Murakami on our mind

Today, on the celebrated storyteller’s 73rd birthday, we’ve curated some of his best works, its many adaptations and his appeal among Mumbai readers

Haruki Murakami is an author who has garnered critical acclaim with mass appeal with equal ease and style. His writing is fascinating as it transcends the bounds of reality and explores vast expanses of the human condition in delicate fashion.

Many of his works have been adapted into films and his works are a matter of discussion in many podcasts and shows across the world. 

Drive My Car (2021, film)

This is most recent adaptation of Murakami’s short story from his 2014 collection, Men Without Women. It was recently adjudged Best Foreign Language film in the 79th Annual Golden Globe Awards, 2022. 

Still from Burning, a film adapted from Murakami’s short story

History of Literature (2018, podcast episode) 

Host Jackie Wilson and lifelong Murakami fan Mike Palindrome discuss the appeal of Murakami’s novels, his understanding of life and the lessons learnt from his prolific works. 

Burning (2018, film)

One of the most visually striking films of 2018, Burning produced some stellar performances from a talented cast. The film received rave reviews and is an adaptation from Murakami’s short story, Barn Burning, from The Elephant Vanishes. 

The Arcade by Hazlitt Magazine (2016, podcast episode)

Classical pianist Eunubi Kim, journalist Roland Kelts and York University professor of Japanese Literature and Murakami translator Ted Goosen discuss the works of Murakami. The conversation weaves around his surrealistic style and his critical and worldwide appeal. 

Murakami’s books follow a surrealistic storytelling that is quite unique

Murakami in Mumbai

“Murakami’s works are a kind of literary baton passed from reader to reader. Not everyone gets his surrealistic style of writing but those who do are forever in love with his works. We have noticed that books like Kafka on the Shore, Norwegian Wood, What I Talk About When I Talk About Running have a passionate readership among Mumbaikars. The simplistic style and the manner in which most of his books explore themes of love, life and anxiety appeals to our young readers as well,” shares Ahalya Naidu Momaya, founder of Bandra’s Trilogy Bookstore.

“Our suppliers always comment on the demand for Murakami at our store. His books sell quickly and the following is immense. His highly imaginative writing style has garnered a large and devoted following in Mumbai. His books sell like hot cakes every single time. Titles like Norwegian Wood, Sputnik Sweetheart and What I Talk About When I Talk About Running are popular titles. Recently, we noticed an interest in his short stories with Men Without Women taking up the top spot among readers,” informs Jagath Tekkate of Kitab Khana.

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