Yukio Mishima is considered one of Japan’s greatest modern writers. His diverse and groundbreaking works have earned him accolades from critics and fans alike for their insight into the human condition and powerful exploration of themes such as desire, identity, tradition, and society.
With dozens of novels, plays, short stories, and essays to his name, it cannot be easy to know where to start with reading Mishima. These are some of the best and most acclaimed works by this renowned author:
The Sea of Fertility
- Mishima, Yukio (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 824 Pages – 06/01/1985 (Publication Date) – Penguin Group USA (Publisher)
This four-part novel series offers a remarkable exploration into the human experience, tracing the life and death of its protagonist, Honda Shigekuni, and the people he meets along his journey.
Confessions of a Mask
- Yukio Mishima (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 256 Pages – 01/17/1958 (Publication Date) – New Directions (Publisher)
A semi-autobiographical novel, this book follows the story of Kochan as he struggles to accept his homosexuality in the face of societal pressures.
The Temple of the Golden Pavilion
- Yukio Mishima (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 288 Pages – 10/04/1994 (Publication Date) – Vintage (Publisher)
Set in postwar Japan, this novel chronicles the life of Mizoguchi and his obsession with the Golden Pavilion temple in Kyoto.
The Sound of Waves
- Audible Audiobook
- Yukio Mishima (Author) – Brian Nishii (Narrator)
- English (Publication Language)
- 12/22/2010 (Publication Date) – Audible Studios (Publisher)
This coming-of-age novel follows Shinji and Hatsue, two young lovers whose relationship is tested by society and their families.
Yukio Mishima has written many great works, some listed below. Whether you’re new to his writing or an experienced fan, there is something in Mishima’s oeuvre for everyone. His stories will transport you to another time and place and offer a unique insight into Japanese culture and society.
Where Should I Start With Mishima?
The best way to start reading Mishima is to pick one of the titles that pique your interest. With each book, you will be sure to find something thought-provoking and captivating in its pages. Whether it’s “The Sea of Fertility” tetralogy, the epic novel “The Temple of the Golden Pavilion,” or his short-story collections like “Death in Midsummer and Other Stories,” you’ll be sure to find something that will stick with you after reading.
For those looking for a more concise introduction to Mishima’s work, the novella “Sailor Who Fell From Grace with the Sea” is a great place to begin. Published in 1963 and depicted through the eyes of a young boy, this story captures Mishima’s trademark combination of beauty, violence, and tragedy.
No matter which title you choose, reading any of these books will be a rewarding experience. With each one, you’ll dive into the mind of one of Japan’s most beloved authors and glimpse the multifaceted world he created.
Why Was Yukio Mishima Controversial?
Yukio Mishima was a highly controversial figure in Japan and throughout the world. He achieved literary success but also became known for his extreme political views, which called for a violent overthrow of the democratic system of government in Japan and the restoration of an imperialistic regime.
His works often explored militarism, death, suicide, and traditional Japanese values; many saw his views as dangerous and extreme. His strong advocacy for a return to traditional Japanese culture collided heavily with modern ideologies, resulting in widespread condemnation from both the public and the government.
Is Mishima a good writer?
Yes, Mishima is a good writer. Literary critics have praised his works for their beauty and profoundness worldwide. His themes of loyalty, honor, tradition, and culture are explored in his novels, short stories, plays, and essays.
He also employed multiple writing styles, such as realism, surrealism, and symbolism, to create a unique and captivating narrative. Mishima’s works, such as “The Temple of Dawn” and “The Sea of Fertility,” are masterpieces of Japanese literature and have been translated into many languages.
Mishima has also been awarded several prestigious literary awards, such as the Yomiuri and Jun-ichi Tanizaki prizes. As such, there is no doubt that Mishima is a great writer who deserves recognition for his contribution to literature.
Why Is Mishima So Popular?
Mishima is a popular author and playwright in Japan due to his unique writing style, which blends traditional Japanese culture with modern sensibilities. He wrote extensively on themes such as loyalty, honor, and death. His works often explore the inner conflict of characters facing difficult choices between traditional values and personal desires.
Mishima was also known for being a controversial figure in Japan, often speaking out on issues of militarism and imperialism.
Mishima’s popularity is also attributed to his unique writing style, which blends traditional Japanese culture with modern sensibilities. He wrote extensively on themes such as loyalty, honor, and death.
Wrap Up
Yukio Mishima is an acclaimed author and playwright who has profoundly impacted the world of literature. He is known for his captivating narrative style, blending traditional Japanese culture with modern sensibilities and exploring themes such as loyalty, honor, and death.
