Underground: The Tokyo Gas Attack and the Japanese Psyche : Book Review

"Underground" by Haruki Murakami is a captivating and enlightening book that delves into the shocking and tragic 1995 Tokyo subway sarin gas attack. This thought-provoking book is divided into two parts, each offering a unique perspective on the incident.

The first part, titled "A Place to Tie Up Loose Ends," comprises a series of interviews conducted by Murakami with victims and survivors of the attack. Through these interviews, Murakami provides a platform for the survivors to share their personal stories and experiences. Their accounts are deeply moving and evoke a range of emotions, offering a glimpse into the profound impact the attack had on their lives. Murakami's empathetic approach allows readers to connect with the interviewees on a personal level and gain a deeper understanding of the psychological and emotional aftermath of such a traumatic event.

In the second part, "The Subway and the Underground Society," Murakami delves into his own reflections on the sarin gas attack. He explores the motives and ideology behind the attack, focusing on the religious cult, Aum Shinrikyo, responsible for the atrocity. Murakami's analysis provides insight into the cult's distorted worldview and sheds light on the dangers of blind faith. His meticulous research and attention to detail allow readers to comprehend the complex chain of events that led to the tragedy.

Murakami's writing style is engaging and captivating. He effectively captures the complexities of human emotions and paints a vivid picture of the events surrounding the attack. Through his interviews and analysis, Murakami encourages readers to reflect on the nature of violence, the vulnerability of human life, and the importance of empathy and understanding in society.

"Underground" not only offers a harrowing account of the Tokyo subway sarin gas attack, but it also explores broader themes such as terrorism, ideology, and the resilience of the human spirit. Murakami's ability to humanize the survivors and present their stories with compassion and sensitivity makes this book a powerful and essential read for those interested in understanding the profound impact of such tragic events on individuals and society as a whole.

What are readers saying?

Opinions on Haruki Murakami's book "Underground" have been varied, providing an insight into the diverse perspectives of readers. Overall, the book has received mostly positive feedback, with readers praising Murakami's distinctive storytelling style and his ability to delve into the intricacies of human experiences with sensitivity and clarity.

Many reviewers appreciated Murakami's in-depth examination of the 1995 Tokyo sarin gas attacks, which serve as the central focus of "Underground." They found the book to be a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of the lives of both the victims and the perpetrators, offering a deeper understanding of the impact this tragedy had on Japanese society.

The personal touch that Murakami brings to his writing was particularly lauded by readers. By allowing the survivors and their families to share their own perspectives and pain, he was able to create an emotional connection that resonated deeply with many reviewers.

In addition, Murakami's ability to present different viewpoints without bias or judgment was also praised. Readers appreciated that they were able to form their own opinions while being exposed to a wide range of voices and experiences.

There were, however, a few reviewers who felt that more historical and political context regarding the attacks would have been beneficial. They believed that the book occasionally delved into unrelated topics, which may have affected the overall coherence of the narrative.

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