LITMIR.BIZ

      PREFACE

      Although a considerable number of Japanese novels and short stories have been translated into English, very little in the way of analyses or other literary criticism is available. A few specialized studies on individual authors exist, but virtually nothing in terms of a thematic study covering a given period such as the post-World-War-II era under consideration here. Hopefully, this book will contribute to the improvement of this situation.

      More specifically, the book is intended to encourage the reading, study, and appreciation of contemporary Japanese fiction and, through it, an understanding of Japan and Japanese culture. The various chapters, including the Syllabus at the end, aim to stimulate and encourage general readers and students to deepen their knowledge of the available literature. The Syllabus in particular aims to encourage the teaching of Japanese literature in the classroom, at both high school and university level, by supplying the teacher and student with study aids.

      The book is based on an important and much-discussed contemporary theme, that of identity. This is, of course, only one of many possible approaches; for, as the reader may already know, Japanese literature is rich and diversified. The author, without apology, acknowledges his framework to be primarily that of Western critical assumptions and ideas, to say nothing of his own personal quirks. Hopefully, others will contribute their own insights and further the cause of intercultural understanding.

      The author wishes to thank publishers who granted permission to quote material under their copyright.

      ARTHUR KIMBALL