Jay Rubin tells a story throughout about Mr. Tree and Mr. Tree's literary career. Most foreign readers only know about Murakami the writer, but few know about Murakami the translator, a die-hard Americanophile who has contributed to bringing American literature into Japan.

Jay's book tells many stories about the time when Mr. Tree was completely outside the Japanese literary world (in fact, he was expelled from the literary world), while in the West, Mr. Tree was traveling around giving lectures and talks, and then going back to Japan to do various things like Murakami Radio. Jay talks about the three English translators of Mr. Tree, about the mysterious Alfred Birnbaum, the first person entrusted to translate Mr. Tree's books into English, and about the two academic translators, Jay and Phil. At first, Jay, who was a scholar of Japanese literature during the Meiji era and admired Soseki, always thought that Mr. Tree was a writer who was all about noodles and flashiness. If Knopf hadn't asked Jay to read and review The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle, Jay wouldn't have spent the next decade working on Mr. Tree. And Jay said it had to be The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle, not a book like Norwegian Wood.

Since we've mentioned Norwegian Wood, it should be said that although this book brought Mr. Tree a lot of glory and directly created the largest fan base network, he didn't like this book. Mr. Tree wrote Norwegian Wood as an experiment, but he didn't expect that the very readability (and simplicity) of Norwegian Wood would be so popular with readers. Norwegian Wood brought Mr. Tree a lot of readers, many of whom were later disappointed by his subsequent works when Mr. Tree returned to being himself.

This book is very long and it's not possible to review every aspect. Now let's talk about the end part, when Jay talks about the issue of translating Japanese into English (which he has talked about a lot in Gone fishin', and now he expands and focuses on Murakami's books), and Vietnamese translators can also learn a lot from it. Although in essence, translating Japanese into Vietnamese will be completely different from translating Japanese into English. And Jay also talks about the authority of the English translation. Because Murakami believes that the English translation has as much (or even more) authority as the Japanese original (the American way), while literary researchers (Germans) think that raising the status of the English translation to be on a par with the Japanese original is a form of cultural colonialism, a form of Hollywoodization. Translation is a "closer read", an "interpretation" of the original, but it cannot and should not be a new creation based on the original. Therefore, no matter how close German is to English, translating from English to German is still an "interpretation of an interpretation", just like a pianist playing a concerto again by listening and learning through the radio without even looking at the sheet music.

As an editor and compiler, Rubin undertakes the task of assembling a comprehensive collection of information regarding Murakami's work. This collection encompasses not only the author's writings but also includes interviews, detailed plot summaries, interpretations, and perspectives directly from Murakami himself. Interestingly, while Murakami seems to be somewhat defensive against analysis, the materials Rubin gathers do not give that impression.

Murakami's post-modern literary creations are a vast and complex world of personal meanings. Each reader is free to engage in their own private analysis, and a dedicated fan should not squander time on the interpretations of others. This is because the richness and depth of Murakami's works allow for a multitude of unique understandings.

An equally fascinating fact is that it has been a deliberate personal choice by Murakami to prevent his works from being adapted into films. This decision adds another layer of mystery and intrigue to his already captivating body of work.

I have not read the book. So feel free to NOT read this "review", since it clearly is not one. It is more of a short commentary on Murakami.

I have read only one novel by Murakami, "South of the Border, West of the Sun". And before I comment on it, a caveat: unlike many readers I have met, I do not necessarily fault the writer when I do not like a work. I am fully cognizant of the fact that the fault may lie with me, that maybe I am not a competent reader. But, with that as a caveat, I have to state that I did not like the novel. At all.

Then one day I saw the Korean film "Burning". It is a film version (for the most part) of a Murakami short story "Barn Burning". I did not like the film. But, for all I knew, maybe it wasn't loyal to what had been a great short story. I read the short story. I didn't like it. But, I thought that I should read at least one more story from the same collection (which came recommended), and so I also read "The Wind-up Bird and Tuesday's Women". Guess what? Didn't like it.

