Norwegian Wood: Wood You?

The plotline follows the life of a “fly-on-the-wall” type character, Toru Watanabe, who upon hearing the Beetle’s song, is instantly taken back to his college years in Tokyo. His reminisces tell the story of two different relationships that he establishes with two women who might be thought to be polar opposites; Naoko (the lost ex-girlfriend of his late best friend, who has a very ghostly feel to her) and Midori (the epitome of life and energy, bursting with youth and sexuality). As his relationships with the two women progress, the novel takes on the responsibility of becoming more than just another tale of romance. It delves into the sub-categories of grief, existentialism, platonic relationships, morality, and much more. 

What I love most about this book is the way in which Murakami captured the essence of his characters so convincingly. A short read, I found that there are few other texts that I have come across that have been able to present the characters so wholly.

If you are looking for something easy to read, I would definitely recommend Norwegian Wood. That’s not to say it’s a light read (disclaimer: observe the difference). The subject matter is thoroughly thought-provoking and reflective, so be prepped for that. Guy or girl, this one should most definitely make its way onto your literary “booket list” (oh yes, I just said that). I think I have rambled on long enough now and if you aren’t convinced yet, then you’re a lost cause who just wasted about two minutes of their life reading the pixels on your computer.

PS: There is a film adaptation available, but read the book first, don’t be a joker.