“Now I was just a transient in the valley, a one-eyed passerby too fat for his years, and life there had the power to summon up neither the memory nor the illusion of any other, truer self. As a passerby I had a right to insist on my identity.”

"The Silent Cry" by Kenzaburo Oe is undeniably deserving of its accolades and status as a classic novel.

Set in a rural village, the novel follows two brothers, Mitsusaburo and Takashi, as they return home and confront their pasts. Mitsusaburo, a disillusioned intellectual, becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth behind a mysterious incident from their childhood, while Takashi, who is mentally disabled, grapples with his own vulnerability and innocence. As secrets are revealed and tensions escalate, the brothers find themselves at the center of a community on the brink of collapse.

The novel's rich exploration of themes such as guilt, redemption, and the clash between tradition and modernity resonates deeply with readers across cultures and generations. Oe's masterful storytelling and poetic prose create a vivid and immersive reading experience, drawing readers into the world of rural Japan and the lives of its complex and deeply human characters. The novel's enduring relevance and universal appeal have cemented its place as a cornerstone of modern literature, influencing countless writers and earning it a well-deserved reputation as a literary masterpiece.

Whether read for its compelling plot, its profound insights into the human condition, or its exquisite craftsmanship, "The Silent Cry" remains a timeless and essential work that continues to captivate and inspire readers around the world.

(This is my pick for the #AsianReadathon2024 challenge prompt: Read a book that feels timeless.)