Vietnamese Mother and Son

Description

Madam Quy, 91 and her son, Mr Giap, 66, live in a small house in Duong Lam ancient village, Hanoi, Vietnam. Giap was born deaf and mute, never been married and lives by doing manual labor for neighbor. They have lived and cared each other for decades. This photo was captured in an afternoon one year ago. I visited them last week. Madam Quy was very weak now. I wonder how Giap will live when Quy goes away. 

National Geographic Your Shot – Jan 16, 2020

This poignant photograph showcases the quiet resilience of Madam Quy, 91, and her son, Mr. Giap, 66, dwelling in a modest abode within Duong Lam ancient village in Hanoi, Vietnam. The image offers a glimpse into their daily existence, portraying the symbiotic relationship between the two as they navigate life’s challenges together.

Born with the inability to hear or speak, Mr. Giap has embraced a solitary life, finding solace in manual labor to sustain their humble household. The photograph, taken on a tranquil afternoon a year ago, serves as a timeless testament to the enduring bond between this mother-son duo. Their home, a sanctuary of shared memories, resonates with a sense of simplicity and authenticity.

Recently revisiting the pair, the photographer discovered Madam Quy in a weakened state, prompting contemplation about the inevitable separation that time imposes. The photograph becomes a poignant memento, encapsulating the inevitability of life’s passage and the uncertainties that lie ahead for Mr. Giap.

Published on National Geographic Your Shot on January 16, 2020, the image captivates viewers with its raw and unfiltered portrayal of human connection, inviting reflection on the universal themes of aging, familial ties, and the resilient spirit found within the ordinary moments of life. Through a lens unclouded by embellishment, the photograph invites viewers to contemplate the shared human experience within the context of this intimate narrative from Duong Lam ancient village.