Bob Wrathall answers “Did anyone else cringe at the Reiko's...”

Jana asked this question about Norwegian Wood:

Did anyone else cringe at the Reiko's story of the young piano student? Maybe I am wrong but it seemed to me kind of a male-gaze, homophobic, child sexualizing... I did not appreciate that story. Maybe someone can offer me a different perspective

Bob Wrathall Ah, you missed the point. When Reiko and Toru had sex, it was because they liked each other. It made no difference that she was not "cute" or young. H…moreAh, you missed the point. When Reiko and Toru had sex, it was because they liked each other. It made no difference that she was not "cute" or young. He consented to the sex because he liked her as a person and a woman. Remember, Toru, seemed to be relatively indifferent to sex, itself. He did not actively seek it. (less)

flag

About Goodreads Q&A

Ask and answer questions about books!

You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.

See Featured Authors Answering Questions

Learn more