Comet resident

Author: (Japanese) Shima Tatsuya
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-10-01
Features: The tragic trilogy "Endless Canon" by the renowned writer Shima Tatsuya, known as the "Prince of the Japanese literary world," stirred a great uproar in Japan upon publication due to its implication of the inner workings of the Japanese imperial family's romance. The second part, "Beautiful Soul," was even sealed away for three years before finally being released. The trilogy's title is "Comet Dwellers," metaphorically suggesting that the protagonist's love is as distant and unattainable as a comet. The novel portrays the intense and sorrowful love affairs of four generations of the "Butterfly Lady" family, reflecting the cruel mockery of time and fate toward people. In the late 19th century, the young "Butterfly Lady" fell in love with an American naval officer but was mercilessly abandoned, ultimately taking her own life. Their son also suffered, caught between the two warring nations of the United States and Japan. The grandson, Kurenai, fell in love with a beautiful and gentle actress, only to discover she was the secret lover of General Douglas MacArthur, the Supreme Commander of the U.S. occupation forces. The great-grandson, Ashi, became entangled in a "forbidden love," making it impossible for the lovers to be together.