“No Longer Human” is a classic Japanese novel written by Osamu Dazai. The story is a semi-autobiographical account of the author’s life, depicting the struggles of a young man named Yozo Oba who grapples with a profound sense of alienation and detachment from society.
Yozo Oba is an artistically gifted but deeply troubled individual. From an early age, he finds it challenging to connect with others in a meaningful way. His facade of cheerfulness and amiability hides a profound sense of emptiness and self-loathing. Yozo engages in self-destructive behavior, including alcoholism and casual relationships, in an attempt to escape his feelings of isolation.
Throughout the novel, Yozo narrates his life experiences, revealing his inner turmoil and the masks he wears to fit in with society. He constantly searches for his true identity, leading him down a path of self-destruction and despair. The story explores themes of existentialism, mental illness, and the human condition, providing a stark and unflinching portrayal of Yozo’s struggles with his own humanity.
“No Longer Human” is a powerful and introspective novel that delves into the darkest corners of the human psyche. It offers a haunting glimpse into the mind of a man who feels disconnected from the world around him, making readers reflect on the complexities of human emotions and the consequences of societal pressures on individual identity.
