Darkness in Summer

This is a modern Japanese novel set in European countries. I read it decades ago as part of my introduction to Japan. I had read Mishma; you couldn't ask for a more brilliant contrast. Kaiko (1930 - 1989) is sophisticated and nihilistic but full of gusto for life as you can see by his enthusiam for food, alcohol, sex, sleep and fishing. Though not set in Japan, it is a fine glimpse to the possibilities of Japanese cosmopolitanism of the 1970s. This book is rich with precious images and wisdom. The same may be said for "Into a Black Sun."