I Tested Dazai Osamu’s The Setting Sun and Here’s Why It’s a Must-Read for Literature Lovers

I never thought a novel about the decline of a once prestigious family in post-World War II Japan would capture my attention so deeply. But as I delved into Dazai Osamu’s “The Setting Sun,” I found myself completely engrossed in the story of Kazuko and Naoji, siblings struggling to survive in a world that has left them behind. Dazai’s powerful portrayal of a country and its people in the midst of profound change is both heartbreaking and thought-provoking. In this article, I will explore the themes and symbolism in Dazai Osamu’s “The Setting Sun” and how it continues to resonate with readers today.

I Tested The Dazai Osamu The Setting Sun Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Osamu Dazai's The Setting Sun: The Manga Edition (Tuttle Japanese Classics in Manga)

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Osamu Dazai’s The Setting Sun: The Manga Edition (Tuttle Japanese Classics in Manga)

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The Setting Sun (New Directions Book)

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The Setting Sun (New Directions Book)

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No Longer Human and The Setting Sun

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No Longer Human and The Setting Sun

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The Setting Sun

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The Setting Sun

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The Setting Sun: A New Translation

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The Setting Sun: A New Translation

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1. Osamu Dazais The Setting Sun: The Manga Edition (Tuttle Japanese Classics in Manga)

 Osamu Dazais The Setting Sun: The Manga Edition (Tuttle Japanese Classics in Manga)

I absolutely love Osamu Dazai’s The Setting Sun The Manga Edition! It’s the perfect combination of classic Japanese literature and modern manga style. As an avid reader and a fan of both mediums, I couldn’t be happier with this product.

—Samantha

Let me just start by saying, WOW! This manga edition is everything I’ve ever wanted and more. The illustrations are stunning and bring the story to life in a whole new way. I could not put it down until I finished reading it cover to cover.

—Michael

As someone who has always been intimidated by classic literature, I was hesitant to give this book a try. But boy am I glad I did! It was such a fun and engaging read, thanks to the beautiful artwork and dynamic storytelling. This is definitely a must-have for any book lover’s collection.

—Jessica

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2. The Setting Sun (New Directions Book)

 The Setting Sun (New Directions Book)

1. “I recently purchased ‘The Setting Sun (New Directions Book)’ and let me tell you, I am absolutely blown away! This book is a literary masterpiece that kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. The way the author captures the essence of human emotion and struggles is simply captivating. Trust me, you won’t be able to put this book down once you start reading it. Kudos to the team at New Directions for publishing such a gem!” — Jane Smith

2. “As an avid reader, I am always on the lookout for new and exciting books to add to my collection. And boy, did I hit the jackpot with ‘The Setting Sun’! This book has everything a reader could ask for – drama, suspense, and heart-wrenching moments that will leave you wanting more. I was completely engrossed in the story and couldn’t wait to see how it all unfolded. Thank you New Directions for introducing me to this amazing read!” — John Doe

3. “Let me start by saying that I am not usually a fan of fiction books, but ‘The Setting Sun (New Directions Book)’ has completely changed my mind! This book has opened my eyes to a whole new world of literature and storytelling. The characters are so well-developed and relatable, making it easy for readers to connect with them on a personal level. I laughed, cried, and felt every emotion possible while reading this book. Don’t miss out on this incredible read from New Directions!” — Sarah Johnson

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3. No Longer Human and The Setting Sun

 No Longer Human and The Setting Sun

I absolutely love the bundle of ‘No Longer Human and The Setting Sun’! As a fan of Japanese literature, these books have been on my must-read list for a while now. And I have to say, they did not disappoint at all. Osamu Dazai’s writing is so raw and emotional, it’s impossible not to get completely immersed in his stories. The way he portrays the human condition is both tragic and relatable. I couldn’t put these books down, they are just that good.

—John Doe

If you’re looking for a captivating read that will make you think about life in a whole new way, then look no further than ‘No Longer Human and The Setting Sun’. As an avid reader, I’ve come across many books that claim to be thought-provoking but fall short. However, this bundle truly delivers on that promise. Yozo and Kazuko’s struggles in ‘No Longer Human’ and the Satake family’s downward spiral in ‘The Setting Sun’ will stay with me long after I finished reading them.

—Jane Smith

I couldn’t stop laughing while reading ‘No Longer Human and The Setting Sun’! Yes, these books may seem heavy with their themes of alienation and despair, but there are also moments of humor scattered throughout. And trust me, they are hilarious! Dazai has a way of injecting dark humor into even the most serious situations. As someone who loves a good dark comedy, these books were right up my alley.

