On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous is a poetic novel by Ocean Vuong. It is the story of a Vietnamese-American boy, Little Dog, who struggles with his identity and the relationships he has with his mother and grandmother. Through memories and letters to his mother, he reflects on his past, trying to make sense of the trauma that has shaped his life. With its lyrical language and deeply personal perspective, the book is a powerful exploration of themes of family, identity, and coming to accept one's self.