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走れメロス [Hashire Merosu]
「無頼派」「新戯作派」の破滅型作家を代表する昭和初期の小説家、太宰治の短編小説。初出は「新潮」［1940（昭和15）年］。「邪智暴虐の王」への人質として差し出した友人・セリヌンティウスの信頼に報いるために、メロスがひたすら走り続けるという作品。信頼と友情の美しさを基本に描きつつ、そこに還元されない人間の葛藤をも描いた、日本文学における傑作のひとつ。
12 pages, ebook
First published May 1, 1940
14 people are currently reading
350 people want to read
About the author
Osamu Dazai
1,136 books9,634 followersOsamu DAZAI (native name: 太宰治, real name Shūji Tsushima) was a Japanese author who is considered one of the foremost fiction writers of 20th-century Japan. A number of his most popular works, such as Shayō (The Setting Sun) and Ningen Shikkaku (No Longer Human), are considered modern-day classics in Japan.
With a semi-autobiographical style and transparency into his personal life, Dazai’s stories have intrigued the minds of many readers. His books also bring about awareness to a number of important topics such as human nature, mental illness, social relationships, and postwar Japan.
With a semi-autobiographical style and transparency into his personal life, Dazai’s stories have intrigued the minds of many readers. His books also bring about awareness to a number of important topics such as human nature, mental illness, social relationships, and postwar Japan.
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January 24, 2023I read this after seeing a reference to it in something else I was reading. I had very little idea of what to expect. After reading, I looked up a bit of the history. It's really interesting to read something that has gone through so many cultures and interpretations -- from an Ancient Roman folktale, to a French poem, to a Japanese short story, to the English story I read. It's apparently a really influential and memorable story, being part of the Japanese school curriculum and inspiring music, anime, and other adaptations.
October 19, 2023
عندما كنت طفلة، كانت تأسرني قصة فيلم السندباد وأسطورة البحار السبعة. وبعيدا عن أن الفيلم قد شوه صورة السندباد، وجعل منه سارقا لا يملك ذرة إحساس، إلا أن شخصيته القوية، وصداقته مع بروتيوس وكيف أنه غير نفسه في النهاية لأجله، كل هذا كان يعطيني أملا في الجنس البشري.
وقد مرت أعوام قبل أن أعلم أن هذه القصة ليست سوى اقتباس آخر للقصة اليونانية لدامون وبيثياس، واللذان شكلا رمز الصداقة التي لا تتزعزع بفعل الخطر. يحكي الخطيب والكاتب الروماني شيشيرون عن قصة الصديقين فيقول: "يقولون أن دامون وبينتياس، من مدرسة فيثاغورس، عرفوا بصداقة مثالية. عندما قام الطاغية ديونيسيوس بتعيين يوم لإعدام أحدهم، وطلب من المحكوم عليه بالموت مهلة لبضعة أيام، لغرض وضع أحبائه في رعاية الأصدقاء، أصبح الآخر كفيلا له، على أساس أنه إذا لم يعد صديقه، فسيتم إعدامه. وعندما عاد الصديق في اليوم المعين، توسل الطاغية في إعجاب بإخلاصهم أن يسجلوه كشريك ثالث في صداقتهم".
سنة ١٩٤٠، نشر الياباني أوسامو دازاي قصته القصيرة "Run، Melos!"، المستوحاة من أغنية شعبية (une ballade) للكاتب الألماني فريديريك فون شيللير (١٩٧٧)، وسرعان ما أصبحت واحدة من الكلاسيكيات المدرسية.
"Run, Milos!" هي إذا إعادة سرد صادقة للأسطورة اليونانية، لكن عبر تغيير أسماء الصديقين دامون وبينتياس إلى ميلوس وسيلينونتيوس.
تدور أحداث قصة دازاي في منطقة سيراكوز (Syracuse) الخيالية، حيث نقابل ميلوس، راع شاب ساذج، لكنه يملك إيمانا قويا تجاه العدالة. يسافر ميلوس إلى المدينة من أجل التسوق لزفاف شقيقته، وهناك يعلم أن الملك الطاغية ديونيسيوس قد أصيب بالجنون، فبدأ يقتل الناس، بدءا بعائلته، ووصولا إلى عامة الشعب.
كان الملك يشعر بانعدام ثقة وخوف من البشر، وهذا كان يجعله يحس بالوحدة: "You are the one who showed me 'Harboring suspicions is the right readiness.' One can never depend on what people think in mind. People are self-interest personified. You never believe others. [...] I wish I had a peaceful life.
عندما يسمع ميلوس بجرائم ديونيسيوس، يتسلل بغضب إلى القصر مسلحا بخنجر، لاغتياله وتخليص الناس من شره. وعندما يتم أسره والحكم بإعدامه، يناشد ميلوس الطاغية أن يمنحه ثلاثة أيام لحضور حفل زفاف أخته. ولضمان الإبقاء بوعده، يقدم للملك حياة صديق طفولته سيلينونتيوس، الذي يمتهن البناء، كرهن مدة تلك الثلاثة أيام، على أن يقتل مكانه إن هو لم يفي بالوعد.
طبعا يسخر الملك من هذا الوعد، لأنه بتفكيره المحدود، لم يتخيل أن يعود شخص إلى الموت برجليه "Would a bird come back once you let it free?"، لكنه في الوقت نفسه، يجدها فرصة سانحة لإثبات احتقاره الجنس البشري "This is why I can't believe people.' I want to show my opinion to those in the world who profess to be an honest person". لذلك، فهو يعد ميلوس، كنوع من الإغراء، بأنه لو تأخر في العودة، فسيحصل على عفوه الكامل. أما الصديق، من جهته، فهو يقدم حياته لصديقه دون تردد.
