The Sailor Who Fell from Grace with the Sea (午後の曳航)
This was my third Mishima novel in the past month. As I read it, with only a few exceptions, I felt that Mishima had mellowed in this work compared to Confessions of a Mask or The Temple of the Golden Pavilion, both of which were written earlier than The Sailor Who Fell from Grace with the Sea. The last few pages, however, reveal that Mishima was as sick and twisted as ever, maybe even more so. And that’s what makes his books so fascinating to read. I’m addicted and can’t stop.
20 years ago I was a big fan of Steven King. I probably read 10 or more of his books in the space of a few months. I don’t think I’ve read any Steven King since that brief episode in my life though. I think Steven King would be proud of the ending in The Sailor Who Fell from Grace with the Sea. I’d love to tell it to you, but for those who haven’t read it yet my telling would spoil everything for you.
Why this was named The Sailor Who Fell from Grace with the Sea when the Japanese title is 午後の曳航 I have no idea.
Next up is Spring Snow. Are there any other Mishima titles that I should absolutely not miss?
July 17th, 2009 at 1:49 am
I’m glad to read on you reviews and found out you love my favorite author!
I totally recommend a short story, “Patriot” (or 憂国), and his biographical novel, “Forbidden Color”(or 禁色).
Both reflects the historical trends of anti-norm and art movements in the 50s-70s in Japan and America.
Patriot also offers us clues about his ultimate performance art, the ritual suicide in 1970.
I hope you enjoy those stories 🙂
satoe
July 17th, 2009 at 2:00 am
oops, I meant “Patriotism” for 憂国.
BTW, it’s interesting to read your thoughts about my country.
I have lived in California for 9 yrs, so Japan in my memory is old.
the last time I went back to Japan was 5yrs ago…
Since I’m in the process of getting a greencard, I’m “country arrested.”
plz fill me up, or I’ll be a Urashima Tarou 😉
satoe
PS. Don’t miss the longest total solar eclipse in the century in the first row!!
July 17th, 2009 at 7:27 am
Thanks for the info, Satoe. I’m going to miss the eclipse as it happens next week and I won’t be in Japan until August 14. 🙁