The Sound of Waves
by Yukio Mishima
A quiet story of first love, tradition, and the natural rhythms of island life.
Looking for a spoiler-free review of The Sound of Waves?
Here’s what it’s about, how it captures stillness and strength, and why it holds its place as a quiet classic of postwar Japanese literature.
What It’s About
Shinji is a young fisherman living on the remote island of Uta-Jima. He’s hardworking and humble, anchored by routine and the sea. When he meets Hatsue, the beautiful daughter of a wealthy shipowner, their connection is immediate, but their romance must survive the weight of village gossip, class divisions, and cultural expectations.
The story unfolds slowly, gently, much like the tides that define the islanders’ lives. There’s conflict, but it’s quiet. Mishima doesn’t rush resolution; instead, he takes his time.
My Take
This novel feels like a long exhale. I loved how Mishima lets the details speak, the sound of waves, the stillness between characters, the rituals of labor and tradition. His prose is elegant without being ornate, always in service of mood and place.
There’s a sense of restraint that shapes the emotional arc. It’s not flashy or urgent, and that’s exactly what makes it so affecting. Every glance and pause carries weight. Mishima captures something elemental in how people love, struggle, and remain rooted.
If you're in the mood for something reflective, not dramatic, this one offers a sense of calm that stays with you.
Would I Recommend It?
Yes, especially if you love lyrical writing, quiet settings, or classic literature that values subtlety over spectacle.
The Sound of Waves is emotionally grounded and culturally rich, a perfect read for when you want something that feels both tender and timeless.
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Related Reads
If this connected with you, you might also like:
The Sailor Who Fell from Grace with the Sea by Yukio Mishima
Darker, more intense — another sea-centered story exploring youth, masculinity, and alienation.
Colorless Tsukuru Tazaki and His Years of Pilgrimage by Haruki Murakami
Themes of isolation, emotional quiet, and how the past shapes us.
Snow Hunters by Paul Yoon
A quiet, postwar novella that also centers on memory, migration, and emotional stillness. Gentle, sparse, and deeply felt.
Where to Find It
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Also available via WorldCat if you want to check your local library
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