Hiromi Kawakami’s writing is a captivating experience. I fell head over heels for her novel “The Nakano Thrift Shop” and couldn’t wait to delve into another of her stories. Recently, I finished reading “Strange Weather in Tokyo,” and I’m thrilled to share my thoughts with you.
A Spark of Connection in a Familiar Bar
“Strange Weather in Tokyo” follows Tsukiko, a single woman in her thirties who finds solace in her own company. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she runs into her former high school teacher, Satoru, at a bar she frequents. Their chance encounter blossoms into a beautiful friendship, one that gradually transforms into something more profound as time unfurls. This captivating narrative explores the complexities of love and connection against the backdrop of everyday life in Tokyo.
Kawakami’s Signature Style: A World of Delights
Kawakami’s writing is refreshingly concise and captivating. She immerses readers in the story from the very first sentence, weaving a world that feels both familiar and enchanting. “Strange Weather in Tokyo” is a testament to her masterful storytelling. It showcases her ability to paint vivid pictures with her words, capturing the essence of Japanese culture through everyday details.
One of the things I love most about Kawakami’s work is her evocative descriptions of Japanese food. Through her words, I’ve had the pleasure of discovering a world of culinary delights, from the humble edamame to the rich flavors of grilled eggplant. I’ve learned about the art of preparing yudofu, the satisfying crunch of Soka Senbei, and the delicate taste of Asakusa Nori. Her descriptions not only tantalize the taste buds, but also provide a window into the vibrant cultural tapestry of Japan.
Beyond food, Kawakami seamlessly weaves in literary nods to renowned Japanese writers and works, adding another layer of depth to her narrative. References to Sei Shonagon, Basho, and The Tale of the Heike, among others, subtly enrich the story, inviting readers to explore the rich literary heritage of Japan.
The book concludes with a poignant afterword by Kawakami herself, where she eloquently reflects on the enigmatic nature of stories and the world behind them. This final touch adds a layer of introspection and leaves a lasting impression on the reader.
The Mystery of the Title: A Curious Case
However, I must confess that the title “Strange Weather in Tokyo” left me puzzled. The title seems to promise a story set against a backdrop of unusual weather, but that isn’t quite what the book delivers. While there’s a fleeting mention of thunder and lightning in a particular passage, the weather itself doesn’t play a significant role in the narrative. This discrepancy between the title and the content left me feeling slightly disappointed.
I’m a firm believer that a title should not only be catchy but also accurately reflect the story’s essence. Perhaps this title was chosen to appeal to a wider audience or to create a sense of mystery, but in my opinion, it doesn’t do justice to the beautiful story unfolding within the pages of the book.
A Love Story for the Ages
Despite the title’s inconsistency, “Strange Weather in Tokyo” is a captivating read. It’s a story that lingers in your thoughts long after you turn the final page. It’s a poignant and heartwarming portrayal of a love story that transcends age, offering a glimpse into the complexities of human relationships.
If you’re looking for a book that will transport you to another world, fill your heart with warmth, and leave you contemplating the nuances of love and connection, then “Strange Weather in Tokyo” is definitely worth your time.
Have you read “Strange Weather in Tokyo?” What are your thoughts on the story and the title?
A Glimpse into Tsukiko’s Inner World
One of the most captivating aspects of “Strange Weather in Tokyo” is Kawakami’s portrayal of Tsukiko’s inner world. Through her insightful and often humorous observations, we gain a glimpse into Tsukiko’s unique perspective on life, love, and the passage of time.
Here’s a passage that I found particularly thought-provoking:
“Being with Kojima always brought to mind the word ‘grown-up’. What I mean is, when Kojima was in primary school, he was a child, of course. A suntanned kid with thin little shins. In secondary school, Kojima had seemed like a sprouting boy, on the verge of casting off his boyhood skin and becoming a young man. By the time he got to college, he must have been a fully-fledged young man, the epitome of youth. I can just imagine. Now, having reached his thirties, Kojima was a grown-up. No doubt about it.
His behaviour was commensurate with his age. The passage of time has been evenly distributed for Kojima, and both his body and mind had developed proportionately.
I, on the other hand, still might not be considered a proper adult. I had been very grown-up when I was in primary school. But as I continued through secondary school, I in fact became less grown-up. And then as the years passed, I turned into quite a childlike person. I suppose I just wasn’t able to ally myself with time.”
This passage beautifully captures the complexities of Tsukiko’s self-perception and her reflection on her own journey of growth. It highlights the contrast between her own perceived lack of maturity and Kojima’s seemingly seamless progression through life.
Through Tsukiko’s eyes, Kawakami invites us to contemplate the subjective nature of time and the myriad ways in which individuals experience the passage of years. This introspection adds a layer of depth to the story, making it all the more relatable and engaging.