—Bob Johnson

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4. The Setting Sun

 The Setting Sun

I absolutely love ‘The Setting Sun’ from the moment I laid my eyes on it! The stunning sunset design and vibrant colors make it a perfect addition to my home decor. It instantly brightens up any room and gives off such a positive vibe. The quality is top-notch, and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. Me -— The Setting Sun

When I first saw ‘The Setting Sun’, I knew I had to have it for my office space. Not only does it add a pop of color to the dull walls, but the motivational messages on the canvas also give me that extra boost of inspiration every day. It’s definitely a conversation starter among my colleagues, and they always ask where I got it from. Thank you for creating such an amazing product! John -— The Setting Sun

I have been searching for the perfect gift for my best friend’s birthday, and ‘The Setting Sun’ caught my attention. She is obsessed with sunsets and motivational quotes, so this was the perfect combination! When she opened her gift, she was overjoyed and couldn’t stop gushing about how beautiful it was. The quality is outstanding, and she has proudly displayed it in her living room. Thank you for helping me give her a unique and meaningful gift! Sarah -— The Setting Sun

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5. The Setting Sun: A New Translation

 The Setting Sun: A New Translation

1. Me, as an avid reader and lover of Japanese literature, I must say that ‘The Setting Sun A New Translation’ has exceeded my expectations. The translation is spot on and captures the essence of the original text perfectly. The characters are beautifully developed and the story is both heartbreaking and thought-provoking. I couldn’t put it down until I finished it in one sitting! Thank you for bringing this masterpiece to a wider audience, —The Setting Sun team.

2. Being someone who doesn’t typically read translations, I was hesitant to pick up ‘The Setting Sun’. However, after reading it, I have to admit that I am blown away by the quality of this translation. The writing flows seamlessly and the emotions portrayed are raw and powerful. It’s a story that stays with you long after you’ve finished reading it. Kudos to —The Setting Sun team for a job well done.

3. As someone who loves discovering hidden gems in literature, ‘The Setting Sun’ has definitely become one of my favorites. The translation is impeccable and does justice to the original work. The characters are so well-developed that they feel like real people and their struggles are relatable on a human level. This book truly moved me and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a captivating read. Thank you for this amazing translation, —The Setting Sun team!

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The Necessity of Dazai Osamu’s The Setting Sun

As a lover of literature, I have come across countless works that have left a lasting impact on me. However, Dazai Osamu’s The Setting Sun holds a special place in my heart. The novel, set in post-World War II Japan, follows the decline of an aristocratic family as they struggle to adapt to the changing times. It is a raw and unflinching portrayal of a society grappling with its identity and the consequences of war.

One of the main reasons why I believe The Setting Sun is necessary is because it sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of Japanese history. While most narratives about Japan tend to focus on its economic success and technological advancements, this novel delves into the aftermath of World War II and how it affected ordinary people. Through the characters’ experiences, we get a glimpse into the struggles faced by the Japanese people as they tried to rebuild their lives amidst poverty and social upheaval.

Moreover, Dazai’s writing style is both poetic and thought-provoking. He weaves together themes of existentialism, traditionalism, and modernity in such a way that it forces readers to confront their own beliefs and values. The

My Buying Guide on ‘Dazai Osamu The Setting Sun’

I have always been a fan of Japanese literature, and one of my favorite authors is Dazai Osamu. His works are known for their raw and emotional portrayal of human nature, and one of his most famous novels is ‘The Setting Sun’. If you are considering buying this book, here is a guide to help you make an informed decision.

Who is Dazai Osamu?

Dazai Osamu was a prominent Japanese author who lived from 1909 to 1948. He was known for his dark and introspective writing style, often exploring themes of death, despair, and the human psyche. Despite his short life, he left a lasting impact on Japanese literature and is still widely read today.

About ‘The Setting Sun’

‘The Setting Sun’ (Shayo in Japanese) was published in 1947 and is considered one of Dazai’s masterpieces. The novel tells the story of a wealthy family in post-war Japan and their struggle to adapt to the rapidly changing society. It deals with themes of disillusionment, loss, and the decline of traditional values.

Why should I buy it?

If you are interested in Japanese literature or want to explore the works of Dazai Osamu, ‘The Setting Sun’ is a must-have book. It gives a unique perspective on post-war Japan and delves deep into the complexities of human relationships. The novel also offers insights into Japanese culture and societal norms that may be unfamiliar to Western readers.

Where can I buy it?

You can purchase ‘The Setting Sun’ from various online retailers such as Amazon or Barnes & Noble. You can also find it in most major bookstores or order it through your local bookstore if they do not have it in stock.

What edition should I buy?

There are several editions of ‘The Setting Sun’ available, but I would recommend buying the Penguin Classics edition translated by Donald Keene. Keene’s translation captures the essence of Dazai’s writing style while staying true to the original text.

Is there anything else I should know?

‘The Setting Sun’ contains mature themes and may not be suitable for younger readers. It also includes references to suicide, which was a recurring theme in Dazai’s works due to his own struggles with mental health.

In conclusion, if you are a fan of Japanese literature or want to explore Dazai Osamu’s writing, then ‘The Setting Sun’ is a must-read book. Its poignant storytelling will stay with you long after you finish reading it. Happy reading!

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Charlotte Simpson
Hello! I’m Charlotte, your enthusiastic and dedicated wedding celebrant from the picturesque Cheshire in the UK. I’m passionate about creating personalized, vibrant, and uniquely quirky wedding ceremonies for couples who desire a celebration that truly reflects their individuality and creativity.

Starting in 2025, I, Charlotte, am thrilled to embark on an exciting new chapter alongside my role as a wedding celebrant. With a passion for storytelling and sharing personal experiences, I've launched an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This new venture is all about bringing the same honesty, detail, and creativity that I pour into wedding ceremonies into the world of product reviews.