A Personal Matter
by Kenzaburo Oë
Grove Black Cat, 1969

CONDITION:
Well kept copy, solid and unmarked, light wear.

ATTRIBUTES:
Paperback. No dust jacket.

DESCRIPTION:
Kenzaburo Oe's "A Personal Matter" is a powerful and semi-autobiographical novel that delves into the profound struggles of a young father, Bird, as he grapples with the birth of his severely mentally disabled son. The narrative explores themes of parental responsibility, identity, and the emotional turmoil of confronting unexpected challenges in life. Oe, a Nobel Prize laureate in Literature (1994), is renowned for his unflinching exploration of personal and collective trauma, often drawing from his own experiences, including the birth of his son with a cranial deformity and the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. His works are characterized by their poetic force and ability to create an imagined world where life and myth intertwine to form a disconcerting picture of the human predicament.

Oe's literary significance stems from his unique voice in post-World War 2 Japanese literature, challenging traditional norms with an experimental narrative style and a focus on political, social, and philosophical issues. He is acknowledged as one of the most important and influential writers of his generation, known for his dark musings on moral failure and his engagement with existentialism and social non-conformism. His influences were notably less Japanese and more American and European, contributing to his distinct approach. The novel itself is considered a significant entry point into Oe's oeuvre, offering a deeply personal yet universally resonant exploration of the human condition.

Collectors would find "A Personal Matter" particularly interesting due to its profound literary merit and its connection to a Nobel Prize-winning author. The book is a seminal work that reflects Oe's personal struggles and his broader commentary on post-war Japan. The translation by John Nathan, a distinguished American translator and scholar, further enhances its value, as Nathan's translations are widely credited with helping Oe achieve international recognition and the Nobel Prize. This novel not only offers a compelling narrative but also serves as a crucial piece in understanding the development of one of the 20th century's most significant literary figures.

FLASHBACK TO 1969 WHEN THIS BOOK WAS PUBLISHED:
When this book was published in 1969, humanity took its first steps on the moon, the Vietnam War raged on with the My Lai massacre shocking the world, and Woodstock defined a generation while The Beatles released their final album, *Abbey Road*. Political tensions were high, marked by the ongoing Cold War, while literary voices like Kenzaburo Oë were gaining international recognition. It was a year of immense upheaval and groundbreaking achievements, forever etched in history.

Location: 01-02-01-579