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No Longer Human

By Osamu Dazai
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Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
No Longer Human by Osamu Dazai delves into the life of a man named Ōba Yōzō who struggles to express his true self, masking his alienation with humour and deceit. The novel explores themes of existential despair as it chronicles his descent into a life devoid of genuine connection, resulting in deep feelings of isolation and disconnection from society. It's a powerful reflection on human vulnerability and identity crisis.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you are intrigued by deeply introspective narratives that explore the complexities of human identity and the struggle to find authenticity in a conformist society. It will appeal to you if you appreciate poignant examinations of alienation and the human condition through the eyes of a compelling, flawed protagonist.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

The poignant and fascinating story of a young man who is caught between the breakup of the traditions of a northern Japanese aristocratic family and the impact of Western ideas.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Portraying himself as a failure, the protagonist of Osamu Dazai's No Longer Human narrates a seemingly normal life even while he feels himself incapable of understanding human beings. Oba Yozo's attempts to reconcile himself to the world around him begin in early childhood, continue through high school, where he becomes a "clown" to mask his alienation, and eventually lead to a failed suicide attempt as an adult.

Without sentimentality, he records the casual cruelties of life and its fleeting moments of human connection and tenderness.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

No Longer Human by Osamu Dazai is often seen as a timeless exploration of isolation and identity, maintaining a poignant relevance even after seventy-five years. Reviewers note its resonance with contemporary cultural moods, describing Dazai's writing as introspective and revealing, often striking a nerve with readers due to its unflinching honesty. The book is acclaimed for its incisive portrayal of the human psyche, leaving an indelible mark on those who delve into its introspective narrative.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780811204811

Publisher: New Directions Publishing Corporation

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 01 February 1973

Country: United States

Imprint: New Directions Publishing Corporation

Contributors:

  • Translated by Donald Keene
  • Translated by Donald Keene
  • Translated by Donald Keene

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 13.0mm

Width: 132.0mm

Height: 203.0mm

Weight: 248g

Pages: 176

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About the Author

Osamu Dazai (1909-1948) was a 20th century Japanese novelist.

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