Modernist sense of loss in Haruki Murakami's south of the border, west of the sun

Abstract

The present research entitled “Modernist Sense of Loss in Haruki Murakami's South of the Border, West of the Sun" analyzes the novel from the modernist perspective and reveals that the novel is a milestone in the study of modern and postmodern theories. The research argues that it is the separation, loss, alienation of the characters which does not let them live a happy life. The post war effects of the Sino-Japanese war also add the pain in their life. Thus, examining the effects and sentiments caused by the horror during the war time, the characters are seen physically abnormal too. It is the product of modernism that Hajimi and Shimamoto are dissatisfied with each other. The true love has gone away from the reality. Later on when Murakami portrays Hajimi lamenting on the loss of his youthful days, it vibrates the modern world where people are dissatisfied, disillusioned, suffering and being separated and alienated. Towards the end of the novel, we examine Hajimi admitting himself as a patient; perhaps a psychologically weak mentality of his own leads his life into a tragic track.