The Spider's Thread

Style and Technique

Ryūnosuke Akutagawa's story «The Spider's Thread» is characterized by a concise and symbolic style typical of early 20th-century Japanese literature. The author uses simple yet expressive imagery to convey deep philosophical ideas. The language of the story is clear and precise, allowing the reader to easily follow the plot and focus on the moral aspects of the work. Literary techniques include allegory and symbolism, where the spider's thread symbolizes a chance for salvation and mercy. The structure of the story is simple and linear, emphasizing its parable-like nature. Akutagawa masterfully uses the contrast between heaven and hell to heighten the drama and underscore the protagonist's moral dilemma. The story also contains elements of Buddhist philosophy, giving it additional depth and universality.