Synopsis
"Botchan (Master Darling)" by Mr. Kin-nosuke Natsume, translated by Yasotaro Morri, is a classic Japanese novel that captures the humorous and poignant adventures of a young, hot-tempered teacher in the countryside. Botchan, a Tokyo-born and bred man, finds himself teaching mathematics in a rural school after a series of misadventures. His straightforward and blunt demeanor often clashes with the traditional and conservative environment, leading to a series of comical and revealing encounters with his colleagues and students. Throughout the narrative, Botchan grapples with themes of integrity, justice, and the complexities of human nature, often reflecting on his own values and those of the people around him. Natsume's sharp wit and insightful commentary on society make "Botchan" a timeless exploration of youthful rebellion and the search for personal authenticity in a conformist world.
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About the Author
Soseki Natsume was born in Tokyo in 1867, and upon graduating from the prestigious Tokyo University, worked as an English teacher for a time. He was sent to London for three years by the Japanese government in 1900 on the first English literary scholarship, where he developed a love for Shakespeare. Returning to take up a position at Tokyo University, he began his writing career with Botchan. This is one of his most famous works, along with I Am a Cat and Kokoro. Soseki enjoyed tremendous popularity before his death in 1916 and his works are always cited as among the best in Japanese literature.
When Japanese readers and critics are asked which authors they admire, Soseki's name frequently appears at the top of the list. He is also the only Japanese author referred to by his personal name (Soseki) and not his family name (Natsume), and his image appears on the Japanese 1000 yen note.
Dennis Washburn is Professor of Asian and Middle Eastern Languages and Literatures and Comparative Literature at Dartmouth College. He is the author of "Translating Mount Fuji: Modern Japanese Fiction" and "The Ethics of Identity" and translator of "Temple of the Wild Geese" and "Bamboo Dolls of Echizen."
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