TL;DR
If Cats Disappeared from the World is a poignant and introspective Japanese novel that explores themes of life, death, and the interconnectedness of all things. The story follows an unnamed narrator who is given a terminal diagnosis and a chance to extend his life by erasing things from the world. With each day he gains, something significant disappears – starting with cats. As the narrator confronts the potential loss of these seemingly insignificant creatures, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and appreciation for the subtle beauty and connections that make life meaningful.
Table of contents
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Author & Writing Background
Genki Kawamura is a renowned Japanese film producer, novelist, and screenwriter. He is known for his work on popular films such as Your Name and Weathering with You. Kawamura’s writing is characterized by its emotional depth, philosophical undertones, and exploration of human relationships and the complexities of life.
Key Takeaways
Bargaining with the Devil
The narrator is visited by a devil who offers him a deal: he can extend his life by one day for every thing he chooses to erase from the world. This sets the stage for a thought-provoking exploration of the value of seemingly insignificant things.
The Importance of Cats
The first thing the narrator chooses to erase is cats, but he soon realizes the profound impact these creatures have had on his life and the lives of others. This leads him to question the interconnectedness of all things and the ripple effect of even small changes.
Loss and Acceptance
As the narrator contemplates erasing more things from the world, he grapples with the pain of loss and the inevitability of death. He learns to cherish the memories and relationships he has, even as he faces his own mortality.
The Value of Time
With each passing day, the narrator gains a deeper appreciation for the preciousness of time and the importance of living life to the fullest. He recognizes the finite nature of his existence and strives to make the most of the time he has left.
Human Connection
Throughout the novel, the narrator reflects on his relationships with others, including his ex-girlfriend, his family, and his friends. He realizes the importance of human connection and the love and support that these relationships provide.
The Beauty of Ordinary Things
As the world around him starts to disappear, the narrator begins to see the beauty in ordinary things that he previously took for granted. He learns to appreciate the simple pleasures of life and the subtle details that make each day unique.
Memories and Legacy
The narrator contemplates the legacy he will leave behind and the impact his life has had on others. He realizes that even after he is gone, his memories will continue to live on in the hearts and minds of those who loved him.
Embracing Life and Death
Ultimately, the narrator comes to terms with his own mortality and learns to embrace both life and death as natural parts of the human experience. He finds peace in the knowledge that he has lived a meaningful life and that his story will continue even after he is gone.
FAQ about If Cats Disappeared from the World
Is this book suitable for cat lovers?
Yes, definitely! While the premise involves cats disappearing, the story ultimately celebrates their presence and the positive impact they have on our lives. Cat lovers will appreciate the exploration of the human-animal bond and the unique qualities of these feline companions.
Is this a sad book?
While the book deals with themes of loss and death, it is ultimately a hopeful and uplifting story. The narrator’s journey of self-discovery and acceptance offers a poignant reflection on the beauty of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.
Is there a movie adaptation of the book?
Yes, a Japanese film adaptation of If Cats Disappeared from the World was released in 2016.
If Cats Disappeared from the World Quotes
- “If you lose something, you gain something else. And if you gain something, you lose something else.”
- “The world is not beautiful because it is. It is beautiful because we are.”
- “The things we love are always with us, even if they’re not.”