Japanese author Sayaka Murata visited Bulgaria for the first time during the Literary Talks Festival, held at Sofia’s City Stage (April 23–25). The discussion was moderated by literary critic Darin Tenev, with interpretation provided by Albena Todorova. Murata, a prominent figure in contemporary Japanese literature, has seen her works, including Convenience Store Woman and Earthlings, translated into Bulgarian.
The conversation began with welcoming remarks from the Japanese Ambassador to Bulgaria, Chikahisa Sumi. Murata’s novels frequently critique trends toward homogeneity in modern society. She discussed how her interest in “individuality” explores its potential distortion leading to authoritarianism.
The discussion also referenced George Orwell’s 1984, noting the persistent exclusion within seemingly individualistic societies—a theme echoed by her characters’ quiet resistance to systemic participation. The literary exchange also addressed the relationship between dystopia and ambiguity, and how Murata incorporates traditional storytelling methods. When questioned about transgressive subjects in her writing, Murata stated that she feels no boundaries, comparing her writing process to a laboratory.
She concluded by mentioning her enduring fondness for Albert Camus’ The Stranger. The festival, themed “Dystopia and Resistance,” featured Sayaka Murata alongside Paul Lynch, marking a significant international event for Bulgarian letters. The festival program included readings, workshops, and international panels, underscoring the depth of contemporary literary engagement in the region.
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