[Book Review] I Wish the Tide Came In When I Rowed

The start of 2022 was harsh. After a sudden hospitalization and surgery, I barely survived and returned home. This book was waiting for me. The title, 'I hope the tide comes in when I row,' contained a simple yet honest wish, and it somehow comforted me.

This book, illustrated and written by Shamma, is in a cartoon format. It depicts both trivial daily life and surprisingly profound life concerns, which fluctuate simultaneously.

• If only there were answers to job application essays, like there are in math.
• Right.
• It's unsettling to cling to something without answers.
  
  

These are lines from <'I wasn't good at math either'>. Shamma also whispers to my past self, "Please study for the TOEIC." The reason we feel compelled to write job application essays and take the TOEIC better than others is likely due to the constant shortage of good jobs. Particularly in South Korea, it's hard to find individuals who are genuinely passionate about their work and careers. Is a society where everyone works reluctantly for money truly healthy, and how long can it sustain itself?
Shamma's reflections lead me to pose such a melancholic question. Youth is so vibrant, yet the act of living is so burdensome.

• Something I'm good at? I don't think I have any.
• You're good at acknowledging things.
  
  

Shamma always strives to view various difficulties positively, surrounded by good friends and bustling activity. Yes, depending on how you think about it, hardship can be an opportunity. I lean on Shamma's optimism and take a breather. There will be times when even optimism feels overwhelming. But even then, there will be friends who share similar worries and are like me. It's difficult to open up about loneliness and fear. Still, let's hold hands. Let's talk. Let's laugh heartily or cry our hearts out and then start again. Looking at Shamma's illustrations and writing, I somehow feel like I can do that.
​
 
※ This review was written honestly based on a book provided by the Naver Cafe Culturebloom https://cafe.naver.com/culturebloom/1377302.