Mishima: A Biography : Book Review

Mishima: A Biography by John Nathan provides readers with a fascinating and insightful journey into the life and literary works of the renowned Japanese author Yukio Mishima. Through thorough research and interviews, Nathan delves into Mishima's upbringing, his influential career as a writer, and the dramatic events surrounding his shocking public suicide in 1970.

One of the aspects that the biography explores is Mishima's childhood and the profound influence it had on his worldview. Nathan delves into Mishima's strict upbringing and the early experiences that shaped his obsession with physical strength and beauty. This fascination with perfection and masculinity would go on to greatly influence Mishima's literary works and his controversial personal life.

Furthermore, Nathan provides in-depth analyses of Mishima's most famous works, including "Confessions of a Mask" and "The Temple of the Golden Pavilion." By examining these works, Nathan sheds light on the underlying themes of patriotism and death that permeate Mishima's writing. He also offers valuable insights into the historical and societal context of Japan during that period, aiding the reader in understanding Mishima's motivations and the reception of his works.

The biography reaches its climax as Nathan meticulously recounts the events leading up to Mishima's shocking suicide. Offering a comprehensive understanding of Mishima's psychological state and his final political statement, Nathan examines the controversy and various interpretations that have arisen since that fateful day.

Overall, Mishima: A Biography is a well-researched and captivating exploration of the life and works of one of Japan's most revered authors. Through engaging storytelling and thought-provoking analysis, Nathan provides readers with a profound understanding of Mishima's complex psyche, his creative endeavors, and his ultimate tragic fate. Whether one is interested in Japanese literature or simply fascinated by the intricacies of a troubled literary genius, this biography is a must-read.

What are readers saying?

The biography "Mishima" by John Nathan has received a mixture of reviews from Goodreads users. This book explores the life of Yukio Mishima, the famous Japanese author, delving into his personal life, literary works, and the controversial events surrounding his death. While some readers appreciate Nathan's thorough research and writing style, others criticize the book for its lack of objectivity and focus on sensational details.

Many positive reviews highlight John Nathan's extensive research and detailed exploration of Yukio Mishima's life. Readers commend the author for providing a comprehensive account of Mishima's work within the historical context of his time. They often express how Nathan's writing brings Mishima to life, immersing the reader in the complexity of the author's world.

However, some negative reviews express disappointment with the book's lack of objectivity. Some readers feel that Nathan portrays Mishima with bias, either glorifying or vilifying him. They argue that the biography becomes more of a subjective analysis rather than an impartial study of Mishima's life. Additionally, a few readers believe that the focus on Mishima's homosexuality and fetishistic desires detracts from a deeper understanding of his literary contributions.

Another criticism of "Mishima" relates to the writing style. Some reviewers suggest that the biography can become excessively detailed and at times tiresome to read. They feel overwhelmed by the abundance of information presented and suggest that the book could benefit from a more concise storytelling approach.

Despite the mixed reviews, most readers agree that "Mishima" provides valuable insights into the life and works of one of Japan's most esteemed authors. It serves as an excellent starting point for those interested in comprehending the complexities of Yukio Mishima's life and the cultural environment in which he thrived. Overall, individual preferences regarding objectivity and writing style heavily influence readers' opinions of this biography.

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