يعود ميلوس إلى قريته وييحتفل بزفاف شقيقته، وبعد حفل الزفاف، يبدأ رحلة العودة إلى سيلينونتيوس. لكنه أثناء الرحلة، يواجه عقبات تؤخره عن الوصول: الجسر المنهار بسبب فيضان النهر، قطاع الطرق، كل هذه العوائق استنزفت قوة ميلوس وأجبرته على الاستسلام. وبينما هو مستلق على الأرض، خائر القوى، يدور حوار فلسفي بينه وبين نفسه، حيث تحاول هذه تبرير فعلته التي هو على وشك فعلها، وبأنه قد حاول كل جهده. وفي غمرة استسلامه، يفطن أن استسلامه هذا سيجعل منه نذلا وجبانا لما تبقى من عمره:
"I'll die. I'll kill myself with you. I'm sure you are the only one who believes me. Well, that may be also my self-satisfaction. Or I would rather survive as a villain".
يقاوم ميلوس تعبه وآلامه، ويبدأ بالجري محاولا الوصول قبل غروب الشمس. يلحق به مساعد سيلينونتيوس محاولا إقناعه بالاستسلام، وأنه لا معنى من عودته لأنه قد تأخر بالفعل وأن صديقه سيكون قد أعدم بحلول الآن، لكن ميلوس يتجاهله وهو يردد لنفسه:
"I am going to be killed this evening. I'm running to be killed. I'm running to save my friend, who is my scapegoat. I'm running to defeat the king's twisted nature. I have to keep running, and I'll be killed. Protect my honor even though I am young. Farewell, my hometown".
ليتحول وصوله، ولو متأخرا، بمثابة اعتذار عن تأخره:
"I'll make an apology with my life for what I've done".
وبحلول غروب شمس اليوم الثالث، يتمكن ميلوس من الوصول أخيرا في الوقت المناسب لإنقاذ سيلينونتيوس. يعتذر الصديقان لبعضهما، ويتوسل ميلوس صديقه لضربه لأنه فكر بالاستسلام، ويطلب سيلينونتيوس نفس الشيء لأنه شك للحظة في عودته. أما الملك، ومتأثرا بالصداقة المترسخة بين الصديقين، فيقرر العفو عنهما، بل ويطلب منهما جعله شريكا في صداقتهم المميزة.
لقد حافظ دازاي على تيمات القصة الميثولوجية، لكنه أيضا رسم شخصية الملك بوضوح أكثر بحيث جعلها تبدو أكثر عرضة للشفقة، رغم قسوتها وجبروتها.
نعم، قد يكون الملك جبارا طاغية لا يرحم، لكن ذلك يعود للوحدة التي يشعر بها ولعدم ثقته بالآخرين، حتى عائلته المقربة: "You are a hopeless fool. You don't understand my loneliness."
إذا، هل نحن أمام ديونيسيوس حقا، أم أنها نسخة مبتكرة من دازاي نفسه؟
كانت الفترة التي كتب بها دازاي "Run, Milos!" هي الفترة الأكثر هدوءا والأكثر استقرارا من حياته، بل حتى أسلوبه أصبح أكثر بهجة وحيوية. لكن إن نحن نظرنا إلى القصة من زاوية أخرى، فيجب أن نراها عبرة لمن يطلق الوعود دون أن يعرف عاقبة ذلك. صحيح أن ميلوس كان ينوي العودة من أجل صديقه، لكنه لم يحسب حساب النكبات التي اعترضت طريقه والتي كادت تودي بحياة سيلينونتيوس.
تبدأ الحلقة التاسعة من "الأدب الأزرق" بسؤال معبر وهو "Is it more painful to wait? or to make someone wait?"، بينما يتلقى الكاتب تاكادا عرضا لكتابة مسرحية "Run, Milos!". لكنه، وأثناء انشغاله بإعادة كتابة قصة دازاي (une mise en abîme)، تبدأ مشاعره ومخاوفه في نفض التراب عنها كي تعود وتأرق مضجعه. عندها تختلط الحقيقة بالخيال، ليصبح مصير الكاتب بين أيدي شخصياته، وعبر مناجاة ميلوس، يتمكن تاكادا أخيرا من تقبل فعلة صديقه جوشيما.
يضع المسلسل العمل الروائي في قلب الحياة المعاصرة (منتصف القرن العشرين)، وبينما تظهر المشاهد الروائية في المسلسل ممسرحة، ترافقها الموسيقى والإضاءة. فإن الكاتب يتخذ شخصية الراوي في المسرحية (le choeur)، فهو يشارك الشخصيات آلامها أشاهدها وهي تتغلب عليه. لكن الاختلاف هنا أن هذه الآلام ما هي سوى تعبير عن آلامه هو.
بعد انتهائه من كتابة المسرحية، ينتهي كذلك انتظار تاكادا ويتمكن من استعادة صداقته الضائعة مع جوشيما:
"Is it more painful to wait? Or to make someone waiting? In any case, There were no need to wait anymore. That whas the most painful thing."
ف. ز. بايددة.
وقد مرت أعوام قبل أن أعلم أن هذه القصة ليست سوى اقتباس آخر للقصة اليونانية لدامون وبيثياس، واللذان شكلا رمز الصداقة التي لا تتزعزع بفعل الخطر. يحكي الخطيب والكاتب الروماني شيشيرون عن قصة الصديقين فيقول: "يقولون أن دامون وبينتياس، من مدرسة فيثاغورس، عرفوا بصداقة مثالية. عندما قام الطاغية ديونيسيوس بتعيين يوم لإعدام أحدهم، وطلب من المحكوم عليه بالموت مهلة لبضعة أيام، لغرض وضع أحبائه في رعاية الأصدقاء، أصبح الآخر كفيلا له، على أساس أنه إذا لم يعد صديقه، فسيتم إعدامه. وعندما عاد الصديق في اليوم المعين، توسل الطاغية في إعجاب بإخلاصهم أن يسجلوه كشريك ثالث في صداقتهم".
