Originally published at: The Unspoken Words of "Three Seconds After Our Eyes Met" - People of Con
Author: Jessie Duncan
Three Seconds After Our Eyes Met isn’t just a story; it’s a heart-to-heart confession wrapped in the pages of a slice-of-life graphic novel. It introduces us to Hezhan Ye, a 3rd-year student union president who’s been playing a role not quite his own, wearing a mask that’s seen more of the world than his real face has. Then there’s Shunwen Gu, a 2nd-year biology student with eyes that see beyond the facade, piercing through to the raw, unfiltered essence of Hezhan.
The story unwraps like a gentle unraveling of tightly held secrets, with Hezhan and Shunwen at its core. It’s about the quiet battles we fight within ourselves—the constant tug-of-war between who we are and who we think the world wants us to be. Hezhan, with his fortress built from years of pretending, finds himself at a crossroads when Shunwen steps into his life. Shunwen, unbothered by the emotional turmoil and panic that grips Hezhan, extends a hand not just in friendship but in understanding, offering a lifeline that’s both unexpected and deeply needed.
What ensues is a semester filled with more than just academic challenges. It’s a journey of emotional growth, of two souls navigating the tumultuous waters of college life, student union responsibilities, and the even more daunting task of facing one’s true self. This graphic novel captures the essence of these moments—of vulnerability, of the silent acknowledgments between individuals who see beyond the surface.
The charm of this narrative lies not just in its portrayal of college life but in the nuanced exploration of human connection. It’s a testament to the fact that true bonds are formed not in the absence of our flaws, but in the acceptance of them. As Hezhan and Shunwen wade through the semester, from planning events to confronting personal demons, we see a transformation that’s both individual and collective. The realization that being oneself is not just okay, but essential, forms the crux of their evolution.
Through Three Seconds After Our Eyes Met, we’re reminded of the power of genuine connections, of the beauty that lies in showing our true colors. It’s a gentle nudge to let down our guards, to embrace the messiness of our true selves. And yes, while the tale whispers of romance, its loudest declarations are of friendship, understanding, and the courage to be authentically you.
So, okay, this one? It’s more than cute. It’s a slice of life, sure, but it’s also a slice of every one of us. It’s the part that yearns to be seen, to be accepted, without the masks and the pretenses. It’s a reminder, wrapped in the soft hues of a graphic novel, that even our worst selves deserve a place in the sun, surrounded by those who’ve seen us at our lowest and still choose to stay.
Grab your copy of Three Seconds After Our Eyes Met and immerse yourself in Hezhan and Shunwen’s journey of authenticity and understanding. After you’ve turned the last page, share your reflections with us. Did their story inspire you to embrace your true self? Share in the comment section below!