1Q84 by Haruki Murakami

1Q84 by Haruki Murakami is a postmodern, surrealist novel that follows the lives of two characters, Aomame and Tengo, as they find themselves intertwined in a strange world where their reality has been warped by a mysterious force. The story is set in Tokyo during the year 1984, but with a twist: the city has been split into two realities, one in which everything is as it was before, and another in which a strange cult called the “Little People” have taken control. As Aomame and Tengo try to make sense of their new reality, they must confront their own inner demons and battle forces beyond their control.
1Q84 is a complex novel that explores themes of identity, reality, love, and loss. Murakami weaves together multiple storylines and characters to create a vivid and captivating narrative. Through his exploration of these themes, he shows how our perception of reality can be altered and how the choices we make can shape our lives.
What I Liked
Like all of Murakami’s books, I can’t put my finger on what I like about it. The pacing, vibe, and setting are all enchanting. The book makes you think…without being dense high-brow literature. If you are looking for something entirely different though, his books are worthwhile….now note that I’m not really mentioning 1Q84, because…
What I Did Not Like
1Q84 was possibly the most disappointing novel I’ve ever read. I skipped a good 1/3rd of it. I’m a fan of most of Murakami’s work. And this was his most hyped book. I don’t get it, I don’t recommend it, and I think it was uniquely terrible. The book has all the things I don’t like about Murakami with none of the things that I like about his writing. To each their own, but if you’ve thought about picking up a book by him – don’t start with this one.
In 1Q84, Haruki Murakami spins a surreal tale featuring Aomame and Tengo, whose lives collide in a bizarre, alternate Tokyo of 1984. The novel dives into themes like identity and reality, but my enthusiasm for it took a nosedive. 1Q84 by Haruki Murakami is possibly the most disappointing novel I've ever read. I skipped a good 1/3rd of it. I'm a fan of most of Murakami's work. And this was his most hyped book. I don't get it, I don't recommend it, and I think it was uniquely terrible. The book has all the things I don't like about Murakami with none of the things that I like about his writing. To each their own, but if you've thought about picking up a book by him - don't start with this one.
- Complex narrative that explores deep themes of identity, reality, love, and loss
- Engaging pacing, vibe, and setting that are enchanting
- Thought-provoking without being overly dense
- Most disappointing novel I've ever read
- Skipped a good third of the book
- Lacks the qualities I enjoy in Murakami's other works