A review by erik_gamlem
The Setting Sun by Osamu Dazai

challenging dark emotional inspiring reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

I think this may be one of the most important books for anyone to read right now. As the world turns back into chaos, as the morality of the status quo begins to grow its beastly head, we have the aftermath of what is to come to foresee in Dazai’s work. This may be his true masterpiece. It is certainly herald in his home country as among one of the greats of their canon. There is no denying why. The symbolic movement flourished through his personal narrative is exceptional. One would be so ashamed to steal from a mistress, but I feel Dazai had to, or else this book would not capture the deceit of man against each other. Though with that, she should be credited. Gratitude to Shizuko Ota. If you are feeling at all hopeless, this may bring you peace, if you can stomach the sacrifice we must sink our teeth into. Dazai watched it happen. He may not have handled it well personally, but he understood that the culling was necessary. 
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