Love this article, Michael! I often teach this book and we do a lot with the musical and artistic allusions. One student of mine (a talented musician) wrote a senior research paper with this topic. If I teach this next year, I shall share your essay for sure.
Thanks, Kate! How lovely it must be to re-read this book through the curious eyes of your students.
The musical layer Murakami adds to his novels is such a treat for me, especially in KotS. Hoshino’s Beethoven revelation, Oshima’s *gorgeous* recitation on Schubert’s piano sonatas, the music Kafka listens to on his Walkman throughout his journey — these selections add so much breadth to these characters and the lives they lead. 💙
Michael, it is entirely appropriate at this time of year to give thanks for many things. Including your wonderful writing and musical contributions. Very thoughtful, very valuable and much appreciated. Happy Christmas and a wonderful 2025.
Life-affirming music. So beautiful! Thank you Michael, as always. I enjoyed your interesting comments and listening on my long walks in the countryside. Now have Murakami’s novel
I love the thought of you listening to Beethoven out in nature, mirroring his long walks in the countryside that inspired so much of his music. Thank you for your support this year, Anne — I hope you enjoy reading Kafka on the Shore!
After the holiday hustle, reading this was like slipping into a big comfy bed, haha!! Reminiscing about Garden State took me ALL the way back, love that parallel to Kafka on the Shore. I read two Japanese authors this month—both books featured talking cats, one featured Beethoven—so I’ll have to add this one to my list! I can directly measure my level of awe in life to whether or not I’m swept up by music at the time. It’s no coincidence my recent period of creative block is juxtaposed against a backdrop of low musical appetite. Nor is it a coincidence that my Bonesick project was born out of an obsession with a band’s entire catalog. Music *can change your life! And you continue to search for the key that might unlock the next big creative era. Never give up. Just keep listening. Merry Christmas and a happy new year to you, Michael!! Thank you for all that you do to keep us listening! 💙
I need to know the novels you read this month that also featured talking cats and Beethoven! There must be something in the air. 😂
I’m so glad this resonated with you, Katie — and I loved how you articulated our need as artists to “search for the key that might unlock the next big creative era.” We just have to keep listening!
Thanks for all your support this year and for engaging with my work on such a deep level. I am and will forever be forever grateful. Wishing you all the best for 2025! 💙
The Beethoven talking cats book is The Full Moon Coffee Shop by Mai Mochizuki and the other talking cat book is If Cats Disappeared From the World by Genki Kawamura. While not mind-blowing literature by any means, both were lovely little light reads, perfect for the holidays with delightful messages! I hope this liminal space proves enlightening and restful! Perhaps particularly hopeful too! 🥰
Thank you, Michael, for a year of great music and writing. Happy Holidays!
Thanks, Portia! And thank *you* for supporting me all year. Happy holidays! 💙
Love this article, Michael! I often teach this book and we do a lot with the musical and artistic allusions. One student of mine (a talented musician) wrote a senior research paper with this topic. If I teach this next year, I shall share your essay for sure.
Thanks, Kate! How lovely it must be to re-read this book through the curious eyes of your students.
The musical layer Murakami adds to his novels is such a treat for me, especially in KotS. Hoshino’s Beethoven revelation, Oshima’s *gorgeous* recitation on Schubert’s piano sonatas, the music Kafka listens to on his Walkman throughout his journey — these selections add so much breadth to these characters and the lives they lead. 💙
Michael, it is entirely appropriate at this time of year to give thanks for many things. Including your wonderful writing and musical contributions. Very thoughtful, very valuable and much appreciated. Happy Christmas and a wonderful 2025.
Thank you, Tim — I’m so thankful for your kind words and support throughout the year. Happy holidays to you and your loved ones!
Life-affirming music. So beautiful! Thank you Michael, as always. I enjoyed your interesting comments and listening on my long walks in the countryside. Now have Murakami’s novel
On my reading list!
I love the thought of you listening to Beethoven out in nature, mirroring his long walks in the countryside that inspired so much of his music. Thank you for your support this year, Anne — I hope you enjoy reading Kafka on the Shore!
After the holiday hustle, reading this was like slipping into a big comfy bed, haha!! Reminiscing about Garden State took me ALL the way back, love that parallel to Kafka on the Shore. I read two Japanese authors this month—both books featured talking cats, one featured Beethoven—so I’ll have to add this one to my list! I can directly measure my level of awe in life to whether or not I’m swept up by music at the time. It’s no coincidence my recent period of creative block is juxtaposed against a backdrop of low musical appetite. Nor is it a coincidence that my Bonesick project was born out of an obsession with a band’s entire catalog. Music *can change your life! And you continue to search for the key that might unlock the next big creative era. Never give up. Just keep listening. Merry Christmas and a happy new year to you, Michael!! Thank you for all that you do to keep us listening! 💙
I need to know the novels you read this month that also featured talking cats and Beethoven! There must be something in the air. 😂
I’m so glad this resonated with you, Katie — and I loved how you articulated our need as artists to “search for the key that might unlock the next big creative era.” We just have to keep listening!
Thanks for all your support this year and for engaging with my work on such a deep level. I am and will forever be forever grateful. Wishing you all the best for 2025! 💙
The Beethoven talking cats book is The Full Moon Coffee Shop by Mai Mochizuki and the other talking cat book is If Cats Disappeared From the World by Genki Kawamura. While not mind-blowing literature by any means, both were lovely little light reads, perfect for the holidays with delightful messages! I hope this liminal space proves enlightening and restful! Perhaps particularly hopeful too! 🥰