Colorless Tsukuru Tazaki and His Years of Pilgrimage

Why did Murakami choose this title? What is the symbolism behind the words “colorless” and “pilgrimage?”

How does Haida’s appearance in Tsukuru’s room or in his dream affect how readers understand his relationship with Shiro? Why does the novel purposely leave the reality of what happened with Haida unclear?

Compare the novel’s female characters. How do Sara’s motivations compare with those of Shiro and Kuro? What are the similarities and differences in these women’s relationships with Tsukuru?

What is the purpose of the Midorikawa anecdote in the novel? How does this story connect to its themes?

Analyze the novel’s use of extended metaphors and imagery. Why does Murakami rely on this rhetorical device? What can comparison do that straight description cannot?

Consider the novel’s interest in modernity. How does Tsukuru’s passion for train stations and his work there compare with Aka’s business? What is Murakami saying about contemporary Japan?

Discuss sexuality in the novel. How do Tsukuru’s sexual dreams compare to his waking sex life? How do other characters see sexual desire, whether positively or negatively expressed?

When Tsukuru visits Kuro, they embrace for a long time without saying anything to each other. What does this scene reveal about the usefulness of language versus shared experience?