Title
Kokoro (Penguin Classics),New
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Soseki is the representative modern Japanese novelist, a figure of truly national stature.Haruki MurakamiThe father of modern Japanese literature's bestloved novel, in its first new English translation in half a centuryNo collection of Japanese literature is complete without Natsume Soseki's Kokoro, his most famous novel and the last he completed before his death. Published here in the first new translation in more than fifty years, Kokoromeaning 'heart'is the story of a subtle and poignant friendship between two unnamed characters, a young man and an enigmatic elder whom he calls 'Sensei.' Haunted by tragic secrets that have cast a long shadow over his life, Sensei slowly opens up to his young disciple, confessing indiscretions from his own student days that have left him reeling with guilt, and revealing, in the seemingly unbridgeable chasm between his moral anguish and his student's struggle to understand it, the profound cultural shift from one generation to the next that characterized Japan in the early twentieth century.
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- Q: What is the main theme of Kokoro? A: The main theme of Kokoro revolves around the complexity of human relationships, particularly the subtle friendship between the young protagonist and his mentor, 'Sensei.' It explores themes of guilt, moral anguish, and the generational cultural shifts in early twentieth-century Japan.
- Q: Who is the author of Kokoro? A: Kokoro is authored by Natsume Soseki, a prominent figure in modern Japanese literature, known for his insightful exploration of human emotions and societal issues.
- Q: When was Kokoro first published? A: Kokoro was first published in 1914, and this edition is the first new English translation in over fifty years, released on February 23, 2010.
- Q: What is the genre of Kokoro? A: Kokoro falls under the genre of classics in literature, specifically within the realm of modern Japanese novels.
- Q: How many pages does Kokoro have? A: Kokoro contains 256 pages, making it a manageable read for those interested in classic literature.
- Q: What is the format of this edition of Kokoro? A: This edition of Kokoro is available in paperback format, which is ideal for readers who prefer a physical book.
- Q: Is Kokoro suitable for readers new to Japanese literature? A: Yes, Kokoro is suitable for readers new to Japanese literature. Its themes are universal, making it accessible to a wide audience, while also providing insight into Japanese culture.
- Q: What can readers expect from Soseki's writing style in Kokoro? A: Readers can expect a reflective and nuanced writing style from Soseki in Kokoro, characterized by deep psychological insights and an evocative portrayal of emotions.
- Q: What is the significance of the title 'Kokoro'? A: The title 'Kokoro' translates to 'heart' in English, symbolizing the emotional depth and personal struggles faced by the characters throughout the novel.
- Q: Is there any specific historical context important for understanding Kokoro? A: Yes, understanding the historical context of Japan in the early twentieth century, including the cultural transitions and modernization, enhances the reader's appreciation of the themes and dilemmas presented in Kokoro.