“The cruelest lies are often told in silence.”
A Portrait of Shunkin
The story follows the blind musician Shunkin and her devoted servant Sasuke, who worships her despite her cruel treatment. After an attack leaves Shunkin disfigured, Sasuke blinds himself to preserve her beauty in his memory. Their relationship explores themes of devotion, sacrifice, and the nature of love.
Terror
A man becomes obsessed with the idea that his wife is trying to kill him. His paranoia grows until he abandons her, only to realize too late that his fears were unfounded. The tale examines psychological torment and self-destruction.
The Bridge of Dreams
A young man is raised to believe his father’s second wife is his real mother. After her death, his father marries a woman who eerily resembles her, deepening the son’s confusion and longing. The story blurs reality and illusion, exploring memory and desire.
The Tattooer
A renowned tattoo artist becomes infatuated with a beautiful young woman and inks a spider on her back, believing it will awaken her latent cruelty. The transformation fulfills his dark fantasy but leads to his own downfall, symbolizing the dangers of obsession.
The Thief
A university student is accused of theft by his peers, though his guilt remains ambiguous. The psychological pressure erodes his sense of self, making him question his own innocence. The story delves into identity, shame, and societal judgment.
Aguri
A wealthy man becomes infatuated with a young woman, Aguri, and molds her into his ideal companion. However, his possessiveness drives her away, revealing the emptiness of his control. The narrative critiques vanity and the illusion of ownership in relationships.
A Blind Man’s Tale
A blind masseur recounts his life, marked by hardship and fleeting moments of tenderness. His story reflects on fate, resilience, and the unseen struggles of those marginalized by society.
Key Ideas
- Obsession and its destructive consequences
- The fluid boundary between reality and illusion
- Power dynamics in relationships
- Psychological torment and self-deception
- Cultural identity and tradition
Who should read this book?
- Readers interested in psychological depth and moral ambiguity
- Fans of Japanese literature and cultural exploration
- Those who appreciate nuanced, character-driven narratives