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3.76 AVERAGE
3.76 AVERAGE
mysterious
reflective
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
mysterious
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
adventurous
emotional
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Title: "Killing Commendatore"
Publication Year: 2017
Overview:
"Killing Commendatore" is a novel by Haruki Murakami, published in 2017. The story follows an unnamed narrator, an artist and portrait painter, who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and creativity after his wife leaves him. He retreats to a mountain cabin, where he discovers a mysterious painting and becomes involved in a series of enigmatic events involving a reimagining of "The Killing Commendatore."
Analysis:
1. Art and Creativity:
"Killing Commendatore" delves deeply into the world of art and creativity. The protagonist's passion for painting and his exploration of the creative process are central to the narrative. The novel examines the relationship between art and life, the power of imagination, and the role of the artist in interpreting reality.
2. Symbolism and Metaphor:
Murakami's use of symbolism and metaphor is pronounced in this novel. The painting of "The Killing Commendatore" becomes a symbol of hidden truths and the mysteries of the human psyche. The "metaphorical" journey the protagonist undertakes mirrors his inner transformation and the uncovering of hidden desires.
3. Exploration of Loneliness and Loss:
The novel explores themes of loneliness and loss, as the protagonist grapples with the absence of his wife and a sense of isolation in the remote mountain cabin. His emotional journey reflects the universal experience of loneliness and the search for meaning in the face of personal upheaval.
4. Magical Realism and Surrealism:
"Killing Commendatore" incorporates elements of magical realism and surrealism. The novel blurs the boundaries between reality and the fantastical, as the protagonist encounters mysterious characters, such as Menshiki, and experiences inexplicable phenomena. This blend of genres adds to the sense of wonder and intrigue.
5. Literary References and Homage:
The novel pays homage to F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby" and other literary works. This intertextuality deepens the layers of meaning within the narrative and underscores the connections between art and literature.
6. Philosophical Contemplation:
As with many of Murakami's works, philosophical contemplation is a hallmark of "Killing Commendatore." The characters engage in discussions about the nature of reality, existence, and the human condition. These philosophical inquiries add depth and intellectual engagement to the story.
7. Rating: 4.8 Stars (Out of 5):
"Killing Commendatore" is a thought-provoking and artistically rich novel that explores the boundaries of reality and imagination. Its examination of art, creativity, and the human psyche is intellectually stimulating. While its intricate narrative and philosophical themes may require careful reading, they contribute to a captivating and rewarding reading experience.
In conclusion, "Killing Commendatore" demonstrates Haruki Murakami's ability to create a multi-layered narrative that invites readers to contemplate the intersection of art, reality, and the mysteries of human existence. Through its exploration of creativity and the human spirit, the novel offers a compelling and immersive journey into the depths of the protagonist's psyche and the power of artistic expression.
Publication Year: 2017
Overview:
"Killing Commendatore" is a novel by Haruki Murakami, published in 2017. The story follows an unnamed narrator, an artist and portrait painter, who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and creativity after his wife leaves him. He retreats to a mountain cabin, where he discovers a mysterious painting and becomes involved in a series of enigmatic events involving a reimagining of "The Killing Commendatore."
Analysis:
1. Art and Creativity:
"Killing Commendatore" delves deeply into the world of art and creativity. The protagonist's passion for painting and his exploration of the creative process are central to the narrative. The novel examines the relationship between art and life, the power of imagination, and the role of the artist in interpreting reality.
2. Symbolism and Metaphor:
Murakami's use of symbolism and metaphor is pronounced in this novel. The painting of "The Killing Commendatore" becomes a symbol of hidden truths and the mysteries of the human psyche. The "metaphorical" journey the protagonist undertakes mirrors his inner transformation and the uncovering of hidden desires.
3. Exploration of Loneliness and Loss:
The novel explores themes of loneliness and loss, as the protagonist grapples with the absence of his wife and a sense of isolation in the remote mountain cabin. His emotional journey reflects the universal experience of loneliness and the search for meaning in the face of personal upheaval.
4. Magical Realism and Surrealism:
"Killing Commendatore" incorporates elements of magical realism and surrealism. The novel blurs the boundaries between reality and the fantastical, as the protagonist encounters mysterious characters, such as Menshiki, and experiences inexplicable phenomena. This blend of genres adds to the sense of wonder and intrigue.
5. Literary References and Homage:
The novel pays homage to F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby" and other literary works. This intertextuality deepens the layers of meaning within the narrative and underscores the connections between art and literature.
6. Philosophical Contemplation:
As with many of Murakami's works, philosophical contemplation is a hallmark of "Killing Commendatore." The characters engage in discussions about the nature of reality, existence, and the human condition. These philosophical inquiries add depth and intellectual engagement to the story.
7. Rating: 4.8 Stars (Out of 5):
"Killing Commendatore" is a thought-provoking and artistically rich novel that explores the boundaries of reality and imagination. Its examination of art, creativity, and the human psyche is intellectually stimulating. While its intricate narrative and philosophical themes may require careful reading, they contribute to a captivating and rewarding reading experience.
In conclusion, "Killing Commendatore" demonstrates Haruki Murakami's ability to create a multi-layered narrative that invites readers to contemplate the intersection of art, reality, and the mysteries of human existence. Through its exploration of creativity and the human spirit, the novel offers a compelling and immersive journey into the depths of the protagonist's psyche and the power of artistic expression.
Although, this book is definitely not my favorite book my this author, I still enjoyed it. Murakami shines in his ability to convey the magic in the most mundane moments. It's his zen-like musings and descriptions that draw me into his world. This book did not disappoint in that realm. I found this book captivated my interest throughout and I found myself pondering it when I wasn't reading, always a good sign.
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
reflective
tense
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Rape, Sexual assault, Suicide, Suicide attempt, Death of parent, Murder
slow-paced
mysterious
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
reflective
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
adventurous
mysterious
reflective
relaxing
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
N/A
It took me 2 months to read it, i gave up on it 5 times and would come back, has very boring parts but overall interesting story that finnaly came togehter in the end
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death of parent
Moderate: Infidelity, Rape, Dementia, Pregnancy