Mil grullas : Book Review

"Mil grullas" (A Thousand Cranes) is a captivating novella penned by the renowned Japanese author, Yasunari Kawabata. Set amidst the backdrop of post-war Japan, the story follows a young boy named Chik-chan, who grapples with leukemia. With its deep roots in Japanese culture, the narrative delves into themes of love, loss, and the significance of traditional rituals.

Chik-chan becomes deeply intrigued by the tale of Sadako, a young girl who survived the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, only to be later afflicted with leukemia. Inspired by her determination to fold a thousand origami cranes to make a wish, Chik-chan embarks on a similar quest. Through this journey of folding cranes, he uncovers the profound power of hope and the healing nature of art.

Kawabata deftly explores the complexities of grief and the profound impact of loss on both individuals and communities. The characters in "A Thousand Cranes" bear the emotional scars of war, resonating with its aftermath. Kawabata's writing beautifully captures the gradual process of healing and the significance of finding solace in shared memories and experiences.

The novella also touches upon the importance of preserving traditional Japanese customs and their role in providing a sense of identity. Kawabata highlights the tea ceremony, flower arranging, and other rituals as a means to connect with the past and find inner peace.

Ultimately, "A Thousand Cranes" is a poignant and thought-provoking tale that explores the human capacity to overcome tragedy through perseverance, art, and the power of human connection. Kawabata's poetic prose and profound understanding of Japanese culture make this novella an enriching reading experience that lingers long after the final page is turned.

What are readers saying?

Yasunari Kawabata's novel "Thousand Cranes," also known as "Mil grullas," has garnered a variety of opinions from readers. The story is set in post-war Japan and delves into themes of love, loss, and the search for meaning in life. While some readers admired Kawabata's lyrical writing style and delicate portrayal of human emotions, others found the story complex and slow-paced.

Many reviewers praised Kawabata's elegant prose and his ability to capture the nuances of human relationships. They appreciated the vivid descriptions of the natural world and the rich symbolism woven throughout the narrative. Additionally, the flawed and intricate characters added depth to the story, according to numerous readers.

However, some found the book challenging to understand. They noted that the fragmented narrative structure, which jumps between different time periods, made it difficult to follow the story. Some reviewers also felt that the plot lacked momentum and the pacing was too leisurely for their taste.

The exploration of Japanese cultural traditions and the impact of the war resonated with many readers. The book delves into themes of guilt, remorse, and the struggle for redemption, provoking thought-provoking discussions among some readers.

Opinions were divided regarding the ending. While some readers found it satisfying, others felt it was abrupt and left loose ends untied. The character development also received mixed reviews, with some finding the characters well-developed and others yearning for more depth and growth.

MilGrullas CraneFolding BookReads