سنة ١٩٤٠، نشر الياباني أوسامو دازاي قصته القصيرة "Run، Melos!"، المستوحاة من أغنية شعبية (une ballade) للكاتب الألماني فريديريك فون شيللير (١٩٧٧)، وسرعان ما أصبحت واحدة من الكلاسيكيات المدرسية.
"Run, Milos!" هي إذا إعادة سرد صادقة للأسطورة اليونانية، لكن عبر تغيير أسماء الصديقين دامون وبينتياس إلى ميلوس وسيلينونتيوس.
تدور أحداث قصة دازاي في منطقة سيراكوز (Syracuse) الخيالية، حيث نقابل ميلوس، راع شاب ساذج، لكنه يملك إيمانا قويا تجاه العدالة. يسافر ميلوس إلى المدينة من أجل التسوق لزفاف شقيقته، وهناك يعلم أن الملك الطاغية ديونيسيوس قد أصيب بالجنون، فبدأ يقتل الناس، بدءا بعائلته، ووصولا إلى عامة الشعب.
كان الملك يشعر بانعدام ثقة وخوف من البشر، وهذا كان يجعله يحس بالوحدة: "You are the one who showed me 'Harboring suspicions is the right readiness.' One can never depend on what people think in mind. People are self-interest personified. You never believe others. [...] I wish I had a peaceful life.
عندما يسمع ميلوس بجرائم ديونيسيوس، يتسلل بغضب إلى القصر مسلحا بخنجر، لاغتياله وتخليص الناس من شره. وعندما يتم أسره والحكم بإعدامه، يناشد ميلوس الطاغية أن يمنحه ثلاثة أيام لحضور حفل زفاف أخته. ولضمان الإبقاء بوعده، يقدم للملك حياة صديق طفولته سيلينونتيوس، الذي يمتهن البناء، كرهن مدة تلك الثلاثة أيام، على أن يقتل مكانه إن هو لم يفي بالوعد.
طبعا يسخر الملك من هذا الوعد، لأنه بتفكيره المحدود، لم يتخيل أن يعود شخص إلى الموت برجليه "Would a bird come back once you let it free?"، لكنه في الوقت نفسه، يجدها فرصة سانحة لإثبات احتقاره الجنس البشري "This is why I can't believe people.' I want to show my opinion to those in the world who profess to be an honest person". لذلك، فهو يعد ميلوس، كنوع من الإغراء، بأنه لو تأخر في العودة، فسيحصل على عفوه الكامل. أما الصديق، من جهته، فهو يقدم حياته لصديقه دون تردد.
يعود ميلوس إلى قريته وييحتفل بزفاف شقيقته، وبعد حفل الزفاف، يبدأ رحلة العودة إلى سيلينونتيوس. لكنه أثناء الرحلة، يواجه عقبات تؤخره عن الوصول: الجسر المنهار بسبب فيضان النهر، قطاع الطرق، كل هذه العوائق استنزفت قوة ميلوس وأجبرته على الاستسلام. وبينما هو مستلق على الأرض، خائر القوى، يدور حوار فلسفي بينه وبين نفسه، حيث تحاول هذه تبرير فعلته التي هو على وشك فعلها، وبأنه قد حاول كل جهده. وفي غمرة استسلامه، يفطن أن استسلامه هذا سيجعل منه نذلا وجبانا لما تبقى من عمره:
"I'll die. I'll kill myself with you. I'm sure you are the only one who believes me. Well, that may be also my self-satisfaction. Or I would rather survive as a villain".
يقاوم ميلوس تعبه وآلامه، ويبدأ بالجري محاولا الوصول قبل غروب الشمس. يلحق به مساعد سيلينونتيوس محاولا إقناعه بالاستسلام، وأنه لا معنى من عودته لأنه قد تأخر بالفعل وأن صديقه سيكون قد أعدم بحلول الآن، لكن ميلوس يتجاهله وهو يردد لنفسه:
"I am going to be killed this evening. I'm running to be killed. I'm running to save my friend, who is my scapegoat. I'm running to defeat the king's twisted nature. I have to keep running, and I'll be killed. Protect my honor even though I am young. Farewell, my hometown".
ليتحول وصوله، ولو متأخرا، بمثابة اعتذار عن تأخره:
"I'll make an apology with my life for what I've done".
وبحلول غروب شمس اليوم الثالث، يتمكن ميلوس من الوصول أخيرا في الوقت المناسب لإنقاذ سيلينونتيوس. يعتذر الصديقان لبعضهما، ويتوسل ميلوس صديقه لضربه لأنه فكر بالاستسلام، ويطلب سيلينونتيوس نفس الشيء لأنه شك للحظة في عودته. أما الملك، ومتأثرا بالصداقة المترسخة بين الصديقين، فيقرر العفو عنهما، بل ويطلب منهما جعله شريكا في صداقتهم المميزة.
لقد حافظ دازاي على تيمات القصة الميثولوجية، لكنه أيضا رسم شخصية الملك بوضوح أكثر بحيث جعلها تبدو أكثر عرضة للشفقة، رغم قسوتها وجبروتها.
نعم، قد يكون الملك جبارا طاغية لا يرحم، لكن ذلك يعود للوحدة التي يشعر بها ولعدم ثقته بالآخرين، حتى عائلته المقربة: "You are a hopeless fool. You don't understand my loneliness."
إذا، هل نحن أمام ديونيسيوس حقا، أم أنها نسخة مبتكرة من دازاي نفسه؟
كانت الفترة التي كتب بها دازاي "Run, Milos!" هي الفترة الأكثر هدوءا والأكثر استقرارا من حياته، بل حتى أسلوبه أصبح أكثر بهجة وحيوية. لكن إن نحن نظرنا إلى القصة من زاوية أخرى، فيجب أن نراها عبرة لمن يطلق الوعود دون أن يعرف عاقبة ذلك. صحيح أن ميلوس كان ينوي العودة من أجل صديقه، لكنه لم يحسب حساب النكبات التي اعترضت طريقه والتي كادت تودي بحياة سيلينونتيوس.
