The Sailor Who Fell from Grace with the Sea is a renowned book by Mishima and a perfect introduction to his ouvre for those who have not yet read any of Mishima’s writings. Especially in the brilliant translation by Johna Nathan.
The story is set in the post-war Yokohama. The main character is a young Noboru, „number three” in the local group of boys who by all means try to come up with their own version of moral rules. This is a story about honour and seeking glory. And also a story of love between the boy’s mother and a sailor named Tsukazaki. This passion leads him into destruction.
The Sailor Who Fell from Grace with the Sea is based upon contrasts between the charm of poetic descriptions and concise fragments. Sea and land. Children and adults. Tenderness and cruelty. In such a short story Mishima manages to build conflicted characters: Naboru craves to be accepted, his mother does not want to give up her independence, and Tsukazaki realizes that neither on the sea nor onshore will he find happiness.
Brilliant and touching work by one of the most prominent Japanese writers.
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