This January, the Japan Fans Book Club in Utrecht invites you to explore one of Japan’s most iconic novels, The Temple of the Golden Pavilion by Yukio Mishima.
The Temple of the Golden Pavilion by Yukio Mishima
Whether you join us for our in-person meeting or share your thoughts in our Facebook group, we look forward to a lively discussion about this thought-provoking work.
The Temple of the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) is a literary masterpiece that delves into themes of beauty, obsession, and self-destruction. Inspired by true events, the novel tells the story of Mizoguchi, a troubled young monk at Kyoto’s famous Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji). Tormented by a stutter and feelings of inadequacy, Mizoguchi becomes increasingly obsessed with the temple’s beauty.
As he struggles with his insecurities and warped perceptions of the world, Mizoguchi’s admiration for the temple morphs into a destructive fixation. The novel explores his complex psyche, questioning the nature of beauty and its power to inspire both awe and devastation. Mishima’s exquisite prose and philosophical depth make this book a rich subject for discussion.
The novel was inspired by the 1950 arson of the Kinkaku-ji by a novice monk—a shocking act that Mishima reimagines in his own uniquely haunting style. Through Mizoguchi, Mishima examines the collision between personal despair and the societal ideals of beauty.
Yukio Mishima (1925–1970) was one of Japan’s most prolific and controversial authors. His body of work spans novels, plays, essays, and short stories, often exploring themes of death, beauty, and the clash between modernity and tradition.
In addition to his literary achievements, Mishima was a dedicated martial artist, practising kendo, karate, and bodybuilding. His commitment to the martial arts reflected his belief in the harmony of mind and body, a principle rooted in traditional Japanese culture. This physical discipline complemented his intellectual pursuits and influenced his philosophical outlook.
Mishima’s life was as dramatic as his fiction. A nationalist with a deep reverence for Japan’s imperial past, he staged a coup attempt in 1970, calling for a return to traditional values. When his plea was rejected, Mishima committed seppuku (ritual suicide) in an act that shocked the world. His death remains a subject of fascination and debate, casting a shadow over his legacy.
Join the Conversation
The Japan Fans Book Club welcomes you to share your thoughts on Mishima’s enigmatic novel. What do you think of Mizoguchi’s journey? How does Mishima’s portrayal of beauty resonate with you? And what are your impressions of Mishima himself, a man whose life was as complex as the characters he created?
Join the Japan Fans Book Club in Utrecht this January for an engaging discussion, and/or connect with us online through our Facebook group to share your insights. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of Japanese literature or new to the genre, The Temple of the Golden Pavilion promises to inspire a rich and meaningful dialogue.