By The River of Forgetfulness for Seven Lifetimes

Between the two sides of that other shore, upon the Bridge of Helplessness. “Little miss, drink a mouthful of soup. Forget everything. Your next life is a new beginning, without any earthly desires or pain.” Looking at the soup in Old Lady Meng’s hands, depression rose within me, “But what about that person in my heart?” Old Lady Meng smiled faintly and said, “Do you see the waters below this bridge?” “I see them.” “Do you see the stones in the water?” I was stunned for a moment, “Stones?” Old Lady Meng nodded, “Go down there and become a stone. Watch the great changes in the world for seven lifetimes. After seven hundred years, you’ll be able to bring your longing with you as you reincarnate into a new life to look for him…”

Original Publisher

xiang5

Original Language

chinese

Type

Web Novel

## My Thoughts on By The River of Forgetfulness for Seven Lifetimes "By The River of Forgetfulness for Seven Lifetimes" is a short story that packed a serious emotional punch. I went in expecting a light read, but quickly found myself drawn into a world of unrequited love, tragic choices, and devotion that spans lifetimes. It's a story that lingers in your mind long after you finish reading, prompting you to reflect on the nature of love and sacrifice. ### First Impressions Initially, the premise intrigued me: a protagonist bound to a river of forgetfulness, endlessly yearning for someone who doesn't reciprocate her feelings. The josei genre tag hinted at a mature exploration of these themes, and I wasn't disappointed. The writing style is evocative and descriptive, painting a vivid picture of the protagonist's suffering and the ethereal setting she inhabits. ### What Works Well The raw emotional impact of this story is undeniable. The author masterfully portrays the pain of unrequited love, making you feel the protagonist's longing and despair. I particularly appreciated the subtle twist at the end, which reframes the entire narrative and adds a layer of complexity. The devotion of the crown prince is heartbreakingly beautiful, and the realization that his love was present all along adds a bittersweet note to the conclusion. It explores the idea that love isn't always reciprocated, and sometimes the person who truly cares for you is right beside you, unnoticed. ### ⚠️ Spoiler Warning The following section contains spoilers about the plot and ending. Proceed with caution! The core tragedy lies in the protagonist's seven lifetimes of unwavering devotion to a man who has moved on and forgotten her. Meanwhile, the crown prince, whom she used in a previous lifetime, waits patiently by her side, his love unwavering. The ending reveals that he, too, has become a stone by the river, waiting for her. This revelation highlights the protagonist's blindness to true love and the crown prince's ultimate sacrifice. ### Final Verdict Despite its tragic elements, "By The River of Forgetfulness for Seven Lifetimes" is a worthwhile read. It's a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the consequences of our choices. I found myself wishing for a longer story, perhaps a sequel that explores the next lifetime of the protagonist and the crown prince. If you're looking for a short, emotionally resonant story that will leave you contemplating the complexities of love, I highly recommend giving this one a try. Just be prepared to shed a tear or two.