A fictional novel set in Japan following WWII, An Artist of the Floating World looks as post-war Japanese society through the eyes of Ono, an elderly artist. Ono went from painting pleasure district themes to helping the Japanese cause with patriotic works during WWII. After surrender, the celebrated become the scorned, and Ono reflects as he wrestles with what it all means. Ultimately, he concludes that he made mistakes by aiding the war effort, but in good faith, and learns to live with that.
This book is a mixed bag. It's well-written and suspenseful, which I enjoyed. The suspense isn't of what is to come but of what happened, as the author gives clues that Ono has a past some find unacceptable, but it doesn't become clear until the end; I enjoyed that approach. I also liked reading a novel from the Japanese perspective- something I've never done before. My only ding is with message. As I stated, it appears to be "mistakes happen; boldly live," which isn't bad until you think about the scale of atrocities committed during the war, which I feel merits deeper reflection and perhaps a different conclusion. The implied mistake isn't so much being wrong as it is losing- I came away with the impression that the Japanese weren't sorry for doing what they did- they were sorry for failing to accomplish their goals. Definitely makes one think- should that be the reaction? That said, well-written books that provoke contemplation are worth your time; but always be aware of message.
Rating: B+
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