The Arrival by Shaun Tan




A significant part of the immigrant experience is the struggle to find the right words to express yourself in a foreign language. And that is what makes The Arrival so special; it successfully communicates this experience without the use of words. Shaun Tan creates a universal language to illustrate this experience as a struggle that everyone is able to relate to, the struggles of being an outsider, a beginner, or a newcomer.

It makes me reminiscent of the time I had first set foot in the States, most of my life packed in a 23 kg suitcase, filled with awe and uncertainty.

Even in this fantastical world, Tan beautifully captures the most mundane details of moving to a different land; trying to navigate through an unknown environment, not knowing how to operate the simplest of things or where to seek help, attempting to establish a routine in all the chaos, confusion and alienation, finding solace in the company of others like you.

We are allowed to experience this world from our own perspective, without being spoon-fed with the emotions of the protagonist. The surreal imagery always feels strangely familiar and incredibly captivating. The atmosphere is at once haunting and bound to linger.


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