Published in 1987, Haruki Murakami’s book Norwegian Wood gets its title from a famous song by The Beatles. This is a quintessential bildungsroman that entwines nostalgia into themes of loss, romance and grief. It delves into Japanese culture and the ethos of the time in which the novel is set. On the surface, the novel is a romance wherein a young man experiences the dilemma of loving two women at the same time. However, this is a powerful story that delves into deeper topics such as mental health, self-discovery and timeless love. A poignant coming-of-age story of a college student, this book is a must read for all KU-ites. My favorite quote: “The years nineteen and twenty are a crucial stage in the maturation of character, and if you allow yourself to become warped when you’re that age, it will cause you pain when you’re older.”
Author: Prof. Anjali Ramnani, Unitedworld School of Business (UWSB)
Disclaimer: The opinions / views expressed in this article are solely of the author in his / her individual capacity. They do not purport to reflect the opinions and/or views of the College and/or University or its members.
