{"product_id":"9780099448570","title":"South of the Border, West of the Sun","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSouth of the Border, West of the Sun\u003c\/strong\u003e is a poignant narrative that delves into themes of nostalgia, longing, and the complexities of human relationships. Set against the backdrop of post-war Japan, the story follows Hajime, an only child who forms a profound bond with another only child, Shimamoto. Their connection is abruptly severed when Hajime's family relocates, leading to years of separation that shape his understanding of love and loss.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eThe Plot\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNow in his thirties, Hajime has crafted a seemingly perfect life with a devoted wife and children while managing a successful jazz bar. However, the unexpected reappearance of Shimamoto turns his world upside down. This encounter forces Hajime to confront unresolved feelings and the choices he has made, awakening a deep yearning for the past that he thought he had left behind.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eThemes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLonging and Nostalgia:\u003c\/strong\u003e The novel explores how past relationships continue to influence our present.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIdentity and Choices:\u003c\/strong\u003e Hajime's journey reflects the struggle between societal expectations and personal desires.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIsolation and Connection:\u003c\/strong\u003e The dynamics of being an only child are intricately woven into the narrative, highlighting both solitude and intimacy.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMurakami's characteristic writing style, rich with surreal elements and profound introspection, invites readers to ponder the fragility of relationships. Fans of his other works, such as \u003cstrong\u003eNorwegian Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003eThe Wind-Up Bird Chronicle\u003c\/strong\u003e, will find similar threads of emotional depth and existential inquiry in this compelling tale.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Vintage Publishing","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52950060761420,"sku":"9780099448570","price":10.95,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0960\/4163\/2076\/files\/9780099448570_front.webp?v=1765274847","url":"https:\/\/foxandfable.com\/en-eu\/products\/9780099448570","provider":"Fox \u0026 Fable UK","version":"1.0","type":"link"}