Lecture Notes: "No Longer Human" by Osamu Dazai

Introduction

• Author: Osamu Dazai
• Translation: Donald Keene
• Publisher: New Directions Publishing Corporation, first published in 1958.

Translator's Introduction

• Reviews in the US praised "The Setting Sun", another novel by Dazai.
• Western influence in Japanese life and literature is a recurring theme.
• Dazai's works often intermingle Japanese and Western cultural elements.
• Discussion on how Japanese modern culture is seen differently by the West.
• Japanese literature's disconnect from its traditional roots and Asian neighbors.

Overview of "No Longer Human"

• Main Character: Yozo, perceived as "disqualified as a human being."
• Yozo's life experiences reflect feelings of alienation and estrangement.
• Themes of identity, suicide, and societal rejection are central.
• Yozo's inner turmoil and feelings of not fitting into society.

Structure of the Book

• Prologue
  • Description of three photographs of Yozo at different life stages.
• First Notebook
  • Yozo's childhood and early misunderstanding of societal norms.
  • His clownish behavior as a defense mechanism.
  • Struggles with understanding human emotions and societal expectations.
• Second Notebook
  • High school experiences and further alienation.
  • Influence of Western art and culture on Yozo.
  • Attempts to connect with others but remains isolated.
• Third Notebook: Part One
  • Life in Tokyo and exploration of Marxist ideology.
  • Increasing dependence on alcohol and superficial relationships.
  • Love suicide attempt and the aftermath.
• Third Notebook: Part Two
  • Post-suicide attempt life, further descent into addiction.
  • Relationship dynamics with women and society.
  • Final mental deterioration and institutionalization.

Themes and Literary Devices

• Cultural Conflict: Clashes between traditional Japanese values and Western influences.
• Alienation: Yozo's perpetual sense of not belonging.
• Identity Crisis: Struggle with societal roles and personal identity.
• Symbolism: Use of photographs as symbols of identity phases.
• Narrative Structure: Fragmented, diary-like entries enhancing the sense of disconnection.

Epilogue

• The narrator never meets Yozo but studies his notebooks and photographs.
• Reflects on the impact of Yozo's life and his eventual fate.
• Discussion on human nature and the complex interplay of societal and personal failures.

Critical Reflections

• Dazai's work is a poignant exploration of human despair and societal rejection.
• "No Longer Human" acts as both a personal narrative and a broader social critique.
• The book's continued relevance in exploring themes of mental health and identity.