Skip to main content

Yukio Mishima - Sea of Fertility - 4th Book - The Decay of the Angel

Reflections on Yukio Mishima's Sea of Fertility Tetralogy: The Decay of the Angel

Having recently finished the fourth and final book of Yukio Mishima's Sea of Fertility tetralogy, titled The Decay of the Angel, I wanted to share my thoughts. This series was meant to be Mishima's masterpiece, and although I’ve only read the last two installments, I can say they offer a rich and engaging experience, though perhaps not on the same level as Tolstoy's War and Peace.

A Profound Exploration of Life and Death

I found The Decay of the Angel to be an enthralling read that raises profound questions about how we live our lives and confront our inevitable mortality. A particularly poignant observation I came across was the idea that the tetralogy can be summed up in Mr. Honda's realization that we have just "one shot at life." This concept resonates throughout the narrative and invites readers to reflect on the choices we make.

Insights into Post-War Japan

While I have not yet read the first two books, I felt that the third book offered a deeper understanding of Mishima's interpretation of life in Japan during and after World War II. The insights into societal changes and personal struggles during this tumultuous period are compelling and provide valuable context for the themes explored in The Decay of the Angel.

Format and Pacing

At just around 140 pages, this final installment was a quicker read for me, especially given that the hardcover edition I had was larger than the paperback of the third book. The pacing felt brisk, and I appreciated how it maintained my interest while delving into complex themes.

The Legacy of Yukio Mishima

It's a pity that Mishima’s life was cut short, as his work continues to resonate and provoke thought. While I find myself drawn to the literary style of Haruki Murakami, I also recognize that Murakami's approach is less controversial and more introspective than Mishima's.

A Journey to Complete the Tetralogy

Now, my next step is to seek out the first two books of the Sea of Fertility tetralogy to complete the journey. Although I found the third book to be the strongest in my experience, I'm eager to see how the narrative and themes develop from the beginning. Overall, this tetralogy has been a rewarding and enlightening experience, and I look forward to discovering more of Mishima's profound reflections on life.



Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Sony MDR-ZX100 vs ZX-110 vs ZX310 Series Headphones

Sony ZX Series Headphones Review: A Budget-Friendly Sound Choice If you’re on the hunt for budget-friendly headphones with decent quality, the Sony ZX Series is definitely worth considering. I happen to own several models from the lineup: ZX-100 ZX-110 ZX-310 Let’s dive into how they compare in terms of build quality, cost, specs, sound, and overall value. Build Quality: ZX-310 Takes the Lead The Sony ZX series headphones primarily feature a durable plastic construction. My ZX-100 has lasted over 2½ years, enduring countless tosses into my backpack and car without any issues. However, the lower-end ZX-100 and ZX-110 models have a significant downside: poor-quality earpads. Over time, these earpads disintegrate, leaving vinyl flakes that stick to your hair and ears. The ZX-310, on the other hand, comes with upgraded earpads that don’t suffer from this problem, making them a clear winner in the build department. Cost Comparison: ZX-100/110 Wins for Affordability While the ZX-310 model co

Casio G-Shock 5600 vs 6900 vs 9000

G-Shock Preferences and Favorites After trying out several G-Shock models, I've developed a better sense of the specific features and design elements I appreciate most. While features are always a plus, my main priority is size . Here's how some of the models I've tried stack up. Size Preference: DW-5600 Series For overall size, the DW-5600 series stands out as a favorite due to its compact, comfortable form. It’s slim, lightweight, and fits well on my wrist without being too bulky. Although the 6900 series provides the benefit of a well-placed front illumination button, the 5600 remains the ideal size for everyday wear. Best Compromise: G9000 Mudman Series If I had to choose a balanced option between size, comfort, and functionality, the G9000 Mudman series would be it. The buttons are slightly tough to press, but the layout and form factor resonate with what I prefer in a G-Shock. Despite having different module versions (GLX, G, and DW), I find that these models offe

Eton Microlink FR160 Radio -- Sticky Residue

Eton Microlink FR160 Handcrank Radio Review I bought an Eton Microlink FR160 handcrank radio for my emergency kit a few years ago, and it’s been great overall. However, there’s one significant issue I've encountered. Sticky Residue Problem Over time, a sticky residue developed on the radio's external surface, which was driving me nuts. At first, I thought there was something wrong with the device. Solution Fortunately, I researched the problem online and discovered that Eton radios are coated with a substance designed to make them easier to grip. Unfortunately, this coating degrades over time and turns into a sticky mess. To resolve the issue, I used isopropyl alcohol and cotton balls to clean most of the gunk. While some paint may have been lost in the process, at least the radio is no longer sticky.