Stories of Osaka Life

Oda Sakunosuke (1913-43) is described in Japan as one of the "hooligan school" of writers, who worked before and during WW2. Seeking to create an underground literature in opposition to the traditional literature favored by the militaristic government, these writers often depicted unflattering realities rather than exemplary ideals. By deliberately focusing on Japan's hustlers, bunglers, and misfits, "Stories of Osaka Life" skillfully recaptures the essence of the Osaka temperament: its hedonism, wry humor, and lust for life. Among the preeminent works of one of modern Japan's most admired writers, these stories offer extraordinary characterizations executed with compassion, honesty and humor.