KOKORO

by Natsume Sōseki, Brian Sato

Natsume Sōseki's "Kokoro," first published in 1914, is considered one of the most significant works in Japanese literature. "Kokoro," which means "the core of things," delves into the complexities of human emotions and relationships, capturing the transition from the Meiji era to the modern age. Through its profound exploration of themes such as guilt, loneliness, and the search for meaning, "Kokoro" continues to resonate with readers over a century after its initial release.
Natsume Sōseki, born in 1867, is one of Japan's most celebrated writers. He lived during the Meiji era, a time of significant social and political change as Japan opened up to the West and modernized rapidly. This period of transformation greatly influenced Sōseki's work, as he often grappled with the tensions between tradition and modernity, individualism and collectivism.
"Kokoro" is set against this backdrop of change. The novel was serialized in the Asahi Shimbun newspaper from April to August 1914, capturing the attention of a wide readership. Its themes reflect the existential angst and the shifting moral landscape of the time.

233 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 12, 2024

About the author

Natsume Sōseki (夏目 漱石), born Natsume Kinnosuke (夏目 金之助), was a Japanese novelist. He is best known for his novels Kokoro, Botchan, I Am a Cat and his unfinished work Light and Darkness. He was also a scholar of British literature and composer of haiku, kanshi, and fairy tales. From 1984 until 2004, his portrait appeared on the front of the Japanese 1000 yen note. In Japan, he is often considered the greatest writer in modern Japanese history. He has had a profound effect on almost all important Japanese writers since.

Reviews

[Eraneh Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third book I’ve read by Soseki Natsume, and I must say his works are truly a treat for the mind. Each of them challenges my thoughts and perceptions by immersing me in the inner worlds of his complex characters.

Kokoro tells the seemingly simple story of a young narrator and his Sensei, a man he deeply admires. The first part describes how their paths cross and how their bond gradually deepens. The second part shifts focus to the narrator’s family—who love him dearly and hope to see him become a respected figure in society. The final section, Sensei’s Testament, unfolds as a long autobiographical letter that reveals the painful story behind Sensei’s solitude and guilt.

At its heart, this novel reflects how society acts as a cruel web, slowly shaping us into the very kind of people we once despised, showing how time and experience can quietly transform our ideals and our hearts.

[Joyeeta · Rating 3 out of 5]

A melancholic story about a young boy and his sensei. I am not sure of what the takeaway is that has moved people for me it is was a depiction of the culture and the mindset of people who continue to show resilience , extraordinary dedication towards their work and are spiritually in nature and manner but at the same time the same society is immensely submerged with mental health and suicidal tendencies. It’s this contrast that I find very interesting.

[Neko · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Kindle version had many issues which made this story a bit hard to follow.

[Rachel Widdershins · Rating 3 out of 5]

The kindle edition is so glitchy I was forced to give up.