The Setting Sun (1947), by Japanese author Osamu Dazai, tells the story of a declining aristocratic family in post-World War II Japan. The narrative is presented from the perspective of Kazuko, a young woman from a once-prosperous family, and chronicles her experiences as her family falls into ruin. The novel explores themes involving The Decline of the Old Order in Japanese society, The Lingering Effects of Trauma, and The Persistence of Optimism. 

This guide uses the New Directions edition, translated from Japanese to English by Donald Keene.

Content Warning: The source text contains references to mental health conditions, suicide, substance misuse disorder, and infant death.

Plot Summary

The novel opens with Kazuko, the narrator, reflecting on her life and her family’s fall from grace. Once a member of the Japanese aristocracy, Kazuko now lives with her widowed mother in a modest house in the countryside. Her brother, Naoji, has been absent for years, and his whereabouts have been unknown since he went missing during a military campaign. The family’s financial difficulties are apparent. Kazuko and her mother live a quiet, subdued life, reminiscing about the past while adapting to their new circumstances.

Kazuko describes her mother as a gentle, kind woman who has maintained her composure despite their misfortunes. Kazuko, on the other hand, struggles with feelings of inadequacy and a sense of purposelessness. When the family’s estate is sold, they move to a smaller house, marking the beginning of their descent into poverty. Kazuko’s mother is particularly distressed by being forced to leave Tokyo for Izu. She is often thrown into reveries, reflecting on her youth amid her fears that she may have brought a curse down upon the family.

In the countryside, Kazuko tries to adjust to her new life. She spends her days working in the garden and taking care of her mother, who has become increasingly frail. Despite her attempts to lead a simple life, Kazuko is haunted by memories of her past and the genteel lifestyle they once enjoyed. One day, Kazuko accidentally sets fire to some clothing while burning snakes in the garden, which she believes is a superstitious act to ward off bad luck.

Naoji, Kazuko’s younger brother, eventually returns home. He has been living a reckless and self-destructive life in Tokyo, with alcohol and substance misuse disorders, after deserting from the military. Naoji is cynical, bitter, and deeply troubled, embodying the despair of a generation disillusioned by Japan’s loss in World War II and the collapse of traditional values. Naoji’s return brings tension to the household. His erratic behavior and frequent outbursts worry Kazuko and their mother. However, Kazuko remains sympathetic to Naoji’s struggles, recognizing his pain and inner turmoil. Despite his flaws, Naoji shares a close bond with Kazuko, and the two siblings often confide in each other.

Kazuko becomes romantically involved with Mr. Uehara, a married novelist and an acquaintance of Naoji. She is drawn to his intellect and his disillusionment, which mirrors her own feelings. Kazuko writes letters to Uehara, expressing her admiration and her longing for a deeper connection. In these letters, she delves into Western ideas and philosophies that would not have been as accessible to her before the war. Although Uehara is emotionally distant and ambivalent, Kazuko remains devoted to him, viewing their relationship as a way to find meaning in her life. Through her letters, Kazuko reveals her desire to break free from traditional roles and live authentically, even if it means embracing unconventional choices. Her love for Uehara becomes a driving force in her life, giving her a sense of purpose amidst the chaos of her family’s decline.

As the novel progresses, Kazuko’s mother’s health deteriorates. She becomes bedridden and Kazuko devotes herself to her mother’s care. Her mother remains composed and graceful despite her illness, embodying the dignity of the old aristocracy that Kazuko does not recognize in either herself or her brother. Naoji’s behavior becomes increasingly erratic. To Kazuko, he confesses his feelings of despair and guilt over his squandered life. Naoji reveals a letter he wrote to their deceased father, expressing his remorse for failing to live up to his family’s expectations.

Kazuko’s mother passes away. Her death leaves Kazuko and Naoji completely untethered without the stabilizing influence of her presence. Her death marks the end of an era for the family and highlights their inability to adapt to the changing social order. After their mother’s death, Naoji sinks further into despair. He struggles with his substance misuse disorder and feelings of hopelessness, ultimately dying by suicide.

In the aftermath of her mother’s death and Naoji’s death by suicide, Kazuko resolves to forge her own path, no matter how unconventional. She continues to write letters to Uehara, declaring her love and her desire to have his child. Kazuko sees this as an act of defiance and a way to create something meaningful in the face of despair. The novel ends with Kazuko’s declaration that she will embrace her love for Uehara, regardless of the consequences. Her determination to break free from societal constraints and pursue her happiness represents a glimmer of hope amidst the overwhelming sadness of her circumstances.