تبدأ الحلقة التاسعة من "الأدب الأزرق" بسؤال معبر وهو "Is it more painful to wait? or to make someone wait?"، بينما يتلقى الكاتب تاكادا عرضا لكتابة مسرحية "Run, Milos!". لكنه، وأثناء انشغاله بإعادة كتابة قصة دازاي (une mise en abîme)، تبدأ مشاعره ومخاوفه في نفض التراب عنها كي تعود وتأرق مضجعه. عندها تختلط الحقيقة بالخيال، ليصبح مصير الكاتب بين أيدي شخصياته، وعبر مناجاة ميلوس، يتمكن تاكادا أخيرا من تقبل فعلة صديقه جوشيما.
يضع المسلسل العمل الروائي في قلب الحياة المعاصرة (منتصف القرن العشرين)، وبينما تظهر المشاهد الروائية في المسلسل ممسرحة، ترافقها الموسيقى والإضاءة. فإن الكاتب يتخذ شخصية الراوي في المسرحية (le choeur)، فهو يشارك الشخصيات آلامها أشاهدها وهي تتغلب عليه. لكن الاختلاف هنا أن هذه الآلام ما هي سوى تعبير عن آلامه هو.
بعد انتهائه من كتابة المسرحية، ينتهي كذلك انتظار تاكادا ويتمكن من استعادة صداقته الضائعة مع جوشيما:
"Is it more painful to wait? Or to make someone waiting? In any case, There were no need to wait anymore. That whas the most painful thing."
ف. ز. بايددة.
December 3, 2024
A Japanese Classic.
A good story about an unwavering friendship.
A good story about an unwavering friendship.
December 11, 2021
Vaig fer una relectura farà una setmana, però com el Martí no es podia assabentar no l'he compartida amb vosaltres, estimats amics del Goodreads, fins ara . Molt xulu!
January 19, 2026
Even a tyrant can find redemption in the face of genuine human connection.
Melos is a shepherd who is deeply affected by the injustices inflicted by a tyrannical king, Dionysius. Upon learning that the king has mercilessly executed numerous innocent people, including his sister's fiancé and the prince, Melos vows to confront the king and rid the land of his cruelty. He embarks on a journey to the city of Syracuse, not only to purchase a wedding dress for his sister but also to visit his dear friend, Selinuntius.
Upon entering the city, Melos senses an overwhelming atmosphere of fear and dread. After some attempts to understand the situation, he discovers the shocking truth: the king has lost trust in everyone, leading him to execute even his closest allies. Melos, fueled by outrage and a sense of justice, attempts to confront the king but is quickly captured and brought before him. In the face of the king’s disdainful attitude, Melos boldly declares his intention to rid the city of tyranny, arguing that the king’s distrust of humanity is a far greater evil. However, the king dismisses Melos's pleas, remaining firm in his belief that people are inherently selfish and deceitful.
Following his confrontation with the king, Melos is captured but he strikes a desperate bargain: he requests three days to attend his sister's wedding, proposing to leave his friend, Selinuntius, as a hostage. If he fails to return by sundown on the third day, Selinuntius will be executed in his place.
The king, finding amusement in Melos's bravado and naïveté, agrees to the terms, believing Melos will not return. He regards the situation as an opportunity to affirm his belief that no one can be trusted, relishing the prospect of punishing the innocent Selinuntius if Melos fails to honor his word.
Quite simply, this story explores themes of injustice, sacrifice, and the complexities of human trust. Melos embodies the struggle against tyranny, demonstrating his courage and sense of honor as he confronts a world steeped in fear and betrayal. His internal conflict and determination to save his friend and sister illuminate the hardships faced by those who dare to challenge authority in pursuit of justice. I like the conversation in particular:
“What would you with this dagger of yours?” the tyrant Dionysius demanded with quiet majesty. “Speak!”
“I would deliver the city from the hands of a tyrant,” Melos fearlessly replied.
“You?” The king smiled condescendingly. “Pitiful little man. What do you know of my pain and solitude?”
“Stop!” Melos shot back, flushed with anger. “To doubt the hearts of men is the greatest, most shameful of evils. And you, my king, doubt the loyalty of your subjects.”
“Do you not prove my suspicion warranted? Men are not to be trusted. What are men but lumps of selfishness and greed? To take them at their word is to invite ruin.” The king spoke these words softly, with composure, and now he sighed. ���Do you not think that I myself desire peace?”
“Peace? And for what end? To protect your throne?” Now it was Melos who smiled, with scorn. “What peace is there in the murder of innocent people?”
“Silence, peasant.” The king raised his head. “Such fine words slip easily from your lips. But I, unfortunately for you, am one whose gaze penetrates the hearts of men. Soon you, too, when nailed to the cross, will weep and wail and beg for mercy. Expect none from me.”
When Melos finally bids farewell to his sister and her fiancé, he feels a sense of responsibility and urgency as he embarks on his journey back to the city. However, as he runs to fulfill his promise, he is confronted by numerous obstacles, including natural disasters and bandits. Despite his courage and strength in swimming across a raging river and defeating the brigands, Melos eventually collapses from exhaustion, filled with despair.
In a moment of reflection, Melos berates himself for potentially failing his friend Selinuntius, who is bound and awaiting execution as a result of Melos’s promise to return. He grapples with feelings of inadequacy, questioning his ability to uphold his commitments and fearing he will be labeled a traitor. His internal conflict highlights the themes of honor, loyalty, and the existential battle between personal desire and duty.
