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Exploring Historical Complexities in Raging Clouds
In her debut work, Raging Clouds (Fantagraphics, May), Korean artist Yudori crafts a narrative set in 16th-century Holland, where two women from divergent backgrounds forge a connection. This historical fiction manhwa encompasses the experience of a Dutch merchant’s wife and an Asian woman brought into servitude, weaving a tale that blends themes of class and race. According to a starred review from PW, the piece vividly revitalizes “16th-century Europe with a crisp line that turns elegant and sinuous.”
What inspired your choice of setting?
Though I’ve never visited the Netherlands, my approach mirrors that of Ikeda Ryoko, known for The Rose of Versailles, who also wrote about a place she had not experienced firsthand. It’s a tradition in shojo manga to explore unfamiliar settings.
My background spans across Korea, the Philippines, and now the UK, where I live with my British husband. This diverse journey compels me to immerse myself in research and practice empathy to authentically envision life through others’ eyes, a skill I’ve honed throughout my life.
What surprised you the most about this historical period?
I discovered that women in the Netherlands enjoyed significantly more respect than their counterparts elsewhere in Europe. They were not only respected but also expected to contribute economically, regardless of social class. Additionally, I learned about the intricacies of the slave trade that at times led to Asian slaves being sent to locations like Lisbon or Mexico, where there has long been an established Asian community.
In Raging Clouds, Sahara, the enslaved woman, remains largely unexplored. Do you have a backstory for her?
I do have thoughts on her background, yet I prefer to keep it ambiguous. While she has the ability to share her story, she opts to remain silent. Upon moving to America, I faced countless inquiries about my origins—questions that often felt intrusive. There’s an inherent strength in controlling what you choose to reveal about yourself, even if it means sacrificing your social standing.
Why was it significant for you to share this narrative?
This story has been with me since I was 19. It’s interesting how perceptions of invention vary; for instance, the Montgolfier brothers are credited with inventing the hot-air balloon in the West, yet many cultures, including China, had similar technologies long before.
Many feminist narratives celebrate women who triumph over adversity and gain recognition, often concluding with idealized fulfillments like marriage. However, it’s equally vital to explore the lives of women who faced failure despite their efforts. History is richer than the stories of those who achieved fame; it also encompasses the silent struggles of countless others.
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A version of this article appeared in the 04/28/2025 issue of Publishers Weekly under the headline: 4 Questions for Yudori.
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