[Victoria]

I’ve really enjoyed everyone’s comments! Great observations.

But I’m finding the book difficult to read, much to my disappointment. I was looking forward to a glimpse into Japanese society. But the writing gets in the way by constantly drawing attention to itself. Maybe it just doesn’t age well in that respect. But the style seems more like a ‘display of wit’, than being witty - which becomes tedious.

Also, such scathing, harsh judgements. I understand they’re meant to be allegorical, but it doesn’t make them any easier to swallow. And as Bookpossum has noted - blatant sexism. I expected it, but still!

I don’t mean to be dismissive of a widely regarded cultural masterpiece; likely my take on the book just shows my limited understanding. But honestly it doesn’t feel humorous to me.