Junichero Tanizaki translated by Paul McCarthy
A beautifully produced small book with a title that says it all ... except that really there were three women. Shozo’s mother played an important role, typically with behind the scenes mother-in-law management for her own ends. Lots of manipulation in this book ... hidden motives, and the cat, Lily, came in very useful as the tool for all this to happen. So an unusual take on a very usual story of jealousy, betrayal, weakness, love and some silliness. The different cultural setting added interest ... would this happen in an European family?
Gentle and elegant prose style, an ending that said nothing about the future of the characters and some insights into how obsessive people can be about a cat.
Gentle and elegant prose style, an ending that said nothing about the future of the characters and some insights into how obsessive people can be about a cat.
An enjoyable read and the third translated novel I've read in the last few weeks. Thinking of this reminds me that I should read translations more regularly. They have more to offer then simply the story. The manner of the translation is key ... here it was good, and are a way to more understanding of other cultures.
As i'm now at home in France it feels timely to add to my reading list a novel translated from that language. I know very little about contemporary French writers and what they are writing. Suggestions for a good read please.
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