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Nov 22, 2022Liked by Tosh Berman

I liked Murakami so much in the beginning, and not so much now. His book 1Q84 changed that for me, as he includes a not so hidden parody of Kenzaburo Oe, who he is competitive with and a bit jealous of (Oe won a Nobel). Most Westerners aren't aware of that; his books sold really well when I worked at (briefly) Cody's SF. Mishima I read as a teenager, so he will always have that enhanced respect.

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Great insights, especially the recommendation to consume Queneau for breakfast, and O'Hara for lunch.

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Thanks Tosh. I love Murakami’s novels. His writing style is one of great ease and the stories unfold in rather amazing ways but seem very natural to the ear.

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He has family and a life style to support, but I am not sure he sees the problem. If he is looking for sales as being a form of recognition, he may have chosen the more proven fiduciary path. It does happen a lot, and being poor or on the cutting edge has other social consequences. Then again, there are artists that do it, and they must have a trust towards themselves, or an inability to do otherwise. This isn't a very philosophical time in regard to intention.

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Haaaaa....well there would be two courses for dinner: Thomas Pynchon and Roberto Bolano....and we can't forget dessert, which also has two courses: Bruno Schultz and Robert Walser. But, what beverage to serve, now there's a question...

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