Shedunnit The Honkaku Mysteries
Mar 10, 2021
Dive into the fascinating world of classic Japanese whodunnits, exploring their origins and evolution. Discover key figures like Seishi Yokomizo and the impact of government censorship on detective fiction. Learn about the unique focus on logical reasoning that defines Honkaku mysteries. The podcast discusses the genre's revival, showcasing innovative contemporary writers while celebrating the traditional puzzle-solving elements. Experience how these stories reflect Japan's cultural nuances and shifts over time.
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Honkaku Mysteries' Unique Tradition
- Honkaku mysteries focus on logical deduction and pure puzzle solving, mirroring the golden age whodunits of the West.
- Japanese writers adapted Western detective fiction but the influence didn't flow back, creating a unique literary tradition.
On Nomoto on Saishi Yokomizo's Origins
- On Nomoto shares memories of his grandfather, Saishi Yokomizo, a leading Honkaku writer.
- Yokomizo discovered detective fiction in childhood by exploring used bookstores in a port city filled with foreign prints.
WWII's Impact on Japanese Mystery Writing
- Wartime censorship in Japan suppressed Western-style detective fiction during WWII.
- Writers like Saishi Yokomizo refrained from publishing mysteries due to political pressures and bans.
