About the Author
Jun'ichirō Tanizaki
ISBN 9780099285199
Rs. 798
Vintage Classics
Diary of a Mad Old Man
Who it's for: Readers of literary fiction and Japanese literature
Junichiro Tanizaki's final novel introduces seventy-seven-year-old Utsugi, a man recovering from a stroke who meticulously records his physical decline and his increasingly intense desire for Satsuko, his beautiful, enigmatic daughter-in-law. Through the wry observations in his diary, Utsugi navigates the complexities of aging, obsession, and the indomitable will to find meaning in his twilight years.Why You Should Read? Explores the poignant and often humorous aspects of aging, desire, and mortality from a unique, first-person perspective. Showcases Tanizaki's masterful psychological insight and his distinctive blend of dark humor and tragic elements. Offers a fascinating glimpse into Japanese family dynamics and societal expectations through the lens of one man's unconventional desires. A celebrated work by a Nobel Prize-nominated author, considered a classic of modern Japanese literature.
Highlights
- Tanizaki's final novel, a classic of modern Japanese literature
- First-person diary format offers intimate, wry observations
- Explores aging, desire, and mortality with dark humor
- Psychological insight into obsession and family dynamics
- Nobel Prize-nominated author's masterful prose
Themes
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10 detailsAbout the author
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All by Jun'ichirō Tanizaki →Questions about this book
What is the book about?
It's the diary of 77-year-old Utsugi, recovering from a stroke, as he records his physical decline and growing desire for his daughter-in-law, Satsuko.
Who is the author?
Jun'ichirō Tanizaki, a Nobel Prize-nominated author, considered a master of modern Japanese literature.
What is the narrative style?
It's written as a first-person diary, offering Utsugi's wry and introspective observations.
What themes does it explore?
It explores aging, desire, obsession, mortality, and family dynamics, blending dark humor with tragic elements.
Is it suitable for readers new to Japanese literature?
Yes, it's a celebrated classic that offers insight into Japanese family life and is accessible to general readers.




