South of the Border, West of the Sun: What to Know Before You Read – The Bittersweet Journey to Adulthood and the Unfulfillable Wish
Haruki Murakami’s novel “South of the Border, West of the Sun” begins with the protagonist, Hajime, who is 37 years old, reuniting with his first love from elementary school, Shimamoto.
The charm of this novel lies in the intertwining of the delicate emotions of boyhood and the complex feelings of adulthood. The fluctuating emotions of adolescence, the unfulfilled thirst of adulthood, and the wishes that can no longer be granted… Readers will follow Hajime through the light and shadow of life, embarking on a journey to remember something they had forgotten.
The Light and Shadow of Boyhood: Meeting and Parting with Shimamoto
The story begins with Hajime’s boyhood. Hajime, an only child, meets Shimamoto, a transfer student. Shimamoto has a slight limp in her left leg due to the aftereffects of polio, but Hajime is attracted to her intelligence and gentle smile.
Their houses are close, and they often spend time together after school, sharing many hours. Hajime spends special time at Shimamoto’s house, listening to her father’s record collection. However, as they enter junior high school, their world gradually changes, and they eventually lose touch.
The Unfulfilled Thirst of Adulthood: The Love with Izumi, and Betrayal
Hajime, now a university student, meets a girl named Izumi and they become lovers. She is a bright and sociable girl, and Hajime feels at ease with her. However, deep down, Hajime feels that something is not fulfilled.
In the midst of this, Hajime meets Izumi’s cousin and is drawn to her irresistible charm. The impulsive relationship deeply hurts Izumi, and their relationship ends. As an adult, Hajime suffers from his own weakness and cruelty and immerses himself in work to escape.
The Unfulfillable Wish: Reuniting with Shimamoto and Her Secret
At 37, Hajime is married with two daughters and a successful career. On the surface, he seems to be living a fulfilling life. However, when he meets Shimamoto again, he is overwhelmed by uncontrollable feelings.
The reunited Shimamoto has grown into a beautiful adult woman, but she carries a melancholic air. Hajime is attracted to her, yet hesitates to delve into the depths of her heart.
Shimamoto begins to tell Hajime about her past little by little. It is a sad story colored by loneliness, suffering, and loss. As Hajime listens to her words, he struggles between his feelings for her and his responsibility to protect his family.
Before Reading “South of the Border, West of the Sun”…
“South of the Border, West of the Sun” is a work with captivating depictions of the characters’ delicate emotions. Understanding the characters’ backgrounds and relationships allows for deeper immersion in the world of the story.
Hajime, Shimamoto, Izumi… Each of them carries emotional scars, unfulfilled thirsts, and wishes that can no longer be granted. Their stories will awaken the reader’s own past and invite them on a journey to remember something they had forgotten.
Please pick up this novel and embark on a journey with Hajime through the light and shadow of life.