Comment on style/language

Yoko Ogawa tells her short story collection “Revenge” in language that is simple and straightforward. This is done primarily for two reasons. First, the novel is reflective of contemporary Japanese literature, in which simplicity is regarded as beautiful and moving. It is only natural that the Japanese author should write in such a style as is common in Japan. Secondly, the simple and straightforward language also allows Ogawa to tell her stories and make her points in very clear, very pointed ways. For example, the irony of the broken-hearted bag-maker of “Sewing for the Heart” seeking murderous revenge against the woman with the external heart by cutting off her heart after producing something to protect her heart is both terrifying and clearly seen.