After all, this is what Japanese literature usually does: forces one to embark on a journey towards self-discovery. While the narrative itself is quite enjoyable and poignant, it is the protagonist’s realization that the reader will ultimately connect with and by which they will be propelled into a state of self-analysis. Following the heart wrenching diagnosis the protagonist receives, the events unfold during the course of a week, each day being influenced by the decision he has taken during the previous day. Genki Kawamura’s tale delightfully embodies magic realism, and it is through this writing combining naturalistic techniques and surreal elements that the author manages to determine the reader to explore their surroundings and, eventually, conclude that beauty lies in the mundane things.
Already renowned in Japanese literature, the theme of death – combined with cats – represents the core of the short but utterly meaningful novel that revolves around a young man receiving one of the most shattering news one can receive during their lifetime. Genki Kawamura’s debut novel, If Cats Disappeared from the World, falls in the category of books that ultimately, through different manners, put things into perspective when it comes to aspects regarding human connection and, generally, the meaning of one’s life – or rather the lack of it and what each individual defines as “meaning”.
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