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The static and the dynamic : a study of the hidden world of Ibuse Masuji

University of British Columbia

This thesis examines certain selected works of Ibuse Masuji in an attempt to gain an insight into the nature of: this author's literary genius. Exhibiting several unique characteristics, such as the combination of symbolism and humour, realism and fantasy, Ibuse's works are seen to comprise a world that is vital and complex yet at times enigmatic and mysterious. An analysis of four principal works will attempt to show how Ibuse gradually reveals this hidden world and comes to integrate its various aspects into a harmonious whole through certain modifications and shifts of emphasis throughout his career. Although Ibuse's literary vision alters, its central focus remains virtually unchanged and throughout his literary life, Ibuse continues to concern himself with the contrast between the static and the dynamic, two principal elements in his work which both conceal and reveal meaning and emotion. Chapter 1 deals with "Sanshōuo", Ibuse's first work, which represents the early years of his career 1923-1930. Exploring life's hidden depths in terms of allegory and fantasy, "Sanshōuo" shows these depths to be an ambivalent area in which static and dynamic elements meet and mingle. In contrast to "Sanshōuo" and the early years is "Sazanami gunki" which is examined in Chapter 2. A work which characterizes the pre-war period of Ibuse's career (1930-1939), "Sazanami gunki" represents a major change in direction for the author as Ibuse leaves behind the static world of "Sanshōuo" and finds inspiration in the flow and movement of life. Chapter 3 deals with "Yōhai taichō", a work which is representative of the post-war years (1946-1953) arid shows Ibuse's return to static concerns and themes. At the same time, however, "Yōhai taichō" represents a re-integration of earlier techniques and perspectives and thus a greater sophistication. In Chapter 4 both static and dynamic elements are brought into full play in Ibuse's masterpiece, "Kuroi ame", a work which characterizes the later years of his career (1954-present). Here Ibuse is at his zenith as he creates a work of remarkable depth and scope, stressing the wholeness of life and nature more surely and more expertly than in the past. It is hoped that an examination of these four works will help to provide some insight into the nature of this author's genius as well as into the essence of his art.

Text

2010-03-06

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http://hdl.handle.net/2429/21587

Asian Studies

University of British Columbia

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