in others, leaving an indelible impression on readers, and securing the lasting legacy of Kim Lân’s name in the hearts of generations of readers.

Kim Lân is a renowned Vietnamese writer and poet, making significant contributions to literature throughout various periods. Known for his talent in short story writing, he has a deep understanding and affection for the simple rural life of northern Vietnam. The themes in his works often revolve around farmers, and his literary style is gentle, straightforward, and accessible, yet incredibly powerful.

Kim Lân’s prose is deeply rooted in rural imagery, capturing the simplicity and warmth of village life. Though his body of work may not be extensive, the impact he has had on Vietnamese literature is profound, with his talent leaving a lasting impression on readers. Everything that is simple and humble—these are the qualities embodied in Kim Lân’s writing. Among his most notable works is the short story "The Ugly Dog" from his 1962 collection, which exemplifies his unique style and critiques social forces through the image of the ugly dog.

In "The Ugly Dog," Kim Lân presents a poignant image of a dog adopted by a family, brought in by the wife to keep the children company. If the dog had been beautiful, the story might have unfolded differently. But this dog is so ugly that the husband refuses to even approach or pet it, and the dog remains nameless. The dog’s appearance causes it to be rejected, mocked, and neglected by everyone.

One day, a friend of the husband named Đặng visits, and the dog finally receives some attention, though it is clear that Đặng plans to slaughter it. Đặng, a cruel person with a sinister laugh, intends to use the dog as food for himself and his two companions, Dự and Đặng.

Amid the chaos of war, the dog is abandoned. Time passes, and when the situation calms down, the owner returns but has forgotten all about the poor dog. It isn’t until he sees Đặng at the end of the street that he remembers the dog and hurriedly asks his wife about it. By then, the dog has refused to eat, its only focus being to return to its former owner’s home.

Upon finding its owner, the dog joyfully wags its tail as if encountering a great fortune. However, it dies shortly after. The scene of the dog dying from hunger on its way back to its owner is a heartbreaking moment that likely evokes deep sympathy and sorrow in the reader. Despite being abandoned, the dog remains loyal until the very end.

This moment highlights Kim Lân’s remarkable talent in portraying the tragic fate of the dog—ugly, neglected, yet steadfast in its loyalty. The dog’s life is one of hardship, and even in death, it remains forgotten. Kim Lân’s intention in writing this short story is not merely to tell a tale, but to express his own views and emotions. Through the image of the ugly dog, Kim Lân critiques the lazy and despicable people who live without dignity, even worse than a loyal dog.