Underground

Book Review

The book «Underground» by Haruki Murakami is a documentary investigation of the Tokyo subway attack carried out by the Aum Shinrikyo cult in 1995. Murakami, known for his fictional works, takes on the role of journalist and researcher, striving to understand what happened on that dreadful day and how it affected people's lives. Critics note that the author has succeeded in creating a profound and emotional portrait of a society confronted with tragedy. He uses interviews with victims and cult members to show the complexity of human nature and the intricacy of moral choices. Murakami avoids sensationalism, instead focusing on human stories and experiences. Critics emphasize that the book prompts reflection on the fragility of security and how easily people can be manipulated. This work stands out among Murakami's other writings for its documentary precision and emotional depth, making it an important contribution to understanding contemporary Japanese society.