And so I can't imagine wanting to tackle 462 pages about him. Though I am not great at it by any means, I am a musician. And I do play jazz. And there is music from virtually every other genre I have heard that I find wonderful. So maybe it is merely the phrase from Rubin's title that bugs me -- "...the music of words". Maybe Murakami's writing is just not the kind of "music" I want to listen to.

Perhaps I am missing something profound in Murakami's works. Maybe I need to approach them from a different perspective or read more of his writing to truly understand and appreciate it. However, based on my current experience with his novel and two short stories, I have not been able to find the "music" in his words that others seem to rave about.

It could be that my musical background has influenced my perception of his writing. I am used to the immediate emotional impact and rhythm of music, and perhaps Murakami's style, which seems more abstract and cerebral to me, does not resonate in the same way.

Nonetheless, I respect Murakami's talent and popularity. He has clearly touched the hearts and minds of many readers around the world. Maybe one day, I will give his works another chance and discover the beauty and depth that I have so far overlooked. But for now, I will continue to explore other forms of literature and music that speak to me more directly.

At first, I read it out of curiosity to see what was so special about jazz that Toni Morrison, Michael Ondaatje, and Zadie Smith all had an essay (or a novel) related to jazz music. But unexpectedly, this book is like a literary criticism by Murakami.

It's also interesting when Jay Rubin explores the parallel between Murakami's personal life and his creative process. Through this, we learn more about the main trends in his writing style, the process that led him to the literary field, translation work, and writing short stories.

However, the downside is that it's too long. For someone who doesn't like Murakami, finding the connections and shaping the world of Murakami is very necessary for his fans, but not for me. I just don't like the parts where even though Murakami claims to create absurdity deliberately, and he admits that it's a reaction, a moment of guidance like the feelings of jazz... yet Jay Rubin still continues to guess and analyze (!?) for no apparent reason. These very things make me feel that this book lacks authenticity. It's like a fanboy writing about his idol, a bit flattering. Therefore, if I were to read it carefully or for the second or third time, I wouldn't reread it.

This is truly a very thoughtful gift. It shows that the giver has put a lot of effort and consideration into choosing it.

Moreover, from what I can tell, it is also pretty good literary criticism. It offers valuable insights and interpretations into the literary work it is analyzing.

The details and perspectives presented in this lit crit make it not only interesting but also beneficial for those who are interested in the subject.

Whether it is for personal enjoyment or for academic purposes, this gift and the accompanying lit crit are sure to be appreciated.

It is a combination that combines the thoughtfulness of the gift with the intellectual value of the literary criticism, making it a truly unique and wonderful present.

An interesting exploration into some of Murakami's beloved music offers a unique perspective. It delves into how this music has not only influenced his works but also been prominently featured within them.

This particular piece is likely to be of great interest mainly to the true Murakami enthusiasts, those who have thoroughly read his extensive body of work or are at least dedicated to doing so.

Murakami's choice of music seems to add an extra layer of depth and emotion to his stories. The melodies and rhythms might have inspired him in creating certain atmospheres or characters.

Perhaps the music serves as a sort of muse for him, guiding his creative process and helping him bring his fictional worlds to life in a more vivid and engaging way.

For those who are familiar with his works, this insight into the music he loves can provide a new way to appreciate and understand his writing on a deeper level.

A biography of Murakami is an engaging exploration that delves deep into his fictional works. It not only focuses on the captivating stories he weaves but also touches upon other aspects of his life. His translations are discussed, highlighting his skills in bringing foreign literature to a wider audience. Additionally, his love for jazz is emphasized, showing how this musical genre has influenced his writing and creative process. After reading this biography, I have a strong desire to reread all of his books. In fact, I realize that I may not have truly read "A Wind-up Bird Chronicle" as thoroughly as I thought, so I must make it a priority to do so soon.

The book does have a few minor drawbacks. Somehow, the choice of quotes can be a bit repetitive, which might make the reading experience a little less fresh. Also, I found it a bit strange when the author, Rubin, spoke about himself in the third person in one part. However, despite these small flaws, it is still a good read. Nevertheless, if you are not already quite familiar with at least most of Murakami's novels, this biography would probably just be a confusing and incomprehensible spoiler party.

