Blog Post 4

            How do images change the way we read? In The Strange Library, for example, images play an important role in storytelling that few modern-day writers incorporate. I always wondered why not, especially because playing with images in the short story I wrote for class was so much fun. Although arguably every Murakami short story and book leaves you a little bit befuddled, The Strange Library pulls you back. It’s one of those stories you want to re-read as soon as you reach the last page. And not just for the words – for the pictures as well. In the original editions of The Strange Library, even the font color and type seem to be chosen with special attention to visual communication. With this novel more than others, Murakami leaves readers unsure what to do with what they’ve just read in the most endearing and magical way.

            For me, the imagery in the book added a layer of unspoken communication. Each picture was an opportunity for me to explore its details and placement in the storyline. It felt like Murakami’s written story swept me along for the ride, whereas the images were chaotic, appearing without explanation as if in a real nightmare. Murakami captured a sense of chaotic randomness and repetition that made the boy’s nightmare come to life on paper. I think without those stark, haunting and unexplained images disrupting the text, I wouldn’t have felt as close to the story or the boy in it. I’m curious how Murakami went about gathering visual elements for The Strange Library, especially the illustrations that were chosen.