Literature of Change in the 1960s—Mishima and Oe

08/14/22 • 39 min

Today, we’re talking about the literature of change in the 1960s—how writers took on questions about what it meant to be Japanese in the post-war era and what was the continuing role of Japanese tradition.

We’re looking especially at Yukio Mishima and Kenzaburo Oe.
*This episode incorrectly states that Kenzaburo Oe was born in 1925. He was born in 1935.

Content warning: This episode addresses fascism and suicide.
Notes and sources at the podcast episode page.

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We’re looking especially at Yukio Mishima and Kenzaburo Oe.
*This episode incorrectly states that Kenzaburo Oe was born in 1925. He was born in 1935.

Content warning: This episode addresses fascism and suicide.
Notes and sources at the podcast episode page.

Let RJL know what you think! (Contact us through the website if you want a response.)

Previous Episode

Japanese Literature in WWII

Today we’re talking about the 1930s and 40s in Japan—fascism, World War Two, and the American Occupation.

In particular, how did 20 years of censorship shape Japanese literature?
We're also taking a look at the life and work of Akiyuki Nosaka, whose novella, "Grave of the Fireflies" inspired the classic anime film. We'll discuss his short story, "The Cake Tree in the Ruins".
Notes and sources at the podcast episode website.

Let RJL know what you think! (Contact us through the website if you want a response.)