I want to eat this book!!!!!!!

This statement might seem quite unusual at first glance. But perhaps there is a deeper meaning behind it. Maybe the book is so captivating, so full of knowledge and wonder that I have this strange desire to consume it, to make it a part of myself. It could be that the words on the pages have such a powerful allure that I feel a physical longing to ingest them. Or perhaps it's a metaphorical expression of my intense passion for the book, as if by "eating" it, I can fully absorb its essence and understand its message on a profound level. Whatever the reason, this exclamation reflects my extreme enthusiasm and connection to the book.

It makes me wonder what kind of book could evoke such a strong reaction. Is it a thrilling adventure story that takes me to far-off places and makes my heart race? Or a thought-provoking philosophical treatise that challenges my beliefs and makes me question everything I know? Maybe it's a beautifully written novel that touches my emotions and makes me laugh, cry, and everything in between.

Regardless of the genre, this book has clearly had a profound impact on me. It has awakened something within me, a hunger for knowledge, for new experiences, for a deeper understanding of the world. And that's why I want to eat this book!!!!!!!

A literary analysis of Murakami's works from the very beginning until his most significant work, 1Q84, reveals a fascinating journey. Murakami is an extremely interesting figure. He has constantly been navigating between the east and the west, bringing a unique blend of cultural elements to his writing. Jay Rubin, a renowned scholar, has added valuable insights to many of Murakami's works. He not only delves into the works themselves but also explores the circumstances surrounding them. Moreover, Rubin provides an in-depth look at the process of translating Japanese and the different nuances it entails. This analysis helps us to better understand Murakami's creative evolution and the complex web of influences that have shaped his works.

I made an attempt, but unfortunately, I didn't take a liking to it.

As a result, I found myself having to skip several pages.

It was quite a disappointment because I had initially hoped to engage fully with the content.

However, the lack of interest made it difficult for me to continue reading without skipping.

I wonder if there might have been something about the writing style or the subject matter that didn't resonate with me.

Maybe if I had approached it from a different perspective or had more prior knowledge on the topic, my experience would have been different.

Nevertheless, for now, I'll have to move on and hope to find something more captivating in the future.

2.5 stars. As a die-hard Murakami fan, I delved into this book with great anticipation. To my surprise, I found certain segments of it to be truly insightful, offering profound glimpses into the complex world Murakami has crafted. However, there were also parts that were just okay, lacking the kind of depth and nuance that I have come to expect from his works.

I guess my main disappointment lies in the fact that I was hoping for more in-depth exploration of the characters. Murakami is renowned for creating unique and captivating characters, but in this book, it felt as if they were not fully developed. The focus seemed to be more on the plot, which, while interesting, did not quite satisfy my craving for a deeper understanding of the individuals within the story.

Overall, I would say that this book is a worthwhile read, but perhaps only for die-hard Murakami fans. Those who are new to his works might not find it as engaging or fulfilling. It has its moments of brilliance, but it also falls short in some areas. Still, I remain a loyal fan and look forward to his future works with eager anticipation.

I firmly believe that this is the ideal book to peruse once you have delved into several Murakami books and are eager to explore the depths of his literary universe.

Certainly, this volume is excellent at elucidating the connections between his works that had hitherto escaped my notice. Moreover, learning about his early life and writing style kindled within me a desire to read his two earliest novels, despite the fact that they may not be considered his finest.

The book was published nearly two decades ago, so be forewarned: you will not encounter any information regarding his most recent novels.

A note on style: This book is not a literary analysis in the traditional sense. Instead, it is an exploration of his numerous works by his translator, drawing on biographical and historical information. The casual style of the book might initially surprise some readers. However, this very casualness also renders it an effortless and enjoyable read for an afternoon.

It offers a unique perspective on Murakami's body of work and provides valuable insights into the mind of this renowned author.

Whether you are a die-hard Murakami fan or simply curious about his writing, this book is well worth a read.