Border-Crossing Japanese Literature: Reading Multiplicity

This collection explores border-crossing in writing from and about Japan, highlighting the works of authors such as Takahashi Mutsuo, Nagai Kafū, Itō Hiromi, Tawada Yōko, Murakami Haruki, and Ainu narratives. It adopts an intercultural and interdisciplinary approach to examine the volatility of textual expression related to that space.

Format: Hardback
Length: 220 pages
Publication date: 21 July 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive collection delves into the multifaceted realm of border-crossing in writing from and about Japan, encompassing both metaphorical and temporal dimensions. Contributors to the book adopt an intercultural and interdisciplinary approach to explore the works of authors who transcend the boundaries of mainstream Japanese literary endeavors. By showcasing how these texts transcend the confines of Japan, they foreground the dynamic nature of textual expression associated with this geographical space. The authors discussed in the book include Takahashi Mutsuo and Nagai Kafū, both of whom draw literary inspiration from geographical locations outside Japan. Several chapters examine the prolific output of Itō Hiromi, a celebrated border-crossing poet, novelist, and essayist. Additionally, discussions are held on the work of Tawada Yōko, recognized for her ability to publish in both German and Japanese, thus exemplifying her role as a prominent writer of border-crossing texts. Two chapters focus on the writings of Murakami Haruki, although he is often discussed in broader cultural contexts, rarely specifically in terms of border-crossing. The chapter on Ainu narratives explores themes such as translation, indigeneity, and myth, while an analysis of Japanese prisoner-of-war narratives highlights the interplay between language and border-crossing experiences.

This collection is of immense value to scholars and students of Japanese literature, offering a rich and multifaceted perspective on the diverse ways in which borders are crossed in artistic expression. It sheds light on the complexities of cultural identity, the influence of globalization, and the power of literature to transcend boundaries and bridge gaps between different worlds. By examining the works of these influential authors, readers gain a deeper understanding of the rich tapestry of Japanese literature and its role in shaping the cultural landscape of Japan and beyond.

Weight: 590g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367697730