Mishima’s third novel and, as it followed a trip to Greece, it is said to be a re-telling of the classic story of Daphnis and Chloe. I think the differences far outweigh the similarities but, in the end, the story has to stand on its own. And while the writing is fine, I don’t think this is in any way among Mishima’s better books, either in terms of writing or of plot. The story is straightforward enough: Shinji, a young man and is the sole support of his widowed mother and young brother. He and Hatsue, daughter of the richest man in their village, fall in love. Her father opposes the marriage even though Shinji is a paragon: there seem to be few virtues he does not embody. Likewise Hatsue, though the story falls primarily on Shinji’s broad and capable shoulders. Lots of local color (the story is set on a tiny island), rivals, and even three entire pages devoted to an exposition on women’s breasts. I won’t spoil the ending but I will note that the book has received at least two four-star ratings here (redhead and Daniel). Me, I can’t see it. Some strengths notwithstanding, it’s simply not an impressive work. Although Shinji and Hatsue are nicely drawn (but no more) and the local color is interesting, there just isn’t enough here to make this a rewarding read. ( )

Story: 3 / 10
Characters: 6
Setting: 6
Prose: 4

Haven't read Mishima in years, but this is not what I remember falling in love with. ( )

Not as good as I remember, and difficult to disassociate the story from Mishima's ethnonationalism bordering on fascism.

Regardless, The Sound of Waves evokes some deeply nostalgic feelings. Unten port in Nakijin on Okinawa is the point of departure for Izena Jima where I spent many weekends carousing during my time on the JET Programme. Island life in Japan has a kind of purity where social connections persist over generations. Mishima captures both the close relationship with nature / the sea and the tight bonds of the community.

Mishima has always seemed to me kind of a Japanese Hemingway, writing with an austerity and simplicity and a concern for how traditional masculinity fits into the modern world. However, there is a sweetness and longing in The Sound of Waves - I was expecting a Hemingwayesque tragic ending. Instead, the community on Uta-Jima rises to the occasion to ensure the happiness of the two main characters. ( )

i was so mesmerized by this novel i missed the 17th street stop and barely made it off at 14th. it was hot and still so light out for seven o'clock. ( )

Pretty story. Good boy wins the girl. ( )