You do such a great job describing Murakami. Wind-up was my first Murakami read and I was so frustrated. I was trying to solve the mystery all the way through and really felt disappointed with the ending. It was a middling read for me and I moved on. But for weeks I couldn't get that book out of my head. I'd just randomly think about it. I went on to read another Murakami book, and as you said, a lot of what he wrote was similar to what I read in Wind-up. Then I realized, I'm reading this wrong. I'm expecting out of it different things than the author is trying to give me. I learned to enjoy the journey of his books; to soak in the atmosphere and take in the vibes. I'm a big Hemingway fan, and Murakami reads a lot like him to me. I wonder how much of that comes with the translation, but I know Murakami is a Hemingway fan, so it makes sense. His endings for me are never great and always leave me a bit disappointed, but it's worth it. I've read seven of his novels now and have Kafka, Norwegian, and 1Q84 sitting on my shelf ready to be read for the first time. I'm excited to live in his world again. Great video, Saoirse!
I totally agree about his endings, and yet I always come back for more! There’s just a vibe you can’t get anywhere else. Such a brilliant atmospheric writer.
I do like magical realism and I’ve enjoyed the little bit of Murakami that I’ve read so far, soI think I’ll check this one out!! I am intrigued by the part about memories as fuel…
If you want to get a taste of his style without having to invest in a longer novel, I highly recommend his short story collection, Blind Willow, Sleeping Woman. For non-fiction, I loved What I Talk About When I Talk About Running. For a short novel, Norwegian Wood. And for a long one, 1Q84. 🙌
Charming review as always, Saoirse--especially at 0300 hrs with a bright moon shining in the window. I just bought this book. Haven't read it yet; I'm reading Nabokov's autobiography now. I like Murakami: I've read 1Q84, Wind/Pinball, and a book of short stories. He might be creeping into my Top Ten. Anyway, cheers from northern Colorado--may you and your endeavours be blessed.
