Spring Garden

Tomoka Shibasaki

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Winner of the Akutagawa Prize, a sharp, photo-realistic novella of memory and thwarted hope.

Divorced and cut off from his family, Taro lives alone in one of the few occupied apartments in his block, a block that is to be torn down as soon as the remaining tenants leave. Since the death of his father, Taro keeps to himself, but is soon drawn into an unusual relationship with the woman upstairs, Nishi, as she passes on the strange tale of the sky-blue house next door.

First discovered by Nishi in the little-known photo-book ‘Spring Garden’, the sky-blue house soon becomes a focus for both Nishi and Taro: of what is lost, of what has been destroyed, and of what hope may yet lie in the future for both of them, if only they can seize it.

What will you learn from this book

  1. Observation of Urban Life: The novel provides a keen and observant portrayal of urban life, capturing the nuances and details of daily existence in a modern city.

  2. Exploration of Loneliness: The narrative delves into the theme of loneliness and the search for connection in a bustling urban environment, examining the lives of characters who may feel isolated.

  3. Transient Nature of Relationships: Shibasaki explores the transient nature of relationships, reflecting on how connections form, evolve, and sometimes fade away in the ever-changing landscape of life.

  4. Cultural Reflections: The book offers cultural reflections, providing insights into contemporary Japanese society and the cultural dynamics that shape the characters' experiences.

  5. Symbolism of Spring: "Spring Garden" uses the metaphor of spring to symbolize renewal, hope, and the cyclical nature of life, drawing parallels between the changing seasons and human experiences.

  6. Nostalgia and Change: The narrative reflects on nostalgia for the past and the inevitability of change, highlighting the tension between holding onto familiar memories and embracing new possibilities.

  7. Character Complexity: Shibasaki creates complex and multi-dimensional characters, each with their own aspirations, struggles, and perspectives on life.

  8. Interconnected Lives: The novel explores the interconnectedness of lives, demonstrating how the characters' paths intersect and influence each other, even in a vast and bustling city.

  9. Art and Architecture as Metaphor: The use of art and architecture serves as a metaphor for the human experience, reflecting the beauty, impermanence, and intricacy of life.

  10. Meditative and Reflective Atmosphere: "Spring Garden" creates a meditative and reflective atmosphere, inviting readers to contemplate the themes of the novel and their own relationship with the world around them.

Language English
ISBN-10 9781782272700
ISBN-13 9781782272700
No of pages 154
Font Size Medium
Book Publisher Pushkin Press
Published Date 26 Jan 2017

About Author

Author : Tomoka Shibasaki

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