Throughout this ordeal, Melos recalls his belief in the power of trust and integrity as his guiding principles. He expresses frustration at the weight of his promises and the nature of human expectations, feeling torn between his emotional turmoil and the need to rise to the occasion. The narrative delves into the heroic virtues of sacrifice and fidelity, echoing the essential struggle between maintaining one's ideals in the face of overwhelming challenges. Thus, Melos’s journey becomes one of self-realization, confronting his humanity, vulnerability, and the power of compassion. The specter of his impending failure looms heavily, but also serves to highlight his deep character and the importance of his convictions in a world filled with turmoil and oppression.
In the climactic conclusion of the story, Melos is driven by a fierce determination to rescue his friend Selinuntius. He finds renewed strength, drinking from a stream and reviving his hope: “There is still time before sunset. Someone waits for me.” This determination propels him to run towards the city of Syracuse, where he hopes to fulfill his promise. Despite the struggles that threaten to overwhelm him, his resolve only grows stronger, fueled by his friendship and the trust Selinuntius has placed in him. He reflects on the profound bond they share:
“You and I were good, true friends. Never did either of us harbor in his breast the dark clouds of doubt.”
Just as Melos reaches the brink of despair, he encounters Philostratus, Selinuntius’s apprentice, who delivers the heart-wrenching news that he may be too late to save his friend. Undeterred, Melos persists, declaring,
“I run because of that faith, that trust.”
He embodies the spirit of loyalty and sacrifice, moving through the challenges with fierce tenacity as he strives to prove the power of love and truth.
Upon finally reaching the execution ground, Melos sees Selinuntius bound and being prepared for his death. In a courageous act, he identifies himself to the executioner, offering to take Selinuntius’s place:
“I am Melos. Melos, who left this man as surety, is standing before you!”
The king, witnessing the display of loyalty and the powerful bond between the two friends, is moved. In a surprising turn, he admits the value of trust between individuals, declaring, “I, too, would be your friend.” Even a tyrant can find redemption in the face of genuine human connection. The story concludes with Melos being offered a red cloak by a maiden (for he had run naked), symbolizing honor and recognition for his bravery. The crowd cheers, uniting them in a moment of celebration.
Melos is a shepherd who is deeply affected by the injustices inflicted by a tyrannical king, Dionysius. Upon learning that the king has mercilessly executed numerous innocent people, including his sister's fiancé and the prince, Melos vows to confront the king and rid the land of his cruelty. He embarks on a journey to the city of Syracuse, not only to purchase a wedding dress for his sister but also to visit his dear friend, Selinuntius.
Upon entering the city, Melos senses an overwhelming atmosphere of fear and dread. After some attempts to understand the situation, he discovers the shocking truth: the king has lost trust in everyone, leading him to execute even his closest allies. Melos, fueled by outrage and a sense of justice, attempts to confront the king but is quickly captured and brought before him. In the face of the king’s disdainful attitude, Melos boldly declares his intention to rid the city of tyranny, arguing that the king’s distrust of humanity is a far greater evil. However, the king dismisses Melos's pleas, remaining firm in his belief that people are inherently selfish and deceitful.
Following his confrontation with the king, Melos is captured but he strikes a desperate bargain: he requests three days to attend his sister's wedding, proposing to leave his friend, Selinuntius, as a hostage. If he fails to return by sundown on the third day, Selinuntius will be executed in his place.
The king, finding amusement in Melos's bravado and naïveté, agrees to the terms, believing Melos will not return. He regards the situation as an opportunity to affirm his belief that no one can be trusted, relishing the prospect of punishing the innocent Selinuntius if Melos fails to honor his word.
Quite simply, this story explores themes of injustice, sacrifice, and the complexities of human trust. Melos embodies the struggle against tyranny, demonstrating his courage and sense of honor as he confronts a world steeped in fear and betrayal. His internal conflict and determination to save his friend and sister illuminate the hardships faced by those who dare to challenge authority in pursuit of justice. I like the conversation in particular:
“What would you with this dagger of yours?” the tyrant Dionysius demanded with quiet majesty. “Speak!”
“I would deliver the city from the hands of a tyrant,” Melos fearlessly replied.
“You?” The king smiled condescendingly. “Pitiful little man. What do you know of my pain and solitude?”
“Stop!” Melos shot back, flushed with anger. “To doubt the hearts of men is the greatest, most shameful of evils. And you, my king, doubt the loyalty of your subjects.”
“Do you not prove my suspicion warranted? Men are not to be trusted. What are men but lumps of selfishness and greed? To take them at their word is to invite ruin.” The king spoke these words softly, with composure, and now he sighed. ���Do you not think that I myself desire peace?”
“Peace? And for what end? To protect your throne?” Now it was Melos who smiled, with scorn. “What peace is there in the murder of innocent people?”
“Silence, peasant.” The king raised his head. “Such fine words slip easily from your lips. But I, unfortunately for you, am one whose gaze penetrates the hearts of men. Soon you, too, when nailed to the cross, will weep and wail and beg for mercy. Expect none from me.”
When Melos finally bids farewell to his sister and her fiancé, he feels a sense of responsibility and urgency as he embarks on his journey back to the city. However, as he runs to fulfill his promise, he is confronted by numerous obstacles, including natural disasters and bandits. Despite his courage and strength in swimming across a raging river and defeating the brigands, Melos eventually collapses from exhaustion, filled with despair.
In a moment of reflection, Melos berates himself for potentially failing his friend Selinuntius, who is bound and awaiting execution as a result of Melos’s promise to return. He grapples with feelings of inadequacy, questioning his ability to uphold his commitments and fearing he will be labeled a traitor. His internal conflict highlights the themes of honor, loyalty, and the existential battle between personal desire and duty.
