Wow. There’s so much to love about this one. The language and writing are beautiful. The novel is believed to be autobiographical in nature. Kochan is a man searching for meaning, identity, and belonging. He grapples with his sexuality, which leads his mind down some dark paths and toward fetishization of some disturbing acts. But, this all beautifully portrayed by Mishima. Kochan’s relationship with Sonoko is something that a lot of young gay men experience while processing their true desires and wants, and while working toward acceptance of who they are. It doesn’t necessarily end there, though. It’s the sort of friendship that can last a lifetime. Existing in this world 40+ years later, I definitely find myself relating to more of Kochan’s fears and uncertainties than I expected. Granted, I’m typically drawn to characters with a deep fear of and need for identity and belonging. Perhaps my favorite thing is that Mishima wrote this with such openness at a time when that want often accepted. I’m so thankful to have been introduced to this book!