“Time flows in strange ways when you’re not paying attention.”
The novel follows Tsukiko, a single woman in her late thirties, who unexpectedly reconnects with her former high school teacher, “Sensei,” at a bar. Their relationship begins with quiet, shared evenings of drinking and conversation, gradually deepening into an unconventional romance.
Early Encounters
Tsukiko, detached from her past and living a solitary life, frequents a local bar where she stumbles upon Sensei, now an older man. Their conversations are sparse but meaningful, often revolving around food, seasons, and fleeting memories of the classroom.
Growing Intimacy
As seasons change, their meetings become more frequent. They share meals, wander Tokyo’s streets, and visit a hot spring, where unspoken emotions simmer beneath the surface. Sensei remains reserved, while Tsukiko grapples with her growing attachment.
Shifting Dynamics
After a night of heavy drinking, Tsukiko stays at Sensei’s home. Their relationship teeters between platonic and romantic, complicated by age, societal expectations, and their own hesitations. A moment of physical closeness leaves them both unsettled.
Separation and Reflection
Sensei abruptly disappears, leaving Tsukiko adrift. She reflects on their bond, realizing how deeply he has shaped her sense of self. When he returns, frail and ill, their roles reverse—she becomes his caretaker.
Closure and Acceptance
Sensei’s health declines, and after his passing, Tsukiko inherits his belongings, including a koto (a traditional instrument). In the end, she finds solace in their shared memories, embracing the impermanence of their connection.
Key Ideas
- The fragility and beauty of human connections
- Time’s nonlinear passage and memory’s weight
- Intergenerational love and societal taboos
- Solitude versus companionship
- Japanese cultural motifs (seasons, food, tradition)
Who should read this book?
- Readers who enjoy quiet, introspective narratives
- Fans of Japanese literature and slice-of-life stories
- Those exploring themes of love, aging, and loneliness