Throughout this ordeal, Melos recalls his belief in the power of trust and integrity as his guiding principles. He expresses frustration at the weight of his promises and the nature of human expectations, feeling torn between his emotional turmoil and the need to rise to the occasion. The narrative delves into the heroic virtues of sacrifice and fidelity, echoing the essential struggle between maintaining one's ideals in the face of overwhelming challenges. Thus, Melos’s journey becomes one of self-realization, confronting his humanity, vulnerability, and the power of compassion. The specter of his impending failure looms heavily, but also serves to highlight his deep character and the importance of his convictions in a world filled with turmoil and oppression.
In the climactic conclusion of the story, Melos is driven by a fierce determination to rescue his friend Selinuntius. He finds renewed strength, drinking from a stream and reviving his hope: “There is still time before sunset. Someone waits for me.” This determination propels him to run towards the city of Syracuse, where he hopes to fulfill his promise. Despite the struggles that threaten to overwhelm him, his resolve only grows stronger, fueled by his friendship and the trust Selinuntius has placed in him. He reflects on the profound bond they share:
“You and I were good, true friends. Never did either of us harbor in his breast the dark clouds of doubt.”
Just as Melos reaches the brink of despair, he encounters Philostratus, Selinuntius’s apprentice, who delivers the heart-wrenching news that he may be too late to save his friend. Undeterred, Melos persists, declaring,
“I run because of that faith, that trust.”
He embodies the spirit of loyalty and sacrifice, moving through the challenges with fierce tenacity as he strives to prove the power of love and truth.
Upon finally reaching the execution ground, Melos sees Selinuntius bound and being prepared for his death. In a courageous act, he identifies himself to the executioner, offering to take Selinuntius’s place:
“I am Melos. Melos, who left this man as surety, is standing before you!”
The king, witnessing the display of loyalty and the powerful bond between the two friends, is moved. In a surprising turn, he admits the value of trust between individuals, declaring, “I, too, would be your friend.” Even a tyrant can find redemption in the face of genuine human connection. The story concludes with Melos being offered a red cloak by a maiden (for he had run naked), symbolizing honor and recognition for his bravery. The crowd cheers, uniting them in a moment of celebration.
August 4, 2022
Masterpiece
June 30, 2025
It was a quick read and just what I needed to get out of a reading slump. I heard it's more a book used for language learners that are young teens, but it also reads like a classic kids story. The language was simple, but reminded me of some fairy tales I've read in their original versions.
While the tyrant king's redemption felt very rushed and there was some confusing inner monologue, themes such as human nature (ex quitting when things get hard, overpowering fear), dignity, selflessness and especially friendship made it a very worthwhile read. Melos is an idealistic and realistic character at the same time. His hopes to see his sister's wedding, his doubts as to whether he'll save his friend, and his desire to quit before fulfilling his promise as well as his small existentialism crisis are realistic. What might be idealistic to readers is his strong friendship and love for his best friend Selinuntius, because the reminder of his promise and love for his friend make him continue his journey. (The friendship might remind some people of Jonathan and David from the Bible and the mad king Saul, but that could be me exaggerating).
This was one of Dazai's least depressing reads, and reminded me a bit of his Blue Bamboo collection stories where he similarly draws inspiration from myths and folktales of other cultures.
Overall, I felt that it was a simple, cute, and fun read!
While the tyrant king's redemption felt very rushed and there was some confusing inner monologue, themes such as human nature (ex quitting when things get hard, overpowering fear), dignity, selflessness and especially friendship made it a very worthwhile read. Melos is an idealistic and realistic character at the same time. His hopes to see his sister's wedding, his doubts as to whether he'll save his friend, and his desire to quit before fulfilling his promise as well as his small existentialism crisis are realistic. What might be idealistic to readers is his strong friendship and love for his best friend Selinuntius, because the reminder of his promise and love for his friend make him continue his journey. (The friendship might remind some people of Jonathan and David from the Bible and the mad king Saul, but that could be me exaggerating).
This was one of Dazai's least depressing reads, and reminded me a bit of his Blue Bamboo collection stories where he similarly draws inspiration from myths and folktales of other cultures.
Overall, I felt that it was a simple, cute, and fun read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 14, 2023
i loved it! finished it in one go(duh!). It’s such a silly book but for some reason it hits all the right spots. i feel like they should create this as a children’s book with illustrations or even encourage literature lessons to have a discussion because there’s so much to annotate & decipher!!
October 1, 2022
This book spoke alot about sacrifice, trust, and being passionate in your relationships this was really good, I don't really relate to it but it is still very interesting
February 13, 2022
The story's main topic is friendship.Very entertaining and beautiful, definitely worth reading.
September 11, 2024
It tells the story of Melos, a young shepherd who believes in friendship and runs for his life to fulfill his promise to an evil king. He runs as fast as he can under desperate circumstances to get his sister married and, above all, to keep his promise to his friend.
The story is inspired by ancient Roman folklore and depicts universal themes such as friendship and hope. Compared to other works by Osamu Dazai, the lighter tone and pure heart of the characters may seem strange to some, but that's also what makes it so compelling. While Osamu Dazai's works are usually full of dark themes and complex psychological descriptions, this one shines like a ray of light.
At the heart of this story is the power of friendship. The bond between Melos and Selinuntius is as if they are united by fortitude. The power of friendship and the depths of the human heart are beautifully expressed as Melos holds Selinuntius hostage and tries to fulfill his promise to the king. We can learn from Melos' actions that friendship is not just a feeling, but something that is proven through action.
In addition, the story talks about hope. In a desperate situation, Melos runs on, holding in his heart the hope of fulfilling the promise he made to his friend. It gives us the courage to live. This attitude of not losing hope and facing up to any challenge is an important message for us today.
The story itself is simple, but it is filled with deep themes. Friendship, hope, betrayal, and the darkness and light of the human heart. These themes make readers think about different things and evoke empathy. By comparing this work with other works by Osamu Dazai, we can also discover more of its appeal. For example, comparing it with the author's No Longer Human, the contrast between the main character's despair and hope is highlighted.
