Beyond The Words

Between the Lines of “Satsujin Shussan”

Murata Sayaka’s “Satsujin shussan” is a thought-provoking collection of short stories set in a dystopian Japan. It delves into the lives of individuals grappling with a disturbing societal system that links procreation to murder. Through their experiences, the stories raise profound questions about morality, freedom, and the essence of humanity.

The last book I read is a collection of short stories by Murata Sayaka. I have to admit that I was disappointed by the book as a whole. The idea behind the first story is quite intriguing (1 life in exchange for 10), but it’s developed in a trivial way and with a banal style. The story is somewhat saved by the choice to gradually reveal information. This shuffling of the cards helps maintain a minimum of curiosity. But nothing more.

Similarly, the ideas of the other three stories are interesting but poorly developed:

• Threesomes as the only way to conceive of romantic relationships
• Procreation as a disgusting act in a couple’s relationship
• The inner urge to die without any real reason

In short, not a book I would recommend.

Below are the sentences that struck me (one), the book details, and a summary of the various stories.

Quotes

I feel both the world of before and the world of now are distant from me. The world changes shade little by little, within a boundless time, and, as much as the past is at odds with the present, everything remains connected like millions of shades in the same color palette. That’s why the “normality” of today’s world is nothing but the mirage of a moment.

Book Details

• Title: Satsujin shussan
• Author: Murata Sayaka
• Year of publication in Japan: 2016
• Italian Publisher: Edizioni E/O
• Genre: Dystopian, psychological thriller