Runaway Horses: A Masterpiece in The Sea of Fertility Series

The Sea of Fertility series by Yukio Mishima is a literary gem that explores various themes such as love, death, and the ultimate purpose of life. Among the four novels in the series, Runaway Horses stands out as a masterpiece that captures the essence of Mishima's storytelling prowess.

Unveiling the Magnificence

Set in 1932 Tokyo, Runaway Horses takes readers on a captivating journey through the eyes of Isao Iinuma, a young idealist who becomes obsessed with purifying Japan from its perceived corruption. The story delves into Isao's struggles, his radical beliefs, and the devastating consequences that follow.

Runaway Horses: The Sea of Fertility, 2 (Vintage International)

by Yukio Mishima (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1434 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	429 pages

FREE

Mishima's prose is both poetic and thought-provoking, immersing readers in the characters' minds and the intense political atmosphere of the time. Runaway Horses showcases Mishima's extraordinary ability to blend philosophy with gripping storytelling, leaving readers enthralled from start to finish.

A Tale of Ideals and Obsessions

Isao Iinuma's character is intricately developed, offering readers a deep insight into the complexities of human nature. His unwavering idealism, borderline fanaticism, and immense charisma make him a captivating protagonist. As Isao's obsession with overthrowing the government grows, readers are led to question the boundaries between passion and madness.

The novel also explores the intertwined themes of love and death. Mishima's portrayal of the love triangle involving Isao, his childhood friend and fellow revolutionary, and the enigmatic young woman, resonates with emotional intensity. As the characters navigate their relationships and grapple with the inevitability of mortality, Mishima delves into the fragility and beauty of human connections.

Mishima's Mastery of Language

Mishima's exceptional writing style and command over language shine through in Runaway Horses. His vivid descriptions transport readers to 1930s Japan, immersing them in the era's cultural and historical nuances. The narrative unfolds with meticulous attention to detail, evoking powerful imagery that paints a rich and immersive backdrop for the story.

Within the novel, Mishima presents philosophical ideas with profound elegance. Through Isao's internal monologues and discussions with other characters, he tackles concepts such as idealism, sacrifice, and the pursuit of meaning in life. Mishima's ability to seamlessly weave philosophical musings into the fabric of the story enhances its depth and provokes introspection in readers.

Relevance Today

While Runaway Horses is set in the early 20th century, its themes and the questions it raises remain pertinent in contemporary society. Mishima's examination of the dark side of idealism, the dangers of extremism, and the complexities of human nature resonate with modern readers. The novel serves as a reminder to reflect upon the consequences that radical beliefs can have on individuals and society as a whole.

: A Literary Masterpiece

Runaway Horses, a part of The Sea of Fertility series by Yukio Mishima, is an exceptional novel that intertwines political intrigue, deep philosophical insights, and captivating storytelling. Mishima's exquisite prose brings the characters and era to life, leaving a lasting impression on readers.

With its evocative exploration of ideals, obsessions, and the complexities of human nature, Runaway Horses offers a profound reading experience. As one immerses themselves in the pages of this vintage international edition, they become witnesses to Mishima's brilliance and understanding of the human condition.

So, why wait? Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing world of Runaway Horses today and discover the incredible literary landscape painted by one of Japan's greatest writers.

Runaway Horses: The Sea of Fertility, 2 (Vintage International)

by Yukio Mishima (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1434 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	429 pages

FREE

Yukio Mishima’s Runaway Horses is the second novel in his masterful tetralogy, The Sea of Fertility. Again we encounter Shigekuni Honda, who narrates this epic tale of what he believes are the successive reincarnations of his childhood friend Kiyoaki Matsugae.
 
In 1932, Shigeuki Honda has become a judge in Osaka.  Convinced that a young rightist revolutionary, Isao, is the reincarnation of his friend Kiyoaki, Honda commits himself to saving the youth from an untimely death. Isao, driven to patriotic fanaticism by a father who instilled in him the ethos of the ancient samurai, organizes a violent plot against the new industrialists who he believes are usurping the Emperor’s rightful power and threatening the very integrity of the nation. Runaway Horses is the chronicle of a conspiracy — a novel about the roots and nature of Japanese fanaticism in the years that led to war.