An Artist of the Floating World

Interesting Facts

• The book explores the theme of memory and self-deception, showing how the elderly artist protagonist reconsiders his life and career in postwar Japan.
• The novel addresses the responsibility of the artist for his work and its impact on society, especially in the context of nationalist propaganda in prewar Japan.
• The title refers to the Japanese term «ukiyo», meaning «floating world», which is associated with the culture of entertainment and art during the Edo period.
• The book received positive reviews for its style and depth, and was shortlisted for the Booker Prize in 1986.
• The novel explores complex intergenerational relationships, especially between the protagonist and his children, who have different views on Japan’s past and future.