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A review by ben_smitty
When I Whistle by Shūsaku Endō
4.0
This novel of nostalgia has elements in it that are different from Endo's other works, especially since the Christian element is missing. Still, the contrast Endo creates between the pre- and post-war generation is intriguing; it seems that Endo captures the spirit of modernity well through the characters' psychological scarcity and Machiavellian attitude. He also writes about the dread of old age and the nostalgia that accompanies it, which is another major theme in many of his later novels.
Did I enjoy the novel? I appreciated Endo's attempt to write about something different, but the book lacks the passion and life inherent in his other works. Catholicism runs deep in his blood, and it's almost awkward to read a work that's missing something so dear to him.
Did I enjoy the novel? I appreciated Endo's attempt to write about something different, but the book lacks the passion and life inherent in his other works. Catholicism runs deep in his blood, and it's almost awkward to read a work that's missing something so dear to him.