Charmaine Post 2

In reading pieces that some of Murakami's own writing resembles, I found that it increased the depth of Murakami's own writing. By making connections between Murakami's work and other writers' works, one can find more meaning in his writing and discover other writers' pieces. However, I do not find that Murakami's short stories are heavily influenced by writers he is inspired by. Although there are some similarities, Murakami spins a world of his own in each of his pieces, writing in his own unique genre. To say his works were inspired by other writers may be correct, but to even say his work resembles other works may be an overstatement. From similar titles to plots involving bakeries, the similarities are minute. The rest of the plot development, the characters, and more are distinctly original. However, I am grateful that Murakami's writing has introduced me to a series of authors, broadening my understanding and knowledge of American literature; and it's interesting to read these pieces alongside Murakami's, as it gives insight as to what Murakami was reading as inspiration for his writing process.