HARUKI MURAKAMI
DIVE INTO THE PHENOMENON
Haruki Murakami is a Japanese writer who either you fall in love with or end up simply hating. But once you pick a Murakami book you will not escape untouched.
He has a quality that draws you into his books, gradually making you a part of his world. A world which is full of detachment, love, loneliness and longing. It draws on elements of magical realism and sometimes dystopian themes. They feel surreal and melancholic. He at times dabbles in science fiction and alternate reality.
His books are usually very smooth and easy to follow. What is difficult to fathom is the complexity of themes and plots.
He started a coffee house and Jazz bar in Tokyo before he dabbled in writing. No wonder his books are sputtered with references to music and his artistic tastes.
If I’ve piqued your interest and you’ve never ventured into the Murukami world, now is the time.
But where to start? There are tons of reviews, videos and fan clubs who have analysed his works. It is a wonder in itself. He is a rockstar writer!
But for a start you can pick up his classics. Not in any particular order, but they will introduce you to his world.
- Norwegian Woods: His claim to stardom. It’s hauntingly beautiful and melancholic. A movie based on it is also worth a watch. (After you have read the book.)
- Kafka on the shore: A complex and psychologically thrilling plot. Two story lines run in parallel. Don’t start with this one. A bit complex to understand.
- Killing Commendatore: His latest and his ode to The Great Gatsby. Super read!
- Wind-Up Bird Chronicles: Elements of realism and fanaticism dwelling into the issues of physical violence. A brain twisting experience.
- IQ84: His magnum opus. Initially published in three volumes in Japanese, is one of the most critically acclaimed work. His take on the Orwellian world! These should be enough to get you started. Most of his books are fairly voluminous. IQ94 runs into 1200 pages. But many are manageable. Like Norwegian Woods.
If you like his work, I would love to mention that his hard copies are worth spend your bucks on. Lovingly crafted and unique ideas. Like his new one Killing Commendatore. Do give it a try.
This is just a starting point. The Murakami world is big, diverse and rich. Happy diving.
