Haunting and mysterious are the first two words that strike your mind as flip through the pages of The Japanese Wife, by Kunal Basu. This book has generated a lot of interested especially after Director Aparna Sen decided to make a movie of the same name based on it. The books consists 12 short stories which are very beautifully woven across a plethora of relationships that we as humans are surrounded with. In the author’s own words, “These are chronicles of memory and dreams born at the crossroads of civilizations. They parade a cast of angels and demons rubbing shoulders with those whose lives are never quite as ordinary as they seem.”

I am sure all you would be aware of the famous author O Henry and his famous writing style termed as “The O Henry Twist” wherein suddenly in the end the story would take an entirely different twist contrary to the expected. The author Kunal Basu manages to create a similar twist in each of his stories leaving a tinge of mystery at the end. There is a hint of innocence amidst the lucid narration as it re-creates the places where the story is taking place. The common emotion is all the stories is love which comes out very strongly.

I would not term it as light reading as the stories have a seriousness around and it requires a certain level of concentration to understand the real meaning hidden between the lines. Every story unveils a new facet of life which otherwise would be unnoticed by us. This book substantiates the fact that each and every individual in this world has his/her own story to tell. The first story The Japanese Wife is very grasping but slowly as you progress somewhere the narration loses its sheen.

Overall it makes a very interesting read as each story is able to generate curiosity about what will happen next. It leaves you with a mixed feeling.

“A Japanese Wife” is a novel written by Kunal Basu, an acclaimed Indian author known for his works that explore themes of love, identity, culture, and human relationships. First published in 2008, the book weaves a poignant tale that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries, focusing on the complexities of love and commitment.

About the Author:

Kunal Basu is a well-known Indian writer, academic, and a professor at the University of Oxford. His writing often delves into the intricate dynamics of human relationships and the complexities of cultural identity. Some of his other notable works include “The Opium Clerk” and “The Miniaturist”. Basu’s writing style is engaging, thoughtful, and insightful, exploring the universal themes of human emotions through his characters.

Overview of the Book:

“A Japanese Wife” is set in Calcutta (now Kolkata), and it explores the unconventional love story between Sneh, an Indian man, and Mitsuko, a Japanese woman. Their relationship is unique not only because of the distance between their countries but also due to the way their love develops under extraordinary circumstances.

The novel is divided into two main timelines: the initial relationship between Sneh and Mitsuko, which begins with an unusual pen-pal relationship that grows into a deep emotional bond, and their later years as they face the challenges of living in different countries and coping with life’s realities.

Sneh, an Indian man who is initially quite shy, forms a connection with Mitsuko, a Japanese woman living in Japan. They meet through a correspondence, and despite never meeting in person, they form an emotional bond through their letters, and Sneh eventually marries Mitsuko. Over time, the story reveals how they each face their own personal challenges, especially the emotional struggles of being separated by an ocean and a deeply different cultural context.

The novel explores how the love between Sneh and Mitsuko is tested by time, distance, and cultural differences. As the story progresses, it delves into the themes of loneliness, commitment, and the power of love. Both Sneh and Mitsuko struggle with the lack of physical proximity but find solace and comfort in their emotional connection, and the novel explores the emotional nuances of their long-distance relationship.

Key Themes:

1. Love Across Borders:

   • One of the central themes of the book is the idea of cross-cultural love. The love story between Sneh and Mitsuko transcends their different nationalities and cultural backgrounds, which gives the story a universal appeal. It explores how love, in its purest form, does not recognize national or cultural boundaries.

2. Loneliness and Connection:

   • Despite their strong emotional bond, both Sneh and Mitsuko face the emotional weight of loneliness. The distance between them — both geographical and cultural — creates a void that they constantly try to fill. The novel looks at how loneliness can shape relationships and how people try to bridge the gap of distance in unconventional ways.

3. Communication and Intimacy:

   • The novel also explores how communication forms the basis of intimacy in relationships. The way Sneh and Mitsuko communicate through letters forms the emotional core of their relationship. This highlights how even in the absence of physical closeness, true emotional intimacy can be created through consistent and meaningful communication.

4. Cultural Differences:

   • The book explores the challenges that arise when people from different cultural backgrounds try to maintain a relationship. The cultural barriers are subtly portrayed as Sneh and Mitsuko attempt to understand and respect each other’s cultural norms and values. The difference in their lifestyles, family expectations, and worldviews adds complexity to their relationship.

5. Sacrifice and Commitment:

   • The characters of Sneh and Mitsuko both make sacrifices for their relationship, demonstrating deep commitment. Sneh, who is emotionally invested in his bond with Mitsuko, and Mitsuko, who navigates life in Japan as an outsider, are both committed to making their unconventional marriage work despite the distance and obstacles.

Writing Style:

Kunal Basu’s writing in “A Japanese Wife” is poignant, delicate, and evocative. He brings a level of emotional depth to the characters’ struggles, capturing their loneliness, hope, and resilience. The writing is reflective and often introspective, giving readers an intimate view of the characters’ thoughts and feelings.

The novel is structured around the letters exchanged between Sneh and Mitsuko, which gives the book a unique flavor. These letters form the basis of their relationship and bring out the emotional vulnerability of both characters.

Basu’s prose is simple yet rich, capturing the essence of the characters’ emotional landscapes without overwhelming the reader with unnecessary details. His descriptive language and ability to delve into the inner worlds of his characters make the novel engaging and heartfelt.

Reception:

“A Japanese Wife” has been well-received by readers and critics for its unique concept, emotional depth, and beautiful storytelling. Critics have praised the way the novel handles the complex themes of love and isolation, offering a fresh perspective on relationships that transcend geographical and cultural boundaries. The simplicity of the narrative, coupled with its emotional depth, has resonated with readers, particularly those interested in literary fiction that deals with human connections.

The book is also appreciated for its subtle exploration of cultural nuances, and how Basu manages to depict the human experience with sensitivity and authenticity.

Adaptation:

“A Japanese Wife” was adapted into a film in 2010, directed by Aparna Sen. The film was well-received, maintaining much of the book’s emotional essence, and was praised for its gentle portrayal of the unique relationship between Sneh and Mitsuko.

Conclusion:

“A Japanese Wife” by Kunal Basu is a beautifully written novel that explores the emotional complexities of a love that survives across borders, time, and cultural differences. It’s a story about commitment, loneliness, sacrifice, and the ability of love to bridge vast distances. Through Sneh and Mitsuko’s journey, Basu gives readers a touching narrative about how even in an age of globalization, the human heart remains tethered to timeless themes of connection and emotional intimacy.

This novel is highly recommended for readers who enjoy contemporary fiction, especially those who appreciate stories that delve into the emotional dynamics of relationships, with a touch of cross-cultural themes and personal growth.

A JAPANESE WIFE