Run Melos is a moving story that teaches us the importance of friendship, but at the same time, I felt that it reflects the author's complex inner life.
The story is inspired by ancient Roman folklore and depicts universal themes such as friendship and hope. Compared to other works by Osamu Dazai, the lighter tone and pure heart of the characters may seem strange to some, but that's also what makes it so compelling. While Osamu Dazai's works are usually full of dark themes and complex psychological descriptions, this one shines like a ray of light.
At the heart of this story is the power of friendship. The bond between Melos and Selinuntius is as if they are united by fortitude. The power of friendship and the depths of the human heart are beautifully expressed as Melos holds Selinuntius hostage and tries to fulfill his promise to the king. We can learn from Melos' actions that friendship is not just a feeling, but something that is proven through action.
In addition, the story talks about hope. In a desperate situation, Melos runs on, holding in his heart the hope of fulfilling the promise he made to his friend. It gives us the courage to live. This attitude of not losing hope and facing up to any challenge is an important message for us today.
The story itself is simple, but it is filled with deep themes. Friendship, hope, betrayal, and the darkness and light of the human heart. These themes make readers think about different things and evoke empathy. By comparing this work with other works by Osamu Dazai, we can also discover more of its appeal. For example, comparing it with the author's No Longer Human, the contrast between the main character's despair and hope is highlighted.
Run Melos is a moving story that teaches us the importance of friendship, but at the same time, I felt that it reflects the author's complex inner life.
January 5, 2024
“Selinuntius,” said Melos, his eyes brimming with tears. “Hit me. Strike me as hard as you can. For one moment, on my way here, a bad dream overcame me. If you won’t strike me, I haven’t the right to embrace you. Hit me, Selinuntius!”
Selinuntius seemed to understand. He nodded, and dealt Melos’s right cheek such a blow that the sound of it echoed over the execution ground. Then he smiled gently.
“Melos,” he said. “Hit me. Strike me as hard and as resoundingly as I’ve just struck you. Once during the past three days, I doubted you. Just once, but for the first time in my life. If you won’t strike me, I cannot embrace you.”
Melos’s hand flew through the air and crashed against Selinuntius’s cheek. “Thank you, my friend!” Melos and Selinuntius spoke the words as one, embraced tightly, and sobbed aloud with joy.
a beautiful ending—truly exceptional performance! i enjoyed reading those 11 pages—exemplary writing, amusing and amazing story, a perfect combination.
Selinuntius seemed to understand. He nodded, and dealt Melos’s right cheek such a blow that the sound of it echoed over the execution ground. Then he smiled gently.
“Melos,” he said. “Hit me. Strike me as hard and as resoundingly as I’ve just struck you. Once during the past three days, I doubted you. Just once, but for the first time in my life. If you won’t strike me, I cannot embrace you.”
Melos’s hand flew through the air and crashed against Selinuntius’s cheek. “Thank you, my friend!” Melos and Selinuntius spoke the words as one, embraced tightly, and sobbed aloud with joy.
a beautiful ending—truly exceptional performance! i enjoyed reading those 11 pages—exemplary writing, amusing and amazing story, a perfect combination.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 31, 2025
حاسة إن العمل دا مُفاجئ بالنسبالي لإن فيه أمل عكس أغلب أعمال دازاي؛ قصة "Run, Melos!" (باليابانية: 走れメロス - Hashire Melos) للكاتب الياباني دازاي أوسامو تُعتبر واحدة مِن أشهر وأهم القصص القصيرة في الأدب الياباني الحديث، وهي مستوحاة من قصة قديمة للكاتب الإغريقي فريدريش شيلر عن الصداقة والإخلاص.
ميلوس يُمثل "الإنسان المثالي" في نظر دازاي—الي يتمسك بالأمل والشرف حتى في عالم مليء بالفساد والخذلان. في المقابل، الملك يُمثل الشك وانعدام الثقة، لكنه يتغير في النهاية بتأثير إخلاص ميلوس، رغم أن القصة مُستوحاة مِن عمل أوروبي، فهي بتحمل بصمة دازاي—الي كان بيعيش صراعاً داخلياً عميقاً بين المثالية والواقع، بين النُبل واليأس، القصة بتحمل بُعداً ذاتياً غير مباشر، وكأن دازاي كان عاوز أنُّه يؤمن -ولو مُؤقتاً- بوجود بشر طيبين حقيقيين زي ميلوس.
"أركض يا ميلوس" هي أكثر مِن مجرد قصة عن صداقة، هي تعبير عن التمسك بالقيم حتى في أحلك الظروف، وممكن كانت محاولة مِن دازاي للتشبُث بصورة مثالية للإنسان وسط فوضى الحياة والخذلان الي عايشه شخصياً.
قرأتها مِن ترجمة صديقي العزيز 'فوزي خيري' تقدروا تقرأوها مُترجمَة مِنَ اليابانية للغة العربية الفصحى في مدونته...
Fawzy Translations
ميلوس يُمثل "الإنسان المثالي" في نظر دازاي—الي يتمسك بالأمل والشرف حتى في عالم مليء بالفساد والخذلان. في المقابل، الملك يُمثل الشك وانعدام الثقة، لكنه يتغير في النهاية بتأثير إخلاص ميلوس، رغم أن القصة مُستوحاة مِن عمل أوروبي، فهي بتحمل بصمة دازاي—الي كان بيعيش صراعاً داخلياً عميقاً بين المثالية والواقع، بين النُبل واليأس، القصة بتحمل بُعداً ذاتياً غير مباشر، وكأن دازاي كان عاوز أنُّه يؤمن -ولو مُؤقتاً- بوجود بشر طيبين حقيقيين زي ميلوس.
