Some Prefer Nettles

In Some Prefer Nettles, Kaname and Misako confront their failing marriage while exploring the clash of traditional and modern values in 1920s Japan.

In Some Prefer Nettles, the marriage of Kaname and Misako is on the brink of collapse. As they each seek passion and fulfillment outside their union, they grapple with the impending humiliation of divorce. Their relationship is further complicated by Misako's father's belief that a new and foreign culture has negatively impacted their bond. He attempts to mend the rift by introducing Kaname to traditional Japanese customs that celebrate aesthetic and sensual pleasures.

The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of 1920s Tokyo and Osaka, creating a vivid contrast between the vibrant modernity of the era and the deeply rooted traditions of Japan. Kaname's journey through this cultural landscape reveals the complexities of love, desire, and the struggle for identity. As he navigates the conflicting expectations of family, society, and personal longing, the tension between ancient and modern values becomes palpable.

Ultimately, Some Prefer Nettles serves as a powerful, autobiographical exploration of marital discontent and cultural dissonance. It invites readers to reflect on the nature of relationships and the influence of societal change on personal lives, making it a thought-provoking read that resonates with themes of love, loss, and the search for meaning.