Episode Details

This episode is a comprehensive biographical profile of Kenzaburō Ōe, a preeminent Japanese author and Nobel laureate who lived from 1935 to 2023. It explores his significant literary contributions, noting how his work transitioned from sexual metaphors regarding the occupation of Japan to profound explorations of existentialism and the human condition. A central theme in his life and writing was his relationship with his disabled son, Hikari, which inspired several of his most celebrated books. The sources also highlight his legacy as a social activist, documenting his fierce opposition to nuclear weapons, his support for democracy, and his role in major political protests. Furthermore, the text lists his numerous literary honors and provides a chronological bibliography of his novels, essays, and short stories. This overview paints a picture of a writer who used his global platform to address political injustice and the dignity of marginalized individuals.