Chapter03: A Personal Matter.

Kenzaburō Ōe’s novel "A Personal Matter" (original title: "Kojinteki na taiken"), first published in 1964, is a profound exploration of personal crisis, responsibility, and redemption.

    Kenzaburō Ōe’s writing style in "A Personal Matter" is characterised by its stark, unflinching realism and psychological depth. Ōe uses concise, direct prose to convey the raw emotions and internal turmoil of the protagonist. The language is often intense and visceral, mirroring the protagonist’s descent into despair and his subsequent journey toward acceptance and responsibility. The tone of the novel is dark and brooding, reflecting the protagonist's inner conflict and the grim reality he faces. Ōe’s descriptions are vivid and often unsettling, creating an atmosphere of tension and urgency..

    The novel is narrated in the third person, focusing closely on the protagonist, Bird. This limited perspective allows readers to delve deeply into Bird’s thoughts and emotions, providing an intimate understanding of his fears, desires, and moral dilemmas. Bird is a complex and deeply flawed character. His development is central to the narrative, evolving from a state of escapism and self-pity to one of acceptance and responsibility. Ōe masterfully portrays Bird’s internal conflict, his initial desire to flee from his responsibilities, and his eventual confrontation with his fears and obligations. The profound exploration of existential themes is highly important, particularly because of the search for meaning and the struggle with personal responsibility. Bird’s journey is a representation of existential angst and the confrontation with life’s inherent absurdity.  The novel grapples with moral and ethical dilemmas, particularly in the context of Bird’s decisions regarding his newborn son, who is born with a severe brain hernia. Ōe’s exploration of these themes is nuanced and thought-provoking, offering no easy answers. Ōe uses several symbols and motifs to enhance the thematic depth of the novel. The baby, born with a physical deformity, symbolises Bird’s own perceived failures and the burdens of responsibility. The bird motif, present in the protagonist’s name, represents both the desire for freedom and the inescapable ties to duty and reality.

    The novel reflects both the personal and cultural context of Ōe’s own life and post-war Japan. Bird’s struggle mirrors Ōe’s personal experiences, particularly his own challenges as a father of a disabled child. This semi-autobiographical element adds a layer of authenticity and emotional resonance to the narrative. The contrasting settings of nature and urban life serve as a semiotic device to reflect Bird’s internal conflict. The chaotic and oppressive urban environment mirrors Bird’s psychological state, while moments in natural settings offer brief respites and symbolise the potential for renewal and clarity.

    In conclusion, "A Personal Matter" by Kenzaburō Ōe is a powerful and introspective novel that delves into the complexities of human emotion, responsibility, and existential crisis. Ōe’s stark and realistic writing style, combined with a compelling narrative and deeply philosophical themes, creates an intense and thought-provoking reading experience.