The Concept of Weakness

Something I noted (and something we touched upon briefly in class) while reading A Wild Sheep Chase, Norwegian Wood, and Kokoro was the characters’ takes on the concept of weakness. In some way, we are told that weakness is what led to each character’s demise. However, the relationship that each of these characters have with weakness is slightly different. (Note: I want to make it clear that I in no way believe that the decision to end one’s life comes about by weakness. I just wanted to point out how I feel each story frames the role of weakness in each of these characters’ lives and deaths.)

In A Wild Sheep Chase, the Rat describes his weakness as some kind of inevitable, incurable disease and the reason why he was chosen by the sheep. However, the Rat doesn’t resent this weakness. Rather, he seems rather fond of it. His decision to end his life can be framed as an act of strength in order to protect this weakness, and perhaps humanity. 

In Norwegian Wood, Naoko describes Kizuki’s weakness to Toru. However, this weakness is not something she despises. In fact, she says “I loved his weak side too. I loved it as much as I loved his good side” (Murakami 127). Again, weakness is not framed as a negative, but as a quality separate from good and evil.

However, in Kokoro, weakness takes on the characteristics we are likely more familiar with. It causes Sensei to hesitate and let his desires pass him by. Ultimately, this weakness drives him to engage in insidious acts and betray his friend. In this story, his weakness is framed as a definite evil and the source of negativity in Sensei’s life.

-Angela