"أركض يا ميلوس" هي أكثر مِن مجرد قصة عن صداقة، هي تعبير عن التمسك بالقيم حتى في أحلك الظروف، وممكن كانت محاولة مِن دازاي للتشبُث بصورة مثالية للإنسان وسط فوضى الحياة والخذلان الي عايشه شخصياً.
قرأتها مِن ترجمة صديقي العزيز 'فوزي خيري' تقدروا تقرأوها مُترجمَة مِنَ اليابانية للغة العربية الفصحى في مدونته...
Fawzy Translations
September 10, 2023
this was interesting. i didn't really know what to expect from it, but i liked it. it reminds me a lot of children's fairy tales due to the way that it's written and how the story ends, as it's a happy ending. i like how dazai-san approached the themes of trust and betrayal. it's quite an interesting thing to talk about, as there's a lot that one can say, and i like the simple approach that dazai-san took within this story. i feel like i don't really know what to say because there isn't really a lot to discuss. i do think it's an interesting read though, but i don't know if i would recommend it or not.
December 13, 2025
Buku ini benar-benar sesuai dengan judulnya, aku merasa dikejar-kejar saat baca buku ini😆ikut ngos-ngosan krn ngejar waktu.. merasa setiap detik bermakna, aku bahkan pengen nyeret Melos biar dia gak tumbang setelah melawan bandit-bandit di perjalanannya!!!
Daripada novel buku ini lebih masuk kategori cerpen sih😆
Cerpen yg menggabungkan beberapa emosional,panik,kagum, dan sedikit humor ya di akhir cerita!! Tapi di pertengahan cerita aku sempet shock😭hehe (kalau mau tau baca sendiri ya shocknya krn apa hihi😝, pendek kok kan ini cerpen 😁😚)
Daripada novel buku ini lebih masuk kategori cerpen sih😆
Cerpen yg menggabungkan beberapa emosional,panik,kagum, dan sedikit humor ya di akhir cerita!! Tapi di pertengahan cerita aku sempet shock😭hehe (kalau mau tau baca sendiri ya shocknya krn apa hihi😝, pendek kok kan ini cerpen 😁😚)
February 8, 2026
“Malam ini aku akan kehilangan nyawaku. Aku berlari demi kehilangan nyawaku.”
Melos, hashire!! Atau Larilah melos, rasanya seperti dongeng klasik yang ditulis ulang dengan hati yang gelisah. Dengan premis yang sederhana—alur yang lurus dan konflik yang jelas, Dazai dengan piawai menyelipkan pertanyaan besar tentang kepercayaan, pengorbanan dan iman sesama manusia. Meskipun ditulis dengan gaya bahasa yang ringan, nyaris seperti dongeng anak-anak pada umumnya namun pesan moralnya dewasa dan menohok. Ini bukanlah tentang “lari” secara fisik tapi tentang lari melawan putus asa.
Melos, hashire!! Atau Larilah melos, rasanya seperti dongeng klasik yang ditulis ulang dengan hati yang gelisah. Dengan premis yang sederhana—alur yang lurus dan konflik yang jelas, Dazai dengan piawai menyelipkan pertanyaan besar tentang kepercayaan, pengorbanan dan iman sesama manusia. Meskipun ditulis dengan gaya bahasa yang ringan, nyaris seperti dongeng anak-anak pada umumnya namun pesan moralnya dewasa dan menohok. Ini bukanlah tentang “lari” secara fisik tapi tentang lari melawan putus asa.
January 25, 2025
Get you friends who you believe would do this for you. There are levels to friendship - shouldn't you keep close the ones who you believed cared the most? Why do you push them away at any inconvenience. Won't you end up alone if you abide by every frivolous possibility of betrayal? I ask of you to open your heart and mind. The world isn't as kind as you think it is. Or maybe you aren't as precious as you think you are.
December 27, 2023
Dazai’s writing style in ‘Run, Melos’ is totally different from ‘No Longer Human’, and it really compliments the classical theme in that story. It’s cute, it’s fun, and it does stand up to its reputation. Amoral of universal appeal is given through this story of friendship,which is as precious as life itself.
December 22, 2024
Enggak nyangka seorang Osamu Dazai bisa bikin cerita seoptimis ini. Gua penasaran apa yang ada di dalam kepala penulis No Longer Human sampe kepikiran buat bikin cerita yang manis dan lucu tentang persahabatan dan kerja keras. Dan gua ngerasa kok ceritanya sangat shonen ya. Apakah ini awal inspirasi cerita-cerita shonen?
January 7, 2026
read this in japanese for class. made such an impression on me that i had to record it...man i just love dazai's storytelling, especially with the voice and speech mannerisms that embody the characters, it's so fun and engaging and i was able to picture the scene so well...truly one of the best authors of all time
July 14, 2023
This one was the shortest book I've ever read, but unlike other thicker books, It was full of emotion and life lessons.
Taught me how great friendship is and how important it is to have one trustful person ny your side
Taught me how great friendship is and how important it is to have one trustful person ny your side
March 12, 2024
Genialne. Podoba mi się jak po wielkiej Improwizacji Melosa robi się coraz śmieszniej. Ten król na końcu, który jest jak "Czy mogę zostać waszym przyjacielem? " mnie rozwalił. Piękna bardzo mądra historia <3
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 9, 2025
Cerpen klasik ini konon jadi bacaan wajib siswa menengah pertama di Jepang. Sepertinya asik juga kalau diulas sebagai siswa SMP ya. Sayang sekali di sekolah saya dulu tidak ada tradisi yang kuat perihal sastra.
Read
July 9, 2022I don't know if I should rate it with stars. I just enjoyed it.
March 15, 2023
Good enough for a textual story
March 25, 2023
“The sun has yet to set.”
April 3, 2023
its relatable
June 17, 2023
(2.5)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews