The Nose

Brief Overview

The story "The Nose" by Ryūnosuke Akutagawa tells of a Zen monk named Zenchi, who suffers due to his unusually long nose. This physical flaw becomes a source of mockery and ridicule from those around him. Zenchi attempts to rid himself of his nose through various methods, but all prove unsuccessful. Ultimately, he comes to terms with the fact that he cannot change his appearance and begins to accept himself as he is. The story raises themes of self-acceptance and human nature, while also satirizing societal prejudices and superficial attitudes towards appearance.