Ocean Vuong's life, initially shadowed by hardship as a Vietnamese refugee in America, transformed dramatically through his discovery of literature, leading him to become a celebrated poet and novelist. His latest novel, 'The Emperor of Gladness,' is informed by his experiences working in fast food and caring for others, reflecting on themes of kindness without hope. Vuong shares a poignant personal story from his youth, where a moment of grace prevented him from committing violence, steering him towards a path of writing to understand suffering. His writing journey is deeply influenced by his quest to comprehend goodness and the static nature of many American lives. Despite his literary success, Vuong grapples with the loneliness of social mobility and the impact of his mother's death on his creative process.

Ocean Vuong, a Vietnamese refugee, rose from a life of hardship to become a prominent literary figure, acclaimed for his novel 'On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous' and his new book 'The Emperor of Gladness.'

His new novel draws from his experiences in low-wage jobs and explores themes of static lives and kindness that exists despite the absence of hope for change.

A pivotal moment in Vuong's youth involved a near act of violence that was averted by a friend's intervention, leading Vuong to pursue writing as a means to understand suffering and goodness.

Vuong reflects on the intimate relationships formed in transient work environments, where shared struggles foster unexpected bonds and acts of kindness emerge from necessity.

The death of Vuong's mother profoundly affected him, prompting a reevaluation of his motivations and the realization that much of his drive was to care for her, leaving him questioning his purpose afterward.

Vuong's transition into literary circles brought a sense of loneliness, as he navigates the social dynamics of class movement and the dissonance between his past and present.

Despite achieving literary acclaim, Vuong maintains a connection to his roots, highlighting the enduring importance of family and community, which transcend his professional identity.