Opis
Tokyo, 1912. The once impenetrable world of the ancient aristocracy is experiencing an unprecedented shift, as wealthy families from the provinces and a newly emerging elite begin to penetrate its ranks. Kiyoaki, although brought up in the refined Ayakura household, emblematic of the declining aristocratic class, remains an outsider. As he approaches adulthood, he finds himself entwined in the clash between tradition and modernity, all while grappling with his intense emotions for the captivating Satoko. His close friend Honda observes these complexities from a distance. It is only after Satoko becomes betrothed to a prince of the royal family that Kiyoaki understands the depth of his feelings. David Mitchell, writing for the Independent on Sunday, called it "an austere love story, probably my favourite of his novels."