Review of the book “Youth” by Mori Ogai
“Youth” by Mori Ogai is a short novel published in 1910 that tells the story of a young Japanese doctor who travels to Germany at the end of the 19th century to study medicine. There he falls in love with a German dancer named Elise, but their relationship is cut short by cultural differences and the duty to return to Japan. The novel is an autobiographical work that reflects the experiences of the author himself, who was also a doctor and was in Germany between 1884 and 1888. The novel explores themes such as the clash of civilizations, impossible love, nostalgia and national identity.
The novel is divided into four chapters: the first describes the arrival of the protagonist, Takeo, to Berlin and his first meeting with Elise; the second narrates their love relationship and the problems they face due to racism and prejudice; the third shows the farewell of Takeo and Elise, who promise to see each other again one day; and the fourth recounts Takeo’s return to Japan and his subsequent life as a doctor and writer. The novel has a realistic and simple style, with detailed descriptions of German places and customs. The author also uses some symbolic elements, such as the white swan that represents Elise and the black swan that represents Takeo.
“Youth” by Mori Ogai is a novel that has been considered one of the masterpieces of modern Japanese literature. His influence has spread to other authors and genres, such as manga and anime. The novel has been adapted to film, theater and opera. Its message remains relevant today, as it raises questions about cultural identity, love and freedom in a globalized world.
The novel tells the story of a young student named Sugimoto, who falls in love with an older woman named Student. Throughout the novel, Sugimoto struggles with his feelings and his desire to find happiness in a society that values stability and conformity over individuality and freedom.
Ogai’s prose is detailed and emotional, and the novel is filled with evocative images and deep reflections on love, identity, and society. The psychological narrative of the novel focuses on the exploration of Sugimoto’s thoughts and feelings, and Ogai manages to create a complex and human portrait of her protagonist.
In addition to its exploration of the universal themes of love and identity, “Youth” is also a social critique of Japanese society at the time. The novel shows how social and cultural expectations limit individual freedom and happiness, and how conformity and obedience are often valued more than personal happiness.
In short, “Youth” is an emotional and complex novel that offers a moving reflection on Japanese life and society in the 20th century. Ogai’s detailed, emotional prose and her exploration of universal and social themes make the novel a powerful and enriching read. I highly recommend this work to anyone interested in Japanese literature or exploring human psychology.
Source: https://algunoslibrosbuenos.com/juventud
