In the Land of Water Sprites

Book Review

«In the Land of Water Sprites» by Ryūnosuke Akutagawa is a satirical novella where the author uses a fantastical world inhabited by mythical kappas to critically examine society and human nature. Critics note that Akutagawa masterfully uses allegory to express his views on the social and political issues of early 20th-century Japan. The book addresses themes of absurdity, alienation, and the meaninglessness of existence, making it relevant even today. Akutagawa's style is characterized by conciseness and precision, allowing readers to delve deeper into the author's philosophical reflections. Some critics compare «In the Land of Water Sprites» to the works of Franz Kafka, noting similarities in the depiction of an absurd world and existential questions. Overall, «In the Land of Water Sprites» is considered an important part of Japanese literature, reflecting the complex relationship between individuals and society.