Spirit Matters

"Spirit Matters is the first book to explore a broad range of writings on spirituality in contemporary Japanese literature. It draws on a variety of literary works, from enormously popular fiction (Miura Ayako's Hyoten and Shirokari Pass and the novels of Murakami Haruki) to more problematic "serious" fiction (Oe Kenzaburo's Somersault) to nonfiction meditations on martyrdom and miracles (Sono Ayako's Kiseki) and the dynamics of religious cults (Murakami's interviews with members of Aum Shinrikyo in Underground)." "Spirit Matters is a look at some of the most influential works of contemporary Japanese literature. It will appeal to readers interested in women writers, Christian literature, the impact of religious fanaticism, and the intersection of faith and literature."--BOOK JACKET.