This is one short but beautiful 'love story' written by Haruki Murayama. "Intensely romantic and weepily beautiful" - wrote the Guardian. Hajime grew up as an only child and had as his close friend, Shimamoto, who was also an only child. They lost contact when, at age 12, their families moved away, only to be reunited in their thirties when Hajime was already happily married with 2 daughters and ran a successful jazz bar. The reunion rekindled old memories and feelings that led to an affair written into this story with such eloquence and beauty....
'This book aches.... with the irrational powers of love and desire'.....wrote the Independent on Sunday.
'After Dark' is another fascinating short story by Murakami. Mari, a university student, met up with an old school-friend at around midnight in an almost empty diner. The young man was a jazz musician who practised with his band at a nearby location. Later, a Chinese prostitute at a nearby 'love-hotel' was abused by her client and Mari was asked to help out as she could understand and speak some Chinese. Mari was recommended to the hotel operator by the jazz musician.....
Meanwhile, at home, Mari's beautiful sister, Eri, has been asleep for the past 2 months???? And the young musician was a secret admirer of Mari's sister.....
This little and strange story is almost like a dream...a rather confusing one at times. But it was still an interesting read!
Pakdokter cannot help but at times felt like these two books were based on Harukami's own personal experiences...
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