Writer Nguyễn Huy Thiệp is one among most influential author of the country. Photo zingnews.vn

HÀ NỘI — Nguyễn Huy Thiệp, one of the most influential Vietnamese contemporary writers, has released a special publication to mark his 70th birthday.

The book comprises 42 short stories throughout his career, many of which have been translated into English and published abroad such as The Winds of Hua Tat, The Salt of the Jungle, Sharp Sword and Fired Gold.

His short stories are inspired by fairy tales, historical events and legends. They are illustrated by 17 famous artists including Thành Chương, Lê Thiết Cương, Đào Hải Phong, Phan Cẩm Thượng, Hoàng Phượng Vỹ and Lena Sjoberg (Sweeden).

Thiệp was born in 1950 in Hà Nội. He published the first short story, Tướng Về Hưu (The General Retires), in 1987.

Thiệp received France Awards Order of Arts and Letters in 2007 and Italy’s Premio Nonino Literature Award in 2008.

Thiệp has said he feels lucky to have been born at the right time.

“Writing is a normal job like others, but it has no shape. It’s close to religion and politics. Using language, it finds the way to enlightenment and meaning of the life,” he said.

Thiệp suffered a stroke early this year and was treated at home. Receiving the newly-printed book, he said he felt happy.

“It’s a beautiful book, it’s a valuable and precious book,” he told Đông A Company.

Painter Lê Thiết Cương said all the artists are close friends of Thiệp. It’s not a collection of illustrations but the way they feel and sympathise with Thiệp’s stories.

“Thiệp is a special writer who loves fine arts, that’s why he has many friends who are painters,” said Cương.

“The book becomes a memory between us. It’s a rendezvous of paintings and writings.”

The 560-page book is available at bookstores from VNĐ450,000. Apart from 1,000 normal copies, Đông A Company published 500 handcrafted copies and 105 special copies with his autograph. — VNS

An illustration by Lena Sjoberg from Sweden for the story Don’t Cry in California.