One particular trope I encounter in literature is woman x aging = quirky aunt/nagging mother/warm grandmother... Sometimes this adds to the narrative (especially within East Asian lit) and at other times I query why is this necessary, and we head into stereotype territory.

I have noticed a couple of books recently around older women taking on unexpected roles. One of which is a Killer.

In 'The Old women with a knife' by Gu Byeong-mo (translated by Chi-Young Kim) we are introduced to Hawkclaw on a Job. She is described as a ruthless operative, paid disgruntled clients to remove an opponent, obstacle or otherwise someone who is not needed anymore.

I found the juxtaposition of a old woman who goes to her Doctor with aches and pains, with her carefully curated image of a trained killer to be interesting. This is also continously used to her advantage on her jobs.

As the story unfolds, we hear more about her background growing up in poverty and the decisions she made to survive. I found myself rooting for Hawkclaw as I see her reminiscing during her senior years, for a different life. I also see a girl, young woman who made the best of what she was given.

I have really enjoyed this book, and this has spurred me onto reading more korean translated literature, and exploring more unexpected female characters.