“Do not revere the novelist.”
- January 14, 1925 – November 25, 1970
- Born in Japan
- Novelist, playwright, critic, political activist
- He became a representative figure of postwar Japanese literature, and was highly acclaimed both at home and abroad. He pursued his own unique aesthetic with themes of beauty and death, and ultimately committed seppuku at a Self-Defense Forces garrison. His life, which combined literature with action, continues to have a strong influence today.
Japanese
「小説家を尊敬するなかれ」
English
“Do not revere the novelist.”
Explanation
In this concise and provocative statement, Mishima challenges the common practice of revering or idolizing writers and their craft. By saying, “Do not revere the novelist,” he suggests that novelists, while important in their role as creators, should not be placed on a pedestal or treated as sacred figures. Mishima likely critiques the tendency in society to elevate artists and intellectuals to a status of superiority, often romanticizing them as visionaries or truth-tellers. By downplaying the reverence typically afforded to novelists, he invites readers to view them as ordinary individuals with their own flaws, insecurities, and personal struggles, rather than as infallible or god-like figures.
This statement reflects Mishima’s larger critique of idealization and hero-worship in society. Throughout his works, he explored the tension between the artist’s role in society and the responsibility that comes with such a position. Mishima believed that artists, particularly novelists, should not be viewed as above society, but rather as individuals who engage with the world just like everyone else. In rejecting the idea of reverence, he encourages a more critical and realistic view of the novelist, one that recognizes the humanity behind the art, as well as the limitations and imperfections of the artist themselves.
In a modern context, Mishima’s words serve as a reminder to avoid elevating artists or intellectuals to an unrealistic level of esteem. In an age where social media and celebrity culture often place writers, artists, and public figures on pedestals, Mishima’s message is particularly relevant. His quote reminds us that while art and literature are important, we should not lose sight of the fact that novelists are ultimately human beings, subject to the same flaws, weaknesses, and complexities as anyone else. Reverence for an artist should not blind us to the realities of their work and their role in shaping society. Instead, we should engage with their creations critically, appreciating them for their insights without allowing ourselves to be consumed by hero worship.
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