Musashi

True masterpiece, unique in its kind, and superbly written. This is one of the few books which I've read in a long time that I didn't want the story to end. Despite seeming a dauntingly long and hefty novel, the story flows at a neckbreaking pace, full of surprises and clever plots at every turn. The book I would most compare it to is James Clavell's epic "Shogun", but besides the fact that both stories take place more or less in the same time period in Japan (beginning of Edo period), the comparison ends there. Whereas "Shogun" describes Japan from the eyes of a foreigner, and deals with high-court intrigues, Musashi's fictional story (albeit loosely based on events in his life including all his ill-fated duels) deals with the common day-to-day life in Japan, the peasantry, the samurai, the secret lives of Geishas and pleasure quarters, Buddhist priests and itinerant monks, of families torn by the everlasting conflicts that was raging between North and South daimyo factions at that time (Osaka vs Edo courts), the tribulations of ronin who were left masterless after the battle of Sekigahara and who were roaming the country incessantly in search of odd jobs or who would become evil doers. Such a man was Musashi, who being on the losing side of the Sekigahara battle, started a life long wandering journey throughout Japan, perfecting his sword techniques and becoming, slowly, the most prestigious swordsman of all time. Although the book only recounts 12 years of this journey, these were without doubt his formative years, and the characters he meets, loves or fights with along the way all edge him, little by little, towards achieving his goal, the Way of the Sword. Every encounter Musashi goes through is a lesson of life and death, something that even we, as readers, can apply in our daily lives centuries later. It's timeless advice.The second thing I thoroughly enjoyed about the book was the translation. The way the story flows, the vocabulary used as well as the dialogues are very well rendered to the point where I was actually believing the text to be written originally in English. There's also quite a lot of light-hearted, downright comical dialogues, which give the story a lighter tone despite the somber aspect and seriousness of the background story. I actually wonder if this is the work of the translator (by the mere fact that eastern languages are not always easy to transpose into western ones) or if Eiji Yoshikawa himself inserted those funny passages. In any case, this novel was a hidden gem that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for brilliant historical fiction or simply who wants to learn more about Japanese culture during the Edo period.

I’m a huge fan of all things Miyamoto Musashi. So when first heard about the Vagabond Manga I was pumped. But then I found out it isn’t finished and there was a real possibility it never would be I didn’t want to get into it. Then I heard it was based off this book so I decided to read it instead. Best decision ever. The novelized story of my hero’s life is an inspiration for any young man trying to find his way in the world. Honestly I wish this book was better known because I feel like it could help a lot of lost men today.

Gary Jennings has been my high bar for well-researched yet totally compelling historical fiction for decades. Not once in all the time since have I felt that anyone came close to his level. Eiji Yoshikawa is just as good. The writing is clear, descriptive, and betrays no hint that the story was published in the 50s. The setting is obsessively detailed. And there's no hint of the social norms or history of the time being discarded in favor of making it more accessible or shoehorning a love story as Clavell's Shogun did. Also unlike Shogun is the doing away of thinly disguised historical figures of the time. The figures portrayed are named and they're wholly believable.The only complaint I have rests in the translation which substitutes more widely known English words like "governor" in place of "daimyo" instead of simply explaining the word to the reader... But these are just nitpicks. The only other possible downside I see for the average reader is the length. Yoshikawa wants you to linger with him on the sights and sounds and muse about the nature of things. And he takes his time to do it. But not once did I feel the story dragging or losing interest.If you love historical fiction and you have even a passing interest in Japan... look no further.I've already ordered every other translated Yoshikawa book I could find. But I don't relish thr search I'll be on after I'm done to find anyone else who can stand up with Mr. Jennings and Yoshikawa san.

Amazing book, awesome reading, so many valuable lessons were noted during the process of reading this beauty . I cant recommend it enough!

Está escrito con tal disciplina, estructura, y claridad que se te pueden ir horas y horas leyéndolo; es una gran historia y definitivamente una obra que todos tienen que leer en algún punto de sus vidas, especialmente quienes les gusta hacer volar su imaginación.

Okuması ağır bir kitap olsada, birden fazla okumak isteyeceğiniz, önemli bir Japon eseri.Kargo sonucu biraz hasar alsa bile, zaten okuyarak eskitebileceğiniz bir kitap

Finally got my hands on this Epic Saga.Next thing collect all 12 omnibus volumes by Takehiko Inoue.

I recently had the pleasure of reading Eiji Yoshikawa san’s epic novel, “Musashi”. It is an outstanding piece of work. From the moment I cracked open the book, I found it almost impossible to tear myself away from the story of Miyamoto Musashi, a legendary swordsman of feudal Japan.Yoshikawa san’s masterful storytelling immediately drew me into the world of 17th-century Japan, where honour, swordsmanship, and self-discovery intertwine to create a rich tapestry of historical fiction. The depth of his characters, particularly the complex and enigmatic Musashi, kept me utterly engrossed from start to finish. Each page was filled with vivid descriptions, intense action sequences, and profound insights into the human condition.What truly sets “Musashi” apart is Yoshikawa san’s ability to meticulously blend historical detail with a compelling narrative. His portrayal of the samurai code, the intricacies of Japanese society, and the relentless pursuit of personal enlightenment resonated deeply with me, leaving a lasting impression that goes beyond the boundaries of time and culture.The pacing of the novel is impeccable, as the plot unfolds with a perfect balance of introspection, intense duels, and moments of unexpected humour. The supporting cast of characters, each with their own distinct personalities and motivations, adds layers of depth to the story, creating a rich and immersive reading experience that I won’t forget.“Musashi” is an outstanding work of literature that deserves a 5 star ranking. If I could I would give it more. Eiji Yoshikawa san’s meticulous research, coupled with his unparalleled storytelling prowess, has produced a timeless masterpiece that will undoubtedly stand the test of time. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who appreciates the art of storytelling and the allure of historical fiction. Without a doubt, “Musashi” has earned its place as a timeless classic in the realm of historical literature. - Martin Acton