Status Updates From Première neige sur le mont ...

The titular story, First Snow on Fuji, was incredibly written, and I completely understand why it would become the title for the anthology. The connection and relationship/lack their of between Jiro and Utako was palpable, and I really felt like I was on the train or in the bathhouse with them. I could really feel their pain, and was captivated the whole time. Liked his use of chapters in this one too

somehow such a deep and insightful conversation about death and the after life while still being beautiful and accessible. seems to bring up a very interesting paradox; the seamless gravestone to me is a microcosm for a “seamless” or perfect life lived. You can’t demand someone else create it, you just have to live unabashedly and you will get the death and legacy earned.

Really loved how much Kawabata was able to do with so few pages. I got a feel for many of the characters, and felt like I was in the apartment with them. Wasn’t expecting to like such a short one, but Yasunari shows how little it takes for him to create strong and compelling characters.

My favorite story in the book so far. Explores nature in many facets, both human nature and earthly nature. my favorite quote from this story was, “All things join the flow of water,” which is especially poignant coming from the protagonist’s late friend and writing contemporary. I wish this story was longer, and I think Kawabata started identifying some really compelling ideas about gender and nature.

Enjoyed “Row of Trees” a lot. It really felt like I was in New England; Kawabata has a perfect blend of poetic and literal scene setting, and I had a clear image in my head the whole time. I love how he uses plot to show us who his characters are, rather than just telling us. He makes it obvious what takeaways the reader will have, but still feels rewarding. Really liked the ending, and felt more put together.

really good story to start off the collection. Nothing too flashy, and a very ambiguous ending, but strong characters and plot; excited to read the rest