Plot Summary

The Sound of the Mountain

Yasunari Kawabata
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The Sound of the Mountain

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1954

Book Brief

Yasunari Kawabata

The Sound of the Mountain

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1954
Book Details
Pages

288

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Kamakura, Japan • Post-war era

Publication Year

1954

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

670L

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Super Short Summary

The Sound of the Mountain by Yasunari Kawabata follows Ogata Shingo, an aging man confronting his deteriorating memory and the complexities of family dynamics. As he reflects on past decisions, particularly his unfulfilled love for his late wife's sister, Shingo grapples with his son's infidelity, his daughter's troubled marriage, and his daughter-in-law's challenges, ultimately learning to accept his family's imperfections and his own. Sensitive topics include infidelity, the emotional impact of abortion, and substance use.

Melancholic

Contemplative

Nostalgic

Emotional

Serene

Reviews & Readership

4.0

8,973 ratings

68%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Sound of the Mountain by Yasunari Kawabata is lauded for its lyrical prose and introspective exploration of aging and family dynamics. Critics praise its delicate portrayal of the protagonist's internal struggles and the beauty of its imagery. However, some find its slow pace and subdued plot challenging. Overall, it's a poignant and meditative work that resonates deeply with those attuned to its subtle nuances.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Sound of the Mountain?

Readers who appreciate introspective storytelling and subtle exploration of aging, family dynamics, and existential themes in Japanese settings will enjoy The Sound of the Mountain by Yasunari Kawabata. Comparable to Norwegian Wood by Haruki Murakami and The Remains of the Day by Kazuo Ishiguro, it appeals to those who cherish character-driven narratives.

4.0

8,973 ratings

68%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

288

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Kamakura, Japan • Post-war era

Publication Year

1954

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

670L

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