Mizuki

Mizuki is the main character and first person narrator of the novel. In the narrative present, she is a housewife living in contemporary Tokyo, Japan. Though her circumstances have come about because of the decisions she has made throughout her life, she perpetually feels entrapped and dissatisfied. Even after its end, her recent affair with Kiyoshi continues to impact the way she sees herself, her life, and her world.

Before meeting Kiyoshi, Mizuki is experiencing a particularly severe bout of depression. She is frequently overcome by inexplicable emotion. She feels frustrated with her husband Tatsu's distraction and coldness. Though she loves her children, Eri and Aki, her mothering duties often leave her feeling frazzled, incompetent, or defeated. This compilation of frustrations inspires Mizuki's unplanned suicide attempt. Not long after, she encounters Kiyoshi several times in the city, and eventually they begin spending time together. Kiyoshi seems to offer...