A review by minayana
No Longer Human by Osamu Dazai

dark emotional sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Although littered with problematic issues, No Longer Human was such a fascinating read. Knowing that Dazai was very troubled himself and largely put his own life into the novel, it is so interesting, and horrifying, to watch the events unfold. Yozo has a distinct dislike towards women (it is implied that he was assaulted as a child) and we watch as he repeatedly inserts himself into women’s lives, tears them to shreds, and runs away with his tail between his legs, all while actively blaming the women. There are moments that are truly rage inducing. Yozo is self deprecating and suicidal, but also egoist and self centered. The writing was captivating, and the gloomy, bleak atmosphere really nails how your mind is when struggling with depression.  I would love to hear a psychologists thoughts on this book. Please be careful when deciding to pick up this book, it can be very triggering.
Expand filter menu Content Warnings