'Lizard' by Banana Yoshimoto is a collection of six short stories that delve into themes of relationships, discovery, magic realism, hope, awareness, healing, and acceptance. The stories follow young urbanites navigating through emotional intrigue, self-discovery, and encounters with supernatural elements like shape shifters and healers. Yoshimoto's writing style is described as crystal clear, elegant, svelte, simple, and atmospheric, with a focus on communicating deep meanings and thoughts through short declarative sentences.

Characters:

The characters are relatable urbanites experiencing personal growth and emotional journeys, often during critical transitional moments.

Writing/Prose:

The writing combines simplicity with depth, creating a unique emotional resonance, although it can be seen as overly straightforward at times.

Plot/Storyline:

The collection focuses on modern Japan's societal influences through personal narratives, highlighting moments of change in relationships.

Setting:

Set against the backdrop of contemporary urban Japan, the stories evoke a sense of place that resonates with both familiarity and mystery.

Pacing:

The pacing is contemplative, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the story's atmosphere and emotional depth.

I had spent the evening downing whiskey at a bar with my buddies and was totally smashed by the time I got on the train to head home. For some reason, when I heard them announce my stop, I stayed put,...

Notes:

Lizard is a collection of six short stories by Banana Yoshimoto.

The stories explore themes like family, spirituality, love, and change.

Each story features characters at turning points in their relationships.

Yoshimoto's writing is noted for its flow and emotional depth, despite some critiques of simplicity.

The collection includes magical realism elements like shape-shifting and healers.

Readers often feel a sense of bemusement while reading, which enhances the experience.

The stories reflect modern Japanese society and the complexities of young urban life.

Some readers recommend this collection as a good introduction to Japanese literary fiction.

Banana Yoshimoto's style is considered both elegant and straightforward, but can also be frustrating for some.

The book has received mixed reviews, with some praising its beauty and others criticizing its depth.

Has Romance?

There is a medium presence of romance in the stories, often intertwined with themes of self-discovery and relationships.

From The Publisher:

I shall refer to her as Lizard here, but not because of the small lizard tattoo that I discovered on her inner thigh.

The woman has round, black eyes that gaze at you with utter detachment, like the eyes of a reptile. Every bend and curve of her small body is cool to the touch, so cool that I want to scoop her up in my two hands.

This may bring to mind the image of a man holding a bunny or a chick, but that's not what I mean. What I imagine is the strange, tickling sensation of sharp claws scampering around in my palms. And then, when I open up my hands to take a peek, a thin, red tongue lashes out. Reflected in those glassy eyes, I see my own lonely face, peering down, looking for something to love and cherish. That's what Lizard feels like to me. . . .

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What can you read after
Lizard?

See the list (31 books)

About the Author:

Banana Yoshimoto has won numerous prizes in her native Japan, and her first book, Kitchen, has sold millions of copies worldwide. Her books have been translated and published in more than twenty countries. She lives in Tokyo.

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Lizard

Banana Yoshimoto