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Literary Fiction· Japan

No Longer Human

by Osamu Dazai
Aggregate Editorial Score30/100
Published 1948Japanese
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About This Book

Osamu Dazai's No Longer Human (1948) stands as one of the most significant works of literary fiction of its era. A semi-autobiographical novel, 'No Longer Human' delves into the life of Oba Yozo, a man who feels disconnected from society. Through a series of notebooks, Dazai explores themes of alienation, identity, and the struggle to find meaning in life. The novel's raw portrayal of human despair has resonated with readers worldwide. Themes of alienation, identity crisis, despair run through the work.

Book Details

AuthorOsamu Dazai
Published1948
Country of Origin🇯🇵 Japan
LanguageJapanese
Category📖 Literary Fiction
ISBN978-0811204811
Editorial Score30/100
About the Category

📖 Literary Fiction

Character-driven fiction that prioritises style, theme, and psychological depth.

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Country of Origin

🇯🇵 Japan

This book is part of Japan's rich literary tradition.

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Editorial Assessment

First published in 1948, Osamu Dazai's No Longer Human is a work of literary fiction that has drawn sustained interest from critics and prize committees alike. Its engagement with alienation, identity crisis, despair, societal disconnect gives the book a depth that extends well beyond its genre. With an editorial score of 30/100 drawn from 1 independent sources, the book occupies a well-documented position in the critical literature. Its recognition spans international prizes, "best of" lists, and academic surveys. Readers coming to No Longer Human for the first time will find a work that rewards patience. The book's handling of alienation, identity crisis, despair, societal disconnect is layered rather than didactic, and a second reading often reveals dimensions the first pass only hinted at. No Longer Human reflects Osamu Dazai's place in a wider literary tradition. The book's concerns resonate with Japan's broader cultural preoccupations, even as they reach beyond any single national context.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 1 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.

Awards & Recognition

NYT Best Sellers
notable · global
20200
✍️
About the Author
Osamu Dazai
Japan
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Osamu Dazai is a Japan author whose work in literary fiction has earned recognition from readers and critics alike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is No Longer Human about?

A semi-autobiographical novel, 'No Longer Human' delves into the life of Oba Yozo, a man who feels disconnected from society. Through a series of notebooks, Dazai explores themes of alienation, identity, and the struggle to find meaning in life. The novel's raw portrayal of human despair has resonated with readers worldwide.

Who wrote No Longer Human?

No Longer Human was written by Osamu Dazai, from Japan. First published in 1948.

What awards has No Longer Human won?

No Longer Human has received the following recognition: notable critical recognition.

Is No Longer Human worth reading?

No Longer Human is a well-regarded book with an aggregate editorial score of 30/100 on 50 Best Books. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in alienation, identity crisis, despair.

Where can I buy No Longer Human?

You can buy No Longer Human on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is No Longer Human?

No Longer Human is classified as Literary Fiction. Character-driven fiction that prioritises style, theme, and psychological depth.

What country is No Longer Human from?

No Longer Human originates from Japan's literary tradition. Explore more books from Japan on our country page.

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