Shinkankaku-ha

Definition

Shinkankaku-ha, or the 'New Perception School,' is a literary movement in Japan that emerged in the late 1950s, characterized by a focus on subjective experiences and the internal landscapes of characters. This movement reflects themes of alienation, despair, and self-destruction, emphasizing the disconnection individuals feel in a rapidly modernizing society and often depicting characters grappling with their existence in a world that feels increasingly meaningless.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Shinkankaku-ha authors often used stream-of-consciousness techniques to portray the fragmented thoughts and feelings of their characters.
2. This movement was a response to the rapid societal changes in postwar Japan, including economic growth and urbanization, which left many feeling disconnected.
3. Common motifs within shinkankaku-ha literature include isolation, psychological distress, and the search for authenticity in an artificial world.
4. Notable writers associated with shinkankaku-ha include Kobo Abe and Yasunari Kawabata, both of whom explored the themes of identity and reality in their works.
5. The movement is often seen as a critique of modernity, questioning traditional values and highlighting the existential crises faced by individuals.

Review Questions

• How does shinkankaku-ha reflect the psychological impact of postwar societal changes on individuals?
  • Shinkankaku-ha reflects the psychological impact of postwar societal changes by portraying characters who feel isolated and disconnected in an increasingly modernized world. The rapid transformation of society left many grappling with their identities and existential dilemmas. This literary movement captures those struggles through subjective narratives that highlight inner turmoil and the search for meaning amid chaos.
• Discuss how the themes of despair and self-destruction are depicted in shinkankaku-ha literature.
  • Themes of despair and self-destruction in shinkankaku-ha literature are often illustrated through characters who confront their own existential crises. These characters frequently experience profound feelings of alienation, leading to destructive behaviors as they attempt to cope with their realities. The narratives delve into their psychological states, showcasing how societal pressures can exacerbate feelings of hopelessness and drive individuals toward self-destructive choices.
• Evaluate the influence of existentialism on shinkankaku-ha literature and its portrayal of alienation.
  • Existentialism significantly influences shinkankaku-ha literature by providing a framework for understanding human existence in a seemingly indifferent universe. This philosophical perspective resonates deeply with themes of alienation found in shinkankaku-ha works, as characters often grapple with their own freedom and choices against a backdrop of social isolation. By intertwining existentialist ideas, shinkankaku-ha authors effectively illustrate how modernity can heighten feelings of disconnection and despair, making it a crucial element in understanding the depth of these literary works.

Related terms

Postwar Literature: A body of literary works produced in Japan after World War II, marked by themes of trauma, identity crisis, and societal disillusionment.

Existentialism: A philosophical movement that explores individual freedom, choice, and the inherent meaninglessness of life, influencing many postwar Japanese writers.

Surrealism:

An artistic movement that sought to unleash the creative potential of the unconscious mind, often incorporating dream-like imagery and irrational juxtapositions.